Sunday, December 24, 2023

“Christmas, the Anniversary of Love”

Pastor Hiroyuki Anjiki

1. Jesus Christ, who came in the history of humanity

* Luke 2:1 “Caesar Augustus” = “Octavius”

* Luke 2:2 “Quirinius” = Appointed governor of Syria by Octavius, former Roman member of the House

* Luke 2:1 “decree” = Imperial edict of the Roman Emperor

2. Jesus Christ, who came to fulfill the promise

* Micah 5:2 “But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel, whose origins are from of old, from ancient times.” (NIV) = Prophesy that the Messiah would be born in Bethlehem

3. Jesus Christ, who came as the Savior

* Luke 2:12 “manger” = “fatni” in Greek = cave

* Romans 3:23-24 “for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, 24 and all are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.” (NIV)

* Oscar Robertson, and NBA (basketball) superstar

Thoughts to share at mini church:

1. Why were the names of the Roman Emperor and governor of Syria a part of the Christmas story?

2. What kind of things concerning Jesus Christ were mentioned in Old Testament prophesy?

3. Do you have room in your heart for Jesus Christ?

MCC20231224.mp3