In this sermon, Pastor Aaron Shamp explores the profound significance of the birth of Jesus Christ, who is called Emmanuel, meaning 'God with us.'  He emphasizes that Jesus came to fulfill God's promises, rescue humanity from sin, and make God's presence accessible to his people. He encourages listeners to reflect on Christmas's meaning and live in anticipation of Emmanuel's return.

Takeaways

• The birth of Jesus fulfills the promise of Emmanuel.
• Music plays a vital role in worship and connection to God.
• Emmanuel signifies God's presence with us in our lives.
• Jesus came to rescue us from our ultimate exile from God.
• God's promises are fulfilled in the person of Jesus.
• Emmanuel means God is accessible and approachable to us.
• God enters into our mess and struggles with us.
• The significance of Christmas goes beyond material celebrations.
• We live in the already of God's promises and the not yet of their fulfillment.
• Emmanuel reminds us to live in hope and expectation of Christ's return.

Chapters
00:00 The Significance of Advent and Christmas
02:23 Understanding Emmanuel: God with Us
08:04 The Promise of Emmanuel: Fulfillment in Jesus
14:18 The Purpose of Jesus' Coming
20:25 The Accessibility of God Through Emmanuel
26:05 Living in Expectation: The Second Coming of Christ