How to tell the truth. Christmas can be a sentimental season. There are no carols about the “slaughter of the innocents,” at least not in Protestant experience. But Matthew won’t leave us with a gauzy manger scene in a startlingly clean barn; he has an accompanying memory in mind that must have its say. We’re reminded of another Matthean warning, coming later: “From the days of John the Baptist until now the kingdom of heaven has suffered violence, and the violent take it by force” (Matthew 11:12).

To tell us your thoughts on this sermon, click through to the web posting and leave us a comment. Or, find us on social media: Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Or, email us the old-fashioned way: [email protected]. To contribute financially to the ongoing ministry of Galileo Church, find us on Venmo, Patreon, or PayPal, or just send a check to 6563 Teague Rd., Fort Worth, TX 76140.