As our sermon series The Gospel of Luke, Part I: The Arrival of the King continues with the pronouncement of the gospel to the shepherds, we witness the glory of God revealed to the lowly shepherds through the angelic chorus and the birth of Jesus Christ. In response, the shepherds joyfully and eagerly share the good news of salvation for all people who receive Him.

Tyler’s Main Points

• The announcement of the gospel: A Savior born for you.
• 4 Faith-Driven Responses:
  1) Faith draws near to Jesus.
  2) Faith witnesses about Jesus.
  3) Faith treasures Jesus.
  4) Faith worships Jesus.

Key Takeaways

• In this passage, we see God again identify with the lowly, with the outcasts, with sinners.

• For 586 years, God’s glory had not tabernacled with Israel, but in this passage His glory is  again revealed to the shepherds. Rather than receiving what they deserve for their depravity, the angel pronounces the good news of a Savior’s birth.

• Christ came for all— not only the rich and powerful, but the poor and lowly.

• The testimony of shepherds was not only inadmissible in court, but they were perpetually unclean and forbidden from drawing near to God at the Temple.

• God is still in the business of announcing the gospel of Jesus Christ to unclean sinners.

• The greatest expression of God’s divine attributes are seen in His redemption of fallen humanity through Jesus Christ.

• Every day we face temptations to sin and trials of various kinds. What we need most in these moments is to draw near to God and trust the gospel in these moments.

• Faith believes that others need to hear the good news of Jesus.

• When we stop reminding ourselves of our daily need for the gospel, we start to lose touch with the reality of our need for the gospel and lose the eagerness to share it with others.

• As we treasure Christ more, we will witness Him more.

Discussion Questions/Application

Personal application:

• What season of your life were you most eager to witness Christ to others? What motivated and marked your zeal during this time?

• Whose salvation will pray for this week? Who will you intentionally witness Christ to this week?

Discuss with your community group:

• What do you currently treasure most in life? Do you treasure Christ in this way? Why is He alone worthy of your heart’s greatest affections and allegiance?
  

• What is hindering you from more frequently and fervently witnessing Christ to others?
  

Passages Referenced

Luke 2:8-20; Isaiah 6:5; Job 38:4-7; Hebrews 4:14-16

Worship Set List

Psalm 150 (Praise the Lord), Hope Has a Name, How Great Thou Art, What He’s Done, O Come All Ye Faithful (His Name Shall Be)