We often hear this time of year, that “Jesus is the reason for the season.” While that is very true, I wanted to take a moment to explore why we need a reason.
1. Introduction to the Concept of Salvation
Key Idea: Humanity’s need for redemption and reconciliation with God.
Scripture Reference: Romans 3:23 – “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.”
2. The Fall of Man
Key Idea: The origin of sin and its consequences.
Scripture Reference: Genesis 3:1-19 – The story of Adam and Eve’s disobedience.
3. The Holiness and Justice of God
Key Idea: Understanding God’s nature and why sin cannot coexist with His holiness.
Scripture Reference: Psalm 99:9 – “Exalt the LORD our God and worship at his holy mountain, for the LORD our God is holy.”
4. The Prophecies of a Savior
Key Idea: Old Testament prophecies pointing to the coming of a Savior.
Scripture Reference:
Isaiah 9:6 For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
Isaiah 53:5 – “But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities.”
5. The Life and Teachings of Jesus
Key Idea: Jesus as the fulfillment of the Old Testament prophecies.
Scripture Reference: John 14:6 – “Jesus answered, ‘I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.’
6. The Crucifixion and Atonement
Key Idea: The significance of Jesus’ sacrifice.
Scripture Reference: Romans 5:8 – “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”
7. The Resurrection and Victory over Sin
Key Idea: The power of the resurrection and its implications for believers.
Scripture Reference: 1 Corinthians 15:17 – “And if Christ has not been raised, your faith is futile; you are still in your sins.”
8. Salvation by Grace through Faith
Key Idea: The gift of salvation and the role of faith.
Scripture Reference: Ephesians 2:8-9 – “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God.”
9. The Role of Repentance and Baptism
Key Idea: The response to God’s offer of salvation.
Scripture Reference: Acts 2:38 – “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins.”
10. Living a Transformed Life
Key Idea: The evidence of salvation in a believer’s life.
Scripture Reference: 2 Corinthians 5:17 – “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!”
11. Conclusion: The Assurance of Salvation
Key Idea: Confidence in the promise of eternal life.
Scripture Reference: John 3:16 – “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”
Key Takeaways:
1. Universal Need for Salvation: All have sinned and require redemption.
2. God’s Provision: Jesus Christ as the fulfillment of God’s plan for salvation.
3. Personal Response: Faith, repentance, and transformation are key aspects of responding to God’s offer of salvation.
4. Assurance and Hope: Believers can be confident in the promise of eternal life through Jesus Christ.
The Message of Christmas
Luke 2:11 NIV Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; He is the Christ, the Lord!