The Arkansas Traveler

SIGN OF THE STAR

Matthew 2:1-12

INTRO:  The wise men saw a star and came to Jerusalem seeking the new born king. When they were sent to Bethlehem the star led them to Jesus. There are several things we can see in the star. I choose to look at the 5 points to see 5 things God gives us in Jesus:

HOPE (Isa 9:2; I Thess. 4:13-14

   In Isaiah we read about light for those in darkness.

   Sickness and death bring questions of hope.

   Paul says that hope goes beyond this world.

   One of the saddest statements:

      "We had hoped ….. " Emaus disciples in Luke 24.

PEACE (Luke 2:13-14; John 14:27)

   In the last 3500 years we have had 250 years of peace according to Guinness Book of World Records.

   Jesus brings the promise of peace.

   Peace in the world may be fleeting

   Peace in the heart = personal harmony.

JOY (Luke 2:10-12; John 15:11)

   Counterfeit joy – Men seek it in a bottle, pills, etc.

   True joy comes from Christ:

            He satisfies our cravings for God.

            He offers us purpose in life.

            He gives contentment. (Paul in prison)

LOVE (I John 4:9-11)

   Love is God's chief characteristic. God is love.

   Love is chief characteristic of Jesus. Should be ours too.

LIFE (John 3:16)

  That whoever believes should have life.

   John 10:10, Jesus said he came to bring abundant life.

APPLICATION: The Wise men came seeking Jesus and they received this hope, peace, joy, love, and life. Do you have it?

================

Another title of this could be "The Gifts of Christmas" as it talks about the things we have when we receive Jesus Christ as Savior.

-------------

Sermon preached at Greenville So Baptist Church, December 30, 2007.

Happy New Year!!!