Tell me the story of Jesus
Here is a summary of what happened in Luke 2:8-20.
SUMMARY
Shepherds in Bethlehem’s fields are visited by an angel announcing Jesus’ birth as the Savior. Joined by a heavenly host praising God, the shepherds hurry to find Mary, Joseph, and baby Jesus in a manger. Amazed, they spread the news, glorifying God for all they witnessed.
OBSERVATIONS
From this text, many things are evident. Here are four of my favorite observations.
1. How to turn fear into joy
The shepherds’ initial response was fear. In fact, the Bible uses a stronger verb. According to verse 9, they were “terrified.” However, by the time we get to verse 20, their fear turns into glory and praise.
There were four steps that changed their fear into joy.
1. Listen to someone who knows—the angel from God
2. Surround yourself with the right people.
3. Look upon God’s work and son.
4. Trust the evidence.
2. Jesus’ Humble Beginnings
The Messiah’s birth is in a manger, an unconventional and humble setting.
Not just an animal’s manger, but shepherds were called. The lowest of the lows. God did not call the kings and noblemen to go see and tell others, but the most unappreciated sheepherders. I know a man who owns a giant ranch in Africa. He hires guards for $100 a month. He hires “goat herders” for $30 a month. That is what they are called: goat herders. No one dreams of being a goatherder. It is essentially the goat herders that God sent His angel to tell about Jesus being born. He chose the lowest rungs of society to tell about the greatest event that had ever happened. Yes, it was humble beginnings for a great God.
3. The key to Personal Evangelism – learn from unlikely places
Luke 2:16-18
[16] So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. [17] When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, [18] and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them.
When you see Jesus for yourself, you will tell others. Others will be influenced for good.
4. Prompt Response
The shepherds’ immediate action to visit the baby Jesus highlights the importance of responding swiftly to God’s revelations.
We all need to learn the lesson that the best time to do what God wants is now. We are not guaranteed any other time.
Lonnie Davis