GETTING INTO THE CHRISTMAS SPIRIT: MEDITATIONS ON THE MAGNIFICAT
James A. Long, Jr.
Philippians 4:10–13; Luke 1:46–55
1. Christmas is about PRAISE (Luke 1)
a. PRAISE must be Personal – vss. 46–47; Psalm 103:1–5 (“my soul,” “my spirit”)
b. PRAISE must be Passionate – vss. 46–47 (“magnifies,” “rejoices”) – Mary’s entire being is caught up in praise to God
c. PRAISE must be in Proper Perspective – vs. 48 (“humble estate,” “servant”)
d. PRAISE must be Practiced and Perceptive (habitual, way or manner of life) – see Hannah’s prayer – 1 Samuel 2:1–10. She knew the Word; she loved the Word; she lived the Word
2. Christmas is about a PERSON: God (“magnifies the Lord,” “rejoices in God”)
a. He Sees – vs. 48; Philippians 2:5–11 (He looked on her and He came down to her)
b. He is Sovereign
3. Christmas is about a PROCLAMATION
The Bad News
a. His Judgment – vss. 51–53 (He brings down the proud and exalts the humble)
The Good News
b. He Saves
c. He Satisfies
d. He Secures
IN CHRIST: YOU HAVE BEEN RANSOMED, RECONCILED, RIGHT STANDING WITH GOD
4. True Worship will result in Gratitude, Love, and Service – vs. 56 (Luke 7:36–50; 18:9–14; 19:1–10)
a. Guilt (deep conviction of sin)
b. Grace (assurance of God’s grace, mercy, and forgiveness)
c. Gratitude (respond in genuine gratitude, loving adoration, and sacrificial service)
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ABOUT JAMES and LESSONS FOR LIFE
Are you seeking hope, wisdom, and practical solutions to life’s challenges? Dr. James Long, Jr., pastor, counselor, and professor with over 30 years of experience, helps people discover God’s solutions to emotional, relational, and spiritual challenges. Each episode of Lessons for Life points you to the peace and freedom found in Jesus Christ.
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