John’s Baptism of Jesus: Luke 3:21-22

John’s Baptism of Jesus
Luke 3:21-22

1. The Son’s Baptism
21  Now when all the people were baptized, and when Jesus also had been baptized and was praying . . .  Luke 3:21 (ESV); John 1:33-34

13  Then Jesus came from Galilee to the Jordan to John, to be baptized by him. 14  John would have prevented him, saying, “I need to be baptized by you, and do you come to me?” 15  But Jesus answered him, “Let it be so now, for thus it is fitting for us to fulfill all righteousness.” Then he consented. Matthew 3:13-15 (ESV)

3 fold role of Jesus’ choice to partake in John’s Baptism

1.      Jesus’ baptism represents an endorsement of John’s ministry and message

2.      Jesus’ baptism shows how Jesus identified himself with people as he began his ministry: the baptism is like an inauguration, a call to begin the mission for which Jesus was always headed.

50  I have a baptism to be baptized with, and how great is my distress until it is accomplished! Luke 12:50 (ESV)

3.      In the anointing of the Spirit, Jesus emerges as the coming one to whom John pointed and who brings the greater baptism. Luke 3:16

2. The Spirit’s Anointing
21   . . . the heavens were opened, 22  and the Holy Spirit descended on him in bodily form, like a dove . . .  Luke 3:21-22 (ESV)

The Spirit’s descending symbolized the Spiritual empowerment, leading, and confirming of Jesus upon His life and ministry. Isaiah 11:1-2; Isaiah 42:1

1  The Spirit of the Lord GOD is upon me, because the LORD has anointed me to bring good news to the poor; he has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to those who are bound; Isaiah 61:1 (ESV)

3. The Father’s Testimony
22   . . .  and a voice came from heaven, “You are my beloved Son; with you I am well pleased.” Luke 3:21-22 (ESV)

37 And the Father who sent me has himself borne witness about me. His voice you have never heard, his form you have never seen, John 5:37 (ESV); 1 John 5:9-11

There are three parts of the Father’s testimony:

A reference to the Son
7  I will tell of the decree: The LORD said to me, “You are my Son; today I have begotten you. Psalm 2:7 (ESV)

It also echoes God’s declaration of Jesus, Israel’s king and ultimately to Israel’s Messiah.

A reference to the Beloved
8  But you, Israel, my servant, Jacob, whom I have chosen, the offspring of Abraham, my friend; Isaiah 41:8 (ESV)

A reference to God’s being pleased with the Son
The Father was pleased with the Son’s obedience.

1 Behold my servant, whom I uphold, my chosen, in whom my soul delights; I have put my Spirit upon him; he will bring forth justice to the nations. Isaiah 42:1 (ESV)

Gospel Boldness: Luke 3:18-20

Gospel Boldness
Luke 3:18-20

1. Bold Communication
18  So with many other exhortations he preached good news to the people. Luke 3:18 (ESV)

The use of “other” indicates that John preached about much more than simply what Luke recorded.

John’s preaching was not only about turning from sin through repentance, but it also included a turning to God’s anticipated provision of salvation in Christ by faith, which identifies the true gospel.

16  For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek. Romans 1:16 (ESV)

2. Bold Correction
19  But Herod the tetrarch, who had been reproved by him for Herodias, his brother’s wife, and for all the evil things that Herod had done, Luke 3:19 (ESV)

3  For the time is coming when people will not endure sound teaching, but having itching ears they will accumulate for themselves teachers to suit their own passions, 2 Timothy 4:3 (ESV)

17  The former proclaim Christ out of selfish ambition, not sincerely but thinking to afflict me in my imprisonment. Philippians 1:17 (ESV)

The verb tense indicates John continuously challenged the character of Herod and Herodias.

3. Bold Consequences
20  added this to them all, that he locked up John in prison. Luke 3:20 (ESV)

Often, one in sin seeks to remove the source of exposure rather than heed a warning of love.

8  Therefore do not be ashamed of the testimony about our Lord, nor of me his prisoner, but share in suffering for the gospel by the power of God, 2 Timothy 1:8 (ESV)

58  Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that in the Lord your labor is not in vain. 1 Corinthians 15:58 (ESV)

John: the Ultimate Role Player: Luke 3:15-17

John: the Ultimate Role Player
Luke 3:15-17

1. The Question of John’s Role in Relation to the Christ
15  As the people were in expectation, and all were questioning in their hearts concerning John, whether he might be the Christ, Luke 3:15 (ESV)

19  And this is the testimony of John, when the Jews sent priests and Levites from Jerusalem to ask him, “Who are you?” 20  He confessed, and did not deny, but confessed, “I am not the Christ.” 21 And they asked him, “What then? Are you Elijah?” He said, “I am not.” “Are you the Prophet?” And he answered, “No.”
22  So they said to him, “Who are you? We need to give an answer to those who sent us. What do you say about yourself?” John 1:19-22 (ESV)

2. The Disposition of John’s Role in Relation to the Christ
16  John answered them all, saying, “I baptize you with water, but he who is mightier than I is coming, the strap of whose sandals I am not worthy to untie. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire. Luke 3:16 (ESV)

Threefold priority of Jesus: Jesus is stronger than John, he brings a better baptism than John, and he is the Judge.

John knew and understood his role.

27  John answered, “A person cannot receive even one thing unless it is given him from heaven.” John 3:27 (ESV) . . . the key principle

Point: we must content ourselves with the place and provision that the Sovereign God has given us, seeking only to be faithful to Him.

A Joyful Attitude
29  The one who has the bride is the bridegroom. The friend of the bridegroom, who stands and hears him, rejoices greatly at the bridegroom’s voice. Therefore this joy of mine is now complete. John 3:29 (ESV)

A Humble resolution
30  He must increase, but I must decrease. John 3:30 (ESV)

3  For by the grace given to me I say to everyone among you not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think, but to think with sober judgment, each according to the measure of faith that God has assigned. Romans 12:3 (ESV)

3. The Purpose of John’s Role in Relation to the Christ
17  His winnowing fork is in his hand, to clear his threshing floor and to gather the wheat into his barn, but the chaff he will burn with unquenchable fire.” Luke 3:17 (ESV)

Water may cleanse what is outside, but fire purifies that which is within, namely the heart.

49  “I came to cast fire on the earth, and would that it were already kindled! 50  I have a baptism to be baptized with, and how great is my distress until it is accomplished! 51  Do you think that I have come to give peace on earth? No, I tell you, but rather division. 52  For from now on in one house there will be five divided, three against two and two against three. 53  They will be divided, father against son and son against father, mother against daughter and daughter against mother, mother-in-law against her daughter-in-law and daughter-in-law against mother-in-law.” Luke 12:49-53 (ESV)

The Breastpiece: Exodus 28:15-30

The Breastpiece
Exodus 28:15-30

1. God’s promise and the breastpiece
17 You shall set in it four rows of stones. A row of sardius, topaz, and carbuncle shall be the first row; 18 and the second row an emerald, a sapphire, and a diamond; 19 and the third row a jacinth, an agate, and an amethyst; 20 and the fourth row a beryl, an onyx, and a jasper. They shall be set in gold filigree. Exodus 28:17-20 (ESV)

The word translated "breastpiece" means "ornament," and the priest’s role as representative was symbolized in this article of clothing.

12 And the gold of that land is good; bdellium and onyx stone are there. Genesis 2:12 (ESV)

13 You were in Eden, the garden of God; every precious stone was your covering, sardius, topaz, and diamond, beryl, onyx, and jasper, sapphire, emerald, and carbuncle; and crafted in gold were your settings and your engravings. On the day that you were created they were prepared. Ezekiel 28:13 (ESV)

19 The foundations of the wall of the city were adorned with every kind of jewel. The first was jasper, the second sapphire, the third agate, the fourth emerald, 20 the fifth onyx, the sixth carnelian, the seventh chrysolite, the eighth beryl, the ninth topaz, the tenth chrysoprase, the eleventh jacinth, the twelfth amethyst. Revelation 21:19-20 (ESV)

It appears as though the high priest’s breastplate looks back at Eden and forward to the New Jerusalem, picturing a promise of restoration to Paradise lost. (vv. 17-21)

2. God’s people and the breastpiece

21 There shall be twelve stones with their names according to the names of the sons of Israel. They shall be like signets, each engraved with its name, for the twelve tribes. Exodus 28:21 (ESV)

9 You shall take two onyx stones, and engrave on them the names of the sons of Israel, 10 six of their names on the one stone, and the names of the remaining six on the other stone, in the order of their birth. Exodus 28:9-10 (ESV)

The names engraved into the onyx stones on the High Priest’s shoulders represents the commonality and unity that we have in Christ, while the diversity of precious stones with the engraved names of the tribes represents our diverse make-up as a thing of beauty.

3. God’s placement and the breastpiece
29 So Aaron shall bear the names of the sons of Israel in the breastpiece of judgment on his heart, when he goes into the Holy Place, to bring them to regular remembrance before the LORD. Exodus 28:29 (ESV)

The gold chains secured the breastpiece next to the priest’s heart, signifying the love of God for His people, His concern for their interests, and serving as an article of remembrance before the Lord.

Genuine Repentance: Luke 3:7-14

Genuine Repentance: Luke 3:7-14

1. A False Picture of Repentance

         -A sarcastic rebuke

7  He said therefore to the crowds that came out to be baptized by him, “You brood of vipers! Who warned you to flee from the wrath to come? Luke 3:7 (ESV)

          -A charge to bear fruit

8 Bear fruits in keeping with repentance . . . Luke 3:8 (ESV)

19 . . .I was not disobedient to the heavenly vision, 20 but declared first to those in Damascus, then in Jerusalem and throughout all the region of Judea, and also to the Gentiles, that they should repent and turn to God, performing deeds in keeping with their repentance. Acts 26:19-20 (ESV)

          -A warning about relying on heritage

8 . . .And do not begin to say to yourselves, ‘We have Abraham as our father.’ For I tell you, God is able from these stones to raise up children for Abraham. Luke 3:8 (ESV)

7 Know then that it is those of faith who are the sons of Abraham. 29 And if you are Christ’s, then you are Abraham’s offspring, heirs according to promise. Galatians 3:7, 29 (ESV)

          -A reminder of imminent judgment

9 Even now the axe is laid to the root of the trees. Every tree therefore that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. Luke 3:9 (ESV)

48 ‘where their worm does not die and the fire is not quenched.’ Mark 9:48 (ESV)

2. A True Picture of Repentance

          -The fruit of repentance for the crowd

10 And the crowds asked him, “What then shall we do?”
11 And he answered them, “Whoever has two tunics is to share with him who has none, and whoever has food is to do likewise.” Luke 3:10-11 (ESV)

13 Go and learn what this means, ‘I desire mercy, and not sacrifice.’ For I came not to call the righteous, but sinners. Matthew 9:13 (ESV)

          -The fruit of repentance for tax collectors

12 Tax collectors also came to be baptized and said to him, “Teacher, what shall we do?” 13 And he said to them, “Collect no more than you are authorized to do.” Luke 3:12-13 (ESV)

8 And Zacchaeus stood and said to the Lord, “Behold, Lord, the half of my goods I give to the poor. And if I have defrauded anyone of anything, I restore it fourfold.” Luke 19:8 (ESV)

          -The fruit of repentance for soldiers

14 Soldiers also asked him, “And we, what shall we do?” And he said to them, “Do not extort money from anyone by threats or by false accusation, and be content with your wages.” Luke 3:14 (ESV)

God's Purpose for John the Baptist's Ministry: Luke 3:1-6

God’s Purpose for John the Baptist’s Ministry

1. God’s purpose for John’s ministry in a dark world
1  In the fifteenth year of the reign of Tiberius Caesar, Pontius Pilate being governor of Judea, and Herod being tetrarch of Galilee, and his brother Philip tetrarch of the region of Ituraea and Trachonitis, and Lysanias tetrarch of Abilene, 2 during the high priesthood of Annas and Caiaphas . . . Luke 3:1-2 (ESV)

John’s ministry was inserted into a complex political situation.

2. God’s purpose for John’s ministry through his message
2   . . . the word of God came to John the son of Zechariah in the wilderness. 3  And he went into all the region around the Jordan, proclaiming a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. Luke 3:2-3 (ESV)

The specific use of “word” (rhema) infers a particular message of God rather than the entire scope of the message. (logos)

Repentance produces a life lived with a sense of responsibility before a sovereign God. It is an internal attitude that aims at a product. (Darrell Bock)

Forgiveness comes to those who acknowledge and turn from their sins in repentance.

6  “Seek the LORD while he may be found; call upon him while he is near; 7  let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts; let him return to the LORD, that he may have compassion on him, and to our God, for he will abundantly pardon. Isaiah 55:6-7 (ESV)

16  John answered them all, saying, “I baptize you with water, but he who is mightier than I is coming, the strap of whose sandals I am not worthy to untie. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire. Luke 3:16 (ESV)

4  And Paul said, “John baptized with the baptism of repentance, telling the people to believe in the one who was to come after him, that is, Jesus.” Acts 19:4 (ESV)

3. God’s purpose for John’s ministry as fulfilled prophecy
4  As it is written in the book of the words of Isaiah the prophet, “The voice of one crying in the wilderness: ‘Prepare the way of the Lord, make his paths straight.
5  Every valley shall be filled, and every mountain and hill shall be made low, and the crooked shall become straight, and the rough places shall become level ways,
6  and all flesh shall see the salvation of God.’” Luke 3:4-6 (ESV)

John’s ministry is a fulfillment of Isaiah 40:3-5:

3  A voice cries: “In the wilderness prepare the way of the LORD; make straight in the desert a highway for our God. 4  Every valley shall be lifted up, and every mountain and hill be made low; the uneven ground shall become level, and the rough places a plain. 5  And the glory of the LORD shall be revealed, and all flesh shall see it together, for the mouth of the LORD has spoken.” Isaiah 40:3-5 (ESV)

The highway that clears the way for God is a purified heart.

The highway refers to a means of access to God and His city is found in Isaiah 57:14 and 62:10. (Bock) Isaiah 57:14-15

The Boy Wonder: Luke 2:39-52

The Boy Wonder

1. The childhood growth before Jesus’ first Passover

39 And when they had performed everything according to the Law of the Lord, they returned into Galilee, to their own town of Nazareth. 40 And the child grew and became strong, filled with wisdom. And the favor of God was upon him. Luke 2:39-40 (ESV)

2. The background of Jesus’ first Passover
41 Now his parents went to Jerusalem every year at the Feast of the Passover. 42 And when he was twelve years old, they went up according to custom. Luke 2:41-42 (ESV)

Jesus trip at twelve was significant because in another year, as a thirteen-year-old, Jesus would officially become a "son of the commandment," a full member of the synagogue (cf. Mishnah, Niddah5:6), similar to the modern custom of bar mitzvah. 

3. The problem after Jesus’ first Passover
43  And when the feast was ended, as they were returning, the boy Jesus stayed behind in Jerusalem. His parents did not know it, 44  but supposing him to be in the group they went a day’s journey, but then they began to search for him among their relatives and acquaintances, 45  and when they did not find him, they returned to Jerusalem, searching for him.Luke 2:43-45 (ESV)

4. The knowledge of Jesus at the time of His first Passover
46  After three days they found him in the temple, sitting among the teachers, listening to them and asking them questions. 47  And all who heard him were amazed at his understanding and his answers.Luke 2:46-47 (ESV)

5. The parent’s distress in Jesus’ first Passover

48  And when his parents saw him, they were astonished. And his mother said to him, “Son, why have you treated us so? Behold, your father and I have been searching for you in great distress.”Luke 2:48 (ESV)

Mary wanted to know why Jesus did such a “seemingly” insensitive thing, which prepares for Jesus to reveal His identityand the fact that His parents must come to understandHis mission.

Kent Hughes: The point is, he (Jesus) was capable of unknowinglycausing his parents distress; but as a sinless being, he was incapable of knowinglydoing it. 

6. The insight of His mission at the time of Jesus’ first Passover
49  And he said to them, “Why were you looking for me? Did you not know that I must be in my Father’s house?”50  And they did not understand the saying that he spoke to them. 51  And he went down with them and came to Nazareth and was submissive to them. And his mother treasured up all these things in her heart.Luke 2:49-51 (ESV); John 5:17-18 (ESV)

Jesus’ response is not so much a reproach about having right priorities as it was a declaration of His mission.

7. The adulthood growth after Jesus’ first Passover
52  And Jesus increased in wisdom and in stature and in favor with God and man.Luke 2:52 (ESV)

Rod Matoon: Jesus grew mentally(wisdom). As a human, there were things He needed to learn. He matured physically(stature), spiritually(favor with God), and socially(favor with men). 

Nunc Dimittis ([You] Now Dismiss) . . . Simeon's Song

Nunc Dimittis([You] now dismiss)

Luke 2:25-35

1. The Praise of God’s Faithfulness
29  “Lord, now you are letting your servant depart in peace, according to your word; Luke 2:29 (ESV)

Now may release (or depart): expresses a servant’s release from a task.

2. The Salvation of God’s People
30  for my eyes have seen your salvation 31  that you have prepared in the presence of all peoples, 32  a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and for glory to your people Israel.” 33  And his father and his mother marveled at what was said about him. Luke 2:30-33 (ESV)

A strong tie exists between salvation and the one who personifiesit. 

Light and glory should be seen in parallelas descriptive of the salvation found in 2:30. (Isaiah 60:1-3)

Jesus as light brings salvation to all humanity, illuminatingthem into God’s way.

Through Jesus as the light, attention of all people is drawnto Israel (Is 49:6).

6  he says: “It is too light a thing that you should be my servant to raise up the tribes of Jacob and to bring back the preserved of Israel; I will make you as a light for the nations, that my salvation may reach to the end of the earth.” Isaiah 49:6 (ESV);Ephesians 2:14; Isaiah 42:6;

Isaiah 52:10.

1  Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the LORDhas risen upon you. 2  For behold, darkness shall cover the earth, and thick darkness the peoples; but theLORDwill arise upon you, and his glory will be seen upon you. 3  And nations shall come to your light, and kings to the brightness of your rising. Isaiah 60:1-3 (ESV)

3. The Division that God Brings

34  And Simeon blessed them and said to Mary his mother, “Behold, this child is appointed for the fall and rising of many in Israel, and for a sign that is opposed 
35  (and a sword will pierce through your own soul also), so that thoughts from many hearts may be revealed.”Luke 2:34-35 (ESV)

51  Do you think that I have come to give peace on earth? No, I tell you, but rather division.Luke 12:51 (ESV)

Jesus exposeswhat is really in our hearts. 

15 And many shall stumble on it. They shall fall and be broken; they shall be snared and taken.” Isaiah 8:14-15 (ESV)

16  therefore thus says the Lord GOD, “Behold, I am the one who has laid as a foundation in Zion,a stone, a tested stone,a precious cornerstone, of a sure foundation:‘Whoever believes will not be in haste.’Isaiah 28:16 (ESV)

Isaiah 8 and 28 connect the Messiah with the personificationof God’s deliverance and the agentof His justice. 1 Peter 2:7-8.

Sign to be opposed: means to speak against,reject, to deny, or to contradict. Matthew 12:48-50 

The Remnant

The Remnant Luke 2: 21-38

1. The Dedication of Jesus
22  And when the time came for their purification according to the Law of Moses, they brought him up to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord 23  (as it is written in the Law of the Lord, “Every male who first opens the womb shall be called holy to the Lord”) 24  and to offer a sacrifice according to what is said in the Law of the Lord, “a pair of turtledoves, or two young pigeons.” Luke 2:22-24 (ESV)

4  But when the fullness of time had come, God sent forth his Son, born of woman, born under the law,Galatians 4:4 (ESV)

Similar to Jesus’ baptism, He was circumcised to fulfill all righteousness as God commanded it; and though he was not conceived in original sin, Jesus came to identifywith sinful humanity as its sacrifice. Matthew 1:21 

2. The Dedication of Simeon
25  Now there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon, and this man was righteous and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him. 26  And it had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death before he had seen the Lord’s Christ. 27  And he came in the Spirit into the temple, and when the parents brought in the child Jesus, to do for him according to the custom of the Law, 28  he took him up in his arms and blessed God and said, Luke 2:25-28 (ESV)

Devoutrefers to a sensitive God-fearer or faithful law abider.

“The consolationof Israel” means messianic hope.

1  Comfort, comfort my people, says your God.Isaiah 40:1 (ESV); Isaiah 49:8-13; Isaiah 51:3-12; Isaiah 52:9; Isaiah 54:11; Isaiah 57:18. 

1  The Spirit of the Lord GODis upon me,because the LORDhas anointed meto bring good news to the poor;he has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted,to proclaim liberty to the captives,and the opening of the prison to those who are bound;Isaiah 61:1 (ESV)

10  “Rejoice with Jerusalem, and be glad for her, all you who love her;rejoice with her in joy,all you who mourn over her;11  that you may nurse and be satisfied from her consoling breast;that you may drink deeply with delight from her glorious abundance.”12  For thus says the LORD: “Behold, I will extend peace to her like a river, and the glory of the nations like an overflowing stream;and you shall nurse, you shall be carried upon her hip, and bounced upon her knees.13  As one whom his mother comforts, so I will comfort you;you shall be comforted in Jerusalem.Isaiah 66:10-13 (ESV)

Simeon was a man who was ledby the Spirit of God, taughtby the Word of God, and obedientto the will of God.

3. The Dedication of Anna
36  And there was a prophetess, Anna, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was advanced in years, having lived with her husband seven years from when she was a virgin, 37  and then as a widow until she was eighty-four. She did not depart from the temple, worshiping with fasting and prayer night and day. 
38  And coming up at that very hour she began to give thanks to God and to speak of him to all who were waiting for the redemption of Jerusalem.Luke 2:36-38 (ESV)

In the events that surround both that statements of Simeon and Anna, there is a hint of the remnantconcept: found in those who wait.

The Shepherd's Story

April 7, 2019

The Shepherd’s Story Luke 2: 8-20

1. The Presence in the Shepherd Story


8 And in the same region there were shepherds out in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. 
9 And an angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were filled with great fear. Luke 2:8-9 (ESV)

These were probably nomadic shepherdswho were disconnected from the community for long periods. 

2. The Proclamation in the Shepherd Story
10  And the angel said to them, “Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people.Luke 2:10 (ESV)

The purpose of the angelic visit is to bring good news, so one could say that this was the gospel according to the angel.

3. The Person in the Shepherd Story
11  For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. 12  And this will be a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in swaddling cloths and lying in a manger.”Luke 2:11-12 (ESV)

Jesus would be called Savior, for He would deliverHis people from their sin.

21  She will bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins.”Matthew 1:21 (ESV)

4. The Praise in the Shepherd Story
13 And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying, 14 “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among those with whom he is pleased!” Luke 2:13-14 (ESV)

The Jewish word (shalom) for peacemeans much more than truce in the battles of life. It means well-being, health, prosperity, security, soundness, and completeness.

7  when the morning stars sang together and all the sons of God shouted for joy? 

Job 38:7 (ESV)

20  and through him to reconcile to himself all things, whether on earth or in heaven, making peace by the blood of his cross. Colossians 1:20 (ESV)

5. The Pursuit in the Shepherd Story

15 When the angels went away from them into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let us go over to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has made known to us.” 16 And they went with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby lying in a manger. 17 And when they saw it, they made known the saying that had been told them concerning this child. 18 And all who heard it wondered at what the shepherds told them. 19 But Mary treasured up all these things, pondering them in her heart. 20 And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen, as it had been told them. Luke 2:15-20 (ESV)

Halford Luccock called the Shepherds trip to Bethlehem “the first Christmas Rush”

The Birth of Jesus

The Birth of Jesus (Luke 2:1-7)

1. The World Setting as relates to Christ’s birth
1  In those days a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be registered. 2  This was the first registration when Quirinius was governor of Syria. 3  And all went to be registered, each to his own town. Luke 2:1-3 (ESV)

 God providentially moved the heart of the most powerful human ruler to accomplish His divine purposes.

 2. The National Setting as relates to Christ’s birth
4  And Joseph also went up from Galilee, from the town of Nazareth, to Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David, 5  to be registered with Mary, his betrothed, who was with child. Luke 2:4-5 (ESV)

 God’s purposes were to bring Mary and Joseph to the town in which Jesus was prophesied to be born.

2   But you, O Bethlehem Ephrathah, who are too little to be among the clans of Judah, from you shall come forth for me one who is to be ruler in Israel, whose coming forth is from of old, from ancient days. Micah 5:2 (ESV)

 3. The Personal Setting as relates to Christ’s birth
6  And while they were there, the time came for her to give birth.
7  And she gave birth to her firstborn son and wrapped him in swaddling cloths and laid him in a manger, because there was no place for them in the inn. Luke 2:6-7 (ESV)

 Kenneth Bailey: despite improvised arrangements, Middle Eastern hospitality, then as now, would have ensured that Mary, Joseph and Jesus were properly cared for.

22   . . . ‘Thus says the LORD, Israel is my firstborn son, Exodus 4:22 (ESV)

  6  who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, 7  but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. Philippians 2:6-7 (ESV)

God purposed that Jesus’ birth would reflect the service of His life and ministry.

The Benedictus: Luke 1:67-80

67  And his father Zechariah was filled with the Holy Spirit and prophesied, saying, Luke 1:67 (ESV)

 1. Praise to God for the fulfillment of the Davidic Covenant
68  “Blessed be the Lord God of Israel, for he has visited and redeemed his people 69  and has raised up a horn of salvation for us in the house of his servant David, 70  as he spoke by the mouth of his holy prophets from of old, 71  that we should be saved from our enemies and from the hand of all who hate us; 72  to show the mercy promised to our fathers and to remember his holy covenant, Luke 1:68-72 (ESV)

 Benedictus comes from the Latin word for “blessed.”

2 Samuel 7:11-13 (ESV)

 The metaphor for horn represents strength or power.

 2. Praise to God for the fulfillment of the Abrahamic Covenant
73  the oath that he swore to our father Abraham, to grant us 74  that we, being delivered from the hand of our enemies, might serve him without fear, 75  in holiness and righteousness before him all our days. Luke 1:73-75 (ESV)

 The referral to Abraham reveals that God is faithful to His original commitments.

 God saves us so that we might serve Him with our entire being.

 3. Praise to God for John
76  And you, child, will be called the prophet of the Most High; for you will go before the Lord to prepare his ways,77  to give knowledge of salvation to his people in the forgiveness of their sins . . . 80  And the child grew and became strong in spirit, and he was in the wilderness until the day of his public appearance to Israel. Luke 1:76-77; 80 (ESV)

 Forgiveness of sins is a precondition for salvation as it relates to peace with God.

 4. Praise to God for “the rising sun”
78  because of the tender mercy of our God, whereby the sunrise shall visit us from on high 79  to give light to those who sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace.” Luke 1:78-79 (ESV)

1  Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the LORD has risen upon you. 2  For behold, darkness shall cover the earth, and thick darkness the peoples; but the LORD will arise upon you, and his glory will be seen upon you. 3  And nations shall come to your light, and kings to the brightness of your rising. Isaiah 60:1-3 (ESV); Jeremiah 31:31-34; Malachi 4:1-6

 Darkness often symbolized intellectual ignorance and error (Eph 4:18), along with the immorality of sin as it relates to the world and the realm of Satan (Col 1:13).

17  and he will go before him in the spirit and power of Elijah, to turn the hearts of the fathers to the children, and the disobedient to the wisdom of the just, to make ready for the Lord a people prepared.” Luke 1:17 (ESV)

The Birth of John the Baptist

The Birth of John the Baptist: Luke 1:56-57

 1. God’s Promise is Veracious

56 And Mary remained with her about three months and returned to her home. 57 Now the time came for Elizabeth to give birth, and she bore a son. 58 And her neighbors and relatives heard that the Lord had shown great mercy to her, and they rejoiced with her. Luke 1:56-58 (ESV

 God’s promises are veracious, or true, which means they will most certainly come to pass.

56 “Blessed be the LORD who has given rest to his people Israel, according to all that he promised. Not one word has failed of all his good promise, which he spoke by Moses his servant. 1 Kings 8:56 (ESV)

7  The works of his hands are faithful and just; all his precepts are trustworthy;

Psalm 111:7 (ESV)

 The birth of John the Baptist removed the awful stigma that overcast Elizabeth’s life, and her neighbors and family rejoiced with her in God’s great mercy.

 2. God’s Purpose is Gracious

59  And on the eighth day they came to circumcise the child. And they would have called him Zechariah after his father, 60  but his mother answered, “No; he shall be called John.” 61  And they said to her, “None of your relatives is called by this name.” 62  And they made signs to his father, inquiring what he wanted him to be called. 63  And he asked for a writing tablet and wrote, “His name is John.” And they all wondered. Luke 1:59-63 (ESV)

 The name “John” means “God is gracious.” and that concept paired with the meaning of Elizabeth’s name “my God has sworn” and Zacharias’ name “God remembers” speaks to the faithfulness of God’s gracious purposes.

 Elizabeth showed great obedience under peer pressure in insisting that the name of the child be John, as was directed by the angel.

22  And Samuel said, “Has the LORD as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the LORD? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to listen than the fat of rams. 1 Samuel 15:22 (ESV)

 3. God’s Power is Wondrous
64  And immediately his mouth was opened and his tongue loosed, and he spoke, blessing God. 65  And fear came on all their neighbors. And all these things were talked about through all the hill country of Judea, 66  and all who heard them laid them up in their hearts, saying, “What then will this child be?” For the hand of the Lord was with him. Luke 1:64-66 (ESV)

 The word “immediately” reflects the power of God displayed in relation to the faith of Zachariah.

 The neighbors responded to the power of God with fear when they realized that God had worked in their midst.

 The purpose of these miraculous events led to the question “What then will this child be?” a question that anticipates his role as herald and preparer for the Messiah.

14  Wait for the LORD; be strong, and let your heart take courage; wait for the LORD! Psalm 27:14 (ESV)

The Magnificat: The Magnificence of God

1. The Magnificence of God’s Praise
46  And Mary said, “My soul magnifies the Lord,
47  and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, Luke 1:46-47 (ESV)

 We magnify or enlarge God when we take into our thinking some new aspect of His greatness.

 My heart is steadfast, O God! I will sing and make melody with all my being! Psalm 108:1 (ESV)

 2. The Magnificence of God’s Plan
48  for he has looked on the humble estate of his servant. For behold, from now on all generations will call me blessed; 49  for he who is mighty has done great things for me, and holy is his name.
50  And his mercy is for those who fear him from generation to generation. Luke 1:48-50 (ESV)

 30  And the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. 31  And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus. 32  He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. And the Lord God will give to him the throne of his father David, 33  and he will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of his kingdom there will be no end.” Luke 1:30-33 (ESV) 

Mary did not dwell on her own happy circumstances but rejoiced in the being and character of God.

 3. The Magnificence of God’s Power
51  He has shown strength with his arm; he has scattered the proud in the thoughts of their hearts; 52  he has brought down the mighty from their thrones and exalted those of humble estate; Luke 1:52 (ESV)

 God will humble the pride of intellect, the pride of position, and the pride of wealth.

37  . . . and those who walk in pride he is able to humble. Daniel 4:37 (ESV)

 4. The Magnificence of God’s Provision
53  he has filled the hungry with good things, and the rich he has sent away empty. Luke 1:53 (ESV)

 St. Bernard of Clairvaux:

 We taste Thee, O Thou living Bread,

And long to feast upon Thee still;

We drink of Thee, the Fountainhead

And thirst our souls from Thee to fill.

 5. The Magnificence of God’s Prophecy
54  He has helped his servant Israel, in remembrance of his mercy,
55  as he spoke to our fathers, to Abraham and to his offspring forever.” Luke 1:54-55 (ESV)

 God fulfills his promises of mercy.

The Visitation

1. Mary’s faith was strengthened through personal confirmation
36  And behold, your relative Elizabeth in her old age has also conceived a son, and this is the sixth month with her who was called barren . . . 39  In those days Mary arose and went with haste into the hill country, to a town in Judah, 40  and she entered the house of Zechariah and greeted Elizabeth. Luke 1:36-40 (ESV)

 Mary made haste to visit Elizabeth because she was eager to see the promised sign given by the angel.

 2. Mary’s faith was strengthened through physical confirmation
41 And when Elizabeth heard the greeting of Mary, the baby leaped in her womb . . . 44 For behold, when the sound of your greeting came to my ears, the baby in my womb leaped for joy. Luke 1:41a;44 (ESV)

 One could say this was John’s first announcement or herald of the coming Messiah, though a silent one.

Genesis 25:22-26

10  'Did You not pour me out like milk And curdle me like cheese; 11  Clothe me with skin and flesh, And knit me together with bones and sinews? Job 10:10-11 (NASB)

3. Mary’s faith was strengthened through prophetic confirmation

41   . . .  And Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit, 42  and she exclaimed with a loud cry, “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb! 43  And why is this granted to me that the mother of my Lord should come to me . . . 45  And blessed is she who believed that there would be a fulfillment of what was spoken to her from the Lord.” Luke 1:41-45 (ESV)

 The filling of the Spirit is connected with the ability to speak a prophetic word in this instance.

Rod Mattoon:

1. He provided enlightenment about the Lord Jesus Christ. Elizabeth had learned of Mary's miraculous conception. He continues to enlighten us today.

13  When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth, for he will not speak on his own authority, but whatever he hears he will speak, and he will declare to you the things that are to come. John 16:13 (ESV)

 2. His filling brought about the exultation of the Lord Jesus Christ. Elizabeth's song of praise glorified the Lord. His work continues to glorify Christ in our day.

14  He will glorify me . . .  John 16:14 (ESV)

3. His fullness led to enablement in serving the Lord. He enabled Elizabeth to boldly proclaim her song. He emboldens and enables us today to serve the Lord Jesus Christ.

8  But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.” Acts 1:8 (ESV)

2  “The Spirit of the LORD speaks by me; his word is on my tongue. 2 Samuel 23:2 (ESV)

 Elizabeth’s loud voice emphasizes both excitement and authority.

 Mary was blessed in her function of being Christ’s mother and in her faith. 

(outline by John Macarthur)

Gabriel’s Annunciation

1. The Background for Gabriel’s Annunciation
26 In the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God to a city of Galilee named Nazareth, 27 to a virgin betrothed to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David. And the virgin’s name was Mary. Luke 1:26-27 (ESV)

 The contrast of the announcement for John in a worship service with the announcement for Jesus in a humble setting sets the tone for perspective of His ministry.

  14  Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign. Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel. Isaiah 7:14 (ESV)

 2. The Greeting of Gabriel’s Annunciation
28  And he came to her and said, “Greetings, O favored one, the Lord is with you!” 29  But she was greatly troubled at the saying, and tried to discern what sort of greeting this might be. Luke 1:28-29 (ESV)

 The greeting emphasized God’s grace for Mary and His presence with Mary.

 3. The Message in Gabriel’s Annunciation
30  And the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. 31  And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus. 32  He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. And the Lord God will give to him the throne of his father David, 33  and he will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of his kingdom there will be no end.” Luke 1:30-33 (ESV)

 Gabriel’s message is basically a fulfillment of the prophesy given my Nathan to David in 2 Samuel 7:12-14 or 1 Chronicles 17:11-14.

 4. The Question about Gabriel’s Annunciation
34  And Mary said to the angel, “How will this be, since I am a virgin?” 35  And the angel answered her, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you; therefore the child to be born will be called holy—the Son of God. Luke 1:34-35 (ESV)

 The idea of overshadow can be pictured in the Shekinah cloud that rested on the tabernacle. Exodus 40:34-35

14  And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth. John 1:14 (ESV)

 5. The Sign of Gabriel’s Annunciation
36  And behold, your relative Elizabeth in her old age has also conceived a son, and this is the sixth month with her who was called barren. 37  For nothing will be impossible with God.” Luke 1:36-37 (ESV)

 6. The Response to Gabriel’s Annunciation
38  And Mary said, “Behold, I am the servant of the Lord; let it be to me according to your word.” And the angel departed from her. Luke 1:38 (ESV)

Mary’s response reveals both obedience and a submissive spirit.

19   . . . You are not your own, 20  for you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body. 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 (ESV); 1 Corinthians 7:23

I'm Speechless: Luke 1:5-25

I’m Speechless

1. The background before the announcement
5  In the days of Herod, king of Judea, there was a priest named Zechariah, of the division of Abijah. And he had a wife from the daughters of Aaron, and her name was Elizabeth. 6  And they were both righteous before God, walking blamelessly in all the commandments and statutes of the Lord. 7  But they had no child, because Elizabeth was barren, and both were advanced in years. Luke 1:5-7 (ESV)

 A couple’s absence of children was generally seen as a type of reproach in Judaism and in the Old Testament, though clearly the barrenness was not due to some sin on the part of the couple.

 2. The circumstances during the announcement
8 Now while he was serving as priest before God when his division was on duty, 9 according to the custom of the priesthood, he was chosen by lot to enter the temple of the Lord and burn incense. 10 And the whole multitude of the people were praying outside at the hour of incense. 11 And there appeared to him an angel of the Lord standing on the right side of the altar of incense. Luke 1:8-11 (ESV)

 For a priest to offer incense was a great privilege that he was allowed to perform only once, and many priests did not even get the opportunity.

 3. The content of the announcement
12  And Zechariah was troubled when he saw him, and fear fell upon him. 13  But the angel said to him, “Do not be afraid, Zechariah, for your prayer has been heard, and your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you shall call his name John. 14  And you will have joy and gladness, and many will rejoice at his birth, 15  for he will be great before the Lord. And he must not drink wine or strong drink, and he will be filled with the Holy Spirit, even from his mother’s womb. 16  And he will turn many of the children of Israel to the Lord their God, 17  and he will go before him in the spirit and power of Elijah, to turn the hearts of the fathers to the children, and the disobedient to the wisdom of the just, to make ready for the Lord a people prepared.” Luke 1:12-17 (ESV); Malachi 4:5-6

 God’s answers sometimes come at a surprising time, in a surprising place, and in a surprising way. (Darrell Bock)

 4. The unbelief in response to the announcement
18  And Zechariah said to the angel, “How shall I know this? For I am an old man, and my wife is advanced in years.” 19  And the angel answered him, “I am Gabriel. I stand in the presence of God, and I was sent to speak to you and to bring you this good news. 20  And behold, you will be silent and unable to speak until the day that these things take place, because you did not believe my words, which will be fulfilled in their time.” 21  And the people were waiting for Zechariah, and they were wondering at his delay in the temple. 22  And when he came out, he was unable to speak to them, and they realized that he had seen a vision in the temple. And he kept making signs to them and remained mute. 23  And when his time of service was ended, he went to his home. Luke 1:18-23 (ESV); Numbers 6:24-26

 5. The joy from the fulfillment of the announcement.
24  After these days his wife Elizabeth conceived, and for five months she kept herself hidden, saying, 25  “Thus the Lord has done for me in the days when he looked on me, to take away my reproach among people.” Luke 1:24-25 (ESV)

 Elizabeth had waited for many years for this moment. Now she was going to enjoy the bliss of this miracle shut up on her own, with the Lord. (Michael Bentley)

A Well Researched Gospel

A Well Researched Gospel

The entire paragraph is one long Greek sentence written in the scholarly format of classical Greek.

 In the opening section of this gospel, Luke gives us 3 explanations for why he wrote this gospel.

 1. The precedent for Luke’s Gospel

1 Inasmuch as many have undertaken to compile a narrative of the things that have been accomplished among us, 2 just as those who from the beginning were eyewitnesses and ministers of the word have delivered them to us, Luke 1:1-2 (ESV)

 These works probably include oral records and the gospels of Matthew and Mark.

 Luke describes three stages in the process which includes the events that were experienced, the witnesses’ formulation of these events, and the recording of the tradition and reflection on the information.

21  For no prophecy was ever produced by the will of man, but men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit. 2 Peter 1:21 (ESV)

 2. The pattern for Luke’s Gospel
3  it seemed good to me also, having followed all things closely for some time past, to write an orderly account for you, most excellent Theophilus, Luke 1:3 (ESV)

 Luke desired to follow the account of Jesus’ life so as to understand its significance through the process of accurate investigation.

10  For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.” Luke 19:10 (ESV)

3. The purpose for Luke’s Gospel
4  that you may have certainty concerning the things you have been taught. Luke 1:4 (ESV)

 The “certainty” the Luke desires to achieve is for the purpose of encouraging and strengthening the faith of Theophilus.

Psalm 24: When Worship Is Right

Psalm 24: When Worship Is Right

1.      A Recognition of God’s Power

 The earth is the LORD’s and the fullness thereof, the world and those who dwell therein, 2  for he has founded it upon the seas and established it upon the rivers. Psalm 24:1-2 (ESV); Colossians 1:16

 2.      A Revelation of God’s Purity

3  Who shall ascend the hill of the LORD? And who shall stand in his holy place? 4  He who has clean hands and a pure heart, who does not lift up his soul to what is false and does not swear deceitfully. 5  He will receive blessing from the LORD and righteousness from the God of his salvation. 6  Such is the generation of those who seek him, who seek the face of the God of Jacob. Selah Psalm 24:3-6 (ESV)

a. The way to seek God (vv. 3-4).

Jesus condemned the Pharisees who were men of clean hands but corrupt hearts (Mt. 23:25-28).

These statements combine to teach us that true holiness extends to our complete person.

"Clean hands" designate one who is holy in deed, that is, in outward actions as well as inwardly.

b. The results: You will receive God’s blessing and His righteousness (v. 5). Luke 18:13-14

James Boice: I suggest that in order to understand verses 4 and 5, it is best to take the phrases in an inverse order . . .  I would make the order like this:

1. Vindication (or justification) from God our Savior (v. 5b),

2. Blessing from the Lord (v. 5a), and then

3. Clean hands and a pure heart, resulting in a life which does not lift itself up to idols or swear falsely (v. 4).

c. The truth declared: It is such people who truly seek and worship God (v. 6).

3.      A Realization of God’s Presence

7  Lift up your heads, O gates! And be lifted up, O ancient doors, that the King of glory may come in. 8  Who is this King of glory? The LORD, strong and mighty, the LORD, mighty in battle! 9  Lift up your heads, O gates! And lift them up, O ancient doors, that the King of glory may come in. 10  Who is this King of glory? The LORD of hosts, he is the King of glory! Selah Psalm 24:7-10 (ESV)

First, to the people of His day who were receiving the ark of the covenant into their city.

Second, to the people in the future who would receive Jesus into Jerusalem at His triumphal entry, shortly before His crucifixion (Mt. 21:1-11).

Third, to the people in the last days who will receive Christ as King when He returns to earth in power and glory (Re. 1:7; 19:11-21).

a. The need: To open up the gates and doors to the King of glory (v. 7).

b. The reason: The King of glory is the Lord who is strong and mighty (v. 8).

c. The need and reason reemphasized (v. 9-10).

 (*Notes provided by the Preachers Outline and Sermon Bible.)

My Shepherd: Psalm 23

My Shepherd: Psalm 23

1. The Provision of the Shepherd

1  The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want. Psalm 23:1 (ESV)

70  He chose David his servant and took him from the sheepfolds; 71  from following the nursing ewes he brought him to shepherd Jacob his people, Israel his inheritance. Psalm 78:70-71 (ESV)

19  And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:19 (ESV)

28  Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 29  Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.
30  For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” Matthew 11:28-30 (ESV)

 2. The Restoration of the Shepherd
2  He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. Psalm 23:2

 3. The Guidance of the Shepherd
3  He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name’s sake. Psalm 23:3 (ESV)

 4. The Protection of the Shepherd
4  Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. Psalm 23:4 (ESV)

 5. The Victory of the Shepherd
5  You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. Psalm 23:5 (ESV)

11  I tell you, many will come from east and west and recline at table with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob in the kingdom of heaven, Matthew 8:11 (ESV)

 6. The Assurance of the Shepherd
6  Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the LORD forever. Psalm 23:6 (ESV)