Introduction:     This is a hectic time of the year. Many times the last thing on people’s minds is the Lord Jesus Christ, yet without Christ there is no Christmas! As we rush around this season I’d like to just stop a moment and interject Christ back into Christmas. (Illus: Christmas without Christ (x-mas) is nothing but a big “mess”.)

• “Without controversy” = there can be no argument about what is stated.
• “Mystery” = in the Bible is a revealed secret.

There can be no argument that the great revelation of the Bible is the Lord Jesus Christ! This one verse of scripture gives us a complete picture of Jesus’ life and influence on the human race. Christmas really is about the Lord Jesus Christ! What does this verse say about Jesus?

I.          HIS INCARNATION (“God was manifest in the flesh”)
“Manifest” = to make visible. Jesus existed before the manger (Jn. 1:1) “Word” = Logos; the outward manifestation of something that as yet has been invisible. (Illus: Words make the invisible visible + example). God manifested Himself in a body that could bleed and die on an old rugged cross.

• Jesus is not just mortal man. It wasn’t a prophet, great teacher, or religious leader, but God became flesh!
• The bouncing baby boy in Bethlehem was the God of the universe! At Christmas we celebrate the birth of God in human flesh upon this earth.
• Jesus Christ is God and that’s why we worship Him and praise Him!

II.         HIS VINDICATION (“Justified in the Spirit”)
“Justified” = vindicated. How did the Holy Spirit vindicate the life and ministry of Jesus?

• At His baptism
• His first sermon (Isa.61:1-2)
• His resurrection (this same Spirit enters the saved person and makes life new!)

III.       HIS OBSERVATION (“seen of angels”)
The angles watch it all in wonder and amazement.

• The plan in heaven
• The birth in Bethlehem
• His growth to adulthood and His ministry
• The crucifixion
• The resurrection

IV.       HIS PROCLAMATION (“preached unto the Gentiles”)
Some say that preaching is out of style in today’s society. Notice that it doesn’t say that a program was preached, or entertainment was sought, but a person was proclaimed! (Illus: Good old fashion preaching)

V.        HIS MULTIPLICATION (“Believed on in the world”)
Not believed about or believe in, but believed on. We should expect folks to get saved without manipulation. (Illus.)

VI.       HIS GLORIFICATION (“Received up into glory”)

Conclusion:       Christmas is about a gift. The greatest of all gifts…Eternal Life in Jesus Christ!