The Everlasting Meaning of Christmas*

Christmas is about far more than traditions, gifts, or a moment in history. In this message, Pastor Chris Teien explains the eternal meaning of Christmas by tracing God’s long-planned rescue mission through Jesus Christ and showing how His coming offers forgiveness, transformation, lasting joy, and the promise of eternal life. 

Link: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2285086/episodes/18408186

Key Points:

1. Christmas reveals God’s planned rescue mission
    God’s plan of salvation was announced centuries in advance through prophecy and fulfilled perfectly in the birth of Jesus, reminding us that God keeps His promises and works in His perfect timing.
2. Christmas points to forgiveness through the cross
    Jesus did not come only to be born, but to suffer, die, and shed His blood so that sin could be forgiven and broken lives could be made right with God.
3. Christmas invites us into eternal life with Jesus
    Through His completed sacrifice and ongoing intercession, Jesus offers believers eternal life and the assurance of being with Him forever.
4. Christmas calls for a personal response of faith
    Each person must respond by believing in Jesus, receiving Him as Savior, and choosing to follow Him daily with trust and obedience.

Personal Stories from Pastor Chris:
Pastor Chris uses everyday Christmas experiences, including food, traditions, and family moments, to contrast temporary pleasures with the eternal joy found in a personal relationship with Jesus.

Notable Quotes:
 “Christmas is about Jesus and the eternal value of living for Him.”
 “Jesus did not just come to forgive sin, but to be with us forever.”
 “Joy is the confident assurance that God is in control, even when life feels uncertain.”

Actionable Takeaways:
 Reflect on what Christmas truly means beyond traditions
 Consider whether you have personally received Christ
 Share your testimony of life before and after Jesus
 Choose daily to put Jesus first in time, priorities, and decisions

Scripture References:
Isaiah 7:14, Isaiah 9:6, Micah 5:2, Matthew 1:18–23, Matthew 1:21, Luke 19:10, Isaiah 53:3–6, Hebrews 9:22, John 1:29, John 14:1–6, Hebrews 7:25, Hebrews 10:12, Acts 1:11, John 11:25–26, Revelation 3:20, John 1:12, Luke 9:23, John 15:11, Revelation 22:12 

Keywords:
 Christmas meaning, Jesus Christ, salvation, forgiveness, eternal life, joy in Christ, faith, gospel, hope 

Challenge:
This week, take a personal step toward Jesus by trusting Him, following Him more closely, or sharing the hope of Christmas with someone who needs to hear it.

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The WELL Faith Sermon Audio Podcast shares practical and encouraging Bible-based messages from Pastor Chris Teien to help you grow in your walk with Christ. A new message is released every Sunday. Episodes marked with an asterisk (*) are replay episodes from previous years. Find resources at ChrisTeien.com and Rockwell.church in Virginia, MN. Follow and review on your favorite platform. Send comments to: connect@christeien.com