Central Assembly

* Fear Not -The Gospel Removes Fear

"And the angel said unto them, fear not..." (Luke 2:10a)

* Good News of Great Joy - The Gospel Restores Joy
"...I bring you good news of great joy..." Luke 2:10b

"Good News"
Biblical usage: a royal announcement
- Army was victorious in battle
- A new ruler was in charge = a new way of life

* Good News of Great Joy - The Gospel Restores Joy

"Great Joy"
--- The birth of Jesus is the arrival of joy itself

Joy is not the absence of struggle; it's the presence of the Savior

For All People - The Gospel is Missional

"...that will be for all people." (Luke 2:10c)

The Christmas Story crosses barriers:

* Social
* Ethnic
* Generational
* Gender
* Economic

Peace on Earth - The Gospel Reconciles Us

* "...on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests." (Luke 2:14b)
* Peace with God (Romans 5:1)
* Peace between people (Ephesians 2:14-18)
* Peace within ourselves (Philippians 4:6-7)

The Shepherd's Response

* They turned toward Jesus
* They shared what they heard
* They worshipped