A Shepherd’s Christmas: A 5-Day Plan Through Luke's Account of the Birth of Christნიმუში

Day 3: The Gospel Message of Christmas

Christmas is often considered a season of joy, lights, and traditions. But at its core, Christmas is the beginning of the gospel, the good news of salvation through Jesus Christ.

The angel’s words to the shepherds are loaded with meaning: good news, great joy, for all the people. These aren’t just warm sentiments but the foundation of our hope. The baby in the manger was the long-awaited Messiah, the Savior of the world.

Yet notice this, the shepherds weren’t saved simply by hearing the news. They were saved when, by faith, they accepted the truth of the baby who would grow up to be their Savior. Salvation is never automatic. It requires a personal response of faith.

This truth is echoed in John 3:16–18, where Scripture reminds us that God gave his Son so that whoever believes in him will not perish but have eternal life. Christmas points us to Easter because Jesus was born to live a sinless life, die as the spotless sacrifice for our sins, and rise again so we could be redeemed.

The gospel message is simple yet profound:

• Jesus was born so he could live without sin.
• Like the shepherds’ lambs, he became the final sacrifice.
• Those who place their faith in him receive eternal life.
• This salvation is a gift of grace that cannot be earned, only received.

As we celebrate Christmas, it’s easy to stop at the manger. But the angel’s announcement reminds us to see the whole picture. Christmas is the first chapter of God’s rescue story, which continues through the cross and the empty tomb.

This season, let’s rejoice in the birth of Jesus and also remember why he came. And let’s be bold in sharing that good news with others. The shepherds didn’t keep the message to themselves, nor should we.

Reflection Questions:

1. What is the good news of Christmas, and how does it bring joy?
2. Who in your life needs to hear this gospel message from you?
3. What holds people back from accepting the truth of the gospel?