SERIES: COPING WITH CHRISTMAS (1 OF 2)

NOTE: This sermon is part 1 and 2 of a 4 part sermon series. Two sermons outlines are included in this download.

PREVIEWS:

Part 1: Mary's Christmas
Series: Coping With Christmas
Stuart Briscoe
Luke 1:26-56

Clustered around the Christmas event are a number of people whose experiences can be extremely instructive to us as we once again face the Christmas rush.

I. Mary's Attitude.

A. A troubling visitation.
1. A divine messenger. vv. 26-27

2. A reassuring greeting. v. 28

3. A predictable reaction. v. 29

4. A startling message. vv. 30 33

5. A genuine query. v. 34

6. A powerful explanation. vv. 35 37

B. A remarkable reaction.
1. A responsive attitude.
a. Submission: "Lord's servant." v. 38

b. Faith: "she who has believed." v. 45

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Part 2: Zechariah's Christmas
Series: Coping With Christmas
Stuart Briscoe
Luke 1:8-25

In the days of Herod the Great, the fortunes of Israel were at a low ebb. Centuries had passed since the prophets had spoken, and a word from the Lord was needed to waken the people from their spiritual stupor. It came through an old priest, his elderly wife, and their remarkable son. Today's situation is similar.

I. Zechariah's Struggle.

A. An upright couple. vv. 5 7
1. Zechariah: "The Lord remembers (His covenant)."

2. Elisabeth: "My God is faithful."

3. "Upright in the sight of God." Genesis 6:9; 17:1; Job 1:1

B. A unique event. vv. 8 17
1. A once-in-a-lifetime opportunity-Zechariah's turn.

2. A once-in-a-lifetime announcement-a response to prayer.
a. The promised birth-John: "The Lord is merciful."

b. The predicted character-full of Spirit, not wine.

c. The prescribed calling.
i. Bringing people back to the Lord.

ii. Going on before the Lord-like Elijah.