Pastor’s Pen Pulpit

December 23, 2001

“THE VIRGIN BIRTH IN PERSPECTIVE”

For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation to all men.

Titus 2:11

As we analyze the incarnation of our Lord Jesus Christ in Bethlehem, there is a variety of ways in which this event can be expressed. The Gospels give three perspectives:

1. Matthew’s expression of the incarnation – Matthew 1:21-23

Matthew‘s emphasis is upon the very presence of God with us in the Person of His Son.

2. John’s expression of the incarnation – John 1:1-3, 14, 18

John’s emphasis is upon the Eternal Word by whom all things have their existence. Jesus Christ is Himself the very expression of the heart of God and Who fully identified with humanity in time with the express purpose of redemption.

3. Luke’s expression of the incarnation – Luke 2:10, 11; 1:31-33

Luke’s emphasis is upon the fact that a Savior is born in the City of David Who is also the Sovereign Who will ultimately sit upon the Throne of David.

So in the Gospel accounts of the birth of Jesus Christ our Savior, there is the historical (past) connected with the soteriological (present), and the eschatological (future) features of His birth. The historical event through which salvation is effected will culminate in an eternal throne occupied by the Messiah . . . a past, present, and future concept associated with the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ!

* * * * * * *

I was just thinking the other day what a difference a year makes! I certainly feel I’ve grown to know all of you much better during the last year. Maybe it’s because of the Pen Pulpits. So many of you have come to me personally and expressed appreciation for the devotions I write each week. This gives me a sense of being used by the Lord. Thank you.

Our lives this year have been pretty much confined to home as I’m still unable to be out and about much. I expect this next year to be different in that respect. A neighbor suffered a massive stroke several years ago. He told me he was at least three years regaining his major faculties. He is doing fine now and back to driving his car.

I’m grateful that Pastor Dale is doing such a wonderful job in shepherding the flock. The least I can do is help him in some way.

God bless each and every one of you at this Christmas season. I love you in the Lord.