Christmas: Good News Of Great Joy For All People Series

CHRISTMAS: GOOD NEWS OF GREAT JOY FOR ALL PEOPLE

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Luke 2:8-14

Key Verse:

“And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.” (Luke 2:10)

Supporting Texts: Isaiah 9:2-7; John 3:16; Romans 15:13; John 1:4-5; Titus 2:11

Description:

The birth of Jesus Christ announces heaven’s joyful message of salvation, hope, and redemption to all humanity without limitation.

INTRODUCTION

Christmas is more than a festive season filled with celebrations, decorations, and goodwill; it is the divine announcement of God’s redemptive plan reaching humanity. In a world often marked by sorrow, fear, and uncertainty, God chose to introduce His Son as good news, news that brings joy beyond circumstances.

The angelic proclamation to the shepherds reveals the heart of God. Heaven did not announce judgement, condemnation, or rejection, but joy. This joy was not restricted to kings, priests, or the elite; it was declared to ordinary shepherds, signalling that salvation is for everyone.

In a troubled world still yearning for hope, peace, and meaning, the Christmas message remains timeless. Jesus Christ is God’s answer to human despair, and His birth continues to announce joy that transforms lives, restores hope, and brings eternal salvation.

1. THE JOY ANNOUNCED FROM HEAVEN

The birth of Christ was not hidden or silent; it was publicly announced by heaven itself, declaring joy that originates from God and not from human effort.

a) Joy that overcomes fear (Luke 2:9-10)

The shepherds were gripped with fear when the glory of the Lord appeared, yet the angel immediately replaced fear with joy, showing that divine joy drives out terror and uncertainty.

b) Joy rooted in divine initiative (Isaiah 9:6)

This joy did not come because humanity deserved it, but because God lovingly initiated salvation through the gift of His Son.

c) Joy announced by angels, not men (Luke 2:13-14)

Heaven itself celebrated the birth of Christ, affirming that this joy is heavenly in origin and eternal in nature.

d) Joy proclaimed before understanding (Luke 2:10)

The shepherds received the message of joy before fully comprehending its depth, teaching that joy precedes full revelation and grows with faith.

Biblical Example:

The shepherds receiving the angelic announcement (Luke 2:8-14) demonstrate how God reveals His joy to humble and receptive hearts.

2. THE JOY THAT IS FOR ALL PEOPLE

God’s message of joy through Christ is universal, crossing every boundary of race, class, gender, and background.

a) Joy without discrimination (Titus 2:11)

Salvation is offered freely to all, proving that God’s joy is inclusive and not limited to a chosen few.

b) Joy for the broken and weary (Matthew 11:28)

Christ came to bring joy to those burdened by sin, pain, and hopelessness, offering rest and renewal.

c) Joy beyond social status (Luke 2:8)

Shepherds, often overlooked in society, were the first recipients of the good news, showing that God values every soul equally.

d) Joy that reaches every generation (Psalm 145:4)

The message of Christmas joy continues from generation to generation, remaining relevant in every age.

Biblical Example:

Jesus’ interaction with Zacchaeus (Luke 19:1-10) shows how salvation brings joy to individuals regardless of their past.

3. THE JOY FOUND IN CHRIST ALONE

True and lasting joy is not found in material possessions or earthly success but in a relationship with Jesus Christ.

a) Joy rooted in salvation (Psalm 51:12)

The greatest joy comes from knowing one’s sins are forgiven and one’s relationship with God restored.

b) Joy that the world cannot give (John 14:27)

Christ offers a joy that remains stable even when circumstances are unstable.

c) Joy that brings inner transformation (2 Corinthians 5:17)

Encountering Christ produces a new life, replacing sorrow with rejoicing.

d) Joy sustained by faith (Romans 15:13)

Believing in Christ fills the heart with joy and peace through the power of the Holy Spirit.

Biblical Example:

The Samaritan woman at the well (John 4:28-30) left her encounter with Jesus transformed and joyful, immediately sharing the good news.

4. THE JOY THAT MUST BE SHARED

The good news of great joy was never meant to be kept private; it is a message to be proclaimed and lived out.

a) Joy that compels proclamation (Luke 2:17)

After seeing the Christ child, the shepherds spread the message, showing that true joy naturally overflows.

b) Joy expressed through praise (Psalm 100:1-2)

Genuine joy finds expression in worship, gratitude, and celebration of God’s goodness.

c) Joy demonstrated through love (John 13:34-35)

The joy of Christ is reflected in how believers love and serve others.

d) Joy that draws others to Christ (Matthew 5:16)

A joyful Christian life becomes a testimony that points others to the Saviour.

Biblical Example:

The disciples rejoicing after the resurrection (John 20:20) illustrates how joy empowers believers to boldly witness.