John 3:16 For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.
(This was Jesus speaking to Nicodemus)
Introduction
• Christmas is the season of giving, joy, and family.
o But beyond the gifts and celebrations, Christmas reminds us of one central truth—the immense love of God for humanity.
• Love is at the very heart of the Christmas story.
• Today, let's talk about the depth of God’s love, how it should guide our lives, and how we can share it with others.
I. God's Love Manifested in Jesus Christ
Scripture: John 3:16 (KJV)
"For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life."
B. God's love is the reason for Christmas.
1. The birth of Jesus in Bethlehem was not just a historical event; it was the ultimate display of God's love for all humanity.
2. He didn't just say He loves us; He showed it by giving us His Son.
C. Illustration: Imagine a parent who sees their child gravely ill. When the doctor tells them there’s only one way to save the child—by enduring pain or sacrifice—the parent doesn’t hesitate.
1. God, as our Heavenly Father, made the ultimate sacrifice when He sent His Son, knowing Jesus would suffer and die for sins. That is love in action, a love that puts others first.
2. Christmas is a reminder of the enormity of that love.
Application: This Christmas, as we reflect on baby Jesus in the manger, remember that this was God saying to us, “I love you this much.”
II. Love as a Guiding Principle for Our Lives
Scripture: 1 Corinthians 13:4–7 (Amplified)
"Love endures with patience and serenity, love is kind and thoughtful, and is not jealous or envious... It does not rejoice in injustice, but rejoices with the truth... Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things."
A. Love isn't just an emotional feeling; it's a way of life.
1. Paul describes the characteristics of love—kindness, patience, selflessness—as qualities that should shape our every action, especially during the Christmas season when challenges like crowded malls or family tensions can test us.
B. Illustration: A few months ago, we had the opportunity to reach out and try to help many who had suffered devastating loss because of the hurricanes. (For many this trauma is ongoing) As a church community you rallied—giving clothes, time, treasure and of yourselves.
1. That’s what love looks like when it is lived out.
2. Love doesn’t just think about itself; love gives and helps others because "love bears all things."
Application: This season, ask yourself, “Are my actions driven by love?” Love should influence our words, attitudes, and choices so we can shine Christ’s light to those around us.
III. Sharing Love with Others
Scripture: 1 John 4:11 (KJV)
"Beloved, if God so loved us, we ought also to love one another."
A. Christmas is not just a time to receive love—it’s a time to share it.
1. John reminds us that if we have experienced the love of God, we are now called to love others in the same way.
2. This could be through generosity, kindness, or encouragement.
B. Illustration: Consider the life of Mother Teresa, who poured out her love to the poor and forgotten. She once said, "Not all of us can do great things, but we can do small things with great love."
1. She didn’t wait for grand opportunities; she simply loved the person in front of her.
2. Similarly, our acts of love do not have to be big—it can be as simple as sending a card to someone lonely, serving a neighbor, or providing a meal to someone in need.
Application: Who needs your love this Christmas? Is it a family member, a friend, or even a stranger? Ask God to help you see the opportunities around you to share love, not just in words, but in action.
Conclusion
• This Christmas let’s remember the incredible love that God has shown us by giving His Son.
o Love should be the centerpiece of our lives—it is patient and kind, it forgives and serves.
o And just as God has loved us, He calls us to share that love with everyone around us.
• Imagine a world where everyone embraced the love of Christ.
o Families would be restored,
o Communities would grow stronger, and
o God's name would be glorified throughout the earth.
• This Christmas may love not just be something we talk about, but something we live out.
Challenge: Go this week and show someone God’s love. Whether it’s through a kind word, a thoughtful gift, or helping someone in need, be the light of God, be the light of love this Christmas season.
