FROM THE MANGER TO THE THRONE (CHRISTMAS)
By Rev. Samuel Arimoro
Main Text: Philippians 2:6-11
Key Verse: “Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name.” (Philippians 2:9)
Supporting Texts: Luke 2:6-7; Isaiah 9:6-7; John 1:14; Hebrews 1:3; Revelation 5:12-13.
INTRODUCTION:
Christmas tells a powerful story that begins in humility and ends in glory. The birth of Jesus in a manger was not the end of His story but the beginning of a divine journey that would lead Him to the throne of eternal authority. The manger represents humility, sacrifice, and divine submission, while the throne represents victory, glory, and eternal dominion.
Many see Christmas only as the birth of a baby, but Scripture reveals that the baby in the manger is the King on the throne. Christ’s journey from the manger to the throne shows us that humility precedes exaltation and obedience leads to glory. Christmas, therefore, is not just about where Christ started, but where He reigns forever.
This message reveals the full picture of Christmas: Christ came down in humility so that He could be lifted up in glory, and through Him, humanity could be lifted as well.
1. THE MANGER REVEALS CHRIST’S HUMILITY
The manger speaks of Christ’s willingness to humble Himself for the sake of mankind.
a) Christ chose humility over glory (Philippians 2:6-7). He laid aside divine privileges to become man.
b) Christ was born in lowliness (Luke 2:6-7). There was no room in the inn, yet heaven rejoiced.
c) Christ identified with the poor and rejected (2 Corinthians 8:9). He became poor so man could be rich.
d) Christ embraced the servant’s role (Mark 10:45). He came not to be served, but to serve.
Biblical Example: Jesus washed the disciples’ feet, revealing His humble nature despite His divine authority (John 13:3-5).
2. THE MANGER REVEALS GOD’S LOVE FOR MAN
God’s decision to send His Son reveals the depth of His love.
a) Love motivated the incarnation (John 3:16). God gave His Son because of love.
b) Love crossed divine boundaries (John 1:14). God dwelt among men.
c) Love sought the lost (Luke 19:10). Christ came to rescue fallen humanity.
d) Love was demonstrated through sacrifice (Romans 5:8). Christ came knowing the cross awaited Him.
Biblical Example: The shepherds received the good news, showing that God’s love is for all, regardless of status (Luke 2:10-11).
3. THE CROSS CONNECTS THE MANGER TO THE THRONE
The journey from the manger to the throne passed through the cross.
a) Obedience led Christ to the cross (Philippians 2:8). He obeyed even unto death.
b) The cross completed redemption (John 19:30). Salvation was fully paid for.
c) The cross defeated darkness (Colossians 2:14-15). Principalities were disarmed.
d) The cross fulfilled prophecy (Isaiah 53:5). Redemption was planned from eternity.
Biblical Example: Jesus willingly laid down His life, declaring, “It is finished,” sealing mankind’s redemption (John 10:17-18).
4. THE THRONE REVEALS CHRIST’S EXALTATION
After humility and obedience came divine exaltation.
a) God exalted Christ above all (Philippians 2:9). His name is above every name.
b) Christ reigns with authority (Matthew 28:18). All power is given unto Him.
c) Christ sits at God’s right hand (Hebrews 1:3). The place of honour and power.
d) Christ rules eternally (Revelation 11:15). His kingdom has no end.
Biblical Example: Stephen saw Jesus standing at the right hand of God, affirming His exalted position (Acts 7:55-56).
5. FROM THE MANGER TO THE THRONE: LESSONS FOR BELIEVERS
Christ’s journey teaches believers how God works in their lives.
a) Humility attracts divine lifting (James 4:10). God lifts the humble.
b) Obedience precedes promotion (1 Samuel 15:22). God honours obedience.
c) Temporary suffering leads to eternal glory (Romans 8:18). Glory outweighs pain.
d) Those who identify with Christ will reign with Him (2 Timothy 2:12). Reigning follows endurance.
Biblical Example: Joseph moved from the pit and prison to the palace because God exalted him in due season (Genesis 41:41).
CONCLUSION:
Christmas reveals more than the birth of Christ; it reveals His entire redemptive journey, from the manger to the throne. He humbled Himself, suffered, died, and rose again, and now He reigns forever. The baby in the manger is the King on the throne.
As you celebrate Christmas, remember that Christ’s story is also a pattern for your life. Humility, obedience, and faith will always lead to divine exaltation. The same God who lifted Christ from the manger to the throne will also lift you into fulfilment.
PRAYER POINTS:
1. Father, thank You for the gift of Jesus Christ.
2. Lord, teach me the way of humility.
3. Father, help me to walk in obedience to Your will.
4. Lord, let the power of Christ’s sacrifice work in my life.
5. Father, lift me according to Your purpose.
6. Lord, help me endure every season faithfully.
7. Father, let my life reflect the glory of Christ.
8. Lord, remove pride and self-will from my heart.
9. Father, prepare me for divine promotion.
10. Lord, let my life glorify You continually.
