The Gift That Changed The World (Christmas) Series

THE GIFT THAT CHANGED THE WORLD (CHRISTMAS)

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: John 3:16

Key Verse: “For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.” — Romans 6:23

Supporting Texts: Isaiah 9:6; Luke 2:10-14; 2 Corinthians 9:15; Galatians 4:4-5

INTRODUCTION:

Christmas is a celebration of the greatest divine intervention in history: the moment when God wrapped His love in human flesh and gave His only begotten Son to redeem mankind. The birth of Christ is more than a festive tradition; it is a spiritual reality that changed the course of human destiny.

Before Christ came, humanity was trapped in sin, darkness, and eternal separation from God. But through His divine gift, God offered hope, restoration, and salvation. This gift did not come because we deserved it, but because of His unconditional love.

As we reflect on Christmas, we must remember that the true essence of the season is not merely celebration, decorations, or gifts; it is Jesus, the Gift that brought light to the world, joy to the broken, and salvation to the lost.

1. JESUS IS THE GIFT OF GOD’S LOVE

The birth of Christ reveals the depth, intensity, and perfection of God’s love for humanity. His coming was not an accident but a deliberate expression of divine affection.

a) Love that gives unconditionally (John 3:16)

God did not wait for man to be perfect before giving His Son; His love moved Him to give His best.

b) Love that seeks to save the lost (Luke 19:10)

The purpose of the gift was not condemnation but salvation for all who believe.

c) Love that brings us into relationship with God (1 John 4:9-10)

Jesus bridges the gap between a holy God and sinful humanity.

d) Love that transforms hearts and lives (Romans 5:8)

The coming of Christ proves that God’s love reaches even those who feel unworthy.

Biblical Example: The story of the prodigal son showcases a father’s love that waits, embraces, and restores, symbolizing God’s heart revealed in Christ.

2. JESUS IS THE GIFT OF LIGHT TO A DARK WORLD

Christ came to scatter spiritual darkness and bring illumination to every soul bound by sin and ignorance.

a) Light that exposes and destroys darkness (John 1:4-5)

Where Christ enters, darkness loses its power and clarity comes.

b) Light that guides us into truth (John 8:12)

Jesus becomes the compass that leads humanity out of error into divine truth.

c) Light that brings hope in hopelessness (Isaiah 9:2)

The arrival of Christ shatters despair with heavenly hope.

d) Light that shines in the believer's life (Matthew 5:14-16)

Through Christ, believers also become carriers of divine light.

Biblical Example: The star that guided the wise men signified divine illumination leading seekers directly to the Savior.

3. JESUS IS THE GIFT OF PEACE AND RECONCILIATION

His birth ushered in heavenly peace, not just outward calmness but deep spiritual reconciliation with God.

a) Peace that restores the broken relationship with God (Romans 5:1)

Christ ends the conflict between God and man through His sacrifice.

b) Peace that calms storms of life (John 14:27)

The peace Christ gives surpasses human understanding and defeats anxiety.

c) Peace that unites people and destroys hostility (Ephesians 2:14-16)

He breaks barriers, heals divisions, and establishes unity.

d) Peace that reigns in the hearts of believers (Colossians 3:15)

Christ births an inner rest that circumstances cannot shake.

Biblical Example: The angels proclaiming “Peace on earth” at His birth demonstrate that His arrival introduced divine peace to humanity.

4. JESUS IS THE GIFT OF SALVATION AND ETERNAL LIFE

Christ did not only come to be born, He came to save, deliver, and give eternal life to all who accept Him.

a) Salvation from the power of sin (Matthew 1:21)

He came to rescue humanity from spiritual bondage.

b) Salvation that brings deliverance and transformation (2 Corinthians 5:17)

His presence makes all things new in the life of a believer.

c) Salvation that restores our kingdom identity (Galatians 4:7)

We are no longer slaves but sons and heirs of God.

d) Salvation that guarantees eternal life (John 17:3)

The gift of Christ secures everlasting fellowship with God.

Biblical Example: Zacchaeus’ encounter with Jesus shows how salvation enters a life and instantly transforms it forever.

CONCLUSION:

The birth of Jesus is the turning point of human history. He is the Gift that brought salvation, peace, light, and God’s unending love to the world. Without Him, Christmas loses its meaning but with Him, life gains its purpose.

As we celebrate Christmas, let us embrace this divine Gift personally and share Him with others. The world is still in need of the Gift that changed everything - Jesus Christ.

PRAYER POINTS:

1. Lord, thank You for giving Jesus as the greatest gift to humanity.