Personalities of Bethlehem

TOPIC     :   PERSONALITIES OF BETHLEHEM

THEME   :  The characters involved in Bethlehem shows that every believer has a role to play in the fulfillment of God’s plan for His Kingdom.  It is vital that we fulfill our role in a positive manner with given wisdom and godliness.

KEY PASSAGES:   Num. 24:17, Isa. 7:14; Matt. 2:1-12, Luke 2:8-20.

OUTLINE:  

1.  Mary – The Chosen Vessel of God (Luke 1:27-38)

Mary was chosen by God to bear forth the son of God to the world.  She was submissive and obedient to the will of God – never bothered about the future humiliation yet yielded herself to fulfill God’s plan for His Kingdom.

2.  Joseph – The Faithful Follower (Matt. 1:18-25)

Joseph had several reasons to reject Mary for her premarital Pregnancy, but as a Just and faithful man he fulfilled His role in the arrival of Messiah as a faithful follower.

3.  Shepherds - The Witnessed and Sent Ones (Luke 2:8-20)

Shepherds received the divine message from Angels, verified it as true as they witnessed the baby Jesus and proclaimed others about the arrival of savior.  Shepherds were genuine example for the followers of Christ in all ages.  “Receive (Experience) Christ and pass it to others”.

4.  Magi – Self Dependent Legends (Matt. 2:1-12)

They were wise men from the East, guided by a special star to the savior of the world (Num 24:17) but lost their vision on the way because of self dependence.  “When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceedingly great joy” (Mat 2:10).  Magi were examples for believers not to depend on self.

5.  Herod – The Prideful/Arrogant King (Matt. 2:1-12)

Herod lost the lifetime opportunity of witnessing the birth of Christ.  The pride/arrogance of King Herod prevented him to see Christ.  God is against the boastful but gives grace to be the humble (James 4:6)

APPLICATION:  God uses people to fulfill His divine plan.  When you play your role well God is glorified through you!  God needs you to carry out His plans.