The Meaning of Christmas

Posted on Dec 2, 2017

The famous Christmas hymn “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel” reminds us each year of the deep longing and hopeful expectation for the fulfillment of all the messianic promises revealed throughout the history of the Old Testament. This Emmanuel, or “God with us,” would come in the fullness of time to “ransom captive Israel.” A reflection on the classic hymn begins the series The Meaning of Christmas on WHITE HORSE INN (Sun 800, Tue 1430, Sat 200).

The story of Christ began long before the scene in the stable. We find out how the angelic announcements of Mary’s conception and the birth of the Christ relate to the Old Testament promises concerning the coming Messiah, as well as his forthcoming mission and work.

When we reply to the question, “What child is this?” do we know what it really means to confess that Jesus is God in human flesh? The series also looks at the two natures of Christ and his threefold office as prophet, priest, and king.

Another aspect of the Christmas account that is often misunderstood is the message of “good news” brought by the angels. Rather than mere tips for improving our life or the world around us, the Christian gospel has its roots in the Old Testament promises of coming redemption. The hosts will also discuss the relationship between good news and the “great joy” that we experience in response.

As the year comes to a close, the series also invites us to think about the church’s relationship to the secular world. Are believers called to be so heavenly minded that they completely avoid worldly activity? Or are we called to be salt and light as we love and serve our neighbors around us? Michael Horton discusses these issues and more as he unpacks the distinction between The Great Commandment and The Great Commission on the last episode of the year.