What’s This | Rediscovering the Wonder of Christmas – The Gifts (Matthew 2:1-12)

Matthew 2:1-12

Christmas is a holiday marked by gift-giving because the coming of Jesus is God’s gracious gift of Himself to a sinful and undeserving world.

John 3:16; Mark 10:25

“Jesus is the grace of God, given to sinners who cannot free themselves from the death grip of sin. Look into that manger at that baby boy and see grace. The Christmas story is about grace in its most shocking and surprising form… God’s response to our rebellion was to give us himself. He is the great redeeming, transforming gift. He is the rescue. He is the forgiveness. He is the restoration. He is life, hope, peace, and security. There is no salvation apart from him.” — Paul Tripp

Gospel-Shaped Principles for Gift-Giving:

1. Because salvation is by grace, we should reject any view of gift-giving that Is merit-based

Ephesians 2:8

2. Because Jesus is the greatest gift, we should refuse to anchor fulfillment in temporary things

2 Timothy 4:8

3. Because we live between Christ’s first coming and His return, Advent calls us not merely to a season of giving, but to a life of worshipful devotion to Jesus.

Matthew 2:11