Good News for All People

The opening section of the sermon continues the angel Gabriel's message that a Savior has been born in the City of David—Christ the Lord. The angel proclaims this as Good News, great joy for all people, and the sign of recognizing the Savior is a child wrapped in swaddling clothes lying in a manger. A multitude of heavenly hosts appear praising God with the words: Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.

The second section develops the theological point that despite turmoil in the world, God's salvation still prevails. Although nations will rise against nations and kingdoms against kingdoms, and various disturbances will occur, these are not the final evil news. Through the prophecy concerning John the Baptist, God promises that the child will be called a prophet of the Most High, going before the Lord to prepare His way so that His people may know salvation. This salvation comes through the grace of forgiveness of sins, through the compassion of our God.

The third section addresses the problem of sin that separates humanity from God. According to Isaiah 59:2, iniquity has separated people from God; their sins have hidden His face from them. However, through Christ Jesus the Savior, we are justified by faith and receive peace with God. The passage concludes with the Savior's promise that He leaves peace for His children—a peace not like the world gives—and that their hearts should not be troubled or afraid.