Not even Jesus’ family was a perfect one—but that shouldn’t be a shock. Instead, it should be a reminder that Jesus came to save. Pastor Greg Laurie helps us see God's grace in action and connect what we learn to the story of Christmas.

Pastor Greg's Christmas message LIVE

Notes

God gives second chances!

Read: Matthew 1:1–7, 15–16

Jesus’ story is not about God helping perfect people but saving lost people.

In this genealogy, which is really a key part of the Christmas story, we have God, in His mercy, doing for sinners what they can’t do for themselves. Reminding us that Jesus came to heal broken lives and restore shattered hopes.

David

Matthew 1:1

Luke 1:32

Tamar

Matthew 1:3

Rehab

Ruth

Bathsheba

Mary

Matthew 1:16

Read: Luke 1:26–29

“Rejoice, highly favored one, the Lord is with you; blessed are you among women!” —Luke 1:28

Mary was troubled, or literally agitated.

A truly spiritual person will not boast of their accomplishments.

The more spiritual you are, the more aware you will become of your own sinfulness.

“My soul exalts the Lord, and my spirit has rejoiced in God my Savior.” —Luke 1:46–47

Joseph

Luke 1:27

God the Father, in Heaven, chose Joseph to be a stepfather, or father figure, for Jesus on earth!

The angel of the Lord came to Joseph, too.

The whole first chapter of Matthew speaks of the grace of God.

There will never be another Joseph and Mary.

Then again, there will never be another you!

God is preparing you for a purpose in this life, and He is preparing you for the afterlife.

1. That God’s grace may be richly displayed.
2. We have the genealogy of Christ so the focus would be on Jesus and not His family.
3. That we might have hope for our future, and the future of our family.

Christmas is all about redemption—taking messed up families and making them right.

Scripture Referenced

Mark 3:21

Matthew 1:20–21

Ephesians 4:32

Hebrews 7:25

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Watch Pastor Greg's Christmas message: harvest.org/live

Learn more about Greg Laurie and Harvest Ministries at harvest.org.

This podcast is supported by the generosity of our Harvest Partners.