Billy Graham - Christmas Message -The 1st Christmas (Audio)

 

As has become an annual tradition on our Coffeehouse Bible Ministry blog, we like to showcase Christmas messages that discuss the birth of Jesus Christ. 

This year we present an audio message by Billy Graham from an old Hour of Power broadcast made many years ago. Even so, the message itself is still relevant; proving that every generation seeks the same answers from Jesus.  

Finally, in order to allow our staff members to enjoy this special season with their families and loved ones, we will be on hiatus until January 8, 2024. As always, our blog archives are always available to use as God moves you.

On behalf of the ministry, I would like to take this opportunity to wish all of you a safe and blessed Christmas, and a Happy New Year! 

May God bless you always,

~Eve

Friday "Light:" The True Glory of Christmas

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"It was great condescension that He who was God should be made in the likeness of flesh; but much greater that He who was holy should be made in the likeness of sinful flesh. "  - Matthew Henry

Through the whole of world history many famous discourses have been recorded. Some of these powerful and inspiring orations have encouraged and comforted countless souls over the centuries.

We can always turn to these in times of trial and insecurity because they speak to us where it matters the most, the heart. Out of all, only a few can be said to generally embrace humanity.

One stands out, in particular. It wasn't a wordy lecture, or a scorching tirade. It was a short announcement that was proclaimed in a simple phrase, yet it was easily the most powerful proclamation ever made to mankind.

"Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord."  (Luke 2: 11), were the words of an angel, who visited some shepherds that night, on a Judean hillside.

However, not only were those words a declaration of the birth of the promised Messiah, but they were an introduction to the true glory of Christmas. Never had the birth of a child profoundly and immeasurably affected so many.

The main object of this child's birth was not to save the prosperous or the righteous. He came for the sinner (Luke 19:10), and the forsaken (Mark 2: 17). He came not to judge, but to save (John 3: 17).

Jesus provided help to the sinner in three specific areas. These are: acceptance, deliverance, and preservation. First, we are graciously accepted; He made us subjects of his grace (Ephesians 1:6).

Secondly, Jesus delivered (or freed) us from the penalty of sin's power, presence, and penalty by His precious blood (Revelation 1:5; 1 Peter 1:18-19).  No matter the amount of sacrifices or rituals, we were not able to do this ouselves.

Lastly, those whom Jesus saves are saved forever.  No matter our earthly situation, the inheritance is guarded or preserved in heaven for the saved. In simple terms, a spot in heaven is always kept for them (1 Peter 1:4).

Where would we be without Jesus' sacrifice for our sins and His gift of salvation (Romans 5:8-10)? Where would we be without a Mediator for us in heaven (1 Timothy 2:5)? How would we ever be able to appeal to the Father (John 16:23)?

He did so much for us. And in return, He asked only that we love Him and others ((Matthew 22:37–39). Let us celebrate the birth of Jesus not only one day out of the year, but everyday!

"Since all he came to ransom,

  by all be he adored,

the Infant born in Bethlehem,

  the Saviour and the Lord!"

- Philip Schaff: Christ in Song, 1870

Scripture: Isaiah 7:14; Jeremiah 23:5; Micah 5:2; Galatians 4:4; Genesis 3:15

Prayer: "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among those with whom he is pleased!”  - Luke 2:14 (ESV)

Grace and blessings,

Margot

The Gift That Keeps On Giving

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“Christmas is the most thrilling season of the year because its message is that Jesus brings joy and love through His sacrificial gift of forgiveness and redemption.” - Billy Graham

People haven't changed much over time. The problems that are evident in the world today are not new. We've always had the same troubles, dissimilarities, and struggles with sin. 

That is why Jesus Christ was sent here in the first place; to remove our sin through a flawless sacrifice. By sacrificing Himself, in our place, Jesus he secured a place for us in heaven. We have been given access there by grace, through our faith (Romans 5:1-2).

One of the favorite traditions of the holiday season is the giving and receiving of gifts. None could ever compare, however, to the gift which Jesus Christ brought with him to earth. A more generous, unselfish gift was never offered. 

That "gift" is our salvation and eternal life with Him for eternity. Simply put, He came to save us from our sins (Matthew 1:21). Jesus paid an incredible price for this; He gave his own life in exchange for ours. 

Notice, only Jesus, and not us, could do what was needed to make atonement for our sins. Our justification was made possible by Him, and him alone (Romans 6:23). To Jesus we must give our praise and glory.

During this busy time of the year, I urge you to take a break and meditate on all of this. And remember why we should sincerely celebrate this wonderful time of the year: Christmas.

Recall when the long foretold Messiah and triumphant Prince of Peace arrived, here on earth, bringing His grace and truth, and most importantly, "the gift of eternal life" (John 1:14). The gift that truly keeps on giving.

Scripture: John 3:36; John 17:3; John 11: 25; Romans 10:13; Acts 16:31

Prayer: I thank you, Lord. for the inexpressible gift you gave to us; made possible and attainable through Your sacrifice on the cross. May I never forget this. Amen

May God keep you in his warm and comforting embrace,

Bonnie

His Glorious Light

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"Who would've thought thousands of years ago;

An only star would set the world aglow;

Twinkling and shining on a moonlit night;

Showing forth the Father's magnificent light.

Years before the constellations were done;

He placed one North star to guide to his Son;

Definitely one of heavens great wonders;

The North Star which led those to the Savior!"

- excerpt from "Stars in the Heavens" by Patricia Joan Polhans

Long ago, people relied on the stars in the sky to guide them along the way during dark, ill-lit nights. Sailors, merchant caravans, even lonely sheepherders depended on the starry guides up above to lead them safely on their journey.

Matthew 2: 2 (NKJV) tells us that after Jesus was born in Bethlehem, wise men from the East arrived in Jerusalem inquiring about the newborn King of the Jews. They were prompted to travel there by the appearance of "his star."

They took this star as a sign that a king was born. Over many years there have been debates about what the star was or wasn't. Our focus, is on the light that served to announce and point to Jesus' birth.

Until that time, humanity was literally intrenched in darkness; namely, spiritual darkness. That supremely, bright light in the sky, "his star," proclaimed the arrival of the one True Light on earth (John 1:9). 

When John the Baptist said that Jesus is the true light, he was referring back to the anticipated Messiah that Israel's prophets had predicted (Isaiah 9:2). Jesus alone exhibits God's glory in the world. He is God incarnate (in human form) who came to live with us.

The light He (Jesus) brought to us is "the radiance of God's glory and the exact representation of his being" (Hebrews 1:3). Jesus emanates the best of God; His: light, truth, and way of living into our hearts.

When we accept Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior, we recognize that He is that light. He allows us to see and know the glory of God (2 Corinthians 4:6). And that as Christians, we are to proclaim the light of Jesus in the darkness of this broken world.

There are many in this world that have an urgent need for His light at this very moment. As we celebrate the birth of Jesus, let us not forget that His light was meant to be shared and not kept hidden away (Luke 8:16).

Remember always, "Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven" (Matthew 5:16).

Scripture: Revelation 21:23; John 8:12; John 9:5; Isaiah 49:6; Psalm 36:9

Prayer: "Restore us, O Lord God of hosts! Let your face shine, that we may be saved!"  - Psalm 80:19

In His name always,

Emily

Friday "Light:" Sin and Punishment

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"For if the guilt of sin be so great that nothing can satisfy it but the blood of Jesus; and the filth of sin be so great that nothing can fetch out the stain thereof but the blood of Jesus, how great, how heinous, how sinful must the evil of sin be!"  - William Bridge

After coming upon a fig tree by the road, Jesus found it had nothing on it but leaves, and said to it, "Let no fruit grow on you ever again." Immediately the fig tree withered away. His harsh sentence was carried out promptly (Matthew 21:19).

For that reason, this passage is worthy of our attention, since it concerns us very deeply, to remember that although the Lord our God is gracious and merciful, slow to anger and of great kindness, He who is perfect Holiness cannot stand deliberate and unrepented sin (Psalm 145: 8).

He who is the Truth (John 14:6) itself will not put up with hypocrisy, and the deception of righteousness in those who are not. Carefully reflect on what the real forgiveness of sins is and its conditions. Let's look at two signficant facts about sin and forgiveness:

First, nature is brazenly impartial. Those who keep her laws, prosper. Those who break them, suffer. We all recognize this to some extent in external things around us, and adjust our lives accordingly. However, the laws of our moral nature are not any less serious.

We might entertain the thought about playing with the fire of lust or anger, and walking away from it unmarked; but that's not the case. Before we know it our souls are scorched and marked with scars that nothing on earth could ever remove.

Whenever you are enticed by temptation consider what you are doing, not only to yourself but to others around you. In this world there is no forgiveness of sins. Still, we believe that God will pardon and heal us, if we genuinely turn to Him (1 Corinthians 10:13).

For this reason, Jesus Christ died on the Cross, so that you and might be cleansed, and restored, and live with Him forever. Secondly, there is no forgiveness without repentance, none! True repentance means doing as well as feeling. 

With every passing day and every passing hour the choice of good and evil is offered to you. Every time you choose to do good, you are bearing fruit acceptable to God. If you give in and do the worst you are losing the capacity to do so.

One last word, if you continue on refusing to do God's will, and doing what seems easiest; a time will come when it will be too late. At that time the will is utterly incapacitated, and repentance is only desperation.

Scripture: James 4:17; Romans 6:23; 1 John 1:9; Galatians 5:16;  Proverbs 28:13

Prayer: "For you, O Lord, are good and forgiving, abounding in steadfast love to all who call upon you."  - Psalm 86:5 (ESV)

Grace and blessings,

Margot

What is Repentance? What Does Repent Mean? (Video)

 

"The manner in which faith and repentance are coupled together in Scripture plainly shows that as faith is implicitly present in repentance, so repentance is implicitly in faith."  - R. L. Dabney

Besides Jesus Christ, John the Baptist is one of the more prolific names in the Gospels. He was the predecessor of Jesus the Messiah, who preached a gospel of repentance; of which is the theme of his ministry (Matthew 3:2).

John earned the name "The Baptist" because of his practice of baptizing those who answered his message to earnestly repent of their sin. In this way, he fulfilled Old Testament prophecy of the one who would clear the path for the coming Messiah (Isaiah 40:3; Malachi 3:1). 

John's call to repent (Matthew 3:1-2), indicated that a change of mind, and heart was needed. This was a surprise to many because they thought they were righteous enough to have access to God. But, heritage and works were not enough!

Today, a number of people still think along this same line. The problem being they do not understand what is meant by: to repent; or repentance. The brief video above explains repentance and its necessity for our salvation.

Scripture: Acts 3:19; 1 John 1:9; 2 Chronicles 7:14; Luke 5:32; Proverbs 28:13

Prayer: Have mercy on me, O God, according to your steadfast love; according to your abundant mercy blot out my transgressions. Wash me thoroughly from my iniquity, and cleanse me from my sin! - Psalm 51: 1-2 (ESV)

Cheerfully in Christ,

Amanda

Fundamentals with Bibi: The Gift of God - The Holy Scriptures (Part 5)

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"Every time I read the Bible, any part of the Bible—I don’t care where I open up—it speaks to me. It’s a living book."  - Billy Graham

Hello, and welcome back! As always, I pray that today finds you in good health and spiritually strong in Jesus Christ. We have been exploring the different names by which we may recognize the Scriptures by.

We are most familiar with the Holy Scriputures as the Bible; a group of sixty-six books within the Book, or Bible. These books are grouped into the Old Testament and New Testament, composed by writers inspired by the Holy Spirit.

This time, our discussion of the Bible, or "the Word of God," will find us examining yet another label for it: "The Word of Christ." For this, I refer you to Colossians 3:16. This may differ depending on your Bible version.

But whether it appears as: "the Word of God," "the message of Christ," "the message about Christ," or "the [spoken] word of Christ," etc., the verse tells us that His Word, or truth, dwells within the heart of a believer.

In other words, it is conceived and takes root, or becomes engrafted there. You and I, as believers in Jesus Christ, carry his Word in our hearts where it lives and grows as we mature in our faith. How wonderful is that? (John 7:38)

Unfortunately, this is not the case for everyone. Many have the Word, but it dwells within them imadequately. It (the gospel) lacks in power and efficiency. The Word will not thrive if the conditions are deficient or neglected (Matthew 7:24). 

To clarify, "the Word of Christ," as we have been talking about, refers to His teachings. This includes both, those directly found in the in the Gospels, as well as those expounded, or described, by the Apostles.

There are also many benefits that come with Christ's word. His word can provide guidance in our lives, showing us where we are wrong, or how to correct mistakes in our belief and how to change our actions (Psalm 33:4).

Our thoughts, intentions, and character are all set forth with our words. Thus, in this manner we reveal ourselves. Therefore, since we were created by God, it only makes sense that he would reveal Himself to us in this way, too.

Remember, the work of salvation is accomplished by the power of His word. This happens when we let Christ take control, and trust in Him to save us through his sacrifice on the cross (1 Thessalonians 2:13).

Once again, I'm afraid we must stop for now. I pray that you take time to reflect on the power of the Word of Christ, and how it has affected your life and walk in faith (2 Timothy 3:16-17).

Until next time, may God keep you safe, healthy, and deeply enriched by His Word!

Scripture: Matthew 24:35; Proverbs 16:24; Proverbs 30:5; Luke 11:28; 

Prayer: Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer. Amen.  - Psalm 19:14

The grace of Jesus Christ be with you,

Bibi

Make Time for A Spiritual Assessment

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"And without faith it is impossible to please him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him."  - Hebrews 11:6 (ESV)

For many, life is a blur. Our daily schedule takes us through our day, then back home again to prepare for the next day, where we then do it all over again. This can leave little time for pause and reflection.

Naturally, there are some required necessities if a reasonably comfortable life is expected for ourselves and our loved ones. This implies that a certain amount of labor, effort and planning is essential.

Even so, this doesn't mean there won't be any bumps along the way. Some things may have to be put-off, or may simply be unattainable. Others might be curtailed because of health, financial, or personal issues.

An unfortunate outcome of all of this is that before we know it, another year has gone by. Our time here, after all, is not endless (Psalm 39:4). Neither are the opportunities to truly do something substantial with our earthly presence.

I realize we can get preoccupied with various pressing matters. But as another year draws to a close, I urge you to take inventory of your relationship with Jesus Christ, Our Lord and Savior. What could be more important than your eternal life?

As mentioned above, there are many things that out of our reach in life. However, this is not the case with our Lord. Still, some choose not to take advantage of His offer of salvation and a place with Him in heaven (2 Corinthians 5:17).

All Jesus asks is repentance of your sins, and to have faith in Him. Repentance and faith go hand in hand; that is, belief that He saves, and a repentant or changed mind about your sin (Acts 3:19). 

We somehow find the time to check our bank accounts, the fluid levels in our cars, and our food in the pantry. Why is it that assessing our relationship with Jesus Christ is at the bottom of the list, if at all?

Don't let another year, another day, pass by without a careful inspection of the bond between Him and you. Our time here on earth has already been ordained. Tomorrow is not guaranteed. Renew, refresh, or begin your walk with Christ today!

Scripture: Mark 1:15; Ephesians 2:8; Luke 13:3; Acts 8:22; Romans 6:23

Prayer: Remember, Lord, your compassion and mercy which you showed long ago. Do not recall the sins and failings of my youth. In your mercy remember me, lord, because of your goodness. Amen.  -Psalm 25:6-7 (NLT)

Love, peace, and happiness!

Kaitlyn

With An Expectant Hope, We Await His Return

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“A prison cell, in which one waits, hopes – and is completely dependent on the fact that the door of freedom has to be opened from the outside, is not a bad picture of Advent”  - Dietrich Bonhoeffer

Advent is the blessed but solemn season meant to remind us of our Lord's first coming in great humility, and also of His return (second coming) in His divine majesty.

Matthew 21:1-13 illustrates a humble Christ's royal treatment by the people as he rode into Jerusalem; therefore suggesting His reception at the glorious second coming (Matthew 24:30).

In this passage, we see our Lord entering Jerusalem for the last time as a King; though being fully aware that in a few short days He would be wearing a crown of thorns, and given a a reed stick as a scepter (Matthew 27:29).

Our Lord's entry into Jerusalem, seated on a donkey’s colt, signified nothing low or lacking in prominence. Animals such as donkeys, mules, and camels were commonly ridden by ordinary people at this time. 

However, even kings and princes rode on donkeys (asses) in peace time. Solomon himself rode on a donkey in the ceremony when he was named the new king of Israel, as one example (1 Kings 1:33).

The Prophet Zechariah foretold that our Lord would make His entry into Jerusalem in this manner (Zechariah 9:9). And when He did, it was without any showiness or pageantry. 

Without question, it was an act of marvelous humility that our Lord appeared on earth in our wretched, human form. But never did the meek and lowly Jesus appear less proud, than that day when he rode through the chanting crowd.

This is the glorious Savior, the  heavenly King, whom we are called upon to serve. At His first coming He appeared riding a donkey's colt. But when He returns, it will be in His glory; riding on the wings of the wind (Psalms 104:3).

Scripture: Psalm 39:7; Psalm 130:5; Psalm 71:5; Psalm 71:14; Micah 7:7 

Prayer: I wait for the Lord, my soul waits, and in his word I hope. Amen  - Psalm 130:5

Celebrating Christ,

Celeste

What Is Advent? (Video)

Advent is a time of waiting, hope, and anticipation. We pray that this video from Concordia Publishing House will help you understand the meaning of Advent. As we celebrate Jesus' birth and look forward to a second advent, when Jesus comes again, explore the story of our Savior and God's plan for us. 

May you have a blessed Advent as you wait for Him. Amen!

    

    -The Coffeehouse Bible Ministry

Fundamentals with Bibi: The Gift of God - The Holy Scriptures (Part 4)

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"And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth." - John 1:14 (ESV)

Hello, and welcome back! I pray that this day finds you in good health and strong faith. This week we will continue our discussion of the different names given to the Scriptures. 

While they may sound familiar to most, their meanings may not. And though this is not an in-depth study of the topic, perhaps it can be a starting point for further reading and study. I guarantee it will be worth your time!

Keeping this in mind as we resume our examination, I refer you now to one the best-known passages in the Bible. Hebrews 4:12 wastes no time as it opens with the phrase:"For the word of God is alive and active." 

"The word of God," as seen here, is another name given to Scripture. By that I mean it concerns His revelation in an overall sense. God uses many different ways to get his message across to us; the easiest and most accessible being the Bible.

Importantly, the Word of God is not fixed, or inactive. it is "living," or has life. This makes sense since Hebrews 3:12 tells us that we have a "living God," whose words are both spirit and life (John 6:63).

His words are also as seeds, capable of producing an abundant, fruitful life in God if planted in a rich, accepting environment; as illustrated in the parable of the sower (Matthew 13:1-23).

Taking this a little further, one could look at the Word of God as also meaning "things God has said," or even used as a name for Jesus Christ; as he is the eternal and "active" Word (John1:1). 

Yes, God is a living God whose Word has life-giving power. Now, I believe this would be a good stopping point for our discussion. We will pick up on the active, living Word of God next time. 

Until next time, may God keep you safe, healthy, and deeply enriched by His Word!

Scripture: 1 John 5:20; Luke 11:28; Matthew 4:4; John 17:3; Mark 16:15

Prayer: Lord, may your Word nourish my soul, refresh my spirit, and guide me every day of my life. In Your name I pray. Amen

The grace of Jesus Christ be with you,

Bibi