Luke 2:10 And the angel said to them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. I. THE MESSENGER EMPLOYED. One of the dignified sons of light. An ambassador from heaven to earth, from God to man. A service of unrivalled glory and benevolence, calculated to excite wonder and abundant praise. By the redemption which is in Christ angels become our brethren, our friends, and our companions for ever. It is Probable their joys and honours are greatly enhanced by the work of the Messiah. II. THE PERSONS ADDRESSED. Jewish shepherds. What a contrast between the ambassador and those to whom he appeared. How different, too, to the doings of men and to human expectations. It would have been supposed the tidings should have been given to kings, or philosophers, or assuredly to the priests. But God's ways are not our ways. In all the work and life of Christ God poured contempt upon worldly glory and distinctions. III. THE MESSAGE COMMUNICATED. 1. The angel describes the person of Him who is born. (1) Saviour. (2) Christ. (3) The Lord. 2. He announces His birth. The end of prophecy. The fulfilment of types. The fulness of the times. 3. He affirms this to be an event of good tidings. Tidings of Divine grace and salvation — all others are insignificant in comparison. Life, light, happiness, eternal glory. 4. He notices the universal application of these good tidings. (1) To the Jew first. "You." (2) "All people." None shut out. How comprehensive. Wherever we find even a horde of wandering savages, Christ is born for them. Application: 1. Is the end of Christ's birth answered in you? 2. If so, rejoice. 3. Caution against the temptations of the season. Let your joy be "in the Lord." (Jabez Burns, D. D.) Parallel Verses KJV: And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. |
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