Sometimes one key phrase is all it takes to inspire an entire sermon. Christmas preaching is no different. Instead of skipping over familiar words in Luke’s account of the annunciation, pay attention—each phrase carries truth that can ignite your Christmas preaching ideas for the season.
Here’s the passage from Luke 1:26-38 (NIV):
In the sixth month, God sent the angel Gabriel to Nazareth, a town in Galilee, to a virgin pledged to be married to a man named Joseph, a descendant of David. The virgin’s name was Mary. The angel went to her and said, “Greetings, you who are highly favored! The Lord is with you.”
Mary was greatly troubled at his words and wondered what kind of greeting this might be. But the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, you have found favor with God. You will be with child and give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus…”
5 Christmas Preaching Ideas for Advent
From this wonderful passage in Luke’s gospel, here are five Christmas preaching ideas you can use this season.
1. “In the sixth month…”
God’s timing was already at work before the angel appeared to Mary. Remind your congregation that just because God announces something to us doesn’t mean it began with us. His plan is already unfolding.
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2. “Pledged to be married…”
Mary had her plans. God had his. What happens when our plans collide with God’s? This question is as relevant today as it was 2,000 years ago.
3. “You who are highly favored! The Lord is with you…”
Notice the connection between God’s favor and his presence. You can’t have one without the other. Explore this link in your sermon and show your congregation how favor always flows from God’s nearness.
