Something Planned
Something New
November 29, 2020
Rev. Gabe Sylvia
The Advent sermon emphasizes that Matthew's nativity narrative presents the Incarnation as God's long-planned rescue—fulfilled in Jesus (Immanuel)—and calls us to respond in renewed obedience (like Joseph) so that Christmas becomes a time of revival and peace amid consumer distractions.
Summary
During Advent we are invited to re-examine Matthew's account of Jesus' origin (Matt. 1:18–21, 23) and to see the Incarnation not merely as a miracle but as the culmination of God's eternal, deliberate plan to rescue his people. Matthew draws on Isaiah's prophecy to identify Jesus as Immanuel—God with us—whose coming brings peace. Joseph's righteous, obedient response to the angelic revelation models how obedience produces revival; thus the season should move us from consumeristic distraction toward drinking deeply of God's grace and praying for renewed obedience and spiritual renewal.
Key Points
- Advent focuses on Matthew's birth narrative (Matt. 1:18–21, 23) as the story of God's deliberate, long-planned rescue.
- The Incarnation (Jesus as Immanuel) is significant because it fulfills prophecy (Isaiah) and announces God's saving work, not just a miraculous birth.
- Philip Paul’s reflection: 'new' is special when it is thoughtfully planned—God planned this blessing for us.
- Joseph is presented as a righteous man whose obedience (taking Mary as his wife after the angelic dream) models faithful response and brings revival.
- Christmas should prompt renewed obedience and spiritual revival, not merely consumer-driven celebration.
- The coming of Immanuel offers peace to our souls; Advent is a gift to contemplate that rescue and seek revival.
- The congregation is called to pray for revival and to appreciate the intentionality of God's saving plan.
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