Luke 2:6
The sermon highlights the irony and tragedy of Jesus' birth, emphasizing the importance of humility, sacrifice, and prioritizing the needs of others.
Chuck Smith reflects on the profound irony and tragedy of the birth of Jesus, emphasizing that despite being the Creator of the universe, there was 'no room in the inn' for Him. He highlights the plight of Mary and Joseph, who, while carrying the Son of God, found no place to stay in Bethlehem, illustrating how busy lives and celebrations can overshadow the true meaning of Christmas. The innkeeper, though initially indifferent, ultimately offered them a stable, symbolizing the small sacrifices made for Christ. Smith challenges listeners to consider how they celebrate Christmas and whether they make room for Jesus amidst their holiday preparations.
Text
"NO ROOM"
Intro: John said "In the beginning was the Word.... and the Word became flesh and dwelt
amongst us and we beheld His glory as the only begotten of the Father, full of Grace
and Truth...When the creator of the universe came to save this lost world, He found
there was..."
I. "NO ROOM IN THE INN."
A. The irony of it all.
a. The universe was His, He created it all.
b. Yet no room on earth available.
B. The tragedy of it all.
a. Young couple, Mary & Joseph, 80 miles from home in Nazareth.
b. In her womb resides the Son of God conceived by the Holy Spirit
c. Earthly kings born in palaces with great splendor.
1. Their births announced by heralds.
d. No palace for the King of glory.
1. Not even room in the Inn.
C. The pathos of it all.
a. Only one person in all of Bethlehem would take pity - the innkeeper.
1. He allowed then the use of the stable.
2. It was an inconvenience - the animals had to be disturbed, but he
was gracious and did it.
D. Why was there no room?
a. City overcrowded because of census, perhaps.
b. Maybe, because they were celebrating Honica.
1. The innkeeper perhaps was so busy with parties, he had no time for
the baby.
2. It could well be that the house was so laden with the gifts to
exchange at Honica there was no room for the baby.
3. The innkeeper may have been a very devout Jew, awaiting the coming
of the Messiah and so busy preparing to celebrate their holy days,
no place for this baby.
4. It could even be that his wife would have liked to have helped this
young girl in her hour of need, but was so busy completing her new
robe to wear at the Honica services, just had no time, after all
she wanted to be the most fashionably dressed of them all and this
is certainly more important than a baby.
5. Chances are they missed the synagogue services all week so they
could prepare for their big Honica splash.
6. Yet they more than anyone else - they gave their stable.
a. You didn't expect them to sacrifice their own comfort did
you?
b. They shouldn't deny their own pleasure for Him
should they?
c. They gave what was left over, that which cost them nothing.
The continuing story - almost 2,000 years have pass, and again we prepare to celebrate
Christmas. How should we celebrate the birthday of our Lord? Two ladies shopping seeing
nativity scene. Jesus Christ the creator is coming to the earth again. Wouldn't it be a
shame if He came on Christmas day and interrupted our celebration, I am afraid we would
have to ask Him to stay in the stable until the holy days are over, certainly He will
understand we are celebrating the most important holy day in the year -Christmas.
Sermon Outline
- NO ROOM IN THE INN
- A points: - The irony of it all - The universe was His, He created it all
- B points: - The tragedy of it all - In her womb resides the Son of God conceived by the Holy Spirit
- C points: - The pathos of it all - Only one person in all of Bethlehem would take pity - the innkeeper
- D points: - Why was there no room? - City overcrowded because of census, perhaps
Key Quotes
“The universe was His, He created it all.” — Chuck Smith
“Only one person in all of Bethlehem would take pity - the innkeeper.” — Chuck Smith
“You didn't expect them to sacrifice their own comfort did you?” — Chuck Smith
Application Points
- We should prioritize the true meaning of Christmas and not let it be interrupted by our own desires and celebrations.
- We can learn from the innkeeper's generosity and put the needs of others before our own.
- Humility and sacrifice are essential qualities that we can learn from the story of Jesus' birth.