The
Second Birth of Jesus
Introduction:
A.
This
time of year, many people are focused upon the birth of Jesus.
1.
It
seems that many people only give serious consideration to Him on two occasions
throughout the year.
2.
Though
His initial birth was important, I wish to focus our attention this morning on
His second birth.
B.
What
is this second birth? What does it mean for you and me?
I.
The Significance of this Second Birth
A.
Two most important events in the life of Jesus are
often debated: His birth and His death.
1.
Obviously, without the former the latter could not
happen.
a.
Yet, of the two, which has benefited us the most?
2.
What each have brought us
a.
Birth
1)
God in the flesh – Jn. 1:1-5, 14-18
2)
Savior is here – Lk. 2:10-11
3)
Prospect of peace – Lk. 2:13-14
b.
Death (& resurrection)
1)
A covenant relationship with God – Eph. 2:13-14;
1 Jn. 3:1
2)
True peace – Phil. 4:7
3)
Salvation for all – 1 Cor. 15:45
B.
Though His birth is important it is through Jesus’
death that we live.
1.
Without His resurrection He offers no hope. 1 Cor.
15:12-19
II. An Event Which Transcends Time
A.
Consider the impact of Jesus’ resurrection:
1.
The resurrection shows us…
a.
A living Savior – Lk. 24:4-5
b.
The power of God – Rom. 1:1-4; 2 Cor. 13:4
c.
Guarantees our redemption
B.
The fact of Jesus’ resurrection gives hope for all
mankind.
1.
One’s station in life matters not.
2.
It was perhaps God’s greatest display of power.
III. We Live Through the Resurrection
A.
The resurrection we undergo to give us hope, is from
the watery grave of baptism. Rom. 6:3-4
1.
It is the culminating step in the process of
salvation.
B.
Through our resurrection in baptism we have been born
again to a living hope. 1 Pet. 1:3
1.
Emphasis on “living.”
Conclusion
A.
Of the two, Christ’s death (& resurrection) is the
most important gift to mankind. Have you been resurrected to a new life?