Reactions to Christ's Birth

Jesus Christ

Reactions to Christ’s Birth

Introduction

During certain times of the year, the minds of many turn to Christ, especially around December 25th, even though the Bible gives no command or authority to observe His birth as a religious holiday. The early church did not celebrate it, and historical and biblical evidence suggests December is an unlikely time for His actual birth. Regardless of the date, people do think more about Jesus during this season, and this creates an opportunity for us to speak with them about the good news. Just as people in the first century reacted in different ways to the announcement of Jesus’ birth, so will people today respond differently when we share the gospel. Studying these first-century responses will help us in our evangelism.

Mary and Joseph – Acceptance and Obedience

In Luke 1:31–38, Mary receives the astonishing news that she will bear the Son of God. Her humble response is, “Let it be to me according to your word.” She accepted God’s message without resistance. Joseph, in Matthew 1:20–24, receives similar news in a dream, and immediately does as the angel commands. These examples remind us that some will hear the gospel with open hearts, ready to obey without delay. Such people are like the good soil in Jesus’ parable—receiving the seed, growing, and bearing fruit.

The Shepherds – Fear Turned to Action

In Luke 2:8–20, the shepherds first react with fear at the angel’s announcement. But after hearing the message of the Savior’s birth, they respond quickly: “Let us now go to Bethlehem.” They go with haste to see the Christ and then spread the news. Some today may initially react to the gospel with fear—aware of their sin and feeling hopeless. But when shown God’s grace, they may act without delay to obey the truth.

Simeon – Faithful Anticipation

In Luke 2:25–35, Simeon is described as just and devout, waiting for the Messiah. God promises he will see the Christ before he dies, and when he does, he praises God and speaks a prophecy about Jesus’ mission. Simeon’s example shows us that some are actively seeking God’s promises, ready to rejoice when they find them.

Anna – Devotion and Proclamation

Anna, in Luke 2:36–38, is a prophetess who spends her life in the temple fasting, praying, and speaking to others about redemption. Her immediate reaction to seeing Jesus is to give thanks and tell others. She represents those who respond to Christ by sharing Him continually with others.

The Wise Men – Acting on Limited Knowledge

In Matthew 2:1–12, the wise men from the East have partial knowledge of the Messiah’s coming. They act on what they know, travel a great distance, and seek more information when they arrive. When they learn He is in Bethlehem, they go to worship Him, bringing valuable gifts. Some today have bits and pieces of biblical knowledge and need guidance to learn the full truth. Our role is to meet them where they are, answer questions from God’s Word, and point them to Christ.

Lessons for Evangelism

These varied reactions teach us that people respond to the gospel in different ways—some with immediate obedience, others with fear that turns to faith, others with long-awaited joy, continual devotion, or a desire to learn more. In each case, God’s message must be presented clearly and truthfully, and our responsibility is to be ready with the answers found in Scripture.

Sermon Outline – Reactions to Christ’s Birth

• I. Introduction – No biblical command to celebrate Jesus’ birth; seasonal opportunity to talk about Him.

• II. Mary and Joseph – Luke 1:31–38; Matthew 1:20–24 – Immediate acceptance and obedience.

• III. The Shepherds – Luke 2:8–20 – Fear followed by quick action and proclamation.

• IV. Simeon – Luke 2:25–35 – Faithful anticipation and praise.

• V. Anna – Luke 2:36–38 – Lifelong devotion and proclamation of redemption.

• VI. Wise Men – Matthew 2:1–12 – Acting on limited knowledge, seeking more truth.

• VII. Lessons for Evangelism – Understand varied responses; be prepared to guide each one with God’s Word.

Call to Action

As we encounter people in our community, let us be ready for all kinds of responses to the gospel. Whether they are ready to obey immediately, hesitant but hopeful, or seeking more knowledge, we must be prepared to point them to Christ. The lost need to hear about Jesus—not just His birth, but His life, death, resurrection, and what He calls them to do.

Key Takeaways

• Some will respond with immediate acceptance (Luke 1:38; Matthew 1:24).

• Some begin with fear but respond quickly once they understand (Luke 2:15–16).

• Some have long anticipated God’s promises and rejoice when they find Him (Luke 2:28–32).

• Some are devoted to God and proclaim His truth continually (Luke 2:38).

• Some have limited knowledge and need guidance to the full truth (Matthew 2:1–12).

Scripture Reference List

• Luke 1:31–38; Matthew 1:20–24 – Mary and Joseph’s obedience

• Luke 2:8–20 – The shepherds’ fear and haste

• Luke 2:25–35 – Simeon’s praise and prophecy

• Luke 2:36–38 – Anna’s devotion and proclamation

• Matthew 2:1–12 – Wise men’s search and worship

Prepared by Bobby Stafford of the church of Christ at Granby, MO

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