Luke 2:13-20

The Broadcast of the Birth was spectacular. The Angels announced the arrival of Jesus.

The Birth of Jesus was ground-breaking and very amazing.

However, its prior announcement to Mary and Joseph was astonishing and confusing.

Angel Gabriel showed in clear terms that Jesus would come without the natural way of Procreation. Yet, he assured them that this would be by the power of the Holy Spirit.

The Birth came during the hectic time of census that demanded people to go to their birthplaces. Joseph and Mary, who did not have worldly riches to afford a nice hotel, had their child born in a Cattle Kraal. This did not show deep readiness for the birth of their Child; yet his birth was and is still amazing.

Angels broadcasted the news of his birth; Shepherds confirmed it with their presence. His Birth was announced by the powerful and confirmed by the lowest in society. Mary, the mother was dumbfounded yet treasured the moment. The People who were told of it were astonished about the miraculous nature of this birth.

Three announcements in the Angelic Broadcast

1. The Birth of Jesus is to the Glory of God in the Highest
   • The plan of redemption brings glory to God
   • The Plan of His Birth is the highest expression of His Love and Mercey
   • There is no event, no action where His glory is more demonstrated than through giving us His Son
   • In the Highest: In the highest possible manner;  Or among the Highest, that is among the angels of God who came to give praise; or in In the highest heavens - indicating that the praise of redemption should not be confined to the “earth,” but should spread throughout the universe.
   • The words “God in the highest” may be equivalent to “the Most High God,” and be the same as saying, “Let the most high God be praised for his love and mercy to people.”
   • Which of these meanings is the true one it is difficult to determine; but in this they all agree, that high praise is to be given to God for his love in redeeming people. O that not only “angels,” but “men,” would join universally in this song of praise!
2. The Birth of Jesus Brings Peace on Earth
   • His Birth was promised to be the unveiling of Peace, for he will be the Prince of peace, Isa_9:6.
   • Jesus is the Peace between God and Men. He bridges the wall that was broken between Human beings and God. Jesus reconciles men to God through his Death.
   • Jesus is the peace in the Hearts of human beings. Human beings because of sin in their lives, struggle with lack of Peace. Jesus is that Peace
   • The Life of Jesus lays down the Principles of Peace for the whole world. If it were to be employed, it will instil peace in governments, in societies and in all communities
3. The Birth of Jesus Brings Good Will (Favor) Toward Men
   • His appearance is a demonstration of God’s Love to all People
   • His appearance is the demonstration of His Favor to Human beings
   • His birth is the cause of Him Sending us Favor.
4. Three Ways we Respond to the Announcement
   • Tell Others about it. Let us do like the Shepherds did (2:17) . They made known what they were told
   • Treasure it in our Hearts (2:19). Just as Mary responded, we should treasure and ponder on such powerful birth of the Messiah. This is the glorious incarnation; God coming into Flesh John 1:1-4; 14)
   • Praise Him For it. The Shepherds went back glorifying