Gospel coalition christmas ” And after all we’ve been through in the past few years, that sounds appealing! Christmas concerns the God who redeems and restores fallen human beings. More Resources on Titus . Jesus, as Christmas Day quickly approaches, free us to think of you more highly and more often than we think of ourselves. Learn More Email Updates The Gospel Coalition Africa exists to equip the next generation of believers, pastors, and church leaders to shape life and ministry around the gospel | × Five practical ways you can love your neighbours this Christmas period. Meanwhile, Snoopy dives into Christmas commerce full tilt, festooning his doghouse and erstwhile World War I fighter plane with an arsenal of lights and ornaments. He has three sons and grieves in hope for his son Xavier who is with Jesus. One of the most enjoyable projects I’ve had the chance to work on for The Gospel Coalition has been our virtual Advent concerts—both in 2020 and 2021. Both my husband and I grew up doing “the Santa thing. But in the Fourth Gospel Jesus is presented as the new temple. He Was Some Catholic and evangelical leaders say they will unpack the Holy Family's immigration plight during Christmas services to offer hope for immigrants worried about what's Christmas serves as a shining beacon to Christians, reminding us of the work that Jesus Christ would accomplish: A horizontal peace between those who believe in his name; Christmas has grown even better for me because I’ve come to appreciate that Christmas is when God got involved, gave me hope, and showed himself worthy of my trust. . Our joy isn’t found in our success, good fortune or well-being. Learn More There’s truth to this. The Gospel Coalition supports the church by providing resources that are trusted and timely, winsome and In December the “mainstream” media often highlights the concerns skeptics have about the biblical Christmas. With improved The Gospel Coalition supports the church by providing resources that are trusted and timely, winsome and wise, and centered on the gospel of Jesus Christ. But be glad and rejoice forever in what I will create, for I will create Jerusalem to be a delight and its people a joy. Elves, flying reindeer and a jolly, As a subject, Christianity is everywhere in pop music today. He spends his days off catching up with friends; Both my husband and I grew up doing “the Santa thing. What do you do when it does not feel like Christmas? How can the season of light Glen Scrivener and Andrew Wilson discuss how Christmas traditions and the incarnation’s richness create unique opportunities for evangelism, inviting the world to share in the joy of Christmas announces the arrival of the Light-Bearer who illuminates this dark world (John 1:9). David Mathis . 2K likes See, I will create new heavens and a new earth. That an infinite and holy God would voluntarily live with unholy sinners, that he would leave his throne for a manger, that he would allow himself to be butchered on a cross at the hands of his creation—this is astonishing. Rob Brockman serves as an Associate Pastor at Cornerstone Baptist Church in Orillia, ON. John’s Gospel wastes no time, like Genesis. He has a Doctor of Ministry degree from Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary, and has over 30 years of ministry experience. One thing that seems to unite the Christian and the average Canadian is having firm opinions about Christmas trees. In time, as Israel settled in the land, the temple took over the tabernacle’s functions. Thus, when Corbett and Fikkert’s influential work When Helping Hurts (Chicago: Moody, 2009) spawned three additional works, including Helping Without Hurting in Church Benevolence The size and scope of this shift away from church is unprecedented in our country. I get why people make such a big deal about Christmas, even if they don’t believe in Jesus. Instead, he embraced the call to utter servanthood—the Servant of the Lord promised by Isaiah. She is a Bible teacher and contributor to The Weary World Rejoices: Daily Devotions for Advent and Fruit-ful: Cultivating a Spiritual Harvest That Won’t Leave You Empty And the more people who embrace the gospel and do that, the better off the world is. The Gospel Coalition Canada helps people know God's Word with their mind, love God fully with their heart, and engage the world with grace and truth. And this will always be appropriate. A Commentary by The Gospel Coalition supports the church by providing resources that are trusted and timely, winsome and wise, and centered on the Christmas is a time when Christians celebrate the incarnation and birth of our Lord Jesus Christ. Reject Christmas cynicism by proclaiming Christ with your mouth. The Word has come breathtakingly close. Its primary audience is theological students, pastors and scholars. Animal narrators are common in children’s literature due to children’s affinity for and easy identification with an animal’s role in a story—-think of E. He also cohosts and edits The Everyday Pastor podcast from The Gospel Coalition. The title for the series is ‘Christmas Means’. He serves as pastor of Grace Fellowship Church East Toronto. It prepares At Christmas we celebrate the moment when this glorious figure of Isaiah 9 became incarnate. Preview. J. Christmas Books. In my ten years as an evangelist, I have seen the immense usefulness of Christmas books that are short, accessible, and gospel-focused. So we thought we’d do it again, with a new roster of artists contributing their takes on classic Advent carols and hymns. Reformed Theological Seminary) is teaching pastor at Orlando Grace Church (Acts 29), and a Council member of The Gospel Coalition. ” We left out cookies and milk and waited in anticipation for the hoofbeats of reindeer and the bounty of goodies enveloping the tree on Christmas morning. C. 25 Devotions to In Hidden Christmas, Timothy Keller writes, “Christmas is the one Christian holiday the world seems to embrace, yet its message is the most incomprehensible to that A Very Gospel Christmas. In a continent like ours, laden with Instead of a cheery season, Christmas Day can be a dreary day for many Christians. He loves being married to Kathryn. Whether in Kendrick Lamar’s new album, Eminem’s rapping about Jesus, Gang of Youth’s expletive-heavy faith reflections, or the growing number of LGBT+ folk singers who grew up in the church and now critique it through music (e. Titus. Every time Jenny welcomes a new person, her team misses out on an opportunity to do the thing they’ve signed up to do. I couldn’t quite work out why. 3 Did Jesus Ever Talk about Homosexuality? The Gospel Coalition Canada helps people know God's Word with their mind, love God fully with their heart, and engage the world with grace and truth. Learn More Email Updates Glo is a podcast from The Gospel Coalition, hosted by Blair Linne, Sharon Dickens, Aixa De López, and Soojin Park—four women from diverse backgrounds, united around a common desire to magnify Christ. The sermons for the four Sundays in December will If you want an idea for something “more” to bring to Christmas, bring the cross. He loves reading, patting dogs, Willie Nelson, and drinking earl grey tea. Christmas day is about In this episode, Rob, Jody and Johnny sit down to discuss the cream of the crop of Christmas hymns that we need to sing more of during the Advent and Christmas season. This is the incarnation. God sent his Son to bring us hope, peace, reconciliation and an eternal future with God. All the longing, anticipation and groaning of Israel and the earth finds fulfilment and reprieve in him. I. When I was a child growing up in South Africa, Christmas meant summer holidays, a big glorious lunch feast at grandpa’s house, and piles of presents, many of which read: “Dear Taryn, Merry Christmas! Love Father Christmas. This truth echoes through the past, the present and the future because of its unparalleled significance. Trevin Wax is vice president of research and resource development at the North American Mission Board and a visiting professor at Cedarville University. Finding books about Christmas that mention Jesus is harder, and finding one that speaks the full and glorious truth about Jesus is nearly impossible. 1: Born Is the King - EP. Christmas is about celebrating God’s gift of Jesus, who came to offer us forgiveness of sins and a relationship with God. We can turn the miracle of Christmas into a nostalgic ritual. This presents us with a wonderful opportunity to preach the gospel to a willing audience of unsaved people. Sinclair Ferguson (from Christmas 2006) – Sinclair Ferguson expounds and exalts Christ, so get to know him if you don’t already. There will one day be peace on earth, but it will be a new earth, and when we have all learned what Christmas is for, it will be too late for many. My conscience is not offended to hear songs about Santa Claus or reindeer or snowmen or chestnuts roasting on an open fire. . “The Word became flesh and dwelt among us” (John 1:14). A short give-away booklet that takes the components of the Christmas cracker - the joke, crown and gift - and uses them to concisely explain the Christmas message. 1. This essay is freely available under Creative Commons License with Attribution-ShareAlike, allowing users to share it in other mediums/formats and adapt/translate the content as long as an attribution link, indication of changes, and the same Creative Commons License It was launched on Christmas, won on Good Friday, and proclaimed on Easter morning. David is the author of many books, including Radical, Counter Culture, Don’t Hold Back Last week, I found myself sitting by my Christmas tree, with my Bible, journal, and a moment of quiet. Sproul speaks on the topic of Christmas in this address from The Gospel Coalition Sermon Library Advertise on TGC R. She is the author of Seasons of Waiting and Joe Carter is a senior writer for The Gospel Coalition, author of The Life and Faith Field Guide for Parents, the editor of the NIV Lifehacks Bible, and coauthor of How to Argue Like Jesus: Learning Persuasion from History’s Greatest Communicator. Now’s the Time! Resources for Family Devotions. For John, the glory of Jesus is displayed in the series of signs he performs. You may feel discontent because you can’t buy your kids everything they ask for, or because your sister-in-law got a brand-new car. I confess that I started listening to my favorite Christmas albums in October . “From his fullness we have all received, grace upon grace. This month “A Charlie Brown Christmas” aired on national primetime television for the 50th time. In November, people from nearly thirty countries gathered in New Delhi for the 150 th anniversary of The Leprosy Mission. Learn More Email Updates There are many ways to do this: composing a Christmas letter, singing carols with dinner guests, rehearsing the Advent story, hosting a Christmas tea, taking cookies and a Scripture passage to neighbors. Since it was believed most people do their Christmas shopping after Thanksgiving, retailers thought having an extra week of shopping would encourage Americans to spend more. You rule all things by your word, Selling quality Christian books that hold to the Bible at discounted prices, seeking to equip the church and reach the world. ” I love that John used this phrase in his unique telling of the Christmas story (john 1:1-18). You are the long-time-promised and much Merry Christmas! Look at the Lord Jesus Christ and see the humility he demonstrates the the glory he deserves! The Gospel Coalition supports the church by providing resources that are trusted and timely, winsome and wise, As we move into Christmas day and time spent worshipping with all of our various gathered families let’s consider and and celebrate all of the rich perspectives that God gives us in the songs of Luke’s Gospelso that we might have, as Luke hopes to give us – certainty in the things we have been taught. Love came down at Christmas, Love all lovely, Love Divine, Love was born at Christmas, Star and Angels gave the sign. Expect Christmas tunes and gospel classics, plus a host of special guests. Share Share Post Post Email . Good Christian resources at great prices. That’s why we at The Gospel Coalition decided to put The Joy of Christmas. To truly celebrate Christmas is to proclaim the advent of a Saviour King, who This month my church is undertaking a whole month of Christmas outreach. You made our world by your wisdom, and you sent your Wisdom into the world. “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men That’s what Christmas is all about Charlie Brown. The joy of Christmas isn’t the same as happiness either. He came to make his dwelling among his people, in order to fulfil his glorious assignment. The Gospel Coalition exists to equip the next generation of believers, pastors, and church leaders to shape life and ministry around the gospel. In this Christmas sermon, Jason Meyer preaches on 1 Timothy 1:15-17 and four different angles on why Jesus came into the world. The Gospel Coalition exists to renew and unify the contemporary church in the ancient gospel by declaring, defending, and applying the good news of Jesus to all of life. She is the author of Seasons of Waiting and the children’s books Arlo . Give the gift of the good, true, and beautiful with these books. 2. We all sat around our tables after dinner, singing these familiar hymns about Jesus. ” (119) The Gospel Coalition's editors recommend recent books for kids of all ages. The book works, one of the authors told me, like a stone skipping over the pages of the Bible, touching down on the places Merry Christmas! Look at the Lord Jesus Christ and see the humility he demonstrates the the glory he deserves! The Gospel Coalition supports the church by providing resources that are trusted and timely, winsome and wise, CHRISTMAS DAY Day 25: Hallelujah! 115 BRETT MCCRACKEN Scripture Index 119. Please let us know your preferences. Greear (MDiv, PhD, Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary) is the pastor of The Summit Church, in Raleigh-Durham, North Carolina. The “Christmas story” the surrounding culture tells our children puts them at the center, the place for God and God alone. In particular, whether you should have a real tree or a fake tree. So when it came time to decide how we’d handle Christmas with our own children, I was surprised to discover how much we had to In the Gospel, Jesus says his purpose in coming was to bring glory to God. The true Christmas spirit is that of Jesus voluntarily restraining his power; accepting hardship, malice, understanding and death; loving to the uttermost unlovely human The Gospel Coalition supports the church by providing resources that are trusted and timely, winsome and wise, and centered on the gospel of Jesus Christ. Instead let us luxuriate in his light, knowing our joy is to look upon him by faith now, and ultimately by sight. Every time John preps the craft, his team misses out on an opportunity to learn or develop their own ministry skills and serve Jesus. We are able to offer very big discounts on orders of 240+. Isa. Christmas makes Easter possible, while Easter makes Christmas meaningful. The Simple Depth of Christmas One of my favourite Christmas carols is “Hark! The Herald Angels Sing. That’s why knowing you is a Discover free online learning about theology and life from The Gospel Coalition. He and his wife, Barbara, have four children. He and his wife, Lucy, live in Minneapolis with their four From Crossway: . And though it awaits its full consummation, we see tiny previews of it every time we forgive one another, or baptize a new convert, or commune around the Lord’s Table. The Gospel Coalition Canada helps people know God's Word with their mind, love God fully with their heart, and engage the world with grace and CHRISTMAS DAY Day 25: Hallelujah! 115 BRETT MCCRACKEN Scripture Index 119. Songs that honour the reason for the season. LEARN MORE Secular people have taken Jesus out of Christmas and turned Christmas into something secular people want to celebrate – love, family, generosity, kindness and hope for a better world. Listen as R. The Gospel Coalition's editors recommend recent books for kids of all ages. Plus, the Matt Smethurst serves as lead pastor of River City Baptist Church in Richmond, Virginia. Under Pastor J. Christopher David . Far from orbiting around our appetites, Christmas concerns the God who redeems and restores fallen human beings. You sit down for Christmas dinner with your extended family. Written in picture book Every time Jenny welcomes a new person, her team misses out on an opportunity to do the thing they’ve signed up to do. We use cookies to improve your experience on our website. The former things will not be remembered, nor will they come to mind. I hope you can include them in your In the secular world, to deny your children Santa is to deny them the magical, wondrous Christmas experience they deserve. Wes Huff . In Is Christmas Unbelievable? Joy at Christmas . Sam Storms . The Gospel Coalition exists to equip the next generation of believers, pastors, and church leaders to shape life and ministry We exist to commend and contend for the gospel in Australia, fostering connections to advance its reach in our country. The Gospel Coalition Canada helps people know God's Word with their mind, love God I would say something like the following when reading the Christmas story. Adi P . But when we gather as a church to sing, we’re singing the gospel and renewing our minds with the story of Emmanuel. LEARN MORE Glenn Hohnberg leads Risen Church on the southside of Brisbane to reach out to Griffith University and the surrounding city. 70 Songs, 5 hours, 15 minutes. The Christmas story is about the deepest, most personal, secure, and powerful love that could ever be experienced. Listen as Kent Hughes speaks on the topic of Christmas from Matthew 6:22-25 Advertise on TGC. ” I have always enjoyed it, but last year, something happened that strengthened its place in my heart. The Story of God with Us is not a Christmas story, but it contextualizes the Christmas story, showing why Christmas matters. The Gospel Coalition supports the church by providing resources that are trusted and timely, Christmas may be the best time to readjust your set, rethink your vote, and repent of your sins. | The Gospel Coalition exists to equip the next generation of believers, pastors, and church leaders to shape life and ministry around the gospel. Learn More Listen to Advent 2020 by The Gospel Coalition on Apple Music. Home. The Gospel Coalition Canada helps people know God's Word with their mind, love God In this episode, Rob, Jody and Johnny sit down to discuss the cream of the crop of Christmas hymns that we need to sing more of during the Advent and Christmas season. 3. Dechurching is an epidemic and will affect both the institutions of our country and the very fabric of our society within our lifetime. Roosevelt that this only left 24 shopping days to Christmas and convinced him to move Thanksgiving one week earlier. Some parents like to go all out, fake phone calls from Santa (there’s an app), letters to the North Pray for the right words to share the significance of Christmas. Matt is the author of Tim Keller on the Christian Life: The Transforming Power of the Gospel (Crossway, 2025), Which led me to a second lesson about Christmas and family. Whatever the age of the child you’re shopping for this Christmas, you’ll find some quality book options below—books they’ll enjoy and also benefit from as they grow in wisdom and knowledge of Growing up I was taught that the date of Christmas, December 25th, was a borrowed pagan festival. LEARN MORE Christmas may be the best time to readjust your set, rethink your vote, and repent of your sins. I’m not surprised when people miss the meaning of Christmas. The Protoevangelium & Christmas. Collin Hansen serves as vice president for content and editor in chief of The Gospel Coalition, as well as executive director of The Keller Center for Cultural Apologetics. 65:17 False Christmas Story. The Gospel Coalition Canada helps people know God's Word with their mind, love God fully with their Of all the Christmas programs churches offer in December, possibly the most important is simply reading the biblical account of the Christmas story itself. Her small store is filled with hand-crafted decorations and gifts that lift the spirit. The streets of London were bustling with Christmas shoppers. In this sermon on Luke 2:1–7, Jamaal Williams preaches on the providence and power of God, and the humility and poverty of Christ. they thanked God for amazing progress in treating the disease and committed to strive for a world without leprosy by 2035. Betsy Childs Howard is an editor for The Gospel Coalition. Give Your Kids Lasting Joy for Christmas In your gift giving, help your kids treasure not only the gift but In this video performance from The Gospel Coalition’s ‘Songs of Hope’ Advent concert (which premiered Dec. He is the author of The Wisdom Pyramid: Feeding Your Soul in a Post-Truth World , Uncomfortable: The Awkward and Essential Challenge of Christian Community , Gray Matters: Navigating the Space Between Legalism and Liberty , and Hipster Christianity: When 3. She is also the coauthor of Gospelbound: Living with Resolute Hope in an Anxious Age and editor of Social Sanity in an Insta World. The Forgotten Verse Christmas makes Easter possible, while Easter makes Christmas meaningful. Pennsylvania, pastor emeritus of College Church in Wheaton, Illinois, and a Council member for The Gospel Coalition. As you would expect, it was a lovely time. okay, late September. , Julien Baker, Semler’s Preacher’s Kid, or Ethel Cain’s Peace isn't something found in this world but in the birth, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. He is also cofounder of Gospel for Life. The Gospel Coalition Canada helps people know God's Word with their mind, love God fully with their heart, and engage the world with grace and What does the Bible say about birthday and Christmas presents? Not much! The only people recorded in the Bible celebrating their birthdays are not particularly good role models: Pharaoh in Joseph’s time (Genesis 40:20) and Herod, who beheaded John the Baptist at his birthday party (Matthew 14:6)! Listen as R. He has authored numerous books, including Disciplines of a Godly Man. The Love of God . You rule all things by your word, Brett McCracken is a senior editor and director of communications at The Gospel Coalition. But don’t let the commercial trappings obscure the miracle of your Savior’s birth. Crossway is inviting churches all across North America and around the globe to reach one million homes with the gospel this December! Share the Good News of Christmas is designed to complement what churches are already doing this year—helping them connect with their communities, reach out with the gospel, and invite (The Gospel Coalition) Many individuals and families have an annual tradition of doing devotions on the theme of Christ’s incarnation in the weeks leading up to Christmas. UPDATED LAST WEEK . He and his wife, Lucy, live in Minneapolis with their four Listen as Dick Lucas speaks on What is Real Christmas Message from Revelation 21. Celebrating Family at Christmas. This is a story from the Bible Many adults have problems with the idea that the Bible is one big story made up of lots of bits and pieces, and that some of these bits and pieces are stories. The Gospel Coalition Canada helps people know God's Word with their mind, love God fully with their heart, and engage Matt Smethurst serves as lead pastor of River City Baptist Church in Richmond, Virginia. Through her, the Lord of Christmas saved his own line, preserving his great plan of salvation. Christmas day is about the Father who sends his Son to reconcile sinners to himself. He defeated sin, Satan and death. And those elements drive people’s focus away from the real meaning of Christmas. This well written and down to earth investigation is interesting and very helpful for anyone of any age seeking to understand the events of the first Christmas or defend the identity of the baby in the manger. It’s about being festive. Before that, she wrote for Christianity Today, homeschooled her children, freelanced for a local daily paper, and taught at Trinity Christian Christmas is a good season that could be used for ill, but so it is with other good things like fire and knives. Episode 54: Barbara Reaoch I think they (children) are the most unreached people group for the gospel in our world today. Jesus brought light in the darkness (John 1:5). Darryl Dash is author of How to Grow: Applying the Gospel to ALL of Life and 8 Habits for Growth. An essay by . This Christmas we don’t have to let the presence of darkness, smother our expectancy of Christ’s radiance. Though in my heart no Christmas glee, Though my song-bird be dumb, Jesus, it is enough for me, That thou art come. Christmas is the result of a great anticipation that often goes unnoticed. Nothing wrong with any of that! But according to J. In the series below, Ferguson uses this world’s fascination with angels as an opportunity to point to the glory of Christ, which is what angles long to see, do, and say. Share Share Post The Gospel Coalition Canada helps people know God's Word with their mind, love God fully with their heart, and engage the world with grace and truth. With musical accompaniment from The Heritage Orchestra , conducted by Tom Richards. D. Featured Essay . Funnily enough, there does not seem to be a Christian position on this. I’m always in the mood for Paul Zach’s subdued-but-soulful songs for the church. His arrival was the fulfilment of many long-awaited promises in the Old Testament. It’s fine if all the holly jolly embellishments aren’t your thing. I Merry Christmas! Dwayne Cline served as the Lead Pastor for James North Baptist Church, in downtown Hamilton, for 28 years. He is the author of The Wisdom Pyramid: Feeding Your Soul in a Post-Truth World , Uncomfortable: The Awkward and Essential Challenge of Christian Community , Gray Matters: Navigating the Space Between Legalism and Liberty , and Hipster Christianity: When Finding children’s books about Christmas is not hard. My prayer is that contemplating these powerful lyrics will enrichen our Advent reflections and will enhance your Christmas gatherings. He serves as a Council member for The Gospel Coalition, and recently served as the 63rd President of the How is Christmas truly good news of great joy? Dwayne Cline served as the Lead Pastor for James North Baptist Church, in downtown Hamilton, for 28 years. It is appropriate at Christmas to think more deeply about the incarnation. How Is Christmas Good News for a Weary World? December 20, 2020 | Paul Tripp . In the classic book Disciplines of a Godly Man—now updated with fresh references and suggested resources—seasoned pastor R. In a world where the latest greatest technology is outdated in a matter of months, and social media trends come and go in a matter of days, 50 years of In The Case for Christmas, Lee Strobel puts his training as an investigative reporter to work on finding out the truth about the Christmas Nativity story. 2 Have a Blessed Ancient, Weird, and Reformed Advent! George Sinclair . 3:1-3). He hosts the Gospelbound podcast and has written and contributed to many books, most recently Timothy Keller: His Spiritual and Intellectual Formation and Rediscover Church: Why the Body I’m not normally one to refuse the advice of Kevin DeYoung. At Christmas we are often reminded of the message of love, peace, and reconciliation that the coming in the flesh of the Son presages. She is a Bible teacher and contributor to The Weary World Rejoices: Daily Devotions for Advent and Fruit-ful: Cultivating a Spiritual Harvest That Won’t Leave You Empty Explore articles, blogs, podcasts, and videos from The Gospel Coalition on the topic of motherhood. Free us to love others as you love us—with your humility, servant-joy, and grace-full hearts. Steve Bateman (ThM, Dallas Theological Seminary; DMin, Reformed Theological Seminary) The Gospel Coalition supports the church by providing resources that are trusted and timely, winsome and wise, and centered on the gospel of Jesus Christ. D pï{Oü_U¢ºgDC Dw°ºgià>º¯ªšf ±{ ÍöL@FF8¼¿úOŸêÝ ð « ›u x• ŠÄ×aÿç-¥Â ›Êpº}Ø Ÿ,‡Öíõ•| ´Õ 3kç„c, õ¹ û ³æò‡^‚ƒ 9Ô²!³úV½¶FÒ0Å q 2«öZ÷ i H ¾Œùf{· »]l Advent Meditation: Christmas Is the End of ‘Follow Your Heart’ He also cohosts and edits The Everyday Pastor podcast from The Gospel Coalition. He challenges Christians to reflect at Christmas on the many people around the world who still have not heard the good news of the gospel. The Gospel Coalition supports the church by providing resources that are trusted and A Christmas Poem A celebration of the advent of our Lord according to Scripture December 25, 2020 | Sam Chua . It was also the place where Israel “did business” with God. He has taught When It Does Not Feel Like Christmas. John 1 provides a bigger picture to accompany the story found in Luke 2:1-20. And part of what makes me love Christmas is that I find it all very comfortable. Here are three reasons why your congregation is missing out if the cross is missing from Let their artistry guide you through the beautiful range of “already, not yet” worship between Christ’s two advents: groaning and gratitude, aching and adoration, reflection and Prepare your heart for Christmas with a fresh look at Advent’s true purpose—repentance, renewal, and the joy of welcoming King Jesus. Articles . It’s what makes any tradition so appealing—the ease of following well-worn grooves. It was just a few days before Christmas and the reality was I wasn’t “feeling it”. The Gospel Coalition exists to equip the next generation of believers, pastors, and church leaders to shape life and ministry John’s Gospel wastes no time, like Genesis. The Gospel Coalition exists to equip the next generation of In the Christmas Eve edition of Rivington’s New York Gazette for 1783, there was a screaming advertisement—almost reminiscent of our “Black Friday” ads—for “CHRISTMAS and NEW YEAR’S PRESENTS,” which included gold and silver watches; goblets fit for drinking “Porter, Ales, Punch, Sangree” and other holiday beverages; and Listen as Iain Murray speaks on the topic of Christmas from Titus 2:11. The Story of God with Us by Kenneth Padgett and Shay Gregorie, illustrated by Aedan Peterson (Wolfbane Books). He is the host of the As in Heaven podcast and coauthor with All glory and honour to you, Living God. It looks to creation for fulfillment rather than worship of the Creator. One place where we could begin telling the Christmas story is Genesis 3:15, what is often called the “protoevangelium. I thought I’d provide some answers to such questions in a series of online articles. People love entering her shop, and for the last eight weeks of the year, there is a palpable buzz as festive shoppers mine for holiday treasures, with Christmas carols playing in the background. White’s classics Stuart Little or Charlotte’s Web as well as the Christmas gift-giving brings the temptation to love the things of the world. Sarah Eekhoff Zylstra is senior writer and faith-and-work editor for The Gospel Coalition. Let us make space for a multicultural Christmas, inviting culturally diverse celebrations of Christ’s birth in our homes, communities, and churches. One of the ways we do this Advent Longing / Christmas Joy · Playlist · 100 songs · 2. Christmas Hymns by Paul Zach. The Biblical Christmas narratives allow a great opportunity to present a clear gospel sermon : Christmas is cancelled. Last time Christmas fell on a Sunday, DeYoung wrote an article titled “A Plea to Pastors: Don’t Cancel Church on Christmas. B. Our hope is not waiting under the Christmas Tree, but in the Word made Flesh who came to makes all things new. As part of the program, of course, we sang some Christmas carols. Advertise on TGC. He is the part-time interim Executive Director for TGC Canada as well as the board chair for City to City Canada. Rob is married to Sienna, is father to Anastasia, and loves Christ and His Church Books in the Christmas Cards Series. Justin Taylor told the story on our website in 2014, and it continues to attract new readers each Christmas. Happiness can be thought of as a fleeting state of wellbeing that depends on circumstances. 6, 2020), Poor Bishop Hooper performs their song “Christ”—a beautiful take on the genealogy of Jesus When publishers release spin-offs of a highly successful book, it’s usually cause to raise an eyebrow. Before that he started and led the City Bible Forum in Brisbane. As it turns out, waiting is not just a contemporary enigma but an ancient one too. We hope that whatever the age of the children you’re shopping for this Christmas, you’ll find enjoyable and beneficial books to help them grow in wisdom and knowledge of the truth. These songs can be found on David Platt says Christmas has everything to do with missions. In The Case for Christmas, Lee Strobel puts his training as an investigative reporter to work on finding out the truth about the Christmas Nativity story. He’s a Council member of The Gospel Coalition. In either case, these feelings open up a chink, a crack, a keyhole through which we can shine some gospel light. Luke 2:11 Dear Lord Jesus, a most glorious and praised-filled “Happy birthday” to you! Though you’ve existed forever in rich, joyful, pleasure-filled relationship with the Father and the Holy Spirit, today we celebrate your coming to us and for us. Brett McCracken is a senior editor and director of communications at The Gospel Coalition. I have written a couple myself: Four Kinds of Christmas and The Gift. #,Ã1 Ékë ¨ìý0§ˆœ´zÔ‘ºðçÏ¿ÿ Œ» LËv\n ×ç÷Ÿ™Z –. Learn more about God, his Word, and the Christian life. Wednesday, December 18, 2024. As a Christian, what does it mean to be a wise steward of your money? Learn here from articles, blogs, podcasts, and videos from The Gospel Coalition. The Gospel Coalition supports the church by providing resources that are trusted and timely, winsome and wise, and centered on the gospel of Jesus Christ. The Gospel Coalition supports the church by providing resources that are trusted and timely, winsome and wise, and centered on the gospel of Joanne is a shop owner. As the Lord’s presence brought light over his dark creation in Genesis 1:2-5, John insists that in Jesus “was Selling quality Christian books that hold to the Bible at discounted prices, seeking to equip the church and reach the world. Secular people are not forcing me to stop celebrating a biblical, historic, and Christian Christmas. In all the overwhelming activity of the Christmas season, how can parents be leading children to see Christ as the reason for the season? Tania Rao . §gö|‘ˆAp‘—˜jÄÙÜ«ÓNÅJçOY. If you enjoy Advent and Christmas music, take some time to watch these presentations. On this episode of The Gospel Coalition Podcast, Bernard Howard will read Taylor’s account of the poem’s origin, then Caroline Cobb and Sean Carter will sing it. The Gospel Coalition supports the church by providing resources that are trusted and timely, winsome and wise, and centered on the gospel of £³¹1 I[¯‡GTõ~˜CDNZ=êH]øóçß Ž ø0-Ûq=Ÿß æÏþ[Ãfuâ~ƒŽ,Û@H0WIÿr¿Ý7] ôí™ )JXÇFi#ùI ¸j6ÛÙoçÏ,ïLEøp ¦«*3 $Á- )åŸN˲ª%[e No man will get anywhere in life without discipline—and growth in godliness is no exception. Yet, alongside this celebration of Jesus coming to Earth, there are a lot of secular elements. Throughout these episodes, you’ll hear conversations about God’s work around the world, in different cultural contexts. Watch TGC’s 2020 God with us. At Christmas, the Immanuel prophecy ought to lift our eyes to the Lord, along with our sense of expectancy for what he may do. It is important, therefore, when we come to writing and teaching and preaching at Christmas, that we understand the greater message and greater peace offered to us through Mike Cosper is the founder of Harbor Media in Louisville, Kentucky and serves as the director of podcasting for Christianity Today and is the host of Cultivated: A Podcast about Faith and Work. Christmas evokes so many nostalgic memories that I imagine the holiday can set me back on course in the path of life. It was dashingly disappointing to 8 In either case, these feelings open up a chink, a crack, a keyhole through which we can shine some gospel light. Watching Movies With the Holy Spirit. Be a happy herald for his birth. This essay is part of the Concise Theology series. Give the gift of the true, good, and beautiful with these books. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. Advertise on TGC I love Christmas music. This Many in-person Christmas programs and concerts have been canceled because of the pandemic, yet the hunger for Advent is especially heightened in 2020. ” John 1:16 Lord Jesus, this is a priceless, essential reality—“grace upon grace. It is about intimacy through full-knowledge and security through full-redemption. Gospel Christmas Medley ( Silent Night / The First Noel / Hark the Herald) The Recording Collective. Christmas, therefore, means the increase of peace—both with God and between people—across the face of the world. There are many myths that surround Christmas, many of which find their way into churches, and Jim Davis seeks to debunk six of the most popular. | × Browse . Collin Hansen interviews author and counselor Gordon Christmas is the only Christian holy day that is also a major secular holiday—arguably our culture’s biggest. Retailers complained to President Franklin D. Whether Advent Halloween has become the second highest-grossing commercial holiday after Christmas. We read of Jesus, through whom “all things were made” (John 1:3). It’s about family. Read Now . A former missionary to Romania, Trevin is a regular columnist at The Gospel Coalition and has contributed to The Washington Post, Religion News Service, World, and Christianity Today, which named him Learn here from articles, blogs, podcasts, and videos from The Gospel Coalition. This final and often neglected verse of “Hark!” is a treasure trove of great Christology and gospel hope, and so let’s look at this seemingly “forgotten” verse together. This collection uses the Scripture texts in the Christmas section of Handel’s Messiah as way of helping readers focus on the joy of our Savior’s birth. This would be ideal to use at carol services, other Christmas events or even to post with a Christmas card. Instead, I’m prepared with a gift: a book about Christmas. As the Lord’s presence brought light over his dark creation in Genesis 1:2-5, John insists that in Jesus “was the light of men” which “shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it” (John 1:4-5). ” Well, here are four simple suggestions. Sin condemns us all equally, but the birth of Jesus Christ was to introduce God’s offer of forgiveness equally to all. Apple Music Holidays. ”He states many reasons why churches might be tempted to cancel services on Christmas Day, and he pleads with pastors to stay the course and plan a Christmas Sunday There are numerous benefits of preaching at Christmas. But this year, I have decided that we would start our Christmas series in December with an uncomfortable passage. They have just taken the Christmas holiday and made it There was Bill – in his late 50’s, in the splash pad with nothing on but his ‘tighty whities’ (now virtually see through) dancing with children from our church. Though he never ceased being God, he became fully man—the Sam Allberry looks at Christmas through the prophecies of Isaiah to show that it is a holiday for the weary because it announces a glorious savior. Sproul is founder and chairman of Ligonier Ministries, an international Christian education ministry located near Orlando, Florida. Jesus did not enter an 1 Christmas Isn’t Pagan. Our joy is found in His success. Contributors WINFREE BRISLEY serves as an editor for The Gospel Coalition. Christmas for me is like holidays with my family when I was young. The Gospel Coalition Canada helps people know God's Word with their mind, love God fully with their Tomie de Paula, award-winning author and artist best known for Strega Nona, offers a re-telling of Christ’s birth through a perspective not often heard. Because you belong to Jesus and your lives are hidden in his, this is the way you are to relate to each other: Jesus has always been God, but he didn’t selfishly clutch his eternal deity and all his prerogatives. You—the eternal Word, full of grace and truth, took on our “flesh” that we might be made like you (1Jn. ” Jesus? Well, he was the reason for the season, but in that “thanks for the excuse to indulge” kind of way. A former missionary to Romania, Trevin is a regular columnist at The Gospel Coalition and has contributed to The Washington Post, Religion News Service, World, and Christianity Today. Matt Smethurst point us to lasting peace at Christmas. The birth of Jesus Christ, with its star and angels, human interest and so much promise left no doubt as to his citizenship Brett McCracken is a senior editor and director of communications at The Gospel Coalition. Last Christmas, my church put on a community Christmas dinner. The Recording Collective. In prayer, we can partner with God in approaching our neighbours with compassion and sensitivity. Help us keep one eye on your crib, and the other on your cross, as we celebrate Christmas 2019. Doing these and more, we can leverage our holiday and use it to speak boldly—and winsomely—for Christ and his gospel. This is Christmas. ” Joe Carter is a senior writer for The Gospel Coalition, author of A regular contributor at The Gospel Coalition, Rebecca McLaughlin is a respected apologist who holds a PhD from Cambridge University and a theology degree from Oak Hill College in London. I couldn’t tell you exactly when or where, but I remember being told (more than a few times) that there were a myriad of ancient pagan festivals like Sol Invictus, Saturnalia, Brumalia, and European feasts like Yule, that also took place on the 25th of Last Christmas, my church put on a community Christmas dinner. Here are 10 things we should grasp. She is also the author of the award-winning book Confronting Christianity: 12 Hard Questions for the World’s Largest Religion. And this is shocking. The first of these—the transforming of water into wine at the wedding of Cana—sets the scene for how these signs are to be read: they display the glory of Jesus and the proper response is The Gospel Coalition exists to renew and unify the contemporary church in the ancient gospel by declaring, defending, and applying the good news of Jesus to all of life. Speak to your parents face-to-face. ” (111) “The manger at Christmas means that, if you live like Jesus, there won’t be room for you in a lot of inns. D. He also serves as an associate pastor at McLean Bible Church in Arlington, Virginia. g. And especially here in the UK, it’s about having something cheerful to celebrate in the Christmas we know, but in a global pandemic? It could be a blessing in disguise. Yet he did this to be with us—both to comfort and to save. ’s leadership, the Summit has grown from a plateaued church of 300 to one of over 12,000. But perhaps we can also contemplate the wisdom and care of the plan of God—especially in an age when we may be tempted to value spontaneity as a measure of Christmas can be a conflicting time of year for believers. How can you be a mother that is joyful and steadfast? Explore articles, blogs, podcasts, and videos from The Gospel Coalition on the topic of motherhood. I love all kinds of Christmas music, both sacred and secular. All views expressed in this essay are those of the author. James Galea is lead pastor at St Marks Freshwater on the Northern Beaches of Sydney and is married to Charlotte and they have three children. , Julien Baker, Semler’s Preacher’s Kid, or Ethel Cain’s Themelios is a peer-reviewed international evangelical theological journal that expounds on the historic Christian faith. James is passionate about slow-cooked meat, birdwatching, bargains and seeing lives transformed by Jesus Christ. Kent Hughes presents an invaluable array of godly advice aimed at helping men grow in the disciplines of prayer, integrity, marriage, leadership, All glory and honour to you, Living God. Words tumbled out as I sought to still my heart in the midst of a busy season. Christ’s birth is not just a legend fit for Christmas-pulpit-acting. The Christmas Promise by Alison Mitchell, however, is one such book, telling the truth of God keeping his promises through Jesus’ birth. ” The Gospel Coalition Canada helps people know God's Word with their mind, love God fully with their heart, and engage the world with grace and truth. Rob is married to Sienna, is father to Anastasia, and loves Christ and His Church Christmas Hymn After All? So why do we sing this song at Christmas? It is clearly a song about Christ’s second coming—when the full expression of his glory will be revealed. Barbara and her husband lived in Michigan before moving to Cape Town, South Africa, to teach Bible Study Fellowship classes. I will rejoice over Jerusalem and take delight in my people; the sound of weeping and of crying will be heard in it no more. The result is two different celebrations, each observed by millions of people at the same time. Embrace Explore new Christmas traditions inspired by the gospel to strengthen faith and create lasting family memories. It makes physical pleasure our primary need rather than the rescuing intervention of the Redeemer. He is the author of The Wisdom Pyramid: Feeding Your Soul in a Post-Truth World , Uncomfortable: The Awkward and Essential Challenge of Christian Community , Gray Matters: Navigating the Space Between Legalism and Liberty , and Hipster Christianity: When As a subject, Christianity is everywhere in pop music today. It should be an opportunity to focus on Jesus’ incarnation and delight and celebrate that. A world without lepr osy is within sight. Learn More Email Updates. That Christmas, the gospel hit me in a fresh and profound way. Taking Christmas by storm, in hot pursuit of a glorious cash prize. Become a herald for Christmas joy. Everyone will be busy this Christmas, but consider spending focused one-on-one time with your parents. One of the ways we do this It’s often so alloyed with visions of Santa and sleigh bells, presents and parties, jolliness and jingles, that it can be difficult to fight against the familiarity. Everyone can picture Linus quoting from Luke 2 in the King James Version. The following Christmas, Bill brought a couple of bottles of Vodka to our Christmas dinner and was pouring drinks for our guests, many of whom were recovering alcoholics. People affected by leprosy share at the 150th Jubilee Dinner. The cynic wonders if it’s another attempt to milk the literary cow for all she’s worth. The Word is just over the back fence. Last year The Gospel Coalition hosted our first-ever virtual Advent concert; we’re told it blessed many who watched it online. It reminded me of God’s instructions to parents about leading our children: “Fix these words of mine in your hearts and minds; tie them as symbols on your As we remember God’s promises fulfilled at Christmas, we are reminded of just how intensely the incarnation of Christ shook the world! The meaning of Christmas goes miles deeper than a public holiday, family In my recent article on “What To Do With Santa” I noted: “So much more could and should be said about how to celebrate Christ at Christmas. Reformed Theological Seminary) is teaching pastor at Orlando Christmas reminds us that God’s promised seed and king is here. We hope that whatever the age of the children you’re shopping for this Christmas, Peace on earth is one of the great themes of Christmas. Matt is the author of Tim Keller on the Christian Life: The Transforming Power of the Gospel (Crossway, 2025), Before You Share Your Faith: Five Ways to Be Evangelism Ready The Gospel Coalition's editors recommend favorite books for kids of all ages. But this festive day also carries a lot of baggage. Christmas becomes this magical event with this mythical story that captures the imagination like Lord of the Rings or Harry Potter or Narnia. The Christmas classic He previously served as director of donor ministries for The Gospel Coalition and is the author of Oh, the Treasures You’ll Know! (10ofThose, 2022). Sam Wan is the chair of an Australian Youth conference on Apologetics and Cultural Engagement, a committee member of various ministries for christians with disability, and writes and trains internationally in sexuality and pastoral care. The birth of Jesus Christ, with its star and angels, human interest and so much promise left no doubt as to his citizenship There are many myths that surround Christmas, many of which find their way into churches, and Jim Davis seeks to debunk six of the most popular. It was formerly a print journal operated by RTSF/UCCF in the UK, and it became a digital journal operated by The Gospel Coalition in 2008. There are many ways to do this: composing a Christmas letter, singing carols with dinner guests, rehearsing the Advent story, hosting a Christmas tea, taking cookies and a Scripture passage to neighbors. Uncle Philip, the Grand Poo-bah of the Knights of Columbus, leads in prayer to the Virgin Mary. He is the author of The Wisdom Pyramid: Feeding Your Soul in a Post-Truth World, In this sermon on Luke 2:1–7, Jamaal Williams preaches on the providence and power of God, and the humility and poverty of Christ. Carols services—normally attract many people who only come to church once a year. Iain Murray is a pastor, author, and co-founder of Banner of Truth. What though the loved be scattered far, Few at the board appear, In thee, O Lord, they gathered are In December the “mainstream” media often highlights the concerns skeptics have about the biblical Christmas. Learn Collin Hansen serves as vice president for content and editor in chief of The Gospel Coalition, as well as executive director of The Keller Center for Cultural Apologetics. Stream songs including "Joy to the World", "O Come, All You Unfaithful" and more. He is the author of Faith Among the Faithless: Learning from Esther How to Live in a World Gone Mad (Thomas Nelson, 2018), Recapturing the Wonder: Transcendent Faith in Christmas concerns the God who redeems and restores fallen human beings. Packer’s book Knowing God, that’s not the true Christmas spirit. If you have kids, have someone watch them. Gospel Vol. So when it came time to decide how we’d handle Christmas with our own children, I was surprised to discover how much we had to When we think of Christmas spirit, we usually think of gifts, eggnog, songs, and food. But in order to do so, we must take seriously the reasons why our non-believing friends might be quite skeptical about the Christmas story. The tabernacle was a potent symbol of God’s rule and presence. 5:43. Here are three reasons they might have for thinking Christmas is unbelievable. The Gospel Coalition Canada helps people know God's Word with their mind Our Christmas hope when it does not feel like Christmas is beautifully expressed by George MacDonald in his poem, Christmas, 1884. Daily Dose. Selling quality Christian books that hold to the Bible at discounted prices, seeking to equip the church and reach the world. After all, I was surrounded by Christmas lights and decorations.