HOW FAR IS IT FROM BETHLEHEM TO CALVARY?

Sermon Notes, December 22, 2013

Pastor Jan Sinozich

Pastor Jan’s sermon was titled “How Far is it From Bethlehem to Calvary?”   Luke tells the story in his gospel—chapter 2 tells the Christmas story, chapter 23 the story of Calvary.  Geographically, it’s about 8 kilometers from Bethlehem, where Jesus was born, to Jerusalem, where he was crucified.  Historically, the 33 years Jesus lived is not very long, compared to the millennia that have come and gone since God spoke the world into being.  Spiritually, it is closer than you might think; the birth of a Christ child in a stable in Bethlehem would be of little consequence without the death of the man in Jerusalem on a cross at Calvary.

Who made the journey from Bethlehem to Calvary?  Well, the Innkeeper was there; he didn’t know who Mary and Joseph were—he was busy, like the vast majority of people today.  King Herod made his presence known, ordering the execution of all male children under the age of 2 in Bethlehem; he wanted to kill baby Jesus so there would be no rival for his kingship.  Today, like Herod, some people resent the religious nature of Christmas—they do not accept the truth of Christmas.

Who came to Bethlehem?  The shepherds did—they were given a personal invitation from a huge group of angels to go to Bethlehem and welcome this newborn child.  They went and found Jesus and were inspired.  The shepherds represent people in the world who accept the easy truth of Christmas, but find it hard to believe when things get tough.  The Wise Men came, from a long distance, bringing gifts; the Wise Men represent people in the world who accept the whole truth of Christmas, and they’re willing to pay the price to find Him.  Who else came?  Joseph, and Mary came.  Mary, the mother of the Messiah.  She was the only one we know for sure who followed Christ from Bethlehem to Calvary.  Mary represents people in the world who are surrendered to the truth of Christmas.

Have you made the trip from Bethlehem to Calvary?  Easter is necessary if Jesus is to become the Savior of the world.  If He is truly our Savior, we are not afraid of the cross.  Because of Bethlehem, we can celebrate the birth of Jesus; He is our Emmanuel—God with us.  Because of His life, we celebrate the example that God sent to us—His Son.  Because of His death and resurrection we can celebrate the gift of eternal life—we can embrace the cross without fear.  How far is it from Bethlehem to Calvary?  If Jesus is your Savior, it’s not that far at all!