RUF Campus Minister Ethan Brown preaches on Zechariah's prophecy... from Luke 1:67–80. Part of an Advent sermon series, "The Questions of Christmas."

In this sermon on Matthew 1:18–23, Pastor Luke Herche preaches on the significance of the virgin birth, showing that... in the virgin birth God identifies with the weak; God confounds the wise; God keeps his promise; and God does it all for us.

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Want to go deeper? Take some time to reflect on the sermon with the following questions:

Which detail in Matthew 1:18–23—Joseph’s quiet resolve, the angel’s dream, the promise of the name Immanuel (“God with us”), etc.—stands out to you as the most surprising or significant moment in this story, and why?

What about the Incarnation is most puzzling to you? What do you struggle to understand about “God-made-flesh” in Jesus? In what ways are you tempted to explain the mystery away rather than wonder and worship?

What does it mean for your perspective on life’s current challenges that the all-powerful and eternal King of kings chose to enter the world not as a muscled warrior, but as a helpless baby? In what way does the humility of Jesus, God with us, shape the way you think about your own life, especially the way you relate to the people around you day by day?

In this sermon on Matthew 2:1–12, Pastor Josué Pernillo shows that the Wise Men looked... for Jesus because Jesus is the King in the midst of chaos who was promised and worthy of worship, for all people.

Pastor Luke Herche preaches on Luke 2:21–32, in which Jesus is presented in the temple... after he was born and seen by Simeon. Pastor Luke shows that Jesus is Israel’s Glory. He is her embodiment. He is her salvation. He fulfills her mission. And he calls us to be taken up into her story.

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Want to go deeper? Take some time to reflect on the sermon with the following questions:

How does seeing Jesus as the one who perfectly embodies all that humanity (and Israel) was meant to be change the way you view God’s expectations for your life?

Where have you felt the “ache” of seeking glory in the present life (whether your own accomplishments or reputation, or other created things), only to find those things leaving you wanting more?

The “Suffering Servant” was pierced for our transgressions to bring us peace. How does Jesus’ choice to be “born under the law” and to bear our grief show us what true glory looks like?

Considering that we “become what we worship,” what would it look like for you to be a “walking advertisement” for Jesus’ glory in your home or workplace this coming week as you both delight in and reflect that glory?