Out of Bethlehem Micah 5:2
Introduction: Bethlehem, it congers up pictures of a sleepy
little town in rolling hills. Peace and tranquil
with shepherds on grassy hillsides and Mary and Joseph in a little 12
x 12 manger filled with hay.
But Bethlehem was more than that.
It was more than a 1000 years old when Jesus was born. It was important and historic in the life of
Israel.
1.
The history of Bethlehem
A.
Rachel was buried just outside of Bethlehem Gen
35:19
B.
Home to Ruth
C.
Home to David 1 Samuel 16:1
D.
The place where David hides from Saul
E.
Battle ground between the Philistines and Israel
F.
In the disputed west bank area of Palestine
G.
A place of turmoil and war.
2.
Peace on earth
A.
150 -200 mile trip from Nazareth to Bethlehem
B.
Caves used as stables
C.
A busy town that night when no room was found at
the inn
D.
There Jesus was born
E.
There the shepherds found Jesus in a manger
F.
There in Bethlehem the wise men visit and find
Jesus
G.
Bethlehem is where Jesus entered the world.
3.
Our Bethlehem
A.
Our world is filled with turmoil and struggles
B.
Our lives are filled with upsets and
disappointments
C.
In the midst of it is our Bethlehem, the places
where Jesus comes to us
D.
Not because of peace, but to bring peace
E.
Jesus does not transform your world He
transforms you
F.
Bethlehem is where you discover Jesus, where He
comes into your life
Conclusion: Where is your Bethlehem? Have you discovered a savior born into the
turmoil of your life to bring you peace, forgiveness, love? If not make a place in your heart today. Invite Jesus into your life and find Your
Bethlehem.
