The Bethlehem Lamb | Jonathan Cahn Sermon

The Bethlehem Lamb | Jonathan Cahn Sermon

Our King was born in Bethlehem not merely because He was of the lineage of David but because He is the Lamb of God. He is both King and Lamb—a profound and awe-inspiring truth. As believers, born again and saved, we follow a King who humbly became the Lamb.

The Bible presents two accounts of the Nativity: one in Matthew and the other in Luke. These accounts reveal complementary aspects of Christ’s nature. Matthew emphasizes Jesus as the King, highlighting His royal lineage and the visit of the Magi, who brought gifts befitting a King. Luke, on the other hand, portrays Jesus as the perfect man, focusing on His humanity and humility. Matthew’s narrative centers on Joseph, while Luke gives prominence to Mary.

In Luke 2:1-20, we read about the decree from Caesar Augustus that led Joseph and Mary to Bethlehem. Joseph, a descendant of David, traveled from Nazareth in Galilee to Bethlehem in Judea, the City of David. Mary, his betrothed, was with child. While there, the time came for her to give birth. She delivered her firstborn son, wrapped Him in swaddling clothes, and laid Him in a manger because there was no room at the inn.

In the fields nearby, shepherds were keeping watch over their flocks at night. Suddenly, an angel of the Lord appeared, and the glory of the Lord shone around them. The shepherds were terrified, but the angel reassured them, saying:

“Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy for all people. Today, in the City of David, a Savior has been born to you. He is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.”

A host of heavenly angels then appeared, praising God and proclaiming:

“Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to those on whom His favor rests.”

The shepherds hurried to Bethlehem and found Mary, Joseph, and the baby lying in the manger. Overwhelmed with joy, they shared the angel’s message, leaving everyone who heard it in wonder.

The Significance of Bethlehem

Bethlehem, known as the City of David, holds profound spiritual significance. David, Israel’s great king, was born there as a shepherd. It was in Bethlehem’s fields that he learned to lead as a shepherd before becoming king. To this day, the rolling hills of Bethlehem remain a place where shepherds tend their sheep, connecting ancient history with the present.

The Lamb of God

The theme of the Lamb is central to the Bible. The first mention of a lamb is in Genesis 22, when Abraham and Isaac ascend Mount Moriah for a sacrifice. Isaac asks, “Father, where is the lamb?” Abraham replies, “God will provide Himself the lamb.” This prophetic moment points to Jesus as the Lamb of God.

The next significant mention is in Exodus 12, during the first Passover. God instructed Moses to have each household sacrifice a lamb and place its blood on their doorposts. The blood of the lamb protected them from judgment—a foreshadowing of Christ’s ultimate sacrifice.

Jesus, born in Bethlehem, the city of shepherds, is the fulfillment of these prophecies. He is the Lamb provided by God, whose sacrifice brings salvation to the world.

A Call to Reflection

As we celebrate the birth of Christ, let us marvel at the humility of our King who became the Lamb. May His birth inspire us to worship Him with awe and gratitude, recognizing the depth of God’s love revealed in the mystery of Bethlehem.

“Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to those with whom He is pleased.”