The Contrast of two kings at Christmas

Luke 2:1 “And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Ceasar Augustus, that all the world should be taxed.

Luke 2:7 “And she brought forth her first born son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn.”

At the birth of Christ we find some very fascinating contrasts that will help us appreciate the love of God for sinful men. Acknowledging Christ as king of kings before we proceed will help enhance the contrasts. First, we see one king mentioned as a taker, collecting money from all the world. We see the other king as a giver coming into the world as our sacrificial substitute. Second, we see one king with great prominence in the world. We see the other king in almost obscurity in the world. Third, we see one king abiding in a palace the other king abiding in a stable. Fourth, we see one king dressed in royal attire but the other king in ragged attire. Fifth, one king would capture the attention of those who sought temporal gain. The other king would capture the attention of those who sought eternal gain. Sixth, one king came to turn people to Rome the other king came to turn people to God! Seventh, one king gained worldly fame by conquering flesh and blood. The other king would gain worldly fame by conquering the devil. Eighth, one king would wear his crown for a generation. The other king would wear his crown for an eternity. Being born into the world made you part of one kingdom but you must be born again to enter our Lord’s kingdom! Praise God! Because he came we can become part of his kingdom!

The day will come when all of the world will identify him as the king of kings! May we as believers show Jesus our reverence and the world our king!

Revelation 19:16 “And he hath on his vesture and on his thigh a name written, KING OF KINGS, AND LORD OF LORDS.” Have a merry Christmas!

Read Luke 2:1-7 and Revelation 19:11-16