Rev. Cyril A. Stevens – Sermon 0958A recorded on December 23, 1984 teaching from Luke 2:1-11 – The Precious Gift of God.
Pastor Cyril A. Stevens emphasizes the significance of Jesus’ names to fully appreciate the “precious gift of God” offered at Christmas. He begins by illustrating that, much like nameless presents cause confusion, knowing Jesus by His various names reveals His complete nature and purpose, specifically noting the name Christ the Lord from Luke 2:11. A central theme is Jesus’ willingness to meet people “in the same country” and in the midst of their ordinary lives and deepest suffering, just as the angels announced His birth to shepherds abiding in the field. Pastor Stevens then explores the profound meanings of several key names, including Jesus (meaning “to save”), Christ (the Anointed One), Lord (signifying His resurrected sovereignty), Shiloh (the peacemaker), and Emmanuel (God with us). The message culminates with an examination of the grand titles from Isaiah, like Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, and Prince of Peace, urging listeners to receive Jesus, who provides a peace that cannot be negotiated, but only accepted.