The Spirit of Christmas

(Proverbs 1:23 KJV)  Turn you at my reproof: behold, I will pour out my spirit unto you, I will make known my words unto you.

As I write I am thinking of Christmas coming.  I am also thinking about the legitimate question that many ask, “How can God condemn people to Hell who have never heard the gospel?”  Is that a strange question for Christmas?  No, not really.  As you go through the stores and public places you will hear Christmas music.  A growing segment is modern nonsense like “Santa Baby”, but you will still find the old carols rearing their heads.  Anyone who has heard the traditional Christmas Carols has heard the gospel.

That relates to this verse.  This verse talks about how God will “pour out” (5042) His Spirit.  Now look at the context of verses.  The Spirit will be poured out on the naive, the scoffers, the haters.  God will speak directly to the hearts of those lost in sin and rebellion.  At Christmas God will touch much of the world and the world will reject Him.

People do not reject the gospel because they do not understand.  They reject the gospel because they understand too well.  The gospel is acted out by the magi and shepherds kneeling at the feet of Jesus.  Human beings have a self centered nature that refuses to kneel.

So?  Have you heard the music of Christmas?  Does it bring joy to your heart because it announces the incarnation or hostility because it demands submission?  Rest assured that people have their chance to respond.  Maybe this month you will get a chance to explain the details.  Merry Christmas.