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Chuck Smith

Chuck Smith (1927 - 2013). American pastor and founder of the Calvary Chapel movement, born in Ventura, California. After graduating from LIFE Bible College, he was ordained by the Foursquare Church and pastored several small congregations. In 1965, he took over a struggling church in Costa Mesa, California, renaming it Calvary Chapel, which grew from 25 members to a network of over 1,700 churches worldwide. Known for his accessible, verse-by-verse Bible teaching, Smith embraced the Jesus Movement in the late 1960s, ministering to hippies and fostering contemporary Christian music and informal worship. He authored numerous books, hosted the radio program "The Word for Today," and influenced modern evangelicalism with his emphasis on grace and simplicity. Married to Kay since 1947, they had four children. Smith died of lung cancer, leaving a lasting legacy through Calvary Chapel’s global reach and emphasis on biblical teaching
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Sermon Summary
Chuck Smith emphasizes the significance of the birth of Jesus as a Savior during a tumultuous time in history, marked by the decree of Caesar Augustus. He reflects on the political climate and the fulfillment of prophecy as Mary and Joseph arrive in Bethlehem, where Jesus is born in humble circumstances. The announcement to the shepherds highlights the divine intervention and the heavenly celebration of peace on earth through the Savior. Smith underscores that Jesus confronts the problem of sin, bringing hope and redemption to humanity.
Luke 2:11
"THERE IS BORN...A SAVIOR" I. "NOW IT CAME TO PASS IN THOSE DAYS." A. What about those days? 1. "There went forth a decree from Caesar Augustus." a. Gaius Octavius. b. Augustus a title - Caesar by courtesy. c. When he became Imperator. 1. Refused to be called Dictator indicated only temporary reign. Refused King didn't signify enough. "in those days." 2. The power gradually went from hands of people to governors - finally autocratic control. "in those days" 3. Doors of Temple of Janus closed. 4. Caesar issued a decree - and it was done no appeals. 5. In small turbulent section of Roman Empire this thing happened. They were going to Bethlehem because at that psychic moment of history Caesar had ordered it. 6. When they arrived in Bethlehem this happened "It came to pass while they were there the days were fulfilled that she should be delivered." "No room in the inn" pun do cheion. "She brought forth and she wrapped Him in swaddling clothes." "Let us observe the heavenly activity" Message to shepherds. Savior - one who would confront problem of sin. Multitude at heavenly host singing "Glory to God in the Highest" and on earth peace?
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Chuck Smith (1927 - 2013). American pastor and founder of the Calvary Chapel movement, born in Ventura, California. After graduating from LIFE Bible College, he was ordained by the Foursquare Church and pastored several small congregations. In 1965, he took over a struggling church in Costa Mesa, California, renaming it Calvary Chapel, which grew from 25 members to a network of over 1,700 churches worldwide. Known for his accessible, verse-by-verse Bible teaching, Smith embraced the Jesus Movement in the late 1960s, ministering to hippies and fostering contemporary Christian music and informal worship. He authored numerous books, hosted the radio program "The Word for Today," and influenced modern evangelicalism with his emphasis on grace and simplicity. Married to Kay since 1947, they had four children. Smith died of lung cancer, leaving a lasting legacy through Calvary Chapel’s global reach and emphasis on biblical teaching