MUSIC: Acoustic Beginning

PASTOR CROWDER:   Good morning, and welcome to the annual Dover Baptist Christmas Cantata. Today, we embark on a journey through the ages, celebrating the mystery, the wonder, and the majesty of Christ’s birth.

Our first hymn this morning is the beloved: “Oh Come, Oh Come, Emmanuel.” This is more than just a Christmas carol; it is a song that speaks across time, connecting us to the deep cries of longing and the hope of God’s people throughout history.

The roots of this hymn reach back nearly a thousand years, to the 12th century, when it began as a series of chants known as the “O Antiphons.” These were sung in the days leading up to Christmas in the quiet stone halls of monasteries and cathedrals. Each chant began with the exclamation “O” and called the Messiah by one of His prophetic names:

- Emmanuel, God with us, fulfilling the promise of His presence among us.  

- Rod of Jesse, the righteous branch from David’s lineage, the King who would reign forever.  

- Dayspring, the light of salvation breaking through the world’s darkness.  

- Key of David, opening the door to eternal life that no one can shut.  

- Desire of Nations, the hope of all peoples for peace and redemption.

These names, drawn from Scripture, gave voice to the prayers of generations. They echo the promises found in the words of the prophet Isaiah, who, centuries before Christ’s birth, proclaimed:

“For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” (Isaiah 9:6, ESV)

For those who sang these antiphons in the Middle Ages, these words were more than merely a reminder of the Birth of Christ. In a time that some refer to as “the Dark Ages,” these words were a lifeline, a prayer for God to intervene, for light to pierce the darkness, and for a Savior to come again. They trusted God’s promises would not fail, even as they waited.

Centuries later, in the 19th century, John Mason Neale, an Anglican priest, brought these ancient chants to life for a new generation. He translated their words into English and paired them with a haunting melody from 15th-century France. This combination of timeless truth and stirring music created the hymn we know today, “Oh Come, Oh Come, Emmanuel.”

But this song is more than a piece of history. It is a powerful reminder of who Christ is and what He has done. Emmanuel reminds us that God Himself came to dwell among us, stepping into our world to save us. The Rod of Jesse speaks to the fulfillment of God’s promise that a King would come from David’s line to reign forever. The Dayspring proclaims that Jesus is the light that shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it. The Key of David declares that Jesus holds the power to open the door to eternal life. And the Desire of Nations points us to the peace and redemption He brings to all people.

The story of Christmas is not just the story of a baby born in Bethlehem. It is the story of God keeping His promises, of light breaking into darkness, of a ransom paid in full. Jesus came to rescue us from sin and death and to bring us into eternal life. He is the fulfillment of every cry, every hope, every longing for a Savior.

And yet, even as we celebrate His birth, we look ahead to the day when He will return. Revelation 22:16 reminds us of His promise: “I am the root and the descendant of David, the bright morning star.” (ESV) The same Jesus who came as a child will come again as King, making all things new.

If your heart feels heavy this season, if you carry burdens or sorrows, let this hymn remind you of the hope we have in Christ. God has not forgotten you. He has heard your prayers. He has paid the ransom for your sin. And He has promised to bring you safely home.

So now, with hearts full of expectation, let us join our voices with those across the generations, singing the words of hope, longing, and triumph: “Oh Come, Oh Come, Emmanuel.”

MUSIC: "O Come, O Come, Emmanuel"

PASTOR CROWDER: As we move from a song filled with longing for a promised Savior, we now arrive at the moment when that promise is fulfilled—fulfilled not in splendor or fanfare, but in the still, quiet streets of Bethlehem. The hope that had echoed across centuries, carried in the hearts of God’s people and spoken through the voices of prophets, found its answer in the cry of a newborn child, born humbly in a manger.

The hymn “O Little Town of Bethlehem” invites us to step into this sacred moment. Phillips Brooks, inspired by his visit to Bethlehem, captured the wonder of that night in a carol originally written for the children of his church. In his words, we see light piercing the darkness, silence embracing the divine mystery, and the town itself standing as a witness to the arrival of the Savior of the world.

This was no random occurrence. Centuries earlier, the prophet Micah foretold Bethlehem’s role in God’s redemptive plan:  

“But you, O Bethlehem Ephrathah, who are too little to be among the clans of Judah, from you shall come forth for me one who is to be ruler in Israel, whose coming forth is from of old, from ancient days.” (Micah 5:2, ESV)

Bethlehem may have seemed small and unremarkable to the world, but in God’s plan, it was chosen for greatness. This was the town of Ruth, the setting where David was anointed as king, and the very place where the Messiah would be born. God moved the heart of a Roman emperor to issue a decree, drawing Mary and Joseph to this little town to fulfill His perfect plan. Every detail, every moment, pointed to this—the moment when the Savior of the world would step into history.

“O Little Town of Bethlehem” calls us to imagine ourselves there on that night. Picture the shepherds, rushing from the fields with wonder and awe. Imagine the travelers and townsfolk, going about their business unaware that heaven itself had come to earth. Consider the quiet simplicity of the scene, and yet the immeasurable weight of its meaning. In this carol, we do more than remember; we join in welcoming the Christ-child who came not only to a manger, but who still comes into the hearts of those humble enough to receive Him.

As we sing this beloved hymn, let us picture the light breaking over the dark streets of Bethlehem. Let us feel the quiet embrace of that holy night and open our hearts to the same Savior who entered the world that night to bring hope, peace, and life. Now, let us lift our voices and sing of Bethlehem, the place where the hope of the world took human form, where prophecy became reality, and where “the dear Christ entered in.”

MUSIC: “Oh Little Town of Bethlehem”

PASTOR CROWDER: As we sing of Bethlehem, the quiet town where our Savior took His first breath, we turn now to another powerful symbol of that holy night: the Star of Bethlehem.

Shining brightly in the heavens, this star served as a beacon of divine guidance, drawing both shepherds and kings to the humble place where Jesus lay. It was a light for those seeking redemption, a signpost of God’s promise fulfilled.

“Beautiful Star of Bethlehem,” written by Tennessee dairy farmer R. Fisher Boyce in the 1940s, captures this beautiful image. Composed in the loft of Boyce’s barn, this song emerged from simple beginnings, much like the story of Christ’s birth. Its lyrics speak of a guiding star casting its lovely ray through the darkness, leading pilgrims through shadows—just as the Star of

Bethlehem once led travelers to the birthplace of Jesus. The song quickly became a favorite among Southern gospel quartets and has since been embraced by bluegrass musicians and congregations alike.

Let us hear the account of the wise men’s journey, guided by that divine light, in the words of

Matthew’s Gospel:

“When they saw the star, they rejoiced exceedingly with great joy. And going into the house, they saw the child with Mary his mother, and they fell down and worshiped him. Then, opening their treasures, they offered him gifts, gold and frankincense and myrrh.” (Matthew 2:10-11, ESV)

In this song, we remember that radiant star, guiding the wise men on their journey and illuminating the path for all who seek Him. As we sing, we are invited to follow that same light, drawing us toward the “land of perfect day,” where Christ, the Star Divine, shines ever brighter, leading us from this world into His eternal glory.

So as we lift our voices in “Beautiful Star of Bethlehem,” let us reflect on the guiding light of Christ that continues to shine upon us, offering hope, rest, and a way home. May that beautiful star, a symbol of His eternal light, shine on in our hearts today and always.

MUSIC: "Beautiful Star of Bethlehem"

PASTOR CROWDER: Now, we shift our focus from the light of the guiding star to the deeper purpose for which it shines. This star over Bethlehem shines with divine intent, leading us beyond the cradle to the cross. As the hymn writer declares, "Nails, spear shall pierce Him through, the cross He bore for me, for you." These words cast a solemn light upon the Christmas story, reminding us that this child’s journey does not end in Bethlehem. It reaches to Calvary, bridging cradle and cross, innocence and sacrifice, birth and redemption.

The Christmas story draws shepherds and kings together in awe, yet it also foreshadows a Kingdom not built by earthly means—a Kingdom where a baby, born in obscurity, will reign over all. "What Child Is This?" invites us to step into this mystery and ask ourselves: Who is this child? Why does He come in such humility? What is the meaning of His lowly birth?

In his haunting hymn, What Child Is This?, William Chatterton Dix captures this mystery, this “Word made flesh,” destined to bear the weight of a broken world and to carry the cross of our redemption. This is no ordinary lullaby; this is a song of reverent wonder—a meditation on the most profound question humanity has ever asked: Who is this? And why does He come for us?

Let us listen to the words of the Apostle Paul, who illuminates the meaning behind Christ’s humble birth and sacrificial purpose:

“But when the fullness of time had come, God sent forth his Son, born of woman, born under the law, to redeem those who were under the law, so that we might receive adoption as sons.” - (Galatians 4:4-5, ESV)

Why does this matter this morning? Because the light and joy of Christmas lose their power if separated from the path to Golgotha. Pastor Richard Phillips reminds us, "Our response must be far more than a little cultural observation. It calls us to our greatest life commitment." This child in the manger is not merely a seasonal figure; He is the answer to our deepest longing. 

As we lift our voices in song, may we hear a holy invitation, not only to marvel at His birth but to understand His purpose. Let us enthrone Him not only in our song but in our lives. May we be stirred to offer our highest treasures, to raise our most joyful praise, and to embrace this truth with open hearts. For this child is not only born to us; He is given to us, to lead us home to His eternal Kingdom.

MUSIC: "What Child Is This" - Acoustic Carols for Worship   

PASTOR CROWDER: Our hearts are stirred by the wonder of this child’s birth, His divine identity, and His purpose on earth. We’ve asked questions that echo through the ages: Who is this child who draws shepherds and kings? Why does He come in such humility? 

Picture the quiet hills surrounding Bethlehem, the stillness interrupted only by the wonder-filled gaze of shepherds watching their flocks. What did they feel as they looked up to see the night sky suddenly alive with heavenly light? What must Mary and Joseph have thought as they held their newborn, the promised Savior, feeling both the weight and the awe of this divine moment in the humblest of places? Our next song, "A Night Like This" invites us to join those witnesses, to imagine ourselves there, sharing in their awe as God’s promise came to life.

Listen now to the Gospel of Luke, recounting the angel’s message to the shepherds, announcing the good news of Christ’s birth:

“Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.” - (Luke 2:10-11, ESV)

But while this night was filled with angelic declarations and heavenly choirs, it also brings something quieter yet equally powerful, a sense of peace that settles deeply in the heart. And so, as we continue in worship, we follow “A Night Like This” with a beautiful rendition of “All Is Well,” a song that speaks to the calm assurance found in Christ’s arrival. While “A Night Like This” draws us into the wonder, “All Is Well” rests in the peace of knowing that God’s light has come, and with Him, true hope and rest.  May we embrace both the awe of that holy night and the peace that now reigns because Christ, our Savior and King, is here.

MUSIC: "A Night Like This"  &  "All Is Well"

PASTOR CROWDER:  As we reflect on both the awe and peace that Christ’s birth brings, we remember that this is only the beginning of His story. In our final song, “King of Kings,” we proclaim the purpose of His life, death, and resurrection, a purpose that goes far beyond the manger to the cross and the empty tomb.

Let us listen to the words of the Apostle Paul, which remind us of Christ’s humility and ultimate victory:

“And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross. Therefore God has highly exalted him and bestowed on him the name that is above every name, so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.” - (Philippians 2:8-11, ESV)

Our final song invites us to reflect on the full scope of Christ’s mission: "To reveal the kingdom coming and to reconcile the lost, to redeem the whole creation." From a throne of endless glory to a cradle in the dirt, Jesus came with mercy in His eyes, willingly embracing suffering for our salvation. This song tells the story of a love so great that even death could not hold Him. The dawn of His resurrection broke through the darkness, restoring souls and igniting a movement that would change history forever.

As we lift our voices in praise to the Father, the Son, and the Spirit, we join the heavenly anthem that celebrates Christ as the King of Kings. Let us declare this gospel truth with joy and gratitude, for in His freedom, we are truly free.

MUSIC: "King of Kings"

PASTOR CROWDER: As we conclude this morning of song and celebration, we are reminded that the story of Christmas is a story of love, a love that existed before time, that took human form in Bethlehem, and that bore our burdens on the cross. This morning, we have journeyed through the fulfilled prophecies, witnessed the wonder of Christ's birth, and felt the peace that only His presence can bring. Yet, our journey doesn’t end here; instead, it calls each of us to carry forward the light of His love and the hope of His eternal kingdom.

The final words of “King of Kings” remind us of Christ’s ultimate triumph: how, through His death and resurrection, He opened the way to eternal life and established a kingdom that shall never end. This is our invitation this morning—to live in the freedom and joy of that victory, to walk as children of His light, and to proclaim His name until every heart and every nation sings, “Praise forever to the King of Kings.”

And we know that one day we will see that glorious day fulfilled, for in the book of Revelation, God’s Word declares:

“Then I heard what seemed to be the voice of a great multitude, like the roar of many waters and like the sound of mighty peals of thunder, crying out, ‘Hallelujah! For the Lord our God the Almighty reigns. Let us rejoice and exult and give him the glory, for the marriage of the Lamb has come, and his Bride has made herself ready.’” - (Revelation 19:6-7, ESV)

As we leave this time of worship, may we carry the peace, joy, and wonder of Christmas in our hearts, sharing the hope of Christ’s love with a world in need. Let us rejoice, for the Light has come, and in His name, all is truly well. Go now in peace, and may the blessing of Emmanuel, God with us, be with you this Christmas season and always.

Prayer:

Let us pray:

Heavenly Father, we come before You with hearts full of gratitude for the gift of Your Son, Jesus Christ. This morning, we have journeyed through the story of His coming—through the prophecies, the humble manger, the radiant star, and the cross that brought us salvation. We marvel at Your love, a love that would step down from a throne of glory to dwell among us, to carry our burdens, and to bring us peace. As we prepare to leave this place, may the awe of Christ’s birth remain with us, filling us with hope, joy, and a renewed sense of purpose. Help us to carry the light of Your love into a world that longs for redemption. Let the message of Christmas—the promise of Emmanuel, God with us—resonate in our hearts and in our lives every day. Lord, we join the voices of angels and saints, past and present, proclaiming, “Hallelujah, for the Lord our God the Almighty reigns!” May we live as true ambassadors of Your kingdom, sharing Your love, walking in Your light, and rejoicing in the victory You have given us through Christ. With joyful hearts, we give You all praise, honor, and glory, now and forever. In the name of Jesus, our Savior and King, we pray. Amen.