Text: Matthew 2:16—18

Topic: How Bethlehem illustrates our need of a Savior.

Introduction:

Illustration: National Public Radio reports a Palestinian attempt to "spruce up" Bethlehem.

Everything the Bible means by Christmas can be said in one name, Bethlehem.

Bethlehem symbolizes our corrupted reality.

Illustration: Hawaii appears to be a paradise, but there are widespread social problems.

Bethlehem rips away Christmas idealism.

The little town of Bethlehem was made miserable by the birth of Jesus.

Illustration: A bestselling book, The Celestine Prophecy, is typical of the lies we tell ourselves about humanity.

Bethlehem is where our Savior must come.

Any God who is unwilling to come to Bethlehem won't do us much good.

Illustration: A heartbroken student asks why love has to be so painful.

Conclusion:

Bethlehem is a prelude to Calvary.