25 Ideas for Advent Sermons to Preach this Christmas Season

Are you Christian clergy, a theological student, or a lay preacher seeking inspiration for Advent sermons during the Christmas season? Or are you a devout Christian deeply interested in exploring Advent themes?

If so, below are 25 ideas for preaching advent sermons this Christmas season that are sure to inspire during this glorious time.

25 Sermon Themes for Advent and the Christmas Season

Here is a helpful list of meaningful sermon themes for churches.

1. The Promise of Hope: Isaiah’s Prophecy 

The promise of hope is used in the first of the four advent messages. This is the week the first Advent candle is lit. Isaiah’s prophecy, often called the “Promise of Hope,” encompasses numerous passages throughout the Book of Isaiah. These prophecies are rich with messages of hope, redemption, and restoration.

One of the central themes in Isaiah’s prophecy is the promise of a Messiah, someone who would come to bring salvation. This promise is summarized in Isaiah 7:14, which foretells the birth of Immanuel, meaning “God with us,” and Isaiah 9:6-7, which speaks of a future ruler who will bring peace and justice to the world.

2. Peace on Earth: The Angel’s Message 

The message of peace on earth is the theme for the second week in Advent, when the second Advent candle is lit, the angel’s announcement to the shepherds is a significant in the Gospel of Luke, specifically in Luke 2:8-14.

When the angel appears to the shepherds to announce the birth of Jesus, he declares,

“Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace among those whom he favors.”

Luke 2:14

3. Joy to the World: The Birth of Christ 

The theme for the third week of Advent is joy. This is the week the third candle of Advent is lit, the “shepherd candle.” This is a week of rejoicing for the coming King. The shepherds experienced joy at the good news of the birth of the Messiah. The birth of Christ brought joy to the world.

Below are 5 ways the birth of Christ brought joy to the world.

1. Through hope and redemption from sin, (Psalm 130:7).
2. Through unity and peace, (Ephesians 4:1-6), (John 16:33).
3. By the way He gave compassion and how he serviced, (Matthew 14:14).
4. By His offering of transformation and renewal, (Matthew 19:28).
5. Through his ultimate gift of eternal life, (Romans 5:21).

4. Love Incarnate: The Holy Family

The Holy Family invites us to reflect on the transformative power of love in our lives and challenges us to cultivate selfless, compassionate, and faith-based love.

Love is the theme for the fourth week of Advent when the fourth Advent candle is lit.

• As the mother of Jesus, Mary represented unconditional love and endless faith. From the moment she willingly accepted her role as the mother of the Son of God to his death on the cross, Mary’s love for Jesus remained steadfast.

• Joseph loved and remained loyal to God and his family in spite of the circumstances.

• Jesus’ sacrificial love on the cross is the ultimate expression of divine love, offering redemption and salvation to all humanity.

5. The Star of Bethlehem: Guiding the Wise Men

The Star of Bethlehem, also known as the Christmas Star, is a prominent element in the Nativity story of the Christian tradition. According to Matthew 2:1–9,

“It appeared in the sky and guided the Magi, also known as the Wise Men or Three Kings, to the birthplace of Jesus Christ.”

Matthew 2:1-9

Here is a beautiful sermon called The Star: A Journey of Love – A Love That Never Gives Up, which is about the very meaningful Star of Bethlehem.

6. Shepherds’ Faith: Responding to Good News 

Shepherds’ Faith is a concept derived from the biblical narrative of the shepherds who received the good news of the birth of The Savior. In responding to this news, they demonstrated several qualities that can serve as lessons for us today.

1. Trust: Despite the unusual nature of the announcement and the heavenly visitation, the shepherds believed the message conveyed by the angel.
2. Action: Their faith prompted them to take action. They immediately set out in search of the newborn Savior.
3. Worship: When the shepherds found Jesus, they worshipped him.Their response was not just one of belief but of reverence and adoration.
4. Sharing: After encountering Jesus, the shepherds didn’t keep the news to themselves. Instead, they spread the word about what they had seen and heard, glorifying and praising God for all they had experienced.

7. Mary’s Song of Praise: The Magnificat 

The Magnificat is a hymn of praise and thanksgiving found in the Gospel of Luke in the New Testament. The Magnificat begins with the words,

“My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior”.

Luke 1:46-47

It continues with Mary proclaiming the greatness of God and reflecting on how He has shown mercy to the humble and lifted up the lowly.

8. Joseph’s Obedience: A Model of Faith 

Joseph was an incredible example of faith, remaining obedient to God even after his wife, Mary, became pregnant.

In Christianity, Joseph is known as the earthly father of Jesus. His obedience is depicted in the Gospels of Matthew and Luke. His role in the story of Jesus’ birth and early life is also highlighted here.

9. The Gifts of the Magi: Symbolism and Meaning 

One of the most intriguing Christmas stories to preach about during Advent is the story of the magi, who fulfilled Old Testament prophecies by following a star that led them to the Messiah, with whom they brought gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh.

10. Simeon and Anna: Witnesses of the Messiah

Simeon and Anna, Luke 2:22-38, were faithful Jews who had waited all their lives for the Messiah. At the Temple, they recognized Jesus as the Promised One when He was about a month old. Mary and Joseph brought him to the Temple in Jerusalem to present him to the Lord.

11. The Incarnation: God With Us

Here are 10 key Bible verses on the Incarnation. Choose two or three of them and write an inspirational sermon this Advent season.

The below Bible verse, Hebrews 1:1-2, is often used in Christmas sermons.

Long ago, at many times and in many ways, God spoke to our fathers by the prophets, but in these last days, he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed the heir of all things, through whom also he created the world.

Hebrews 1:1-2

12. The Light Of The World: Jesus’ Arrival

The arrival of Jesus, the Messiah, did and still does bring light to the world. His arrival is what Advent is all about.

In John 8:12, Jesus declares,

“I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness but will have the light of life.”

John 8:12

In this passage, Jesus presents himself as a source of guidance, truth, and salvation among the moral and spiritual darkness of the world.

Light, hope, and joy are what Christmas is all about, and this article, called, The Light of the World: Christmas as a Reflection of Jesus’ Teachings, is a reminder about the true meaning of Christmas, which is so important to emphasize in this day and age.

13. The Shepherds’ Story: Spreading the Good News 

The importance of sharing the good news, as the shepherds did, makes for a wonderful Advent sermon during the Christmas season.

14. Angels Among Us: Heavenly Messengers

In the Christmas story, angels play several significant roles, primarily in the biblical accounts found in the Gospels of Matthew and Luke.

• Announcing the Birth of Jesus: In Luke 2:10-11, an angel appears to the shepherds who are watching over their flocks at night.
• Guidance and Revelation: Angels also serve as messengers to Joseph, Mary’s husband, providing guidance and reassurance during uncertain times.
• Worshiping and Glorifying God: Angels are depicted as glorifying and praising God in response to the birth of Jesus. Following the announcement to the shepherds, a multitude of angels appears, praising God, Luke 2:14.

15. The Journey to Bethlehem: Trusting God’s Plan 

The journey of Mary and Joseph to Bethlehem, as described in the Bible, offers several lessons that are particularly poignant during the Advent season:

• Trust in God’s Plan: Mary and Joseph embarked on their journey to Bethlehem in obedience to the Roman census, not fully understanding how it would fulfill God’s plan.
• Perseverance Amid Challenges: The journey to Bethlehem was undoubtedly difficult, especially for Mary, who was pregnant. They faced physical discomfort and uncertainty and likely encountered various obstacles.
• Humility and Servanthood: Despite being chosen for a significant role in God’s plan, they were humble and obedient. Mary’s acceptance of her role as the mother of The Savior and Joseph’s devotion to caring for his family demonstrate humility and service.
• Preparation for Christ’s Arrival: The journey to Bethlehem was ultimately a preparation for the birth of Jesus, fulfilling the prophecy of the Messiah’s birthplace.

16. The Humble Birth: A King in a Manger

The Nativity of Christ, also known as the Christmas story, is a central narrative in Christian tradition that recounts the birth of Jesus Christ. The story is primarily found in the New Testament of the Bible, in the Gospels of Matthew and Luke. Here is a summarized version of the Christmas story

17. The Prophets’ Voices: Old Testament Echoes

The Christmas story, as told in the New Testament, is seen as the fulfillment of various prophecies from the Old Testament.

Here are some of the critical prophecies and how they relate to the events of the Christmas narrative in which an Advent sermon could be written.

“Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign: The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel.”

Isaiah 7:14

This prophecy is often interpreted as foretelling the virgin birth, as recounted in Matthew 1:22-23.

“But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel, whose origins are from of old, from ancient times.”

Micah 5:2

This prophecy predicts the birthplace of the Messiah, which is fulfilled in Matthew 2:1 when Jesus is born in Bethlehem.

“For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.”

Isaiah 9:6-7

This passage refers to the birth of Jesus and his role as the promised Messiah.

“When Israel was a child, I loved him, and out of Egypt I called my son.”

Hosea 11:1

This verse is fulfilled in Matthew 2:15 when Joseph, Mary, and Jesus flee to Egypt to escape King Herod’s massacre of the infants and then return from Egypt.

“This is what the Lord says: ‘A voice is heard in Ramah, mourning and great weeping, Rachel weeping for her children and refusing to be comforted, because they are no more.”

Jeremiah 31:15

This verse is quoted in Matthew 2:18, in reference to the massacre of the infants by Herod.

18. The Holy Spirit’s Role in Advent

In the Christian tradition, Advent is a time of expectant waiting and preparation for the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ at Christmas. The Holy Spirit plays a significant role in Advent, particularly within the context of the incarnation.

In Advent, Holy Spririt encompasses aspects of divine conception, preparation, guidance, and comfort. The Holy Spirit continues to be active and present in the lives of Christians today, leading them closer to God and preparing them to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ with joy and gratitude.

19. Christmas Carols: Songs of the Season

Christmas carols contain rich theological themes and teachings. These songs have been passed down through generations and reflect various aspects of Christian theology related to the birth of Jesus Christ. Here are some theological depths and teachings found in Christmas carols:

1. The Incarnation: Many Christmas carols explore the theological concept of the Incarnation, like “O Holy Night” and “Hark! The Herald Angels Sing” celebrate this central Christian doctrine.
2. Salvation: Christmas carols often emphasize the reason for Jesus’ birth—to bring salvation to humanity. “Joy to the World” and “O Come, All Ye Faithful” proclaim the joy and hope brought by the birth of Jesus, who is seen as the savior of the world.
3. Divine Plan: Carols like “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel” and “What Child Is This?” reflect on the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies regarding the Messiah’s coming.
4. Redemption and Forgiveness: “O Come, All Ye Faithful” and “O Little Town of Bethlehem emphase redemption and forgiveness, portraying Jesus as the source of reconciliation between humanity and God.
5. Love and Compassion: Many Christmas carols, such as “Silent Night” and “Away in a Manger,” convey the love and compassion of God manifested in the humble birth of Jesus, demonstrating God’s closeness to humanity and his care for the marginalized.

20. The First Sunday of Advent: A Time of Preparation

The first Sunday in Advent marks a period of preparation for the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ at Christmas and encompasses the four Sundays leading up to Christmas Day.

Here are some key significances associated with the first Sunday in Advent:

1. Symbolism of Hope: The first candle lit on the Advent wreath, usually a purple candle, represents hope or expectation.
2. Preparation for Christ’s Coming: Advent is a time of spiritual preparation and waiting for the celebration of Christ’s birth.
3. Focus on Anticipation: The first Sunday in Advent marks the beginning of the anticipation for the coming of Christ.

21. Christmas Trees: Symbols of Everlasting Life 

Using the Christmas tree as a metaphor in Advent sermons can be a powerful way to connect the symbolism of the season.

1. Roots of Faith: Begin by discussing how the Christmas tree, like our faith, has roots that ground it.
2. Growing Anticipation: Just as a Christmas tree grows throughout the year, so too does our anticipation for the coming of Christ during the Advent season.
3. Lights of Hope: Talk about how the lights on the Christmas tree represent the hope that Christ brings into the world.
4. Gifts of Love: Discuss the gifts placed under the Christmas tree as symbols of love and generosity. Just as we exchange gifts with our loved ones during the holiday season, God gave us the greatest gift of all in Jesus Christ.

By incorporating the Christmas tree metaphor into your Advent sermons, you can help your congregation deepen their understanding of the season and its significance in their faith journey.

22. The Call to Worship: Inviting Joy

In Isaiah 9:6, we read,

“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

Knowing that through Christ, we have received salvation and eternal life gives tremendous amounts of joy to Christians. Joy is a common theme in Advent sermons.

23. The Gift of Giving: Reflecting Christ’s Love

During the season of Advent, Christians focus on preparing for the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ. Generosity and mirroring Christ’s love are integral aspects of this preparation for several reasons:

• Jesus Christ lived a life of love, compassion, and generosity, spreading the core principles of Christianity.

• Mirroring Christ’s love of giving during Advent is important because it deepens one’s spiritual connection to the Christmas story and fosters a sense of community and goodwill.

24. The Promise of Salvation: The Ultimate Gift 

The promise of salvation as we all know, is the most incredible gift of Christmas. The Messiah brought us eternal life, and nothing is better than that. John 3:16 says it all: “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”

25. New Beginnings: The Advent of Change 

Christmas often symbolizes a time for new beginnings and change. Below are several ideas to consider when preaching about the Advent of Change.

1. End of the Year Reflection: As the year draws to a close, people naturally reflect on the past year’s events, accomplishments, and challenges and often leads to a desire for change and improvement in the coming year.
2. Tradition of Resolutions: The tradition of making New Year’s resolutions is closely tied to the holiday season. Many people see the start of a new year as an opportunity to make positive changes.
3. Spirit of Giving: Christmas is a season of generosity and giving. People often feel inspired to give back to their communities, help those in need, and spread kindness and goodwill.
4. Symbolism of Renewal: Christmas carries symbolism related to renewal and rebirth. For Christians, it marks the birth of Jesus Christ, a time of spiritual renewal and hope. The imagery of evergreen trees, wreaths, and other decorations also symbolizes eternal life and the promise of new beginnings.
5. Cultural and Social Expectations: The cultural and social expectations surrounding Christmas often include themes of forgiveness, reconciliation, and starting anew.

Frequently Asked Questions

Has this guide to Advent sermon themes been helpful? Please respond in the comment section below and tell us which one you will use this year.

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