God With Us

Opening (Ice Breaker)

Show a small lamp. Turn it off and ask: “How do you feel when it is dark?” Then turn it on: “This is how Jesus came—His light removes darkness. He is Immanuel—God with us!”

Background

Matthew wrote mainly to the Jews to show that Jesus is the promised Messiah. His birth is holy because it came from the Holy Spirit. Verse 23 quotes Isaiah 7:14 about the virgin birth and the name Immanuel.

Key Original Word Meanings

• “From the Holy Spirit” (ek pneumatos hagiou) — a holy, sinless work of God.
• “Virgin” (parthenos) — a pure, unmarried woman; God’s holy plan.
• “Immanuel” — “God with us,” the identity of Jesus.

Sermon Points

I. God Is With Us Because He Is Holy (vv. 18–19)

The birth of Jesus is holy. Joseph is called “righteous” (dikaios)—one who follows God. God’s presence always brings holiness.

Transition: If Jesus came in holiness, what does He bring to us?

II. God Is With Us To Save Us (vv. 20–21)

“Jesus” (Yeshua) means “The Lord saves.” God’s presence means help, forgiveness, and restoration.

Transition: How do we know God is truly with us?

III. God Is With Us To Live With Us (vv. 22–23)

God promised from long ago to dwell with His people. His holiness does not push us away; it brings us close. We are called to walk in holiness.

Parallel Verses

• Isaiah 7:14 — Promise of Immanuel.
• John 1:14 — The Word became flesh.
• 1 Peter 1:15–16 — “Be holy for I am holy.”
• Psalm 23:4 — God is with us even in darkness.

Short Illustration

A child holding a parent’s hand in darkness feels safe. God’s presence gives us courage to live holy lives.

APPLICATION BY AGE

I. Toddlers (1–5)

Application

• Teach: “Jesus is with you; you do not need to be afraid.”
• Say together: “Jesus Immanuel!”
• Parents: pray simple prayers with children.

Activities

• Coloring page of the angel visiting Joseph.
• Walk while holding their hand: “God holds your hand.”

II. Children (6–10)

Application

• Practice holiness: honesty, kindness, no lying.
• Remember: God always sees and helps.

Activities

• Create a Bible card: “Immanuel—God With Us.”
• Game: “Find the Message”—search for hidden notes saying “God is with you.”

III. Teens (11–15)

Application

• Practice holiness in friendships, social media, and speech.
• Reflect: God's presence leads us to live wisely.

Activities

• Group discussion: “How is God with us at school and at home?”
• Personal commitment: one thing to remove to live holier.

Closing

Invite children to lift their hands and say: “Jesus Immanuel, God with us!” Call to action: “Let us walk with Jesus every day and live in His holiness.”