Table of Contents
About "Melee at the Manger: The Battle at the Birth of Christ"
According to the dictionary, the word “melee” means a confusing fight. I am sure that many readers would wonder what a confusing fight has to do with Christmas. I thought Christmas was the most wonderful time of the year. Christmas is a celebration of Jesus Christ’s birth. How could there be a confusing fight or “melee” happening at the same time? “Melee At The Manger: The Battle at the Birth of Christ” will take us to the Scriptures that describe for many of us the confusing fight that was happening or is happening as we stop to celebrate Christmas. Just because it is Christmas does not mean that there is not a battle that has been and is still taking place.
Week One will describe the spiritual melee where demonic forces have been resisting the plans of God. When many of us stop to celebrate and maybe only consider the beautiful aspects of the birth of Christ, we cannot forget that dark forces have been at work to destroy the good plans of God, even the birth of the Savior Jesus Christ.
Week Two will examine the worldly melee where earthly forces have been attempting to disrupt God's plans. We must be alert and realize that the forces of this world have a system whose whole plan includes trying to kill the Baby Jesus. Joseph, Mary, and Jesus had to flee the country to avoid King Herod's threat to Jesus. However, there was a confusing fight that ensued where Herod had all the baby boys who were two years old and younger killed, trying to destroy the plan of God.
Week Three will discuss the battle for our hearts. This is a confusing
fight. We know the truth, and that is why we celebrate Christmas. However, we know our hearts can grow cold, and at Christmastime,
there can be many distractions and family difficulties that distract us from God's plan.
“Melee At The Manger: The Battle at the Birth of Christ” includes study guides for group discussion and daily devotions for personal growth. The goal this season is for all of us to intentionally appreciate the true meaning of Christmas from a fresh and real perspective.