2. it’s actual author is unknown.
“Away in a Manger” was first published in 1885 in a Lutheran Sunday School Curriculum, frequently being subtitled as “Luther’s Cradle Hymn.” Although often incorrectly attributed to Martin Luther,
it’s actual author is unknown.
The moving third verse was “recovered” in 1892 by Dr. John T. McFarland.

3. the “lullaby” nature of the tune and lyrics.
This Christmas Carol has been particularly popular over the years with children and those who work with children, due to
the “lullaby” nature of the tune and lyrics.

4. “Away in a Manger” paints an idealized picture of Christmas Eve:
Much like another Christmas Carol lullaby, “Silent Night”, the first half of
“Away in a Manger” paints an
idealized picture of Christmas Eve:
- Quiet animals and a restful newborn Jesus
- Contentment and peace within the stable

5. While such lyrics may help a child relate to the infant Jesus (as well as help them go to sleep!), it is important to look at the theology behind beloved Carols like this…
to make sure that
we aren’t doing
a disservice to Jesus
or one another.

6. no crib for a bed, The little Lord Jesus
Away in a manger,
no crib for a bed, The little Lord Jesus
laid down his sweet head, The stars in the bright sky
looked down where he lay, The little Lord Jesus
asleep on the hay.
The cattle are lowing,
the baby awakes, But little Lord Jesus
no crying he makes.

8. Jesus is referred to as “Lord” 740 times in the New Testament.
But…what does that mean to us?
The Greek word for “Lord”(kurios) means: supreme in authority, controller, Lord

9. For some of you…these definitions
of “Lord” are a bit challenging because you know that YOU like to be in control and deep down YOU KNOW there are other forces/influences that have
a higher authority over areas of your life than Jesus Christ.

10. We don’t make Jesus Lord. God made Him Lord a long time ago.
He’s already Lord.
What we can do is surrender
to what He already is.
We surrender our lives to His Lordship.

11. Jesus Christ can get “left in the manger.”
Far too often, though…
Jesus Christ can get “left in the manger.”
He remains the “little Lord” in our lives who only has a little influence
over little parts of little areas of our
time, resources, talents, and passions.

12. A Prayer to “Baby Jesus”

13. A Prayer to “Baby Jesus”

15. your name and in your name drive out demons
Matthew 7: 22-23
22 Many will say to me
on that day, ‘Lord, Lord,
did we not prophesy in
your name and in your name drive out demons
and in your name perform many miracles?’ 23 Then I will tell them plainly, ‘I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!’

17. look down from the sky, And stay by my side until morning is nigh.
I love you, Lord Jesus;
look down from the sky, And stay by my side
until morning is nigh.
Be near me, Lord Jesus,
I ask you to stay Close by me for ever,
and love me, I pray. Bless all the dear children
in your tender care, And fit us for Heaven,
to live with you there.

18. Closing Questions: 1.) Do you know Jesus as Savior and Lord?
2.) Are you partially
or fully surrendered
to Jesus’ Lordship?