Advent- The season of waiting with expectation and anticipation.
Four weeks to prepare our hearts for Jesus’ birth.
The Old Testament is full of prophecies – Messages of things to come, spoken by someone on behalf of God.
Over 300 prophecies fulfilled through Jesus’ birth, life, death, and resurrection:
- 1 person fulfilling 8 prophecies: 1 chance in 10^18
- 1 Person fulfilling 48 prophecies: 1 chance in 10^157
- 1 Person fulfilling 300+ prophecies GOD ONLY KNOWS!
But you, Bethlehem, David’s country, the runt of the litter – from you will come the leader who will shepherd-rule Israel. He’ll be no upstart, no pretender. His family tree is ancient and distinguished. Meanwhile, Israel will be in foster homes until the birth pangs are over and the child is born, and the scattered brothers come back home to the family of Israel.
He will stand tall in his shepherd-rule by God’s strength, centered in the majesty of God-Revealed. And the people will have a good and safe home, for the whole world will hold him in respect – Peacemaker of the world!
Micah 5:2-4 The Message (MSG)
In those days a decree went out from Emperor Augustus that all the world should be registered. This was the first registration and was taken while Quirinius was governor of Syria. All went to their own towns to be registered. Joseph also went from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to the city of David called Bethlehem, because he was descended from the house and family of David.
He went to be registered with Mary, to whom he was engaged and who was expecting a child. While they were there, the time came for her to deliver her child. And she gave birth to her firstborn son and wrapped him in bands of cloth, and laid him in a manger, because there was no place for them in the inn.
Luke 2:1-7 New Revised Standard Version (NRSV)
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 New International Version (NIV)
Immanuel – GOD WITH US
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. Of the greatness of his government and peace there will be no end. He will reign on David’s throne and over his kingdom, establishing and upholding it with justice and righteousness from that time on and forever. The zeal of the Lord Almighty will accomplish this.
Isaiah 9:6-7 (NIV)
so what… Why are these prophecies so important?
As you wait for the birth of Jesus, what are your expectations?
What is it in your life that needs saving?