Advent is a season that stirs anticipation and longing for the coming of Christ, the promised Messiah who brings peace, salvation, and justice to the world. It is a time when the story of Jesus fills the atmosphere, igniting hearts with joy and hope.

The Story of Advent: From Genesis to Bethlehem

To truly grasp the essence of Advent, we must turn to the Word of God, which beautifully narrates the unfolding of this remarkable story. One poignant moment is found in Luke’s Gospel, in chapter 24, where the disciples, still grappling with the reality of Jesus’ resurrection, encounter the risen Christ on the road to Emmaus. In this encounter, Jesus patiently explains how his suffering, death, and resurrection were all part of God’s plan, foretold by the prophets.

This realization is a pivotal moment in understanding the true meaning of Advent. It is the advent of Christ, the advent of the long-awaited Messiah, the promised one who would bring peace, salvation, and justice. This story, however, did not begin with Jesus’ birth in Bethlehem but stretches back to the very beginning of creation, to the book of Genesis.

The Awe-Inspiring Account of Creation and Rebellion

In Genesis, authored by Moses, we encounter the awe-inspiring account of God’s creation. God, the only God, the first and the last, the beginning and the end, brings forth everything out of nothing. With breathtaking beauty, God creates man in His own image, a special creation imbued with the capacity for relationship, creativity, and love. He then forms a help-meet for man, his woman, and calls them to unity, multiplication, stewardship, and dominion over the earth.

Yet, this story takes a tragic turn when God’s image in the garden rebels against Him. Adam and Eve, the first parents of humanity, defy God’s commands and succumb to the deceitful allure of the serpent. Through their disobedience, sin enters the world, severing the intimate connection between God and humanity. The consequences are severe – spiritual separation, death, and banishment from God’s presence.

The Promise of Advent: Crushed Heel and Crushed Head

Despite the devastating consequences of sin, there is a glimmer of hope in this story. The beautiful God, full of truth, love, mercy, and justice, does not abandon His creation. Instead, He sets in motion a story of redemption that begins right there in the garden. God makes a promise, found in Genesis 3:15, about the coming king, the Redeemer, and the Savior. He declares that there will be enmity between the offspring of the serpent and the offspring of the woman. The promised Messiah, born of a woman (hinting at a future virgin birth), will crush the head of the serpent, delivering a fatal blow to Satan’s power, while being wounded on his heel.

This promise, spoken by God Himself, is the story of Advent. It is the anticipation of the coming Messiah, the one who would fulfill this promise and bring about the ultimate victory over sin, evil, and death. The full glory and significance of this promise could not have been fully understood at that time. The Messiah’s advent would accomplish something remarkable – the destruction of all the works of the devil. He would deliver the fatal blow to Satan while being wounded himself.

The Ultimate Triumph on the Cross

What is astonishing is that the Messiah’s wound, the bruising of his heel, is something he will recover from. Unlike the crushed head of the serpent, which signifies a mortal blow, the wound on the Messiah’s heel is one from which he will rise victoriously. This simultaneous act of delivering a fatal blow to Satan while being wounded points to the ultimate triumph of Jesus on the cross.

Through his death and resurrection, Jesus delivers the death blow to what Satan brought into the world – sin, brokenness, and separation from God. It is through the advent of Christ, God becoming king, that the story of redemption reaches its culmination. The birth of Jesus in Bethlehem is not just a heartwarming tale but the fulfillment of God’s promise, the beginning of the long-awaited advent of the Messiah.

Celebrating the True Significance of Advent

As we celebrate Christmas, let us remember the true significance of Advent. It is not merely a season of joyful festivities and gift-giving but a time to reflect on the profound love and mercy of God. It is a time to share the story of Jesus, the King who came to reconcile humanity with God, to bring peace, salvation, and justice to a broken world.

So let us rejoice and proclaim, “Let Earth receive her King! Merry Christmas!” May the story of Advent resonate in our hearts and inspire us to live lives that reflect the transformative power of Christ’s advent.

In this devotional series leading up to Christmas, Apologia celebrates the advent of the Messiah, the moment when God became man. The story of Jesus Christ is not a surprise or novelty; it was foretold in the Bible. People eagerly awaited the arrival of the Messiah, as God had promised in His Word.

The Story Foretold

The Bible, through the stories of Moses and the prophets, revealed the story of Jesus beforehand. While there were direct prophecies about Jesus, the story also had a glorious aspect. People, in their obedience to God and their fellowship with Him, unknowingly pointed to Jesus and His first Advent.

Abraham’s Role

Abraham, known as Father Abraham, played a significant role in this story. God promised to bless all nations through Abraham, who was to have countless descendants. However, the story takes a confusing turn when God instructs Abraham to sacrifice his son, Isaac. This act, criticized by some, is a symbolic rehearsal of what God would do through Jesus Christ.

God’s Provision

Just as Abraham is about to sacrifice Isaac, God intervenes and provides a substitute sacrifice—a ram caught in a thicket. This foreshadows the ultimate sacrifice that God would provide through Jesus Christ. Abraham’s act of faith and obedience serves as a symbol of what God would do in the future.

Jesus, the Lamb of God

Almost 2000 years later, Jesus Christ, God’s only son, arrived at the same place where Abraham was prepared to sacrifice Isaac. Jesus, the lamb of God, carried the wood to the place of sacrifice. Advent is the celebration of God becoming king, the fulfillment of His promise, and the provision of the perfect sacrifice for the salvation and redemption of the world.

Let Earth receive her king! Merry Christmas, everybody.

In this video, we explore the story of God and the promised Messiah, which was recorded long before the arrival of Jesus. God, the master storyteller, has been revealing the promise of the Messiah since the beginning of the Bible. The Messiah was foretold to come as a man, bringing peace, salvation, justice, and redemption. The story of the Messiah is told in direct prophecies, revealing details about his identity, birth, timing, and ultimate sacrifice.

Rehearsal in Abraham’s Story

Even before Jesus physically appeared, there were beautiful moments of rehearsal where the people of God unknowingly foreshadowed what God would accomplish through the coming Messiah. One such moment was the story of Abraham and his unique son, Isaac. Abraham’s willingness to offer Isaac on the altar symbolically represented God providing the lamb for sacrifice in the same place.

God’s Blessings and Promise

After this event, the Angel of the Lord appeared to Abraham and assured him of God’s blessings. Abraham’s descendants would be as numerous as the stars in the sky and the sand on the seashore. This promise was beyond Abraham’s comprehension, but it emphasized the abundant blessings that would come through the Messiah.

Anticipating the Messiah in Advent

Advent is a time to reflect on this promise and anticipate the Messiah’s arrival. Jesus, the promised offspring, was fully aware of this promise and His identity as the Messiah. After His resurrection, Jesus declared that all authority in heaven and on earth had been given to Him. He commissioned His disciples to go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, and teaching them to observe His commands.

God, the Master Storyteller

God, the master storyteller, sustains everything in the universe, including our very existence. From the very beginning, He promised the coming of the Messiah to bless all nations and bring salvation. This is the gospel of the kingdom, the good news of the Messiah becoming King and lifting the curse of sin. Let us celebrate this season of Advent and rejoice in the fulfillment of God’s promises. Merry Christmas, everybody!

In this Advent devotional series, we have been exploring the story of the Messiah and the significance of Christmas. Jesus, the promised one, walked alongside his disciples even after his resurrection, despite their confusion about his death. He reminded them that the story of the Messiah was not a surprise; it had been foretold by God long before Jesus came into the world.

The Comprehensive Account of the Messiah’s Coming

The Bible provides a comprehensive account of the Messiah’s coming. It reveals the timing, the identity, and the redemptive mission of the Messiah. It speaks of his role in bringing redemption and blessing to all nations, establishing justice, and drawing people to God. Though the vivid imagery and symbolism in the Old Testament may have been confusing to some, it is a testament to the incomprehensible majesty of God’s plan.

The Promise of the Coming Messiah

Genesis 49:10 contains another promise of the coming Messiah. It speaks of the obedience of the peoples to him. Jesus, aware of these promises, emphasized his authority after his resurrection, instructing his disciples to make disciples of all nations and to baptize them in obedience.

Addressing Our Need for Redemption and Reconciliation

Our need for redemption and reconciliation with God is addressed through the promise of new life in the New Covenant. God promises to give us new hearts, replacing hearts of stone with hearts of flesh, and to put his Spirit within us, enabling us to observe his statutes.

Connecting the Promises to the Gospel

The Apostle Paul, in Romans, connects the promises of the Messiah to the gospel. He affirms that God had promised these things beforehand, and it is not a novelty but a part of God’s story. The obedience of faith among all nations is central to the Messiah’s work, just as Genesis 49:10 foretold.

Embracing the True Meaning of Christmas

As we celebrate Christmas, let us remember that the Messiah, as God in human form and King, came into the world to bring salvation and draw all nations to God. He is the Prince of peace, offering reconciliation and joy to all.

Let us embrace the true meaning of Christmas and rejoice in the glory of the Messiah, who strengthens us and brings about the obedience of faith among all nations through his gospel.

Merry Christmas, everybody! Let Earth receive her King.

In the story of the Messiah’s coming, we witness the magnificence of God becoming a man. Jesus, the Son of God, dwelled among us, taking on flesh and living a perfect and sinless life. He died for the sins of humanity, rose from the dead, and ascended to the right hand of the Father. Through Jesus, God brings His blessings and overcomes the curse.

God’s Promises and Prophecies

This story was promised by God long before Jesus arrived. Specific prophecies foretold who the Messiah would be, when and where He would be born, how He would save His people, and the ultimate fulfillment of His mission. The obedience of the nations would be achieved through Him. Symbols and rehearsals throughout history pointed to this glorious event.

The Exodus and God’s Victory

Imagine the situation of the Jews at the time of the Exodus. They were enslaved and oppressed under Pharaoh’s rule, feeling hopeless and stuck. Their understanding of God’s promises through the Messiah was limited. However, they knew they needed deliverance from their bondage. God engaged in a showdown with the false gods of Egypt, demonstrating His power and revealing His victory. The plagues sent upon Egypt specifically targeted the gods worshipped by the Egyptians, exposing their idolatry.

The Passover Lamb and Jesus’ Sacrifice

In the Exodus story, God instructed the Jewish people to take an unblemished lamb without breaking its bones. They applied the lamb’s blood to their homes, signifying their faith and trust in God’s deliverance. When God’s judgment came upon Egypt, He passed over the houses covered by the lamb’s blood, sparing the occupants. This marked their release from slavery and the beginning of a relationship with God.

Around 1500 years later, Jesus, the Lamb of God, entered the scene. He fulfilled the foreshadowing of the Exodus story by becoming the perfect Passover Lamb. Jesus, sinless and righteous, was crucified during the Passover season. The Roman guards broke the legs of the criminals crucified beside Him, but they did not break Jesus’ bones, fulfilling God’s prophecy. His sacrifice and the shedding of His blood diverted God’s judgment from humanity, setting them free from the bondage of sin and allowing them to enter into a relationship with God.

The Glory of Advent

The story of Advent is one of glory and salvation. Jesus proclaimed, “Whoever commits sin is a slave of sin. But if the Son sets you free, you shall be free indeed.” He came to rescue humanity from the enslavement of sin, offering the opportunity for a restored relationship with God. This is the true reason why Christmas is glorious.

Let us celebrate the birth of our King, Jesus, who brings freedom and salvation to all who believe. Merry Christmas, everyone!

The Christian faith is unique in its expression of God revealing Himself in history. God, as the sovereign being, controls time, space, and the entire universe, down to the smallest details. From sustaining the sun to birds falling from trees, nothing escapes His control.

The Fulfillment of God’s Promises

Unlike other religions, Christianity is not a novelty. It celebrates the fulfillment of God’s promises, as demonstrated in the advent of Christ. The Book of Acts in the New Testament captures this moment, emphasizing that God foretold the suffering and fulfillment of the Messiah through His prophets.

The Prophet Like Moses

Peter, an apostle, addresses a community that witnessed the death of Jesus. He reminds them that God is the ultimate storyteller, controlling the narrative of history. Quoting from Deuteronomy, Peter points out that the prophets predicted the coming of a prophet like Moses, whom the people must listen to as he speaks the very words of God.

Perfect Prophetic Fulfillment

What sets Christianity apart is the risky test God provides for a prophet. False religions shy away from this test, while the Bible stands tall with its 100% perfect prophetic fulfillment. The Old Testament is teeming with prophecies about the Messiah, including His birth, death, and the precise timing of His coming.

Jesus: The Prophet and Fulfillment

Jesus, affirmed by the New Testament apostles, is the prophet to whom God’s people must listen. He not only fulfills the prophecies but also embodies perfect prophetic fulfillment. This is crucial because false gods, incapable of predicting the future or explaining the past, pale in comparison to the sovereign God of the Bible.

The Story of Jesus: Meaning and Purpose

The story of Jesus is awe-inspiring. His murder, orchestrated by God’s design, holds profound meaning and purpose. Jesus came to live a perfect life, die for humanity’s sins, and rise from the dead. His ascension solidifies His status as the promised king, fulfilling the entirety of human history in Himself.

The Call of the Gospel

The call of the Gospel is to turn from sin, trust in Christ, and experience forgiveness, peace, and joy in God. Jesus, the king of kings, reigns as the true Lord of all the earth. Christmas symbolizes the advent of this remarkable story. Let us embrace the true King and celebrate His coming.

Merry Christmas, everybody!

In the Bible, we find a remarkable theme of prophecy, where God reveals the future before it happens. The fulfillment of these prophecies is a testament to the sovereignty of God, who controls all things and shapes the course of history. Prophecy in the Bible can be direct, explicitly describing the coming of the Messiah and the events surrounding His life and mission. There are also symbolic prophecies, such as the rituals and sacrifices in the temple, which foreshadowed the work of the Messiah.

The Prophetic Psalms

The book of Psalms, often considered the hymnal of the Jewish church, contains profound prophecies that were sung and memorized by the people. For instance, Psalm 2 speaks of the nations raging against the Lord and His anointed one, foretelling the coming of the Messiah. This Psalm was written by David, centuries before the birth of Jesus, yet it paints a vivid picture of the Messiah’s authority and dominion over all nations.

Fulfillment in Jesus Christ

The New Testament also references Psalm 2, revealing its fulfillment in Jesus Christ. In Acts 4:23-27, the early believers quote this Psalm, recognizing how it speaks of Jesus as the anointed one. The nations and rulers may gather against Him, but God has established His King, with all authority in heaven and on Earth belonging to Him.

The Culmination in Jesus Christ

This powerful prophecy shows the divine plan of God unfolding through Jesus Christ. It highlights the expectation that the Messiah would have the entire world under His authority and dominion. It also serves as a warning to the rulers of the world to obey Jesus or face the consequences. Ultimately, all of human history finds its culmination in Jesus Christ, the promised King.

As we reflect on the significance of these prophecies, let us remember that God is in control of all things and His plans will come to pass. The story of Jesus, as revealed through prophecy, reminds us of the glory of God and His redemptive work in the world. Let us embrace Jesus as our King and take refuge in Him.

Merry Christmas to all!

In our exploration of the prophecies of the Old Testament regarding the coming Messiah, we have delved into the Psalms and their significance as the hymnal of the Jewish church. Now, let us turn our attention to a familiar statement made by Jesus while He was on the cross: “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?”

The Weight of Jesus’ Words

To understand the weight of these words, we must first consider the context. Jesus, who claimed to be the Messiah and the Son of God, possessed extraordinary qualities and performed miraculous acts. From foretelling the future to healing the blind and raising the dead, His life was marked by divine power and wisdom.

The Suffering on the Cross

However, as Jesus hung on the cross, He experienced unimaginable physical suffering. He was beaten, bleeding, and wore a crown of thorns. Gasping for air and enduring excruciating pain, He cried out, “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” Surrounded by Jewish people who were well-versed in their Scriptures, including the Psalms, this statement should have resonated deeply with them.

Quoting Psalm 22

In truth, Jesus was quoting from Psalm 22, a psalm that foreshadowed His crucifixion. The Psalm begins with the same words Jesus spoke, expressing feelings of abandonment and distress. It vividly describes the mocking, the dividing of garments, and the piercing of hands and feet – all of which were happening right before their eyes.

Hope and Triumph

Yet, Psalm 22 does not end in despair. It transitions to a message of hope and triumph, speaking of the proclamation of God’s name to the nations, the praise of God in the midst of the congregation, and the gathering of all families of the Earth to worship Yahweh, the true King.

The Glorious Story of Advent

This is the glorious story of Advent, the coming of God as a man and the establishment of His kingship. Jesus not only died and rose again, but He now sits on His throne, drawing people from all nations to worship God. The Christian faith celebrates this truth, as believers of diverse backgrounds come together to worship and trust in Christ, the King who fulfills the promises of God.

In this season of celebration, let us rejoice not only during Christmas but throughout our lives. May the Earth receive her King. Merry Christmas, everybody.

In this article, we explore the significance of Jesus as the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies and the establishment of His dominion. The Old Testament contains detailed prophecies that provide every necessary detail to know Jesus as the Savior and Lord long before His arrival.

God’s Faithfulness Throughout History

God, a master storyteller, accomplished His promises throughout history. The celebration of Christmas and the advent of the Messiah revolve around the extraordinary acts of God. These acts are not limited to the birth of Jesus but encompass His entire work of redemption and salvation.

Psalm 72: A Prophecy of Justice

Psalm 72 reveals an often overlooked prophecy that emphasizes God’s concern for justice. This messianic prophecy portrays Jesus as the righteous King who will bring justice to the poor and defend their cause. Jesus fulfills the role that Adam, our first parents, failed to accomplish – to exercise dominion over the Earth as image bearers of God.

Establishing His Dominion

Through His redemptive work, Jesus establishes His dominion from sea to sea, drawing all nations to worship and serve Him. All authority has been given to Him, and He calls us to disciple the nations and spread the Gospel. Jesus is the King of Kings and Lord of Lords, with the power to bring salvation to the ends of the Earth.

Recognition and Worship

The New Testament authors understood their position in the world and recognized that Jesus is now establishing His rule over the entire world. The Book of Jude confirms Jesus’ dominion and calls us to worship Him.

Let us celebrate the Christmas season by acknowledging the dominion of Jesus, who fulfills Old Testament prophecies and brings salvation to all nations. Merry Christmas, everyone!

Psalm 110:1 is a verse that holds great significance in the Bible. It is often referred to as God’s favorite Bible verse and is the most quoted or alluded to verse in the New Testament. The verse states, “The Lord says to my Lord, ‘Sit at my right hand until I make your enemies a footstool for your feet.'”

Psalm 110:1 – A Prophetic Verse

This verse, known as the famous Psalm 110:1, was written long before the time of Jesus and was sung in congregations. It sums up God’s intention and purposes for the world and our future. It speaks of Jesus as the promised King who will reign and have dominion over all.

The Significance in Paul’s Writings

The Apostle Paul, in 1 Corinthians 15, quotes from Psalm 110:1 to emphasize the significance of Jesus’ resurrection and reign. Paul reminds the Corinthians of the gospel, highlighting that Christ died for our sins and was raised on the third day in accordance with the Scriptures.

Jesus’ Reign and Victory over Death

Paul affirms that Jesus appeared to various witnesses, validating the reality of his resurrection. Christ is the first fruits of the resurrection, and his reign is a present reality. According to Paul, Jesus must reign until all of God’s enemies are made a footstool for his feet, including the defeat of the last enemy, death. Jesus’ reign brings hope and victory over death, our greatest adversary.

The Celebration of Advent

The celebration of Advent takes on a special meaning in light of Psalm 110:1 and the message of Jesus’ reign. It is a time to rejoice in the coming of the King, who accomplished salvation for his people. Jesus, the promised one, is ruling and reigning, putting all of God’s enemies under his feet.

As we celebrate Advent and look forward to Christmas, let us remember the significance of Psalm 110:1. Jesus’ reign brings salvation, hope, and the promise of the defeat of death. It is a reason to give thanks, offer praise, and celebrate the coming of the King.

Merry Christmas, everybody!