Category: Advent

^8 “Now while he was serving as priest before God when his division was on duty, ⁹ according to the custom of the priesthood, he was chosen by lot to enter the temple of the Lord and burn incense. ¹⁰ And the whole multitude of the people were praying outside at the hour of incense. ¹¹ And there appeared to him an angel of the Lord standing on the right side of the altar of incense. ¹² And Zechariah was troubled when he saw him, and fear fell upon him. ¹³ But the angel said to him, “Do not be afraid, Zechariah, for your prayer has been heard, and your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you shall call his name John. ¹⁴ And you will have joy and gladness, and many will rejoice at his birth, ¹⁵ for he will be great before the Lord. And he must not drink wine or strong drink, and he will be filled with the Holy Spirit, even from his mother’s womb. ¹⁶ And he will turn many of the children of Israel to the Lord their God, ¹⁷ and he will go before him in the spirit and power of Elijah, to turn the hearts of the fathers to the children, and the disobedient to the wisdom of the just, to make ready for the Lord a people prepared.” (Luke 1:8-15)

With the angel’s surprise appearance, God’s messenger also had a surprise announcement to give to the faithful and fervent priest.

The angel told Zechariah that his prayer had been answered. We presume that the prayer was for a child, even though the text does not explicitly say so. This is because what the angel continued to say to Zechariah. Elizabeth will bear you a son. What a miracle! The one whose barrenness was common knowledge will be delivered from her affliction.

Even the very sex or gender of the child was indicated by the angel. The name of the child will be John (Luke 1:59-63). This is a command from God. No discussion. John’s name means Yahweh has shown grace.

The angel then promised that Zechariah’s joy would be full and that he would have joy and gladness. Additionally, many people will rejoice at the birth of John. Through John’s ministry to multitudes, God will turn many from darkness to light. John would also be a prophet (Luke 7:29; Matthew 21:26-32).

Even more so, John would be great. How? He would be great in the sight of the Lord.  “Among those born of women there has not arisen anyone greater than John the Baptist” (Matthew 11:11). He would not drink neither wine nor strong drink.

Dr. John MacArthur writes that, “This was a key element of the Nazirite vow (Num. 6:1–21) and would probably have been understood as such by Zechariah. Usually such a vow was temporary, but Samson (Judg. 16:17) and Samuel (1 Sam. 1:11) were subject to it from birth. The language here is reminiscent of the angel’s instructions to Samson’s parents (Judg. 13:4–7).”

He would also be filled with the Holy Spirit even from his mother’s womb. He would turn many of the children of Israel to the Lord their God. The Lord will also go before Him In the spirit and power of Elijah in order to turn the heart of the fathers to the children (Malachi 4:5-6).

What a wonderful announcement. What was Zechariah’s response? That will be examined when next we meet.

May the Lord’s truth and grace be found here.

Soli deo Gloria!

 

 

 

^8 “Now while he was serving as priest before God when his division was on duty, ⁹ according to the custom of the priesthood, he was chosen by lot to enter the temple of the Lord and burn incense. ¹⁰ And the whole multitude of the people were praying outside at the hour of incense. ¹¹ And there appeared to him an angel of the Lord standing on the right side of the altar of incense. ¹² And Zechariah was troubled when he saw him, and fear fell upon him. ¹³ But the angel said to him, “Do not be afraid, Zechariah, for your prayer has been heard, and your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you shall call his name John. ¹⁴ And you will have joy and gladness, and many will rejoice at his birth, ¹⁵ for he will be great before the Lord. And he must not drink wine or strong drink, and he will be filled with the Holy Spirit, even from his mother’s womb.” (Luke 1:8-15)

As we continue our study of Zechariah and Elizabeth from Luke 1, we see that Zechariah was serving as a priest before God. Zechariah belonged to the priestly division of Abijah (I Chronicles 24:4-19). He also belonged to the 8^th Division of 24. During David’s reign, the priests were divided into 24 divisions. (I Chronicles 24:1-6). Solomon reaffirmed these divisions (2 Chronicles 8:14). Twice a year each division was on duty in the temple, and each time the period of service was one week.

Zechariah was selected at random to enter into the Holy Place within the Temple and offer incense on the Golden Altar of Incense. This was a tremendous privilege for Zechariah. Only once in a lifetime could a priest receive this honor. If he did not receive it by lot, then he would not have this privilege. Twice a day the incense was offered; in the morning and at mid-afternoon. The primary prayer was praying for peace of Israel and Jerusalem.

At the same time, people were standing outside of the temple. They were also praying because it was the hour of incense.

Dr. William Hendrickson writes, “Zechariah proceeds toward the golden altar. He is accompanied by two assistants. One of these men is carrying in a golden bowl burning coals from the altar of burnt-offering, and is spreading them out on the altar of incense. He then withdraws. The other assistant is carrying a golden censer filled with incense. He arranges the incense upon the altar.  He too withdraws.”

“And now profound silence ensues, for the most solemn action of the ritual is about to occur. A signal is given. The sacred moment has arrived for Zechariah to place the incense upon the coals, causing a cloud to arise, its fragrance rising and spreading. Together with the ascending aroma a fervent prayer, consisting of thanksgiving for blessings received and of supplication for peace upon Israel, now issues from the heart and lips of the priest. The people, gathered “outside” the sanctuary but “inside” its courts are also praying, in a prostrate position and with outstretched hands. Then they wait for Zechariah to return from the altar of incense and to proceed eastward to the steps in the front of the sanctuary. On these steps Zechariah, accompanied by other priests, is expected to pronounce the Aaronic blessing on the people. This benediction will be followed by songs of praise, public offerings.”

It was at this moment that Zechariah was paid a surprising visit. An angel of the Lord appeared to him. The angel was standing on the right side of the altar of incense. Zechariah’s reaction was predictable for when he saw the angel he was troubled and fear fell upon him.

Dr. John MacArthur explains that, “It is natural for a sinful human, even a righteous one, to tremble in the presence of the reflected holiness of God (Judges 6:22; Judges 13:22; Isaiah 6:1-5; Daniel 10:5-9; Luke 1:29; 2:9; Acts 10:4). Luke seems especially to take note of this; he often reports fear in the presence of God and his works (cf. Luke 1:30, 65; 2:9–10; 5:10, 26; 7:16; 8:25, 37, 50; 9:34, 45; 23:40).”

A surprise appearance will soon give way to an even more surprise announcement. Stay tuned.

May the Lord’s truth and grace be found here.

Soli deo Gloria!

On each Lord’s Day this year, we will display the 52 devotionals taken from the Heidelberg Catechism which are structured in the form of questions posed and answers given.

The Heidelberg Catechism was originally written in 1563. It originated in one of the few pockets of Calvinistic faith in the Lutheran and Catholic territories of Germany. Conceived originally as a teaching instrument to promote religious unity, the catechism soon became a guide for preaching as well.

Along with the Belgic Confession and the Canons of Dordt, it forms what is collectively referred to as the Three Forms of Unity.

The devotional for LORD’S DAY 42 is as follows. Please take note of the biblical references given in each answer. This morning’s devotional addresses The Ten Commandments.

Q. What does God forbid in the eighth commandment?

A. God forbids not only outright theft and robbery, punishable by law.¹ But in God’s sight theft also includes all scheming and swindling in order to get our neighbor’s goods for ourselves, whether by force or means that appear legitimate,² such as inaccurate measurements of weight, size, or volume; fraudulent merchandising; counterfeit money;
excessive interest; or any other means forbidden by God.³ In addition God forbids all greed⁴ and pointless squandering of his gifts.⁵

¹ Ex. 22:1; 1 Cor. 5:9-10; 6:9-10.
² Mic. 6:9-11; Luke 3:14; James 5:1-6.
³ Deut. 25:13-16; Ps. 15:5; Prov. 11:1; 12:22; Ezek. 45:9-12; Luke 6:35.
⁴ Luke 12:15; Eph. 5:5.
⁵ Prov. 21:20; 23:20-21; Luke 16:10-13.

Q. What does God require of you in this commandment?

A. That I do whatever I can for my neighbor’s good, that I treat others as I would like them to treat me, and that I work faithfully so that I may share with those in need.¹

¹ Isa. 58:5-10; Matt. 7:12; Gal. 6:9-10; Eph. 4:28.

May the Lord’s truth and grace be found here.

Soli deo Gloria!

 

^“5 In the days of Herod, king of Judea, there was a priest named Zechariah, of the division of Abijah. And he had a wife from the daughters of Aaron, and her name was Elizabeth. ⁶ And they were both righteous before God, walking blamelessly in all the commandments and statutes of the Lord. ⁷ But they had no child, because Elizabeth was barren, and both were advanced in years.” (Luke 1:5-7)

Has God ever taken you by surprise? Pastor Chuck Swindoll several years ago penned a devotional entitled, appropriately enough, Surprises. Here is a brief excerpt.

The feelings are familiar. Mouth open. Eyes like saucers. Chill up the spine. Heart pounding in the throat. Momentary disbelief. We frown and attempt to piece the story together without a script or narrator. Sometimes alone, occasionally with others . . . then boom! “The flash of a mighty surprise” boggles the mind, leaving us somewhere between stunned and dumb with wonder. “Am I dreaming or is a miracle happening?” So it is with surprises.

O. Henry did it with his endings. World War II, with its beginning. Surprises start parties and they stop partnerships. They solve murders, they enhance birthdays and anniversaries, and they embellish friendships. Kids at Christmas love ’em. Parents expect ’em. Coaches use ’em. Politicians diffuse ’em.

Ever stop to trace the surprises in the Bible? The Scriptures are full of them when you look at certain events through the eyes of the people in that day.

• When Adam and Eve stumbled upon Abel’s fresh grave.
• When Enoch’s footsteps suddenly stopped.
• When Noah’s neighbors first felt sprinkling.
• When Moses heard words from a burning bush that wouldn’t stop burning.
• When manna first fell from the sky.
• When water first came from the rock.
• When Jericho’s walls came a tumblin’ down: from the inside out.
• When a ruddy runt by the name of David took down a seasoned warrior named Goliath.
• And so on, and so on.

Today we look at another scene found in Scripture in which God scripted a surprise. Be careful! It would be easy to view these scenes as purely historical in nature and theme. However, God still surprises us. The question is whether we are aware when He does, and how do we respond when He does?

What do we know about Zachariah and his wife Elizabeth? To begin with, they were a righteous couple.

Today’s text informs us that Zachariah was a Jewish Priest. He lived during the days of Herod the Great, King of Judea. Herod ruled over Judea from 37 B.C. – 4 B.C. Herod was capable, crafty, and cruel. He was a diabolical monster. This is the same Herod who is mentioned in Matthew 2.

Zachariah was the exact opposite of Herod. His name means, “Yahweh has remembered.” Zechariah belonged to the priestly division of Abijah (I Chronicles 24:4-19). He also belonged to the 8^th Division of 24. During David’s reign, the priests were divided into 24 divisions. (I Chronicles 24:1-6). Solomon reaffirmed these divisions (2 Chronicles 8:14). Twice a year each division was on duty in the temple, and each time the period of service was one week.

Zechariah had a wife named Elizabeth. A Wife name Elizabeth. Her name means devoted One or an absolutely reliable one. She was one of the descendants of Aaron, the brother of Moses. She too, along with her husband, belonged to the Tribe of Levi.

What a blessing for a priest from the Tribe of Levi to marry a woman from the same tribe. One gets the sense they were equally called to the ministry of serving the LORD. They were mutually compatible.

Additionally, the Bible tells us that both righteous before God. They were walking blamelessly in all the commandments of the Lord. In other words, they both possessed an imputed righteousness from God. Though it is true that good works never saved anybody, it is also true that the person who is conscious of having been saved by grace through faith will put forth every effort to do good works (Ephesians 2:10). The forgiven trespasser and the true heart are twins. Their righteous walk was evidenced by their behavior. They were conscious of the Ten Commandments. They were obedient to the Word of God.

What more can be said of such a couple? Well, today’s text adds one more thing about Zechariah and Elizabeth. “But they had no child, because Elizabeth was barren, and both were advanced in years.” (Luke 1:7).

What a burden to bear. Remember Rachel’s words to Jacob: “Give me children or I die” (Genesis 30:1). What about Sarah (Genesis 15:1)? Or Hannah (I Samuel 1:1-6)? Barrenness was about the worst thing which could happen to a woman. Because Elizabeth was barren, people believed that it was a sign of God’s disfavor. She would be shunned, and despised.

Could it be possible that she could become pregnant? No, unfortunately not. For you see the text also says that they were both well advanced in years. With each passing year the hope that their situation would change began to dim. At last it was extinguished altogether, for by now both were beyond the age of child bearing.

However, Zechariah and Elizabeth were in for a big surprise from God. When next we meet, we’ll see what God has in store for this righteous couple. Be careful to not read ahead in the Gospel of Luke. That would spoil the surprise.

One more thought from Pastor Swindoll. “Jesus’s return will be the absolute greatest surprise. Well, maybe I had better not say that. The greatest surprise is that people like us will be included in the group, stunned and dumb with wonder. Let’s face it, that won’t be just a surprise or a dream. That’ll be a flat-out miracle.”

May the Lord’s truth and grace be found here.

Soli deo Gloria!

 

 

 

 

 

Not only was the Messiah to be from the seed of a woman, the seed of Abraham, the tribe of Judah, the family of David, to be born in Bethlehem, but also the Jewish Messiah was to have a threefold mission: He was to be the Prophet, a Priest and a King. Today, we will look at the prophecy concerning the Messiah’s role and ministry as a King.

The Jewish Messiah was to be a king like David. He would be a ruler of the Kingdom of God consisting of God’s people. The Kingdom of God is also known as the Kingdom of Heaven.

We have thus far seen several Old Testament texts pointing to the kingship of the Messiah is His relationship to the family of the Patriarch Jacob and also King David (Genesis 49:10; Numbers 24:17; Samuel 7:12-16). There are two other Old Testament prophecies pertaining to the Jewish Messiah being King.

The first is Psalm 2. Its theme is the Reign of the LORD’s Anointed. It says,

“Why do the nations rage and the peoples plot in vain? ² The kings of the earth set themselves, and the rulers take counsel together, against the Lord and against his Anointed, saying, ³ “Let us burst their bonds apart and cast away their cords from us.” ⁴ He who sits in the heavens laughs; the Lord holds them in derision.  ⁵ Then he will speak to them in his wrath, and terrify them in his fury, saying, ⁶ “As for me, I have set my King on Zion, my holy hill.” ⁷ I will tell of the decree: The Lord said to me, “You are my Son; today I have begotten you.   ⁸ Ask of me, and I will make the nations your heritage, and the ends of the earth your possession. ⁹ You shall break them with a rod of iron and dash them in pieces like a potter’s vessel.” ¹⁰ Now therefore, O kings, be wise; be warned, O rulers of the earth. ¹¹ Serve the Lord with fear, and rejoice with trembling. ¹² Kiss the Son, lest he be angry, and you perish in the way, for his wrath is quickly kindled. Blessed are all who take refuge in him.”

The other kingly prophetic text is found in Psalm 110. It is a Psalm of David.

^“1 The Lord says to my Lord: “Sit at my right hand, until I make your enemies your footstool.” ² The Lord sends forth from Zion your mighty scepter. Rule in the midst of your enemies! ³ Your people will offer themselves freely on the day of your power, in holy garments; from the womb of the morning, the dew of your youth will be yours. ⁴ The Lord has sworn and will not change his mind, “You are a priest forever after the order of Melchizedek.” ⁵ The Lord is at your right hand; he will shatter kings on the day of his wrath. ⁶ He will execute judgment among the nations, filling them with corpses; he will shatter chiefs over the wide earth. ⁷ He will drink from the brook by the way; therefore he will lift up his head.”

Two New Testament texts directly related to the Christmas story are pertinent to our discussion. They are Matthew 2:2, “Where is He who has been born King of the Jews? For we have seen His star in the East and have come to worship Him,” and Luke 1:31-33, “And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bring forth a Son, and shall call His name JESUS. He will be great, and will be called the Son of the Highest; and the LORD God will give Him the throne of His father David. And He will reign over the house of Jacob forever.”

Dr. John MacArthur writes, “This psalm contains one of the most exalted prophetic portions of Scripture presenting Jesus Christ as both a holy king and a royal high priest—something that no human monarch of Israel ever experienced. It, along with Ps. 118, is by far the most quoted psalm in the NT (Matt. 22:44; 26:64; Mark 12:36; 14:62; Luke 20:42–43; 22:69; Acts 2:34–35; Heb. 1:13; 5:6; 7:17, 21; 10:13). While portraying the perfect king, the perfect high priest, and the perfect government, Ps. 110  declares Christ’s current role in heaven as the resurrected Savior (v. 1) and his future role on earth as the reigning Monarch (vv. 2–7). This psalm is decidedly messianic and millennial in content. Jesus Christ (Matt. 22:43–44) verifies the Davidic authorship.”

It is clear that the Scriptures not only prophecy that the Messiah will be King, but also that Jesus is that Messiah King. Is He your King?

May the Lord’s truth and grace be found here.

Soli deo Gloria!

 

 

 

 

Not only was the Messiah to be from the seed of a woman, the seed of Abraham, the tribe of Judah, the family of David, to be born in Bethlehem, but also the Jewish Messiah was to have a threefold mission: He was to be the Prophet, a Priest and a King. Today, we will look at the prophecy concerning the Messiah’s role and ministry as a Priest.

There is much to intellectually comprehend concerning the ministry of the Old Testament priesthood. The priestly role was associated with the tabernacle and then the Jewish Temple. The priesthood emphasized sacrifice, site maintenance, and education. Priests were the primary religious leadership in the ancient Near East. Their duties varied according to the region and religion. All priests were defined primarily by their intercessory role. Priests acted as representatives of the divine to the people, and representatives of people to the divine. Priests of Yahweh performed sacrifices, maintained the holy sites and implements, and provided counsel and instruction.

Additionally, priests were responsible for the ministry of intercession—the altar, tabernacle or temple. Their instructional role accorded with their intercessory role: they provided the instructions for holy living that would satisfy Yahweh’s holy expectations of the people.

Priests were a major power throughout Israel’s history as keepers of the covenant site and instructors in the Scriptures. Their relationships with kings, prophets, and sages fluctuated throughout this time. The priests may have been in accord with formal power structures such as the monarchy. There was tension between the priests and the prophets.

With respect to Jesus Christ as a priest, I submit the following biblical texts for your consideration regarding the priesthood of Jesus.

1. Appointed and called by God. Heb. 3:1, 2; 5:4, 5.
2. After the order of Melchizedek. Ps 110:4; Heb. 5:6; 6:20; 7:15, 17.
3. Superior to Aaron and the Levitical priests. Heb. 7:11, 16, 22; 8:1, 2, 6.
4. Consecrated with an oath. Heb. 7:20, 21.
5. Has an unchangeable priesthood. Heb. 7:23, 28.
6. Unblemished purity. Heb. 7:26, 28.
7. Faithful. Heb. 3:2.
8. Needed no sacrifice for himself. Heb. 7:27.
9. Offered himself a sacrifice. Heb. 9:14, 26.
10. His sacrifice superior to all others. Heb. 9:13, 14, 23.
11. Offered sacrifice but once. Heb. 7:27; 9:25, 26.
12. Made reconciliation. Heb. 2:17.
13. Obtained redemption for us. Heb. 9:12.
14. Entered into heaven. Heb. 4:14; 10:12.
15. Sympathizes with those who are tempted. Heb 2:18; 4:15.
16. Intercedes. Heb. 7:25; 9:24.
17. Blesses. Num. 6:23–26; Acts 3:26.
18. On his throne. Zech. 6:13.
19. Appointment of, and encouragement to steadfastness. Heb. 4:14.
20. Typified by –
21. Melchizedek. Gen. 14:18–20.
22. Aaron, Ex, 40:12–15.

The key Old Testament text regarding the priestly ministry of the Messiah is Psalm, 110:1-4. King David, the psalmist, writes, “The Lord says to my Lord:
“Sit at my right hand, until I make your enemies your footstool.” ² The Lord sends forth from Zion your mighty scepter. Rule in the midst of your enemies! Your people will offer themselves freely on the day of your power, in holy garments; from the womb of the morning, the dew of your youth will be yours, ⁴ The Lord has sworn and will not change his mind,
“You are a priest forever after the order of Melchizedek.”

 I highlight four New Testament texts from the Book of Hebrews explaining the Great High Priestly ministry of Jesus Christ.

• Hebrews 2:14-18 – ^14 “Since therefore the children share in flesh and blood, he himself likewise partook of the same things, that through death he might destroy the one who has the power of death, that is, the devil, ¹⁵ and deliver all those who through fear of death were subject to lifelong slavery. ¹⁶ For surely it is not angels that he helps, but he helps the offspring of Abraham. ¹⁷ Therefore he had to be made like his brothers in every respect, so that he might become a merciful and faithful high priest in the service of God, to make propitiation for the sins of the people. ¹⁸ For because he himself has suffered when tempted, he is able to help those who are being tempted.”
• Hebrews 4:14-15 – “Seeing then that we have a great High Priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our confession. For we do not have a High Priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but was in all points tempted as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace that we may obtain mercy and fine grace to help in time of need.”
• Hebrews 5:1-6 – “For every high priest chosen from among men is appointed to act on behalf of men in relation to God, to offer gifts and sacrifices for sins. ² He can deal gently with the ignorant and wayward, since he himself is beset with weakness. ³ Because of this he is obligated to offer sacrifice for his own sins just as he does for those of the people. ⁴ And no one takes this honor for himself, but only when called by God, just as Aaron was. ⁵ So also Christ did not exalt himself to be made a high priest, but was appointed by him who said to him, “You are my Son, today I have begotten you”; ⁶ as he says also in another place, “You are a priest forever, after the order of Melchizedek.”
• Hebrews 7:22-27 – “This makes Jesus the guarantor of a better covenant. ²³ The former priests were many in number, because they were prevented by death from continuing in office, ²⁴ but he holds his priesthood permanently, because he continues forever. ²⁵ Consequently, he is able to save to the uttermost those who draw near to God through him, since he always lives to make intercession for them. ²⁶ For it was indeed fitting that we should have such a high priest, holy, innocent, unstained, separated from sinners, and exalted above the heavens. ²⁷ He has no need, like those high priests, to offer sacrifices daily, first for his own sins and then for those of the people, since he did this once for all when he offered up himself.”

It is apparent that the New Testament clearly identifies Jesus Christ as a great high priest fulfilling the Old Testament prophecies concerning the Jewish Messiah.

May the Lord’s truth and grace be found here.

Soli deo Gloria!

¹⁵ The Lord your God will raise up for you a prophet like me from among you, from your brothers—it is to him you shall listen—“ (Deuteronomy 18:15)

Not only was the Messiah to be from the seed of a woman, the seed of Abraham, the tribe of Judah, the family of David, to be born in Bethlehem, but also the Jewish Messiah was to have a threefold mission: He was to be the Prophet, a Priest and a King. Today, we will look at the prophecy concerning the Messiah’s role and ministry as The Prophet.

To begin with, the Messiah was to fulfill the prophecy spoken by God to Moses in Deuteronomy 18 concerning a God ordained Prophet. The Messiah would be a herald of God’s truth just like Moses. He would disclose God’s revelation to God’s people.

Deuteronomy 18:15-19 says, “¹⁵ The Lord your God will raise up for you a prophet like me from among you, from your brothers—it is to him you shall listen— ¹⁶ just as you desired of the Lord your God at Horeb on the day of the assembly, when you said, ‘Let me not hear again the voice of the Lord my God or see this great fire any more, lest I die.’ ¹⁷ And the Lord said to me, ‘They are right in what they have spoken. ¹⁸ I will raise up for them a prophet like you from among their brothers. And I will put my words in his mouth, and he shall speak to them all that I command him. ¹⁹ And whoever will not listen to my words that he shall speak in my name, I myself will require it of him.

 From this text, we make the following observations concerning the ministry of this Prophet. First, God will raise Him up for the people of God. Two, He would be like Moses. Three, He will be Jewish or from your brothers. Fourth, the people are to listen to Him. Fifth, God will put His words in the Prophets mouth. Sixth, the Prophet will be obedient to God. Seventh, people who refuse to listen to the Prophet will be judged.

This text from Deuteronomy lends an underlying context to what the Apostle John records in John 7:40-42 concerning the people’s reaction and response to the identity of Jesus Christ. The texts says, “Therefore many from the crowd…said, Truly, this is the Prophet. Others said, this is the Christ! But some said, Will the Christ come out of Galilee? Has not the Scripture said that the Christ comes from the seed of David and from the town of Bethlehem, where David was?”

It is obvious that some people actually thought and speculated that Jesus Christ might be the fulfillment of Deuteronomy 18. Aside from John’s Gospel, does the New Testament affirm that Jesus was the Prophet spoken of by Moses in Deuteronomy 18?

Acts 3:23-26 says, “²² Moses said, ‘The Lord God will raise up for you a prophet like me from your brethren; to Him you shall give heed to everything He says to you.

 ²³ And it will be that every soul that does not heed that prophet shall be utterly destroyed from among the people.’²⁴ And likewise, all the prophets who have spoken, from Samuel and his successors onward, also announced these days. ²⁵ It is you who are the sons of the prophets and of the covenant which God made with your fathers, saying to Abraham, ‘And in your seed all the families of the earth shall be blessed.’ ²⁶ For you first, God raised up His Servant and sent Him to bless you by turning every one of you from your wicked ways.”

 The Apostle Peter, who is the one speaking in Acts 3, clearly identified Jesus Christ (His Servant) as the fulfillment of the Old Testament prophecy of God’s Messianic Prophet.

Dr. John MacArthur, in commenting on Deuteronomy 18, explains that, “The singular pronoun emphasizes the ultimate Prophet who was to come. Both the OT (Deuteronomy 34:10) and the NT (Acts 3:22–23; 7:37) interpret this passage as a reference to the coming Messiah, who like Moses would receive and preach divine revelation and lead his people (cf. John 1:21, 25, 43–45; 6:14; 7:40).”

I encourage you to study further the following verses related to Jesus Christ being the Prophet of God.

1. Foretold. De 18:15, 18; Isa 52:7; Na 1:15.
2. Anointed with the Holy Spirit. Isa 42:1; 61:1; Lu 4:18; Joh 3:34.
3. Alone knows and reveals God. Mt 11:27; Joh 3:2, 13, 34; 17:6, 14, 26; Heb 1:1, 2.
4. Declared his doctrine to be that of the Father. John 8:26, 28; 12:49, 50; 14:10, 24; 15:15; 17:8, 16.
5. Preached the gospel, and worked miracles. Matt 4:23; 11:5; Lu 4:43.
6. Foretold things to come. Matt. 24:3–35; Luke 19:41, 44.
7. Faithful to his trust. Lu 4:43; John 17:8; Heb. 3:2; Rev. 1:5; 3:14.
8. Abounded in wisdom. Luke 2:40, 47, 52; Col. 2:3.
9. Mighty in deed and word. Matt. 13:54; Mark 1:27; Lu 4:32; John 7:46.
10. Meek and un-ostentatious in his teaching. Isaiah 42:2; Mt 12:17–20.
11. God commands us to hear. Deut. 18:15; Matt. 17:25; Acts 3:22; 7:37.
12. God will severely visit our neglect of. Deut. 18:19; Ac 3:23; Heb. 2:3.
13. Typified by Moses. Deut. 18:15.

Both the Old and the New Testament clearly affirms that Jesus Christ is the fulfillment of Deuteronomy 18 and is therefore The Prophet.

May the Lord’s truth and grace be found here.

Soli deo Gloria!

“Now muster your troops, O daughter of troops; siege is laid against us;
with a rod they strike the judge of Israel on the cheek. But you, O Bethlehem Ephrathah, who are too little to be among the clans of Judah, from you shall come forth for me one who is to be ruler in Israel, whose coming forth is from of old,
from ancient days.” (Micah 5:1-2)

We have thus far seen that the Old Testament not only prophesied that the Jewish Messiah to be from the seed of a woman, the seed of Abraham, the tribe of Judah, and the family of David. The Old Testament also prophesied that the Messiah would be born in the town of Bethlehem. What do we know about Bethlehem?

There are actually two towns mentioned in Scripture which have the name Bethlehem. The first is a town located in the Galilean region about six miles W. of Nazareth, Josh. 19:15. Israel judged at, Judg. 12:10. It is often referred to as Bethlehem of the Tribe of Zebulun.

The second town of Bethlehem is a city S.W. of Jerusalem (Judg. 17:7; 19:18) also referred to as Ephratah and Ephrath, meaning “House of Bread.” Rachel, Jacob’s wife, died and was buried at Bethlehem (Gen. 35:16, 19; 48:7). It was also known as the city of Boaz (Ruth 1:1, 19; 2:4; 4). Bethlehem was taken and held by the Philistines (2 Sam. 23:14–16). King Jeroboam converted the city into a military stronghold (2 Chr. 11:6). Bethlehem was known as the city of Joseph (Matt. 2:5, 6; Luke 2:4).

According to the Prophet Micah, Bethlehem of Judea would be the birthplace of the Messiah, also referred to as the ruler of Israel. Does the New Testament confirm that Jesus was born in Bethlehem? The obvious answer is yes.

Luke 2:1-7 says, “And it came to pass in those days that a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be registered. ² This census first took place while Quirinius was governing Syria. ³So all went to be registered, everyone to his own city. ⁴Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David, ⁵to be registered with Mary, his betrothed wife, who was with child. ⁶So it was, that while they were there, the days were completed for her to be delivered. ⁷And she brought forth her firstborn Son, and wrapped Him in swaddling clothes, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.”

Matthew 2:1 says, “Now after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the king…”

Finally, John 7:40-42 says, “Therefore many from the crowd…said, truly this is the Prophet. Others said, this is the Christ! But some said, Will the Christ come out of Galilee? Has not the Scripture said that the Christ comes from the seed of David and from the town of Bethlehem, where David was?”

One of the most familiar facts of the Christmas story is that Jesus was born in the little town of Bethlehem. It was here that angels announced His birth to the shepherds (Luke 2:8-14). It was in Bethlehem that the shepherds visited the manger scene and found Mary, Joseph and the Baby (Luke 2:15-20). It was also in Bethlehem that the Magi, or Wise Men, searched and found Jesus and presented Him gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh (Matthew 2:1-12).

Indeed, the New Testament clearly presents the birth place of Jesus as Bethlehem thereby qualifying once again to be the long, awaited Messiah.

I encourage you to meditate upon the lyrics of the familiar Christmas carol entitled O Little Town of Bethlehem by 19^th century hymn writer Phillip Brooks.

O little town of Bethlehem
How still we see thee lie
Above thy deep and dreamless sleep
The silent stars go by
Yet in thy dark streets shineth
The everlasting Light
The hopes and fears of all the years
Are met in thee tonight.

For Christ is born of Mary
And gathered all above
While mortals sleep, the angels keep
Their watch of wondering love
O morning stars together
Proclaim the holy birth
And praises sing to God the King
And Peace to men on earth.

O holy Child of Bethlehem
Descend to us, we pray
Cast out our sin and enter in
Be born to us today
We hear the Christmas angels
The great glad tidings tell
O come to us, abide with us
Our Lord Emmanuel.

 May the Lord’s truth and grace be found her.

 Soli deo Gloria!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

“And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bring forth a Son, and shall call His name JESUS. He will be great, and will be called the Son of the Highest; and the LORD God will give Him the throne of His father David. And He will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of His kingdom there will be no end.” (Luke 1:31-33)

Not only was Messiah to be from the seed of a woman, the seed of Abraham, and the tribe of Judah, but also the Messiah was to belong to the family of David.

Psalm 89 is a Psalm of David. In vs. 26-27 David writes, “He will call out to me, “You are my Father, my God, the Rock my Savior. I will also appoint him my firstborn, the most exalted of the kings of the earth.”

God had promised to regard David’s son as his own “firstborn.” “Firstborn” is itself a messianic term, for it indicates not the child who is  born first in chronological order, but the one who is first in preeminence, first in rank, and first in privilege.

Note how Jacob (i.e., Israel) is called God’s “firstborn” (Ex 4:22), even though Esau came out of his mother’s womb as the first of the twins.  Likewise, Ephraim is called the “firstborn” (Jeremiah 31:9), even though Manasseh, his brother, was older.  That  is  also  why  Christ  is  called  the  “firstborn  of  all creation” in Colossians 1:15, and why Hebrews 1:6 uses this same term to designate Jesus in his comment that God brought forth his firstborn Christ into the world.

At the same time, the idea of the collective singular is not far away for Hebrews 12:23 addresses the whole church of believers as the “firstborn.”  Just as the “seed” includes all who believe as well as the one who represents them all, so the “firstborn” heads up the whole body of the “firstborn.”

Dr. John MacArthur writes, “The firstborn child was given a place of special honor and a double portion of the inheritance (Gen. 27; 2 Kings 2:9). However, in a royal grant covenant, a chosen person could be elevated to the level of firstborn sonship and thus have title to a perpetual gift involving dynastic succession (cf. Ps. 2:7). Though not actually the first, Israel was considered the firstborn among nations (Ex. 4:22); Ephraim the younger was treated as the firstborn (Gen. 48:13–20); and David was the firstborn among kings. In this latter sense of prominent favor, Christ can be called the firstborn over all creation (Col. 1:15), in that he is given the preeminence over all created beings.”

Additionally, Psalm 132:11 says, “The LORD has sworn in truth to David; He will not turn from it: I will set upon your throne the fruit of your body.”

2 Samuel 7:12-16 says, “When your days are fulfilled and you rest with your fathers, I will set up your seed after you, who will come from your body, and I will establish his kingdom. ¹³ He shall build a house for My name, and I will establish the throne of his kingdom forever. ¹⁴ I will be his Father, and he shall be My son. If he commits iniquity, I will chasten him with the rod of men and with the blows of the sons of men. ¹⁵But My mercy shall not depart from him, as I took it from Saul, whom I removed from before you. ¹⁶And your house and your kingdom shall be established forever before you. Your throne shall be established forever.” 17According to all these words and according to all this vision, so Nathan spoke to David.”

 The messianic character of the Davidic promise. Nathan’s prophecy, then, predicts several important new features about the coming Messiah: (1) The Messiah will come from David’s flesh and seed; (2) he will be David’s heir; (3) he will also be God’s natural son, (4) he will have a kingdom, rule, and reign that will never end; and (5) he will surely come one day in the future.

The Prophet Isaiah writes in Isaiah 1:1-10, “There shall come forth a Rod from the stem of Jesse, and a Branch shall grow out of his roots. The Spirit of the LORD shall rest upon Him, the Spirit of wisdom and understanding, the Spirit of counsel and might, the Spirit of knowledge and of the fear of the LORD.”

A shoot coming up from the stump of Jesse means that the branch (i.e. Messiah) will bear fruit; He will prosper and benefit others. He will come directly from the lineage of David and will fulfill God’s promises in the Davidic Covenant.

Finally, the Prophet Jeremiah writes in Jeremiah 23:5-6 that, “Behold the days are coming, says the LORD, that I will raise to David a Branch of righteousness; A King shall reign and prosper, and execute judgment and righteousness in the earth. In His days Judah will be saved, and Israel will dwell safely; now this is His name by which He will be called: THE LORD OUR RIGHTEOUSNESS.”

Jeremiah’s reference to a Branch of Righteousness refers to the righteous branch of the Davidic Line.

Does the New Testament teach that Jesus Christ is a descendant of King David and therefore in the kingly family? Is Jesus of Nazareth a “son” of David?

Matthew 1:1 says, “The book of the genealogy of Jesus Christ, the Son of David, and the Son of Abraham.”

Luke 1:31-33 says, “And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bring forth a Son, and shall call His name JESUS. He will be great, and will be called the Son of the Highest; and the LORD God will give Him the throne of His father David. And He will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of His kingdom there will be no end.”

Luke 3:31 says , in reference to Jesus Christ, that He was “the son of Melea, the son of Menna, the son of Mattatha, the son of Nathan, the son of David.”

It is clear from the New Testament record that it proclaims that Jesus Christ is the Son of David. Thus we move from the “seed of the woman,” who will be victorious over Satan, to the “seed of Abraham,” who will be a blessing to all the earth, to the kingly tribe of Judah, to the “seed of David,” who will have a rule that will never end.

May the Lord’s truth and grace be found here.

Soli deo Gloria!

 

On each Lord’s Day this year, we will display the 52 devotionals taken from the Heidelberg Catechism which are structured in the form of questions posed and answers given.

The Heidelberg Catechism was originally written in 1563. It originated in one of the few pockets of Calvinistic faith in the Lutheran and Catholic territories of Germany. Conceived originally as a teaching instrument to promote religious unity, the catechism soon became a guide for preaching as well.

Along with the Belgic Confession and the Canons of Dordt, it forms what is collectively referred to as the Three Forms of Unity.

The devotional for LORD’S DAY 41 is as follows. Please take note of the biblical references given in each answer. This morning’s devotional addresses The Ten Commandments.

Q. What does the seventh commandment teach us?

A. That God condemns all unchastity and that therefore we should thoroughly detest it² and live decent and chaste lives, ³ within or outside of the holy state of marriage.

¹ Lev. 18:30; Eph. 5:3-5
² Jude 22-23
³ 1 Cor. 7:1-9; 1 Thess. 4:3-8; Heb. 13:4.

Q. Does God, in this commandment, forbid only such scandalous sins as adultery?

A. We are temples of the Holy Spirit, body and soul, and God wants both to be kept clean and holy. That is why God forbids all unchaste actions, looks, talk, thoughts, or desires,¹ and whatever may incite someone to them.²

¹ Matt. 5:27-29; 1 Cor. 6:18-20; Eph. 5:3-4.
² 1 Cor. 15:33; Eph. 5:18.

May the Lord’s truth and grace be found here.

Soli deo Gloria!