“But when the set time had fully come, God sent his Son, born of a woman, born under the law.” – Galatians 4:4
The Prophecies of His Coming
As believers, we find great comfort in the many prophecies about Jesus’ first coming. The Old Testament is filled with predictions that point to the birth of our Savior. These prophecies reveal God’s plan to send His Son long before His arrival. They signal that Jesus’ coming was not a coincidence but a divinely ordained mission. We see this beautiful narrative weave itself through history, with each prophecy acting like a stepping stone leading to the fulfillment of God’s promise. Our anticipation grows as we read these verses, reminding us of the hope and love God has for us through Jesus.
Isaiah 7:14
“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
Micah 5:2
“But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel, whose origins are from old, from ancient times.” – Micah 5:2
Isaiah 9:6
“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.” – Isaiah 9:6
Jeremiah 23:5
“The days are coming,” declares the Lord, “when I will raise up for David a righteous Branch, a King who will reign wisely and do what is just and right in the land.” – Jeremiah 23:5
Zechariah 9:9
“Rejoice greatly, Daughter Zion! Shout, Daughter Jerusalem! See, your king comes to you, righteous and victorious, lowly and riding on a donkey, on a colt, the foal of a donkey.” – Zechariah 9:9
The Announcement of His Birth
When Jesus was born, it was a moment that changed everything. The announcement of His birth was nothing short of spectacular. Angels came to proclaim His arrival, and shepherds were the first to receive this heavenly news. This celebration was not just for a select few but for all of humanity. The birth of Christ signifies the beginning of God’s ultimate plan of redemption for us. As we reflect on this glorious announcement, we find joy in knowing that God desires to reach every heart with His love through Jesus.
Luke 2:10-11
“But the angel said to them, ‘Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord.'” – Luke 2:10-11
Matthew 1:21
“She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.” – Matthew 1:21
Luke 2:13-14
“Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, ‘Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.'” – Luke 2:13-14
Matthew 2:2
“And asked, ‘Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him.'” – Matthew 2:2
Luke 2:16
“So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger.” – Luke 2:16
The Significance of His Birth
Jesus’ birth is a pivotal moment in history, signifying the intersection of divinity and humanity. The fact that God chose to enter our world as a fragile baby speaks volumes about His love for us. This event is more than a simple birth; it is a declaration of hope and a new beginning for all of creation. As we reflect on the significance of Jesus’ birth, we realize that it invites us into a relationship with God — one filled with grace, mercy, and love. His coming assures us that we are never alone, but embraced by the light of Christ.
John 1:14
“The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.” – John 1:14
Philippians 2:7
“Rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness.” – Philippians 2:7
Romans 5:8
“But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” – Romans 5:8
1 John 4:9
“This is how God showed his love among us: He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him.” – 1 John 4:9
Titus 3:4-5
“But when the kindness and love of God our Savior appeared, he saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy.” – Titus 3:4-5
The Early Life of Jesus
The early life of Jesus leads us to understand that His earthly experience was much like ours. He faced trials, grew in wisdom, and developed relationships. The Bible provides insight into His formative years, showing us that Jesus lived a life of humility and purpose. Each step He took, from childhood to ministry, showcases His unwavering commitment to fulfilling God’s plan. As we reflect on the early years of Jesus, we are encouraged to follow His example in seeking a relationship with God and embracing our calling.
Luke 2:40
“And the child grew and became strong; he was filled with wisdom, and the grace of God was on him.” – Luke 2:40
Matthew 2:11
“On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him.” – Matthew 2:11
Luke 2:52
“And Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man.” – Luke 2:52
Matthew 2:13
“When they had gone, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream. ‘Get up,’ he said, ‘take the child and his mother and escape to Egypt.'” – Matthew 2:13
Mark 1:9
“At that time Jesus came from Nazareth in Galilee and was baptized by John in the Jordan.” – Mark 1:9
The Response to His Coming
How we respond to Jesus’ first coming is a crucial aspect of our faith. The shepherds rejoiced, the wise men worshiped, and Mary pondered all these things in her heart. Our response matters; it reflects our understanding of who Jesus is. He came not only to fulfill prophecies but also to touch our lives and hearts. When we open ourselves to Him, we allow His love and grace to transform us. As we consider our response to His coming, we must reflect on how we can embody His love in our everyday lives.
Matthew 2:10
“When they saw the star, they were overjoyed.” – Matthew 2:10
Luke 1:46-47
“And Mary said: ‘My soul glorifies the Lord and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior.'” – Luke 1:46-47
Luke 2:20
“The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told.” – Luke 2:20
Matthew 2:11
“They bowed down and worshiped him. Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh.” – Matthew 2:11
John 1:12
“Yet to all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God.” – John 1:12
The Impact of His Coming
Jesus’ first coming impacted our lives in ways we cannot fully comprehend. It transformed despair into hope, darkness into light, and separation into relationship with God. This event marked the beginning of salvation for all who believe. We celebrate the joy and peace that Jesus brings, recognizing that His presence in our lives promises a future filled with His love. As we reflect on the impact of His coming, we allow His light to shine through us, sharing His message of hope with others.
Romans 6:23
“For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” – Romans 6:23
John 10:10
“The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.” – John 10:10
Colossians 1:13-14
“For he has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son he loves, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins.” – Colossians 1:13-14
2 Corinthians 5:17
“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” – 2 Corinthians 5:17
John 3:16
“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” – John 3:16
Final Thoughts
As we consider Jesus’ first coming, we reflect on how it fulfilled countless prophecies, transformed lives, and brought us hope. His birth was a celebration of God’s love for us, showing how He entered our lives to save us. We are encouraged to embrace our calling and respond to His love with open hearts. Jesus’ life reminds us of the ultimate purpose that impacts our faith and daily living. Through Him, we are given the gift of transformation and hope.
Let us remember and share this message of love, joy, and redemption in our lives. We are called to shine His light and reflect His grace to those around us. If you are interested in learning more biblical topics, we encourage you to explore further and deepen your faith.
As we journey together, let us grow in our understanding and appreciation of the biblical truths that shape our lives.