Emmanuel: God's Promise and Presence with Us
Summary
As we gather today, we embark on a new series titled "Carols," where we explore the profound messages embedded in our beloved Christmas carols. Our focus today is on "O Come, O Come, Emmanuel," a carol that beautifully encapsulates the essence of the incarnation of Christ. This hymn, believed to have originated between the 8th and 12th centuries, is a powerful reminder of God's promise and presence with us.
The carol's roots are deeply intertwined with scripture, particularly Isaiah 7:14, which prophesies the birth of Emmanuel, meaning "God with us." This prophecy finds its ultimate fulfillment in the birth of Jesus Christ, as recounted in Matthew 1. The story of King Ahaz in Isaiah serves as a backdrop, illustrating the futility of relying on political alliances over divine power. Despite Ahaz's reluctance, God provides a sign of His faithfulness through the promise of Emmanuel.
The message of Emmanuel is timeless, reminding us that God is with us yesterday, today, and forever. In the past, God has been present in our lives, guiding us through trials and triumphs. Today, He continues to be our source of strength and peace, especially during challenging times. The carol's plea for Emmanuel to ransom captive Israel resonates with our own need for deliverance from spiritual exile. Jesus, through His sacrifice, has become our ransom, setting us free from sin and death.
As we look to the future, we are assured of God's eternal presence. The promise of Emmanuel extends beyond this life, offering us hope and assurance of His everlasting kingdom. The carol's call for unity and peace is a vision of the world under Christ's reign, where strife and division cease.
In this season of reflection and anticipation, let us embrace the truth of Emmanuel—God with us. May we find comfort in His presence, strength in His promises, and hope in His eternal reign.
Key Takeaways:
1. God's Faithfulness Despite Our Failures: The story of King Ahaz reminds us that God's faithfulness is unwavering, even when we falter. He provides signs of His presence and promises, urging us to trust in His power over worldly alliances. [39:07]
2. The Dual Fulfillment of Prophecy: The prophecy of Emmanuel in Isaiah has both an immediate and ultimate fulfillment, illustrating how God's promises unfold over time. This duality enriches our understanding of scripture and God's intricate plan for salvation. [41:15]
3. The Significance of the Virgin Birth: The virgin birth of Jesus is a cornerstone of our faith, signifying His divine nature and sinless life. It underscores the miraculous nature of God's intervention in human history, fulfilling ancient prophecies. [50:04]
4. God's Presence in Our Present Trials: Emmanuel assures us of God's presence in our current struggles. Whether facing loneliness, loss, or pressure, we are reminded that God is with us, offering peace and guidance through life's challenges. [58:31]
5. The Eternal Promise of Emmanuel: The promise of Emmanuel extends into eternity, assuring us of God's unending presence and the hope of His coming kingdom. This future hope encourages us to live faithfully, knowing that God is with us forever. [01:07:31]
Youtube Chapters:
- [00:00] - Welcome
- [36:03] - Introduction to the Carols Series
- [38:12] - The Origin of "O Come, O Come, Emmanuel"
- [39:07] - The Prophecy of Emmanuel in Isaiah
- [41:15] - Dual Fulfillment of Prophecy
- [43:25] - Personal Reflections and God's Faithfulness
- [45:42] - God with Us Yesterday
- [47:25] - The Virgin Birth and Its Significance
- [50:04] - The Importance of the Virgin Birth
- [51:57] - God's Presence in Our Past
- [54:47] - Personal Testimonies of God's Faithfulness
- [55:50] - God with Us Today
- [58:31] - Facing Present Trials with Emmanuel
- [01:00:43] - The Names and Nature of Jesus
- [01:03:46] - The Promise of Peace
- [01:07:31] - God with Us Forever
- [01:10:27] - The Key to Heaven
- [01:11:38] - Invitation to Respond
- [01:13:12] - Closing Prayer and Call to Action
Study Guide
Bible Study Discussion Guide: "O Come, O Come, Emmanuel"
Bible Reading:
- Isaiah 7:14
- Matthew 1:20-23
- Hebrews 13:8
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Observation Questions:
1. What is the significance of the name "Emmanuel" as mentioned in Isaiah 7:14 and Matthew 1:23? How does it relate to the message of the carol "O Come, O Come, Emmanuel"? [39:07]
2. In the sermon, the pastor mentioned a dual fulfillment of prophecy regarding Emmanuel. What were the two fulfillments, and how do they differ? [41:15]
3. How does the pastor describe the significance of the virgin birth in the context of the sermon? What makes it a cornerstone of Christian faith? [50:04]
4. According to the sermon, how does the carol "O Come, O Come, Emmanuel" reflect our need for deliverance from spiritual exile? [55:50]
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Interpretation Questions:
1. How does the story of King Ahaz in Isaiah 7 illustrate the theme of God's faithfulness despite human failure? What lessons can be drawn from Ahaz's reliance on political alliances over divine power? [39:07]
2. The pastor mentioned that Emmanuel means "God with us" and connected it to Hebrews 13:8. How does this understanding of God's presence impact the way believers view their past, present, and future? [45:42]
3. In what ways does the sermon suggest that the virgin birth of Jesus signifies God's miraculous intervention in human history? How does this shape the Christian understanding of Jesus' nature? [50:04]
4. The pastor spoke about the eternal promise of Emmanuel. How does this promise provide hope and assurance for believers regarding God's everlasting kingdom? [01:07:31]
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Application Questions:
1. Reflect on a time when you relied on worldly solutions instead of trusting in God's power. How can the story of King Ahaz encourage you to seek God's guidance in similar situations? [39:07]
2. The sermon emphasized God's presence in our present trials. Identify a current challenge you are facing. How can the assurance of Emmanuel, "God with us," provide you with peace and guidance? [58:31]
3. Consider the dual fulfillment of prophecy discussed in the sermon. How does understanding the unfolding of God's promises over time affect your trust in His plan for your life? [41:15]
4. The pastor highlighted the significance of the virgin birth. How does this aspect of Jesus' birth deepen your appreciation for the Christmas story and its implications for your faith? [50:04]
5. The carol calls for unity and peace under Christ's reign. In what ways can you actively promote unity and peace in your community or church, reflecting the message of Emmanuel? [01:03:46]
6. The sermon mentioned the eternal promise of Emmanuel. How does this promise influence your perspective on life's challenges and your hope for the future? [01:07:31]
7. Reflect on the pastor's question, "Are you with God?" How can you ensure that your relationship with God is growing and that you are aligned with His will in your daily life? [01:08:52]
Devotional
Day 1: God's Unwavering Faithfulness in Our Failures
God's faithfulness remains steadfast even when we falter, as illustrated by the story of King Ahaz. Despite Ahaz's reliance on political alliances over divine power, God provided a sign of His faithfulness through the promise of Emmanuel. This serves as a reminder that God's promises and presence are not contingent on our actions but are rooted in His unwavering love and commitment to us. We are encouraged to trust in God's power and faithfulness, even when we face challenges and uncertainties. [39:07]
Isaiah 41:10 (ESV): "Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand."
Reflection: Think of a situation where you have relied on your own strength or worldly solutions. How can you begin to trust in God's faithfulness and power in that area today?
Day 2: The Dual Fulfillment of Prophecy
The prophecy of Emmanuel in Isaiah demonstrates the dual fulfillment of God's promises, with both immediate and ultimate realizations. This duality enriches our understanding of scripture and God's intricate plan for salvation. The immediate fulfillment was a sign to King Ahaz, while the ultimate fulfillment came with the birth of Jesus Christ. This layered fulfillment shows how God's promises unfold over time, offering us a deeper appreciation of His divine plan and the assurance that His word is true and reliable. [41:15]
2 Peter 3:9 (ESV): "The Lord is not slow to fulfill his promise as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing that any should perish, but that all should reach repentance."
Reflection: Consider a promise from God that you are waiting to see fulfilled. How can you cultivate patience and trust in God's timing and plan for your life?
Day 3: The Miraculous Significance of the Virgin Birth
The virgin birth of Jesus is a cornerstone of Christian faith, signifying His divine nature and sinless life. It underscores the miraculous nature of God's intervention in human history, fulfilling ancient prophecies and demonstrating His power and sovereignty. The virgin birth is not just a miraculous event but a profound declaration of God's love and His plan for redemption through Jesus Christ. It invites us to marvel at the mystery of God's ways and to embrace the truth of His divine intervention in our lives. [50:04]
Luke 1:35 (ESV): "And the angel answered her, 'The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you; therefore the child to be born will be called holy—the Son of God.'"
Reflection: Reflect on a time when you have witnessed or experienced God's miraculous intervention. How does the virgin birth inspire you to trust in God's power and plan for your life?
Day 4: Emmanuel's Presence in Our Present Trials
The message of Emmanuel assures us of God's presence in our current struggles. Whether facing loneliness, loss, or pressure, we are reminded that God is with us, offering peace and guidance through life's challenges. This assurance of God's presence provides comfort and strength, enabling us to navigate difficult times with hope and resilience. We are encouraged to lean on God's presence and to seek His peace and guidance in every situation we face. [58:31]
Psalm 46:1-2 (ESV): "God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear though the earth gives way, though the mountains be moved into the heart of the sea."
Reflection: Identify a current trial or challenge you are facing. How can you invite God's presence into this situation and rely on His peace and guidance today?
Day 5: The Eternal Promise of Emmanuel
The promise of Emmanuel extends into eternity, assuring us of God's unending presence and the hope of His coming kingdom. This future hope encourages us to live faithfully, knowing that God is with us forever. The carol's vision of unity and peace under Christ's reign inspires us to strive for a world where strife and division cease. We are called to embrace the eternal promise of Emmanuel, finding hope and assurance in His everlasting kingdom and living in anticipation of His return. [01:07:31]
Revelation 21:3-4 (ESV): "And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, 'Behold, the dwelling place of God is with man. He will dwell with them, and they will be his people, and God himself will be with them as their God. He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away.'"
Reflection: How does the promise of God's eternal presence and His coming kingdom influence the way you live your life today? What steps can you take to align your life with this eternal hope?
Quotes
"O Come, O Come, Emmanuel. That's the title of the message, and whatever song we're looking at during the month of December, that will be the title. And I want you to know, I'm starting with this one because it is called the oldest Christmas carol that we still sing, King in Modern Times. We don't know who the author was. We believe it was written sometime around the 8th to 12th century, probably by a monk or a priest." [00:37:08] (28 seconds)
"And isn't that good that God's faithful even when we're unfaithful, amen. And God gave a word to Ahaz. And it was the sign that this virgin would give birth to a child named Emmanuel. Now, stay with me or you're going to get confused. Are you awake? All right. If you go read chapter eight, you'll see there's an immediate fulfillment of this prophecy that there was a young virgin who wasn't married, who would later marry, who her and her husband would have sex and she would conceive and she would give birth to a child and name him Emmanuel. It's all in chapter eight." [00:40:31] (44 seconds)
"She will give birth to a child. She will give birth to a son and you will give him the name Jesus because he will save his people from their sin. Jesus is the name Jehovah saves. And it tells you the mission of why God came to earth and the incarnation through the person of his son, Jesus Christ. And this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet. What prophet? I just told you. We just read it. The prophet Isaiah. The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son and they will call his name. Everybody say it." [00:42:43] (35 seconds)
"Hebrews 13, 8 says what? Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever. Who is Emmanuel? The one born of the Virgin Mary. It's Jesus. And he's the same yesterday, today, and forever. And this verse here came to my mind. Revelation 4, 8. Day and night. They never stopped saying, holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty. Watch this. Who was. And who is. And who is to come." [00:45:58] (28 seconds)
"And the Word became flesh. And dwelt among us. And we beheld his glory. Even the glory of the only begotten Son of God, full of grace and truth. We're talking about God with us. That means that Christmas, the first prophecy of the virgin birth of Christ, wasn't just Isaiah. No, it goes all the way back to Genesis." [00:47:05] (21 seconds)
"What makes this birth of Christ so unique? What makes it a sign? I mean, why did the stars change their course in the heavens when Jesus was born? Why did the angels come and tell the shepherds to go bow and worship before this baby? Why did the wise men travel so far following a star and bring gifts of gold and frankincense and myrrh? I'll tell you why. Because this is no ordinary child. This is Emmanuel, God with us. In fact, Jesus Christ is the most remarkable birth, the virgin birth in all of history." [00:48:47] (45 seconds)
"God sought you. He bought you with the blood of Jesus Christ. And he bought you with the blood of Jesus Christ. You know, we had a baptism last Sunday. I thought it was very special. All baptisms are special. I love it. But there was a 15-year-old young man. He had been shot. He had been part of a gang. But Jesus saved him, set him free. He followed in believers baptism. That's what the word ransom is. It means that he sets us free. Come on, somebody, get happy in Jesus." [00:57:23] (29 seconds)
"Look, it says right here in Isaiah 9, 6, you still awake, say amen. For to us, a child is born. To us, a son is given. His humanity, he was born, and yet given, we see his deity. And if the government's on his shoulders, he can shoulder whatever circumstance you've got going on in your life today. It means Jesus reigns." [01:00:16] (27 seconds)
"And that's what this is like. But I'm just telling you, there's coming a day when Jesus, the Prince of Peace, will rule and reign on this earth. And the Bible says the lion's going to lie down with the lamb, and the child will play with it, and men will study war no more. Jesus is the Prince of Peace. And that's what the song talks about. Look, O come, desire of nations, bind all peoples in one heart and mind. Make envy, strife, and quarrels cease. Oh, that's a song you ought to be singing with the kids in the back seat going down the road traveling. Amen?" [01:03:46] (32 seconds)
"The song says, oh, come thou day spring, come. Day spring's an old ancient word for sunshine. Our spirits by your advent here disperse the gloomy clouds of night, and death's dark shadows put to flight. You know what the psalmist said? Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I'll fear no evil. Why? Emmanuel, God, is with us. He's with us. And I tell you, that's why Paul would go on to write in Romans, and he would say, oh, come thou day spring, come thou day spring, come." [01:06:25] (34 seconds)
"Who can separate us from the love of Christ? Can affliction, distress, persecution, famine, nakedness, danger, or sword? As it is written, because of you, we are being put to death all the day long. We're counted as sheep to the slaughtered. But it says, no, in all these things, we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I'm persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels, nor rulers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, or any other thing created will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus, our Lord. I'm telling you, he's Emmanuel." [01:07:54] (40 seconds)
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