God's Sovereign Plan: The Birth of Our Savior
Summary
### Summary
Today, we delved into the profound truth that "Our God Saves." This phrase, repeated throughout our time together, serves as a powerful reminder of God's saving grace and the transformative power of His love. We explored the birth of Jesus Christ, focusing on the narrative in Matthew 1 and 2, and how it fulfills Old Testament prophecies. Joseph's righteousness and his decision to quietly divorce Mary, only to be reassured by an angel, highlight the divine orchestration behind Jesus' birth. The name "Jesus" itself means "God saves," a common name at the time, yet carrying an extraordinary promise of salvation from sin, not just political oppression.
We also examined the prophecy of Emmanuel, "God with us," and how Jesus' birth fulfills Isaiah's words. This fulfillment is not just a historical prediction but a divine announcement of God's sovereign plan. The analogy of two mountains appearing close but being miles apart helps us understand the layered fulfillment of prophecies. Jesus' birth in Bethlehem, the visit of the wise men, and the subsequent flight to Egypt all align with prophetic scriptures, demonstrating God's meticulous plan.
The narrative of Herod's paranoia and the massacre of the innocents echoes Rachel's mourning, yet it is folded into God's redemptive plan. Jesus, called a Nazarene, signifies His humble origins and the rejection He faced, fulfilling the broader witness of the Old Testament. This sermon challenges us to move beyond a superficial understanding of scripture and invites us to explore the depths of God's word, recognizing Jesus as the fulfillment of God's promises.
### Key Takeaways
1. God's Sovereign Plan: The birth of Jesus is a testament to God's meticulous and sovereign plan. Every detail, from Joseph's righteousness to the angelic announcement, aligns with Old Testament prophecies, demonstrating that God's promises are always fulfilled in His perfect timing. This encourages us to trust in God's plan for our lives, even when it doesn't align with our expectations. [35:38]
2. Jesus as Emmanuel: The prophecy of Emmanuel, "God with us," is not just a historical prediction but a profound truth that God is present with us through Jesus. This presence is a source of comfort and strength, reminding us that we are never alone in our struggles and that God's love is always with us. [37:13]
3. The Humility of Jesus: Jesus being called a Nazarene highlights His humble origins and the rejection He faced. This humility is a powerful reminder that God's ways are often contrary to worldly expectations. It challenges us to embrace humility and recognize the value in what the world may deem insignificant. [53:00]
4. The Depth of Scripture: The layered fulfillment of prophecies, like the analogy of two mountains, shows the depth and richness of scripture. This invites us to move beyond a superficial understanding and dive deeper into God's word, discovering the profound truths and promises that it holds. [38:54]
5. God's Redemptive Plan: Even in the midst of tragedy, like Herod's massacre of the innocents, God's redemptive plan is at work. This reminds us that God can bring good out of the darkest situations and that His ultimate plan is one of redemption and restoration. [51:17]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[24:33] - Introduction: Our God Saves
[29:26] - Joseph's Righteousness and the Angel's Message
[30:19] - The Meaning of Jesus' Name
[31:06] - Prophecy of Emmanuel: God with Us
[31:50] - The Fulfillment of Isaiah's Prophecy
[32:26] - The Birth in Bethlehem and the Visit of the Wise Men
[32:59] - Herod's Paranoia and the Massacre of the Innocents
[33:36] - Jesus Called a Nazarene
[34:09] - The Humility and Rejection of Jesus
[35:38] - God's Sovereign Plan in Jesus' Birth
[37:13] - Jesus as Emmanuel: God with Us
[38:54] - The Depth of Prophecy Fulfillment
[40:17] - Joseph's Legal Act and Jesus as the Son of David
[41:50] - The Significance of the Wise Men's Gifts
[43:23] - Prophecy of the Messiah's Birthplace
[44:59] - Herod's Deception and the Wise Men's Journey
[46:35] - The Star Leading to Jesus
[47:59] - The Flight to Egypt and Prophecy Fulfillment
[49:32] - The Watershed of Old Testament Prophecies
[51:17] - Rachel's Mourning and God's Redemptive Plan
[53:00] - Jesus Called a Nazarene: Humility and Rejection
[54:44] - The Messiah's Rejection and Fulfillment of Prophecies
[56:24] - The Suffering Servant and the Messiah
[58:27] - The Priests' Complacency and the Magi's Journey
[59:31] - Invitation to Explore the Depths of Scripture
[01:00:27] - Closing Prayer
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
1. Matthew 1:18-25
2. Isaiah 7:14
3. Hosea 11:1
#### Observation Questions
1. What does the name "Jesus" mean, and why is it significant in the context of the sermon? ([35:38])
2. How does the prophecy of Emmanuel, "God with us," relate to the birth of Jesus according to Matthew? ([37:13])
3. What was Joseph's initial reaction to Mary's pregnancy, and how did his actions reflect his character? ([35:38])
4. How does the analogy of two mountains help us understand the fulfillment of prophecies in the Bible? ([38:54])
#### Interpretation Questions
1. How does the concept of "God's Sovereign Plan" in the birth of Jesus encourage believers to trust in God's timing and plan for their own lives? ([35:38])
2. In what ways does the prophecy of Emmanuel, "God with us," provide comfort and strength to believers today? ([37:13])
3. How does Jesus being called a Nazarene highlight the theme of humility and rejection in His life and ministry? ([53:00])
4. What does the layered fulfillment of prophecies, as illustrated by the analogy of two mountains, teach us about the depth and richness of Scripture? ([38:54])
#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a time when you struggled to trust in God's plan for your life. How can the story of Jesus' birth and the fulfillment of prophecies encourage you to trust in God's timing? ([35:38])
2. How can the truth that "God is with us" through Jesus change the way you face your current struggles or challenges? ([37:13])
3. Jesus' humble origins and the rejection He faced challenge us to embrace humility. What are some practical ways you can demonstrate humility in your daily life? ([53:00])
4. The sermon invites us to move beyond a superficial understanding of Scripture. What steps can you take to dive deeper into God's word and discover its profound truths? ([38:54])
5. Even in the midst of tragedy, God's redemptive plan is at work. Can you identify a difficult situation in your life where you have seen or hope to see God's redemptive work? ([51:17])
6. How can you apply the lesson of Jesus' rejection and humility to your interactions with others, especially those who may be marginalized or overlooked? ([53:00])
7. The sermon encourages us to explore the depths of Scripture. What specific book or passage of the Bible will you commit to studying more deeply this month? ([59:31])
Devotional
Day 1: Trusting in God's Sovereign Plan
God's Sovereign Plan: The birth of Jesus is a testament to God's meticulous and sovereign plan. Every detail, from Joseph's righteousness to the angelic announcement, aligns with Old Testament prophecies, demonstrating that God's promises are always fulfilled in His perfect timing. This encourages us to trust in God's plan for our lives, even when it doesn't align with our expectations. [35:38]
The birth of Jesus Christ is a profound example of God's sovereign plan in action. From Joseph's initial decision to quietly divorce Mary to the angelic reassurance he received, every detail was meticulously orchestrated to fulfill Old Testament prophecies. This divine orchestration is a testament to God's unwavering commitment to His promises and His perfect timing. The name "Jesus," meaning "God saves," encapsulates the extraordinary promise of salvation from sin, not just political oppression. This narrative encourages us to trust in God's plan for our lives, even when it doesn't align with our expectations. It reminds us that God's ways are higher than our ways and that His timing is always perfect.
As we reflect on the birth of Jesus, we are reminded that God's promises are always fulfilled. The prophecy of Emmanuel, "God with us," and the fulfillment of Isaiah's words through Jesus' birth, demonstrate God's sovereign plan. This fulfillment is not just a historical prediction but a divine announcement of God's sovereign plan. It challenges us to move beyond a superficial understanding of scripture and invites us to explore the depths of God's word, recognizing Jesus as the fulfillment of God's promises.
Isaiah 46:10-11 (ESV): "Declaring the end from the beginning and from ancient times things not yet done, saying, ‘My counsel shall stand, and I will accomplish all my purpose,’ calling a bird of prey from the east, the man of my counsel from a far country. I have spoken, and I will bring it to pass; I have purposed, and I will do it."
Reflection: Think of a situation in your life where you are struggling to see God's plan. How can you trust in His perfect timing and sovereign plan today?
Day 2: Experiencing Jesus as Emmanuel
Jesus as Emmanuel: The prophecy of Emmanuel, "God with us," is not just a historical prediction but a profound truth that God is present with us through Jesus. This presence is a source of comfort and strength, reminding us that we are never alone in our struggles and that God's love is always with us. [37:13]
The prophecy of Emmanuel, which means "God with us," is a profound truth that extends beyond a mere historical prediction. It signifies God's presence with us through Jesus Christ. This divine presence is a source of immense comfort and strength, reminding us that we are never alone in our struggles. Jesus' birth fulfills Isaiah's prophecy, demonstrating that God is always with us, guiding and supporting us through every challenge we face. This truth encourages us to lean on God's presence in our daily lives, finding solace in His unwavering love and support.
As we navigate the complexities of life, the assurance of God's presence through Jesus provides a foundation of hope and resilience. The narrative of Jesus' birth, the visit of the wise men, and the subsequent flight to Egypt all align with prophetic scriptures, showcasing God's meticulous plan. This divine orchestration serves as a reminder that God's love is always with us, even in the midst of adversity. Embracing this truth allows us to experience the fullness of God's love and the transformative power of His presence in our lives.
Matthew 28:20b (ESV): "And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age."
Reflection: In what ways can you become more aware of God's presence in your daily life? How can this awareness provide comfort and strength in your current struggles?
Day 3: Embracing the Humility of Jesus
The Humility of Jesus: Jesus being called a Nazarene highlights His humble origins and the rejection He faced. This humility is a powerful reminder that God's ways are often contrary to worldly expectations. It challenges us to embrace humility and recognize the value in what the world may deem insignificant. [53:00]
Jesus being called a Nazarene signifies His humble origins and the rejection He faced throughout His life. This humility is a powerful reminder that God's ways are often contrary to worldly expectations. Jesus' life and ministry were marked by humility, from His birth in a manger to His upbringing in Nazareth, a town of little repute. This challenges us to embrace humility in our own lives, recognizing the value in what the world may deem insignificant. It calls us to follow Jesus' example, prioritizing humility and service over pride and self-importance.
The narrative of Jesus' humble beginnings and the rejection He faced serves as a profound lesson for us. It reminds us that true greatness in God's kingdom is found in humility and service. Jesus' life exemplifies this truth, as He consistently chose the path of humility, even to the point of death on a cross. This challenges us to reevaluate our own priorities and attitudes, seeking to embody the humility of Christ in our interactions and decisions. Embracing this humility allows us to align more closely with God's purposes and experience the transformative power of His love.
Philippians 2:5-8 (ESV): "Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus, who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross."
Reflection: How can you practice humility in your daily interactions and decisions? What steps can you take to prioritize humility and service over pride and self-importance?
Day 4: Exploring the Depth of Scripture
The Depth of Scripture: The layered fulfillment of prophecies, like the analogy of two mountains, shows the depth and richness of scripture. This invites us to move beyond a superficial understanding and dive deeper into God's word, discovering the profound truths and promises that it holds. [38:54]
The layered fulfillment of prophecies in the Bible, often compared to the analogy of two mountains appearing close but being miles apart, reveals the depth and richness of scripture. This complexity invites us to move beyond a superficial understanding and dive deeper into God's word. By exploring the layers of meaning and fulfillment in biblical prophecies, we can uncover profound truths and promises that enrich our faith and understanding. This depth of scripture challenges us to engage with the Bible more intentionally, seeking to understand the broader context and significance of God's word.
As we delve into the depths of scripture, we discover the intricate ways in which God's promises are fulfilled. The birth of Jesus, the visit of the wise men, and the flight to Egypt all align with prophetic scriptures, demonstrating God's meticulous plan. This layered fulfillment encourages us to study the Bible with a discerning heart, seeking to uncover the deeper meanings and connections within God's word. By doing so, we can grow in our faith and gain a greater appreciation for the richness of scripture.
Psalm 119:18 (ESV): "Open my eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of your law."
Reflection: What steps can you take to deepen your understanding of scripture? How can you engage with the Bible more intentionally to uncover its profound truths and promises?
Day 5: Trusting in God's Redemptive Plan
God's Redemptive Plan: Even in the midst of tragedy, like Herod's massacre of the innocents, God's redemptive plan is at work. This reminds us that God can bring good out of the darkest situations and that His ultimate plan is one of redemption and restoration. [51:17]
Even in the midst of tragedy, God's redemptive plan is at work. The narrative of Herod's massacre of the innocents, which echoes Rachel's mourning, is a poignant example of this truth. Despite the darkness and sorrow of such events, God's ultimate plan is one of redemption and restoration. This reminds us that God can bring good out of the darkest situations, transforming pain and suffering into opportunities for His grace and love to shine through. It encourages us to trust in God's redemptive power, even when we face seemingly insurmountable challenges.
The story of Jesus' early life, including the flight to Egypt and the fulfillment of prophetic scriptures, demonstrates God's ability to weave redemption into the fabric of human history. This divine orchestration assures us that no situation is beyond God's reach and that His ultimate plan is one of hope and restoration. As we reflect on this truth, we are encouraged to look for God's redemptive work in our own lives, trusting that He can bring good out of even the most difficult circumstances.
Romans 8:28 (ESV): "And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose."
Reflection: Think of a difficult situation you are currently facing. How can you trust in God's redemptive power to bring good out of this situation? What steps can you take to seek His restoration and hope?
Quotes
### Quotes for Outreach
1. "Morning turns to songs of praise, our God saves, our God saves, our God saves. Morning turns to songs of praise, our God saves, our God saves, our God saves. Morning turns to songs of praise, our God saves, our God saves, our God saves. Morning turns to songs of praise, our God saves, our God saves, our God saves." [24:33] (16 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "Morning turns to songs of praise, our God saves, our God saves, our God saves. Morning turns to songs of praise, our God saves, our God saves, our God saves. Morning turns to songs of praise, our God saves, our God saves, our God saves. Morning turns to songs of praise, our God saves, our God saves, our God saves." [29:26] (16 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "Morning turns to songs of praise, our God saves, our God saves. Morning turns to songs of praise, our God saves, our God saves. Morning turns to songs of praise, our God saves, our God saves. Morning turns to songs of praise, our God saves, our God saves. Morning turns to songs of praise, our God saves, our God saves." [31:06] (5 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "Morning turns to songs of praise, our God saves. Morning turns to songs of praise, our God saves. Morning turns to songs of praise, our God saves. Morning turns to songs of praise, our God saves. Morning turns to songs of praise, our God saves." [31:50] (8 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "Morning turns to songs of praise, our God saves. Morning turns to songs of praise, our God saves. Morning turns to songs of praise, our God saves. Morning turns to songs of praise, our God saves. Morning turns to songs of praise, our God saves." [32:26] (8 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
### Quotes for Members
1. "But I encourage you not to settle for a coloring book level understanding of scripture. There's so many other settings as a church where we can go and ask questions and this ranges from larger church gatherings like tonight we had to reschedule due to rain the backyard service is going to be at the creatures tonight but also small groups and Sunday schools where you can go and dive into the word alongside other people who are trying to figure this out." [34:09] (31 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "So right from the start Jesus does not conform to their expectations. Nor does he conform to yours. And here we hit the first of our five statements. In verse 22. All this. So everything he's just said here's what he's getting at. All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had spoken by the prophet. Behold the virgin shall conceive and bear a son and they shall call his name Emmanuel which means God with us." [37:13] (31 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "So Matthew now he considers what happens with the birth of Jesus. A child born of a virgin is God with us. And he will save us not from the Assyrians not from the Romans but from our sins. Matthew 1 24. When Joseph woke from sleep he did as the angel of the Lord commanded him. He took his wife but knew her not until she had given birth to a son. And he called his name Jesus." [38:54] (25 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "So here in Isaiah when you read the rest of that section he is referring to something that is way bigger than the Assyrian invasion. And so it finds its partial fulfillment in the birth of this kid. And God does what he said he would do with the Assyrians and Damascus and some of these other kingdoms. And that happens within the lifetime of Isaiah. But it points to some future fulfillment that is greater than Assyria." [40:17] (28 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "So when it says the messiah will be called a nazarene you might write in smaller letters above that called a nobody nobody's trying to claim that title he was regarded as a nobody right along and again this is this is the witness in the entire old testament when it speaks to the messiah right alongside all the positive descriptions right the messiah is going to be the savior and ruler of israel and he's going to be the savior of israel and he's going to be the savior of israel it also has these notes of rejection you see this in zechariah in the book of isaiah the suffering servant." [56:24] (40 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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