Christmas Songs - Hark the Herald Angels SIng - Philippians 2:1-11 - December 27, 2009

Bible Study – Christmas Songs – Hark the Herald Angels Sing – December 27, 2009

This is our final lesson in our series entitled “God’s Christmas Songs.”

Our scripture is Philippians 2:1-11.

The Apostle Paul wrote this letter to the Christians in Philippi. Paul was in Rome under house arrest. Some believe he was in prison. Philippians is often referred to as the “joy” epistle because of the number of times Paul used the words “joy or rejoice.” The message in our scripture and the song “Hark the Herald Angels Sing” are similar. The message is GOD came from heaven to earth to save all who would believe upon HIM, JESUS. GOD was incarnate in JESUS. This is a statement of five (5) words but to probe the depths of their meaning is overwhelming.

“Hark the Herald Angels Sing” was written by Charles Wesley, 1739. His original words are copied below; they have been altered since he penned them. The words are a celebration of GOD incarnate in the flesh because HE came willingly from heaven to earth to give HIS life for all who would believe in HIM. GOD so loved the world ---- John 3:16.

Wesley’s orig­in­al ver­sion:
Hark, how all the welkin rings, (Meaning to make a very loud sound from heaven. 15 years later it was changed to read, Hark, the Herald Angels sing.)“Glory to the King of kings;Peace on earth, and mercy mild,God and sinners reconciled!”

Joyful, all ye nations, rise,Join the triumph of the skies;Universal nature say,“Christ the Lord is born to-day!”

Christ, by highest Heaven ador’d,Christ, the everlasting Lord:Late in time behold him come,Offspring of a Virgin’s womb!

Veiled in flesh, the Godhead see,Hail the incarnate deity!Pleased as man with men to appear,Jesus! Our Immanuel here!

Hail, the heavenly Prince of Peace!Hail, the Sun of Righteousness!Light and life to all he brings,Risen with healing in his wings.

Mild He lays his glory by,Born that man no more may die;Born to raise the sons of earth;Born to give them second birth.

Come, Desire of nations, come,Fix in us thy humble home;Rise, the woman’s conquering seed,Bruise in us the serpent’s head.

Now display thy saving power,Ruined nature now restore;Now in mystic union joinThine to ours, and ours to thine.

Adam’s likeness, Lord, efface;Stamp Thy image in its place.Second Adam from above,Reinstate us in thy love.

Let us Thee, though lost, regain,Thee, the life, the inner Man:O! to all thyself impart,Form’d in each believing heart.

Let’s read Philippians 2:1-6:

Christian Humility

1 If then there is any encouragement in Christ, if any consolation of love, if any fellowship with the Spirit, if any affection and mercy, 2 fulfill my joy by thinking the same way, having the same love, sharing the same feelings, focusing on one goal. 3 Do nothing out of rivalry or conceit, but in humility consider others as more important than yourselves. 4 Everyone should look out not [only]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. for his own interests, but also for the interests of others.
Christ’s Humility and Exaltation
5 Make your own attitude that of Christ Jesus, 6 who, existing in the form of God, did not consider equality with God as something to be used for His own advantage.[1] Or to be grasped, or to be held on to

The church at Philippi communicated with Paul when he was in Rome and sent money to support him. The church had sent Epaphroditus, (ih-paf-roh-DIGH-tuhs) one of their members, with support money for Paul. While Epaphroditus was in Rome he became sick and almost died. When he got well, Paul sent this letter back to the Philippian church by him.

Epaphroditus had told Paul of a situation among two (2) women in the church at Philippi. The women, Euodias (yoo-OH-dih-uhs) and Syntyche (SIN-tih-kee) were not getting along with each other and fellow Christians needed guidance from Paul. The letter was his reply, which included a public rebuked. We do not know what caused the problem but Paul wanted the church to deal with it before it got out of hand. Paul knew that unity was important to the church. So he began the letter reminding believers they must have the mind of CHRIST in them. An important attribute of CHRIST was HIS humility. HE humbled Himself and willingly left heaven to come to earth. Paul appealed to these two (2) women to humble themselves as CHRIST did.

CHRIST humbled Himself by leaving HIS home in heaven to come to earth, as a human, to give HIS life to pay the penalty for the original sin of mankind. HE did so not for HIS sake but for the sake of all who would believe in HIM. Therefore, believers should have that same nature in them. They should look out for the interest and welfare of others over their own interest. CHRIST gave up HIS position in heaven to come to earth to serve and believers should have this same mind set and nature. Whatever the problem was between the two (2) ladies, humility should resolve it. Unity of believers was and is important. This takes us to verse 5.

It is thought that verses 6-11 were sung in the early church, which is a powerful message of fundamental Christian doctrine. In verse 5, Paul reminded fellow believers to remember who they were in CHRIST. It seems he was saying, “You sing these words, verses 6-11, in the church. You know they reflect the humility of CHRIST, WHO was GOD in heaven but HE chose to give up HIS position as GOD to come to earth as a human so that all who believe in HIM might receive salvation. Just as HE humbled Himself for you, you should have this same mind set, nature in you.” Then he quoted the hymn which carries this truth.

Verse 6 begins with WHO, which refers back to CHRIST in verse 5. CHRIST before HE chose to come to earth as a human was in heaven. HE existed as GOD. Paul used the words “existing in the form of GOD.” The Greek word for “existing” carries the meaning of a continuing state or condition, which means CHRIST has always been GOD throughout eternity past. The Greek word “form” meant outward appearance of inner reality. In other words, CHRIST was completely GOD and heavenly beings saw HIM as the Son of GOD. There was no question about HIS Deity. HIS outward form identified HIM as the Son of GOD. Since HE was GOD, HE did not use that power to make Himself any different than a normal human when HE came to earth as a human. GOD chose to take on the form of a human being, subject to all that a human is and their limitations. HE chose to give up HIS right as GOD and transfer all HIS power and trust to GOD the FATHER. HE was totally dependent upon GOD, HIS FATHER just as all believers depend upon GOD for their care, nurturing, spiritual growth, spiritual maturity and direction. GOD desires an intimate loving relationship with all HIS children.

When CHRIST chose to be fully human HE was subjected to everything a human would be subjected to. HE grew in the womb of Mary, had a natural birth and had to be cared for just like any baby. HE felt pain, hunger, thirst, sorrow, happiness, illness and any other human emotions and feelings. HE was tempted in all ways as humans are tempted, yet without sin. HE knows what it is like being a human being.

To me this is so neat to think that HE totally depended upon GOD, HIS FATHER. HE wanted to be totally dependent upon GOD just as all believers are. HE wanted to feel what believers feel. When HE wanted things to go HIS way, out of human compassion, HE had to trust the FATHER that HIS way was better. HE could have chosen to keep HIS power as GOD to manifest it upon earth but HE did not. I think HE chose not to because HE wanted to experience what all believers experience after salvation. Every believer must trust GOD for all of his/her needs through relationship. CHRIST and GOD were ONE as HE wants us to be ONE with the FATHER. GOD’S desire for all believers is for them to be made into the image of HIS SON, JESUS.

CHRIST had to empty Himself of HIS Deity so HE could become completely human. That is humility.

Let’s read Philippians 2:7-8:

7 Instead He emptied Himself by assuming the form of a slave, taking on the likeness of men. And when He had come as a man in His external form, 8 He humbled Himself by becoming obedient to the point of death—even to death on a cross.

CHRIST emptied Himself of HIS form as GOD and took on the form of a human with the nature of a slave or servant. A slave serves his/her master. CHRIST was 100% human. HE manifested Himself fully in the form of a human, yet HE was 100% divine. In human form HE had chosen the limitations of a human and not to keep any of HIS power and authority as GOD. HE was subject to death, as proof, HE gave HIS earthly life on the cross. HE was completely dependent upon GOD, HIS FATHER. HIS life as a human was an example to all believers of the relationship they can have with GOD through HIM. Believers must keep in mind that CHRIST sought to do only the will of the FATHER. Believers battle their flesh and through the process of sanctification are being made into the image of CHRIST.

Let’s read Philippians 2:9:

9 For this reason God also highly exalted Him and gave Him the name that is above every name,

CHRIST freely chose to completely trust GOD, HIS FATHER and gave up HIS place in heaven to become a human. Because HE remained faithful to HIS redemptive purpose, GOD the FATHER exalted HIM and gave HIM authority over all, including the final judgment. HIS decision to come to earth was out of love for ever person who would believe in HIM.

Let’s read Philippians 2:10-11:

10 so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow— of those who are in heaven and on earth and under the earth— 11 and every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

Since CHRIST is exalted above all, there will be a time when every human who has ever lived and every heavenly being will bow to HIM and every tongue will acknowledge HIM as LORD. When CHRIST is acknowledged for WHO HE is, it brings glory to GOD the FATHER.

What Paul has written is sound fundamental Christian doctrine. It is the heart of the Christian faith. Let’s see if we can put it all together:

CHRIST has always been:

Genesis 1:26a - 26 Then God said, “Let Us make man in Our image, according to Our likeness. The reference to “US” is the Trinity – GOD, THE FATHER, THE SON (JESUS) and THE HOLY SPIRIT.

John 1:1-5:

1 In the beginning[1] Gn 1:1 was the Word,[2] The Word (Gk Logos) is a title for Jesus as the communication and the revealer of God the Father; Jn 1:14,18; Rv 19:13. (JESUS) and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2 He was with God in the beginning. 3 All things were created through Him, and apart from Him not one thing was created that has been created.[3] Col 1:16; Heb 1:2 4 Life was in Him,[4] Other punctuation is possible: . . . not one thing was created. What was created in Him was life and that life was the light of men. 5 That light shines in the darkness, yet the darkness did not overcome[5] Or grasp, or comprehend, or overtake; Jn 12:35 it.

JESUS abode was in heaven as GOD until HE chose to give up HIS position as GOD and come to earth as a human. HIS position, as GOD with the experience of living as a human, was restored after HIS death on the cross. WHO better to understand us when we approach HIM with our problems, fears and concerns?

The Trinity formed man and GOD placed Adam in charge of the garden. Genesis 2:8-9:

8 The Lord God planted a garden in Eden, in the east, and there He placed the man He had formed. 9 The Lord God caused to grow out of the ground every tree pleasing in appearance and good for food, including the tree of life in the midst of the garden, as well as the tree of the knowledge of good and evil.[10] Pr 3:18

Genesis 2:15-17:

15 The Lord God took the man and placed him in the garden of Eden to work it and watch over it. 16 And the Lord God commanded the man, “You are free to eat from any tree of the garden,[16] Gn 3:1–2 17 but you must not eat[17] Lit eat from it from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, for on the day you eat from it, you will certainly die.”[18] Gn 3:5

Adam was responsible for the care of the garden. He had freedom to choose. Adam could eat the fruit from the tree of life. In fact, GOD told him he could “eat from any tree, except from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, for the day you eat from it, you will certainly die”. Adam could have chosen to eat the fruit from the tree of life and live forever but he didn’t.

Satan talked Eve into partaking of the forbidden fruit from the tree of the knowledge
of good and evil. She liked it and did not fall over dead. Adam was apparently standing close by and she gave him some of the fruit. When he ate it both of their eyes were opened. This is the original sin and condemned mankind to death. Eve sinned by eating the fruit but Adam was watching and was responsible for the garden. He did not try to stop her. When he ate of the fruit both knew the impact of sin. GOD held him responsible but GOD would use the seed of woman to redeem mankind from the penalty of the original sin.

Genesis 3:15:

15 I (GOD) will put hostility between you (Satan) and the woman, and between your • seed and her seed (JESUS). He (JESUS) will strike your head, and you will strike his (Satan) heel.[11] Heb 2:14; 1 Jn 3:8

GOD had the plan of salvation and redemption before HE formed the world. HE gave man freedom of choice. GOD’S foreknowledge did not prevent HIM from creating mankind, even though HE knew they would sin.

GOD revealed HIS plan of salvation through the prophets and at the right time HE allowed HIS ONLY SON to come to earth to be incarnated as a human. CHRIST willingly left HIS home and position as GOD in heaven by empting Himself of HIS Godly form to take on HIS human form. HE relinquished all HIS power as GOD and trusted GOD, THE FATHER completely with HIS earthly life. HE agreed to become 100% human, subject to all the limitations a human. HE had freedom of choice and was capable of sinning, yet we know HE remained sinless. The best glimpse we have of CHRIST’S deity while HE was on earth was on the mount of transfiguration –
Matthew 17:1-2:

1 And after six days Jesus taketh Peter, James, and John his brother, and bringeth them up into an high mountain apart, 2 And was transfigured before them: and his face did shine as the sun, and his raiment was white as the light. (KJV) This was CHRIST’S final exam before being crucified, HE was sinless.

JESUS’ earthly ministry was coming to a close and HE was praying to HIS FATHER in John 17:1-5: (Jesus Prays for Himself)

1 Jesus spoke these things, looked up to heaven, and said: Father, the hour has come. Glorify Your Son so that the Son may glorify You, 2 for You gave Him authority over all flesh;[1] Or people so He may give eternal life to all You have given Him. 3 This is eternal life: that they may know You, the only true God, and the One You have sent—Jesus Christ.[2] Jn 5:38; 6:29 4 I have glorified You on the earth by completing the work You gave Me to do. 5 Now, Father, glorify Me in Your presence with that glory I had with You before the world existed.

I think that last statement in verse 5 is so powerful. HE remembered what it was like being GOD at the time when HE was about to give HIS earthly life for the sins of mankind. HE remembered HIS power. What has this got to do with anything? I believe that the temptation of JESUS, when HE was betrayed by Judas to the moment HE gave up HIS earthly life were the most intense times of HIS ministry. Satan wanted HIM to reclaim HIS power as GOD and take matters into HIS own hands from a human perspective. This was particularly true in the final moments while HE hung on the cross. To me the intensity to take matters into HIS own hands were recorded in Matthew 27:46 - 46 At about three in the afternoon Jesus cried out with a loud voice, “Elí, Elí, lemá sabachtháni?” that is, “My God, My God, why have You forsaken[23] Or abandoned Me?”[24] Ps 22:1

GOD, CHRIST’S FATHER, had turned HIS eyes from HIM because HE had become sin. I am sure Satan was working full time, such as, “Your FATHER doesn’t love YOU, come-on it is time for YOU to use your power. Don’t YOU remember the power YOU had when YOU were in heaven! YOU must act now!!! This is GOD’S plan for YOU. YOU must take matters into YOUR own hands.” Satan did not want CHRIST to give HIS life on the cross.

CHRIST could have come down from the cross. HE could have called legions of angels to come to HIS aid and defense. But HE remained faithful, trusting HIS earthly life to the hands of GOD HIS FATHER. Trust is what HE desires for all believers. JESUS did trust GOD to the end. GOD raised HIM from the dead and gave HIM HIS Glorified body. Forty (40) days after HIS resurrection, HE ascended into heaven to sit at the right hand of GOD, HIS FATHER. Boy are we glad HE remained faithful because of HIS faithfulness believers have forgiveness for their sins, receive eternal life, become children of GOD through the miracle of rebirth, are indwelled by the HOLY SPIRIT, have assurance of salvation, and citizenship in heaven. All because of CHRIST agreeing to humble Himself and come to earth as a baby to be born in a stable in a little town called Bethlehem (House of Bread).

CHRIST chose to give up HIS position as GOD and to be incarnated as a human. HE chose to give HIS life to pay the penalty for the original sin that condemned mankind to death. HIS death removed the barrier of sin between mankind and GOD. Just as GOD chose to empty Himself of HIS Deity and come to earth, each human has a choice to make. If GOD believed it so important to do all of this for the sake of mankind, every person should pay attention and receive the free gift of salvation.

Will people humble themselves and empty themselves of their humanness and choose CHRIST as their SAVIOR? Ask CHRIST to forgive you of your sins, believe that HE died on the cross for your sins and ask HIM to come into your life. If you prayed this prayer, thank HIM for coming into your life and share this Good News with others.

MERRY CHRISTMAS and HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!

Christmas Songs - Go Tell It on thee Mountain - Luke 1:67-79 - December 20, 2009

Bible Study – Christmas Songs – Go, Tell It on the Mountain – December 20, 2009

This is lesson three (3) in our series entitled “God’s Christmas Songs.”

Our scripture is Luke 1:67-79.

The Christmas carol “Go Tell It on the Mountain” is an African-American spiritual song. Scholars are not certain who wrote it but some believe it was written by Fredrick Jerome Work (1880-1942) who was a black composer, teacher and scholar. The song has a beautiful message and it was named the carol of the year in 2004.

The words are:

Go tell it on the mountain Over the hills and far away Go tell it on the mountain That Jesus Christ is born

The shepherds all were watching Over their sheep at night When a guiding star shone from heaven And the followed that holy light

Go tell it on the mountain Over the hills and everywhere Go tell it on the mountain That Jesus Christ is born

They found a lovely manger Where the humble Christ was born And God sent out salvation On that blessed Christmas morn

Go tell it on the mountain Over the hills and everywhere Go tell it on the mountain That Jesus Christ is born

He brought with Him forgiveness He live to show us the way He came to redeem all creation And to wash all our sins away

Go tell it on the mountain Over the hills and everywhere Go tell it on the mountain That Jesus Christ is born (End of words)

Good news is hard to keep. We saw in our last study that Mary broke out in song when she fully comprehended that GOD had chosen her to bear the promised Messiah. This happened when she (1) saw her cousin Elizabeth pregnant which confirmed the message of the angel Gabriel (2) Elizabeth greeted her with “Blessed are you (Mary) among women, and blessed is the child you are to bear! But why am I so favored, that the mother of my LORD should come to me.”

Our study this week focuses on the song of Zechariah or the “Benedictus”. Benedictus means blessed and comes from the first word of the song in the Vulgate, the Latin translation of the Bible. Just as Mary’s song being called the “Magnificant”, which was the first word in the Latin Vulgate.

In the background information leading up to the angel Gabriel speaking to Mary, we reviewed the encounter that the priest Zechariah had with the angel Gabriel. As you recall, because Zechariah questioned their ability to conceive a child due to their old age, Gabriel told Zechariah that he would not be able to speak until their son was born. It appears that Zechariah could not hear because of the language in Luke 1:62:

62 So they motioned to his father to find out what he wanted him (his son) to be called.

Backing up a few verses to Luke 1:57-60 we see when they were going to name the baby after his father, Elizabeth blurted out “No! He will be called John.”

Luke 1:57-60:

57 Now the time had come for Elizabeth to give birth, and she had a son. 58 Then her neighbors and relatives heard that the Lord had shown her His great mercy,[26] Lit the Lord magnified His mercy with her and they rejoiced with her. 59 When they came to circumcise the child on the eighth day, they were going to name him Zechariah, after his father. 60 But his mother responded, “No! He will be called John.”

Was this Zechariah’s final confirmation that what had happened to him the day he was serving as priest was from GOD? Had he told Elizabeth what the Gabriel had told him to name the baby? We do not know. Did Zechariah not reveal this information because he wanted to be sure that what he had heard from Gabriel was accurate? It does seem that Elizabeth’s blurting out the name “John” confirmed to Zechariah the event.

Let’s read Luke 1:63-66:

63 He asked for a writing tablet and wrote: HIS NAME IS JOHN And they were all amazed. 64 Immediately his mouth was opened and his tongue [set free]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. , and he began to speak, praising God. 65 Fear came on all those who lived around them, and all these things were being talked about throughout the hill country of Judea. 66 All who heard about [him]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. took [it]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. to heart, saying, “What then will this child become?” For, indeed, the Lord’s hand was with him.

To me this was Zechariah’s confirmation and when he fully believed, his tongue was set free. These events were also a witness to others. Zechariah’s reaction was to erupt in a song of praise.

Let’s read Luke 1:67-71:

67 Then his father Zechariah was filled with the Holy Spirit and prophesied:
68 Praise the Lord, the God of Israel,[27] Ps 41:13 because He has visited and provided redemption for His people. 69 He has raised up a • horn[28] 1 Sm 2:1,10; 2 Sm 22:3; Dn 7—8; Zch 1:18–21 of salvation[29] A strong Savior for us in the house of His servant David, 70 just as He spoke by the mouth of His holy prophets in ancient times; 71 salvation from our enemies and from the clutches[30] Lit the hand of those who hate us.

In verse 67, we see that Zechariah was filled with the HOLY SPIRIT. Yet the HOLY SPIRIT did not come to indwell the body of believers until after the birth, life, death, resurrection and ascension of JESUS. The HOLY SPIRIT descended upon Zechariah for this special purpose. At Pentecost, JESUS sent the HOLY SPIRIT to indwell all believers with power and assurance.

Zechariah began to prophesy as inspired by GOD. Verses 68-75 are focused on the promised Messiah. He praised the LORD and identified HIM as the GOD of Israel. He used the word “visited.” The Greek word for “visited” was a medical term used when a doctor rendered aid to a patient. This is a beautiful term because of the love of GOD for all mankind, HE allowed HIS only SON to die for the sins of mankind. The Messiah, by giving HIS life, would provide redemption for all who believe in HIM.
Redemption was a term used to connote that a price had to be paid to redeem a person from bondage. It was a term used to purchase slaves from their master. JESUS purchased each believer from the penalty of sin, which is death.

1 Corinthians 6:19-20:

19 Do you not know that your body is a sanctuary of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God? You are not your own, 20 for you were bought at a price; therefore glorify God in your body.[9] Other mss add and in your spirit, which belong to God.

The Messiah would be the “horn of salvation” as GOD had promised King David about 1,000 years earlier. The term “horn of salvation” carried several thoughts. The horn of an animal represented its strength and was used for protection. Horns were used as trumpets to send messages and to sound a battle cry. They were used to hold oil to anoint kings. The altar in the temple had horns and provided a sanctuary to those in fear. A person was safe as long as he/she clung to the horns of the altar. I believe this was GOD’S message to mankind that all who seek and believe in the Messiah will find peace resulting from salvation from sin and death.

In verse 69, Zechariah spoke of the Messiah coming from the house of David. This was King David. In 2 Samuel 7:11b-16 we find the scripture where GOD told David, through the Prophet Nathan, that the Messiah would come from his lineage:

“ ‘The Lord declares to you: The Lord Himself will make a house for you. 12 When your time comes and you rest with your fathers, I will raise up after you your descendant, who will come from your body, and I will establish his kingdom. 13 He will build a house for My name,[8] 1 Kg 5:2–5; 6:12; 8:18–19 and I will establish the throne of his kingdom forever. 14 I will be a father to him, and he will be a son to Me.[9] Ps 2:9 When he does wrong, I will discipline him with a human rod and with blows from others. 15 But My faithful love will never leave him[10] Ps 89:21,28,33 as I removed it from Saul; I removed him from your way.[11] 1 Sm 15:24–28 16 Your house and kingdom will endure before Me[12] Some Hb mss, LXX, Syr; other Hb mss read you forever, and your throne will be established forever.’ ”[13] Ps 89:29,36 17 Nathan spoke all these words and this entire vision to David.[14] 1 Ch 17:3–15

GOD fulfills HIS promises and the Messiah will deliver all believers from the clutches of their enemies, sin and death. GOD had prophesied through the prophets of old and HE was prophesying through HIS prophet Zechariah.

Verse 71 looks back and forward “salvation from our enemies and from the clutches of those who hate us.” In essence it means “Just as GOD delivered HIS people from the bondage of slavery and from various perils along their journey to the Promised Land, the Messiah will deliver those in bondage of their enemies, sin and death.” It is easy to see why the Israelites were looking for the Messiah to deliver them from Roman rule. GOD’S involvement in the lives of the Israelites continues in our next scripture.

Let’s read Luke 1:72-77:

72 He has dealt mercifully with our fathers and remembered His holy covenant— 73 the oath that He swore to our father Abraham. He has given us the privilege, 74 since we have been rescued from our enemies’ clutches,[31] Lit from the hand of enemies to serve Him without fear 75 in holiness and righteousness in His presence all our days. 76 And child, you will be called a prophet of the Most High, for you will go before the Lord to prepare His ways,[32] Mal 3:1 77 to give His people knowledge of salvation through the forgiveness of their sins.

In spite of the failings of the Israelites, GOD’S grace has been poured out upon them because of the covenant HE made with Abraham.

Reviewing the journey of the Israelites from Egyptian bondage to the Promised Land, there were many occasions that GOD’S mercy was poured out upon them. There were consequences for their disobedience but mercy and grace brought them to the Promised Land. The Messiah will extend mercy and grace to all who believe in HIM.
GOD was sending HIS promised Messiah just as HE promised Abraham in Genesis
12:1-3: (About 2,000 B.C.)

The Call of Abram
1 The Lord said to Abram: Go out from your land, your relatives, and your father’s house to the land that I will show you. 2 I will make you into a great nation, I will bless you, I will make your name great, and you will be a blessing.[1] Or great. Be a blessing! [2] Zch 8:13 3 I will bless those who bless you, I will curse those who treat you with contempt,[3] Gn 27:29; Nm 24:9 and all the peoples[4] Lit clans on earth will be blessed[5] Or will find blessing through you.[6] Or will bless themselves by you [7] Gn 26:4; 28:14; Gl 3:8

The phrase “all the peoples on earth will be blessed through you” was the connection of Abraham to the promised Messiah, JESUS. Belief in JESUS through faith tied back to the faith that Abraham had in GOD. Genesis 12 is the calling of Abraham or Abram.
In Genesis 17:1-8 was the promise from GOD that Abraham and his wife Sarah would have a child:

1 When Abram was 99 years old, the Lord appeared to him, saying, “I am • God Almighty.[1] Gn 28:3; 35:11; Ex 6:3 Live in My presence and be devout.[2] Gn 6:9; Ps 15:2; Lk 1:6 2 I will establish My covenant between Me and you, and I will multiply you greatly.” 3 Then Abram fell to the ground,[3] Lit fell on his face and God spoke with him: 4 “As for Me, My covenant is with you, and you will become the father of many nations.[4] Abraham was father not only of the Israelites, but also of the Ishmaelites, the Edomites, and the Midianites. Spiritually, he is the father of all believers; Gl 3:7,29. 5 Your name will no longer be Abram,[5] = The Father Is Exalted but your name will be Abraham,[6] = Father of a Multitude for I will make you the father of many nations.[7] Rm 4:17–18 6 I will make you extremely fruitful and will make nations and kings come from you. 7 I will keep My covenant between Me and you, and your • offspring after you throughout their generations, as an everlasting covenant to be your God and the [God]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. of your offspring after you. 8 And to you and your offspring after you I will give the land where you are residing—all the land of Canaan—as an eternal possession, and I will be their God.”

After the birth of Abraham and Sarah’s only son, Isaac, GOD subjected Abraham, in my opinion, to the ultimate test of faith when HE asked Abraham to offer his only son, Isaac, as a burnt offering to HIM. Genesis 22:15-18 was an account of the event after Abraham passed the ultimate test of faith in GOD: (Abraham’s faith in GOD was such that he believed if Isaac was reduced to ashes, GOD would restore him.)

15 Then the Angel of the Lord called to Abraham a second time from heaven 16 and said, “By Myself I have sworn, says the Lord: Because you have done this thing and have not withheld your only son,[8] Sam, LXX, Syr, Vg add from Me [9] Rm 8:32 17 I will indeed bless you and make your • offspring as numerous as the stars in the sky and the sand on the seashore. Your offspring will possess the gates of their enemies. 18 And all the nations of the earth will be blessed[10] Or will bless themselves, or will find blessing by your offspring[11] Gn 12:3 because you have obeyed My command.”

Verse 18 was GOD’S covenant with Abraham that the Messiah would come from his offspring because of his faith in HIM. WOW!!! That to me is mind boggling. All of this occurred about 2,000 years before CHRIST was born. What an awesome GOD we serve.

Through the Messiah, all who believe in HIM are rescued from sin and death. Not only rescued from sin and death but also made righteous through JESUS.

2 Corinthians 5:21:
21 He (GOD) made the One (JESUS) who did not know sin to be sin for us, so that we (all believers) might become the righteousness of God in Him.
Verse 74, states that believers would serve HIM without fear but they will serve in confidence that they will not come under judgment. John 5:24 quotes the words of JESUS:
24 “I assure you: Anyone who hears My word and believes Him who sent Me has eternal life and will not come under judgment but has passed from death to life.

Christians have been forgiven for their sins, born into the family of GOD through the miracle of the rebirth, become citizens of heaven, have eternal life and are indwelled by the HOLY SPIRIT as the assurance or down payment that their faith in CHRIST is solid and secured by GOD Himself. In essence, every believer has symbolically died physically and been resurrected spiritually. Therefore, when a believer dies physically he/she will immediately be in heaven with GOD and CHRIST.

In verse 76, Zechariah was referring to his child John. We know him as John the Baptist or John the baptizer because he baptized believers who had repented of their sins. John was to be the herald or forerunner of the Messiah. A herald ran before a king or VIP to ensure that the road was clear and in good repair. He also alerted the people ahead to prepare for the arrival of this person. If the road needed to be repaired, they would see to it that the road was repaired. John was repairing the spiritual road to salvation which was in need of repair because of the flawed Jewish religious system.

John the Baptist was to prepare the way for mankind to receive salvation offered by the Messiah or the Most High. John preached repentance from sin and that the Messiah would provide forgiveness and salvation. Once JESUS fulfilled HIS passion, believers would have direct access to GOD and no longer needed to go through a priest.

Let’s read Luke 1:78-79:

78 Because of our God’s merciful compassion, the Dawn[33] Jr 23:5; Zch 3:8; 6:12 LXX from on high[34] Lk 24:49; Isaiah 58:8; Eph 4:8 will visit us 79 to shine on those who live in darkness and the shadow of death,[35] Isaiah 9:2; 60:2–3 to guide our feet into the way of peace.

These verses are specific to the Messiah. It is only because of GOD’S mercy that HE gave permission for HIS ONLY SON to come to earth, live as a human and die for the sins of mankind. JESUS was willing to come but GOD had to allow HIM to come.

The next words are beautiful, “the Dawn from on high will visit us to shine on those who live in darkness---.” The Messiah will come from GOD and will “visit” us. This means HE will come to us as a physician visits the sick. HE will come to those in spiritual need. The words refer back to prophesy found in Isaiah 9:2 and used again by Matthew in Matthew 4:16.

Isaiah 9:2:
2 [2] Isa 9:1 in Hb The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of darkness, a light has dawned.

Matthew 4:16:
16 The people who live in darkness have seen a great light, and for those living in the shadowland of death, light has dawned.[8] Lit dawned on them [9] Isaiah 9:1–2

“The original metaphor here refers to a party of travelers who, before reaching their
destination, have been overtaken by darkness of a pitch-black night and are now sitting terrified and powerless and expect any moment to be overwhelmed and killed by wild beasts or enemies. But all at once a bright light appears to show them the way, so that they reach their destination safely where they enjoy rest and peace.” (1)
(1) Norval Gledenduys, Commentary on the Gospel of Luke, in The New International Commentary on the New Testament [Grand Rapids: William B. Eerdmans Publishing Company, 1956], 95.

Our young son and I went spelunking (Exploring caves). We went with the Boy Scouts and always had an experienced guide. The first thing we learned was the absolute importance of having several dependable light sources. I recall a time that we were working our way around a steep wall deep in a cave. About 20 feet down there were sharp pointed rocks with little to grab hold of and narrow places to place our feet along the wall. The wall made a sharp right turn and I thought, “This would not be a good place for my light to go out.” The person in front of me went around the corner and it was black dark. I started around and you guessed it, my light went out. I paused for a moment and the person behind me began to work his way around the previous corner I had come around. As he approached that corner, his light gave me enough light to see where to place my hands to go safely around the corner. Light is so important when you are in total darkness. Even a very little light in total darkness is welcomed.

Mankind was and still is in spiritual darkness due to sin but JESUS is clearly the light of the world. Zechariah’s reference to the Messiah as the Dawn was to show that HE was coming from GOD just as the rising sun was a gift from GOD every day. The Messiah is a gift from GOD to the people of earth, to the Jews first and then to the Gentiles.

Zechariah was overwhelmed with joy and broke out in song which included prophesy from the Old Testament and he was giving new prophesy regarding both the Messiah and his son, John.

GOD has given to all mankind a great light and this light is JESUS. Have you accepted HIM as your SAVIOR and made HIM the LORD of your life? If not, why not do it right now by asking JESUS to forgive you of your sins and to come into your life. When you do, go tell it to someone immediately. In fact, go tell it on the mountain that JESUS CHRIST is the LORD of your life. No better Christmas gift than the gift of forgiveness, eternal life, becoming the child of GOD, becoming a citizen of heaven and the HOLY SPIRIT.

Christmas Songs - Joy to the World - Luke 1 - Decembeer 13, 2009

Bible Study – Christmas Songs – Joy to the World – December 13, 2009

This is lesson two (2) in our series of study entitled “Christmas Songs.”

Our scripture is Luke 1: 46-55.

It is interesting how this week’s lesson is a continuation of last week’s study. I asked you to ponder the idea of the human spirit being like the egg and when GOD’S SPIRIT unites with our spirit, conception takes place. Carry this thought with you as you study today’s lesson when Mary rejoices in the favor that GOD has shown to her by choosing her to bare HIS SON, JESUS. When GOD’S SPIRIT unites with our spirit though rebirth, many new believers rejoice in their hearts to express the unspeakable joy of salvation. It is a celebration of knowing that you belong to GOD through relationship.

I must quickly add that not everyone has this same expression of joy when they are saved. For some, salvation is like the dawning of a new day, we watch it but it is difficult for us to pinpoint the exact moment the day has dawned. Many believers know they are saved but it is difficult for them to pinpoint the exact moment. My moment of salvation was uneventful at age nine (9) or ten (10) years old. I struggled for many years holding on to the world with one hand and GOD with the other. I was torn but in my thirties, on my way to work one morning, I gave up and asked the LORD to take my life, the good and the bad, and to give me the strength to live the Christian life. In that instant, I knew that I was a child of GOD. It was a joyful experience. There have been times of experiencing the presence of GOD that have been overwhelming and there have been times I was away from GOD walking in the weeds. But one thing for certain, GOD never left me in the bad times.

If you have not experienced the joy of the LORD in your life and you know that you have asked HIM to forgive you of your sins and to come into your life, ask HIM to reveal any barrier that is blocking your relationship with HIM. Seek HIM by seeking to build an intimate, loving relationship with HIM. When you get to know HIM you will experience the joy of HIS presence in your life. If your motive is for the experience there is a problem but when your motive is to obediently serve HIM, it is an overwhelming journey. It is all about our heart. Remember what we studied in the book of James.

“Joy to the World” is a Christmas carol written by Isaac Watts (1674-1747) based on Psalm 98:4. He was expressing unspeakable joy, which relates to the joy Mary, the mother of JESUS, experienced when she understood that GOD had chosen her to bare HIS promised Messiah, JESUS. Watts wrote hymns based upon his spiritual awaking as he studied and understood the Bible.

As you read the words to “Joy to the World” think of the joy being expressed by Mary in her praise:

Joy to the world! The Lord is come:
Let earth receive her king:
Let ev’ry heart prepare Him room.
And heav’n and nature sing,
And heav’n, and heav’n and nature sing. (1)

(1) “Joy to the World! The Lord is Come,” Isaac Watts, The Baptist Hymnal, [Nashville: Convention Press, 1991, No. 87.

What is joy versus happiness? Joy comes from the same root word as “grace.” Joy does not depend upon chance but upon GOD’S sovereignty and HIS unspeakable grace. Happiness depends upon good, warm, positive, feel good circumstances surrounding us. One can lose happiness when circumstances change whereas, joy is not dependent upon circumstances. We will see the joy that Mary expresses in our scripture. She was not in the best of circumstances, meaning a young unmarried mother who could be stoned because she was pregnant but her joy was in GOD. GOD gave her a choice and she said yes to serve GOD.

Our scripture was written about 60 A.D. by a physician, Doctor Luke. He was commissioned by Theophilus a man of means. Luke 1:1-4 will give us insight why Theophilus, a Christian, wanted this documented version of the life and times of JESUS compiled by a respected, detailed oriented doctor. Luke was a Gentile, thus the only non-Jewish author of a New Testament book. This could be another reason Theophilus hired him to compile this documentary. Theophilus wanted the truth about JESUS from an unbiased source.

Let’s read Luke 1:1-4:

The Dedication to Theophilus

1 Many have undertaken to compile a narrative about the events that have been fulfilled[1] Or events that have been accomplished, or events most surely believed among us, 2 just as the original eyewitnesses and servants of the word handed them down to us. 3 It also seemed good to me, since I have carefully investigated everything from the very first, to write to you in orderly sequence, most honorable Theophilus, 4 so that you may know the certainty of the things about which you have been instructed.[2] Or informed

Let’s review the events leading up to our scripture:

Herod was king of Judea.

There was a Jewish Priest named Zechariah who was married to Elizabeth, who was Mary’s cousin.

Zechariah and Elizabeth were devout believers and wanted children but they could not have a child. Plus by this time they were getting old but they were still praying for a child. But in essence, they had given up on the idea. Does this remind you of Abraham and Sarah? GOD wants HIS work to be beyond our ability to claim it when it happens. It is HIS power that is at work and HE wants all people involved with HIS plan and purpose to see that HE is in control. This is very important to those who obediently serve HIM. HE leads, we follow.

It was time for Zechariah’s priest division to serve. Zechariah was selected by casting lots to serve in the temple and burn incense. Again, GOD is in control. Incense was burned twice a day. When the people saw the smoke from the burning of incense, they knew it symbolized their prayers ascending to heaven. It was during the burning of incense that Zechariah encountered the angel, Gabriel, standing at the right side of the incense altar. Zechariah was shocked. Gabriel reminded him that he had been praying for a child and told him that Elizabeth would bear a son and he was to name him, John. But Zechariah questioned their ability to have a child because of their age. It is not good to question GOD. So GOD gave Zechariah a sign of HIS power in this matter, which resulted in Zechariah not being able to speak until the baby was born.
Elizabeth was in her sixth (6) month when Gabriel visited Elizabeth’s cousin, Mary. Again, timing is very important to GOD to carry out HIS plan and purpose. Gabriel told Mary that GOD had chosen her to bear HIS son and she was to name HIM, JESUS. Mary had a choice and she agreed to be obedient to GOD’S request. Gabriel told her about Elizabeth being pregnant. Mary must have been surprised because of their ages.

She visited her cousin Elizabeth and when they greeted each other, Elizabeth’s baby leaped in her womb. This seemed to be an expression of joy, common bond and confirmation. JESUS and John the Baptist were cousins and both were on a mission appointed by GOD. JESUS was divinely conceived, whereas, John was conceived the old fashion way by the power, plan and purpose of GOD. When Elizabeth greeted Mary, Elizabeth was filled with the HOLY SPIRIT and exclaimed “Why am I favored that the mother of my LORD should come to me?”

Mary had two (2) confirmations to what Gabriel had told her: (1) Elizabeth was indeed was pregnant (2) Elizabeth’s greeting that she was indeed the mother of the promised Messiah.

After this confirmation, Mary was overwhelmed with joy which erupted in her song called the Magnificant, which the scripture in our study.

We discussed in our last study that our salvation is somewhat akin to Mary’s experience. GOD came to her and chose her to be HIS servant. She willingly accepted. By the same token, GOD approaches every person and asks him/her to accept CHRIST as his/her SAVIOR. Each person has a choice. Those who accept CHRIST as their SAVIOR can experience the overwhelming joy of the rebirth in their spirit. Now compare that moment of becoming a Christian to Mary’s joy. (Keep in mind not everyone experiences this moment of joy at conversion. If you did not, do not worry. In committing your life to HIM and building a loving, dynamic, intimate relationship with HIM, you will.)

Our study this week will have a different format. It seems to work better.

Let’s read Luke 1:46-55:

Mary’s Praise

46 And Mary said:
My soul proclaims the greatness of[21] Or soul magnifies the Lord,[22] 1 Sm 2:1–10 47 and my spirit has rejoiced in God my Savior, 48 because He has looked with favor on the humble condition of His • slave. Surely, from now on all generations will call me blessed, 49 because the Mighty One[23] Ps 89:8; Zph 3:17 has done great things for me, and His name is holy. 50 His mercy is from generation to generation on those who fear Him. 51 He has done a mighty deed with His arm; He has scattered the proud because of the thoughts of their hearts; 52 He has toppled the mighty from their thrones and exalted the lowly. 53 He has satisfied the hungry with good things and sent the rich away empty. 54 He has helped His servant Israel, mindful of His mercy,[24] Because He remembered His mercy; see Ps 98:3 55 just as He spoke to our ancestors, to Abraham and his descendants[25] Or offspring; lit seed forever.

As we discussed earlier, Mary was celebrating the joy of GOD choosing her to serve HIM. I understand that many young women of that period of time dreamed of the day they might be chosen by GOD to bear the promised Messiah. The events surrounding Mary’s visit with Elizabeth had confirmed the facts she had been told by the angel, Gabriel. She knew GOD had given Isaac to Abraham and Sarah, HE had given a child to barren Elizabeth and she was to bear the promised Messiah. She knew that GOD was the power WHO created the miracles.

This was a time to celebrate and express the joy that was in her heart. It was a moment when Mary realized that GOD had chosen her, a young woman coming from humble circumstances, for such a blessed honor. In her wildest dreams she would not have believed she would have been chosen. Mary was called to serve GOD. Faithful believers are called to serve every day. The ordinary are called to be instrumental in the plan and purpose of GOD doing the extraordinary. We respect them and their obedience but we do not worship them. By the same token, we rejoice in Mary’s obedience but she is not to be worshiped. JESUS made it clear in John 14:6:

6 Jesus told him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.

Mary was rejoicing in her heart, her inner most being, the joy of knowing GOD. She was a believer in GOD and HE had confirmed HIS activity in her life. This was exciting and made GOD even more personal to her.

Have you ever seen something of such overwhelming beauty and tried to put into words what you were feeling in your heart? Words are inadequate but you are moved to express yourself. Beautiful music stirs my soul and I want to express what I am experiencing but every attempt falls short of expressing its beauty. I am sure you have things in your lives that touch your very soul. Think of Mary trying to put into words what she was experiencing in this overwhelming moment. I believe this is why GOD tells us that we cannot see HIS face and live. Such an encounter would blow our minds trying to express all the beauty and emotions we would see and feel.

Let’s look at each of the verses of Mary’s song:

Verses 46-47 - “My soul” and “my spirit” mean from the depths of her inner most being. She knew that what happened to her was from GOD. Every part of her being was magnifying HIM. Some translations use the word “magnify” in place of “proclaim.” Magnify carries the idea of “enlarging” or “extolling.” GOD cannot be made any greater than HE already is but believers can grow and mature to behold HIS greatest and yield themselves to HIM more. They behold HIM in a different way than they ever have and it is overwhelming and joyful beyond words. Mary experienced this and was expressing herself with all she could in her soul with her spirit.

Mary referred to GOD as her SAVIOR. This revealed the depth of her faith in GOD as being personal. GOD was more than head knowledge to her. She had a deeper understanding of GOD as never before and her already personal relationship with HIM was confirmed in her heart as never before. It is fitting that GOD chose Mary because JESUS would be the SAVIOR of all who seek a personal relationship with HIM.

Verse 48 - She rejoiced because GOD found favor in her even though she came from humble circumstances. Again, GOD takes the ordinary to accomplish the extraordinary. She measured up for the task but even though she was chosen, she still considered herself a slave to GOD. She did not get the big head and puffed up with pride because she was chosen. Mary had a humble heart toward GOD and GOD knew her heart.

She realized that because GOD had chosen her to bear the promised Messiah, all future generations would know what she had done and she would be called blessed. Mary was special but not more special than any believer who is called to serve GOD. She is not to be worshipped.

Verse 49 – She acknowledged the awesome power of GOD, the Mighty One. The power of GOD was limitless. Mary saw GOD as powerful and HIS power accomplished HIS plan and purpose as promised in the scriptures. She saw GOD as Holy. HE is morally pure, righteous, keeps HIS covenants, metes out justice to all regardless of their stature, position or wealth and is separate from mankind, yet accessible to all who seek HIM.

Knowing that GOD’S power is limitless when you are serving HIM is a comforting thought as you obediently journey with HIM. Mary saw that GOD’S power was at work in her life to fulfill scripture and it was accomplished in a Holy moment because she was still a virgin.

Verse 50 – She expressed GOD’S great mercy, which embraced compassion and kindness. GOD recognized that humans were in need of salvation. They cannot save themselves. HIS mercy and grace is extended to all humans through the promised Messiah. Yet GOD’S desire is for all humans to show HIM respect. She used the word “fear.” Fear is not to be afraid of HIM but to reverence HIM. HIS desire is for mankind to see that the promised Messiah was sent to earth because GOD so loved them and to give mankind hope. The Messiah fulfilling HIS mission would free those who believe in HIM from the bondage of sin and death.

Verse 51 – She recognized that GOD through a mighty deed had reached down to mankind by sending the promised Messiah. Such a mighty deed revealed the heart of GOD. HE knew the very best efforts of mankind were inadequate to save themselves. The promised Messiah shattered any effort of the proud, wealthy, prominent or self-righteous to earn their way to heaven. Salvation always has been a matter of the heart and not outward actions. Remember our study of James, GOD desires for our talk to match our walk.

Verse 52 – By GOD sending the promised Messiah as a human, GOD 100% human, yet 100% divine, no earthly ruler can claim to be GOD. The Messiah is King of kings and LORD of lords. GOD has taken the ordinary, a lowly, poor, unassuming young woman to bear the Messiah, the extraordinary.

Verse 53 – By sending the Messiah GOD will satisfy those who hunger for spiritual nourishment. Those who think they have all the spiritual food they need will go away empty because they refuse to accept the promised Messiah.

Verse 54 – By sending the Messiah to Israel, GOD has favored HIS chosen people to be a witness to all nations. Because GOD sent HIS promised Messiah to Israel it showed HIS love and mercy toward Israel. Mary used the word “mindful.” This does not mean that GOD was forgetful and had to be reminded of HIS commitments. Mindful means GOD remembers HIS commitments and does not forget. The only thing GOD forgets is our confessed sins.

Verse 55 – GOD is not fickle. HE honors, forever, the covenants HE makes with HIS people. Mary recalled the covenant GOD made with Abraham and his descendants and rejoiced that it was still very much alive in her lifetime, some 2,000 years later. HIS covenant would be fulfilled in the child she would bear. This revealed the depth of Mary’s love and understanding of GOD and the scriptures.

To say the lease Mary was one joyous young lady.

The covenant GOD made with Abraham extends to all who believe in JESUS as their SAVIOR. The Apostle Paul addresses this in Galatians 3:27- 29:

27 For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ. 28 There is no Jew or Greek, slave or free, male or female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus. 29 And if you are Christ’s, then you are Abraham’s seed, heirs according to the promise.

What makes us one with CHRIST? Faith! It was the faith of Abraham that GOD accrued as righteousness to him. It is faith in CHRIST that makes all believers righteous and heirs of the promises of the covenant.

Christmas Songs - Come Jesus - Micah 5:1-5a and 7:18-20 - December 6, 2009

Bible Study – Christmas Songs – Come Jesus – December 6, 2009

This begins a new series of study entitled “God’s Christmas Songs.”

We will study scripture in Micah, Luke and Philippians during the next four (4) weeks. These scriptures form the foundation for the songs we sing at Christmas:

December 6 – Come, Thou Long-Expected Jesus – Micah 5:1-5a; 7:18-20.
December 13 – Joy to the World – Luke 1:46-55.
December 20 – Go, Tell it on the Mountain – Luke 1:67-79.
December 27 – Hark! The Herald Angels Sing – Philippians 2:5-11.

The message that is presented though these scriptures is what is important. This is especially true and relevant today as our nation faces its spiritual identity. Will we, as a nation, continue to serve the true GOD or will we compromise our Christian foundation.

This is not to single out other religions but we are living in a time when we as Christians must take a stand and not compromise. Freedom to worship as you choose is a right but when the minority religions dictate what the majority can and cannot do, something is wrong. If we, as Christians, went to another country that worships Buda or Mohammad and we told them they could not do such and such in their country to worship, what do you think they would do? They would not compromise and change. I would not expect them to change because that is the way the majority choose to worship. I expect the same in America. People of other religions have the freedom to worship in America but our rights are violated when they try to restrict our worship of GOD through CHRIST.

The Prophet Micah’s ministry was from about 735 to 700 B.C. He pointed out the sins of the people and the consequences for their sins. He also preached mercy and forgiveness through the promised Messiah.

The message of Micah inspired Charles Wesley, the brother of John Wesley, to pen the words to the song “Come, Thou Long-Expected Jesus.” The words to the song are:

Come, Thou long-expected Jesus,
Born to set Thy people free;
From our fears and sins release us;
Let us find our rest in Thee.
Israel’s strength and consolation,
Hope of all the earth Thou art;
Dear desire of ev’ry nation,
Joy of ev’ry longing heart. (1)

(1) “Come, Thou Long-Expected Jesus,” Charles Wesley, The Baptist Hymnal [Nashville: Convention Press, 1991], No. 77.

Let’s read Micah 5:1-3:

From Defeated Ruler to Conquering King

1 [1] Mc 4:14 in Hb Now daughter [who is]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. under attack, you slash yourself [in grief]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. ; a siege is set against us! They are striking the judge of Israel on the cheek with a rod. 2 [2] Mc 5:1 in Hb Bethlehem Ephrathah, you are small among the clans of Judah; One will come from you to be ruler over Israel for Me.[3] 2 Ch 7:18; Isa 11:1; Mt 2:6 His origin[4] Lit His going out is from antiquity, from eternity.[5] Or from ancient times 3 Therefore, He will abandon them until the time when she who is in labor has given birth; then the rest of His brothers will return to the people of Israel.[6] Mc 4:6–7

Bible scholars believe that the reference to daughter is a reference to Jerusalem. The enemies surrounding Jerusalem will defeat the ruling earthly kings. Their defeat will be a testimony against GOD, because those who defeat Israel will consider their gods more powerful.

However, there is Good News. GOD will raise-up a new ruler from Bethlehem Ephrathah. Bethlehem Ephrathah was a small village and means “House of Bread.” The small insignificant in GOD’S hands becomes mighty to accomplish HIS plan and purpose. The promised Messiah would be born in Bethlehem Ephrathah. Verse 2, tells us that HIS origin was from antiquity, from eternity.

Genesis 1:26:

26 Then God said, “Let Us make man in Our image, according to Our likeness. They will rule the fish of the sea, the birds of the sky, the livestock, all the earth,[11] Syr reads sky, and over every animal of the land and the creatures that crawl[12] Lit scurry on the earth.”

“US” in Genesis 1:26 is GOD, THE FATHER, GOD, THE SON (JESUS) and GOD, THE HOLY SPIRIT or the Trinity. JESUS has been present since the beginning. Therefore, when the Prophet Micah recorded that the Promised ONE or the Messiah would come from antiquity or from eternity, he was speaking of JESUS. JESUS already existed but had not been incarnate in a human body. Why did JESUS have to come to earth in a human body? To fulfill GOD’S plan for the redemption of mankind from the original sin and the penalty from that sin, which is death. Genesis 3:15 gives us more insight into GOD’S plan:

15 I will put hostility between you (Satan) and the woman (flesh), and between your • seed and her seed. He (JESUS) will strike your head, and you will strike his heel.[11] Heb 2:14; 1 Jn 3:8

Genesis 3:15 speaks of the seed of woman or the offspring of woman striking the head of the serpent or Satan. Striking the head is a fatal blow. The seed of woman is JESUS. The seed of woman (the egg) needs to be completed through conception. GOD is the FATHER of JESUS through the miracle of the virgin birth through the HOLY SPIRIT (or Divine Sperm). Woman had sinned and salvation had to come through the seed of woman. GOD energized the egg of Mary and produced HIS SON, JESUS, WHO would defeat Satan and conquer sin and death. The ordinary, the seed of woman, combined with the extraordinary, the HOLY SPIRIT, produced JESUS, the SAVIOR of the world.

The salvation of mankind could not be the result of a completely human solution by Joseph and Mary producing a child. It was a divine solution outside of human effort but within the power and majesty of GOD of which Mary was vital. The Spirit of GOD made alive the seed of woman to produce JESUS WHO was both 100% human and yet 100% divine.

Guess what? When a believer experiences the miracle of rebirth, he/she experiences a similar process as Mary conceiving JESUS. Think of your human spirit as the egg. Just as Mary made her egg available to GOD, in essence, each believer by faith makes his/her human spirit (spiritual egg) available to GOD. The passion of CHRIST broke the barrier of sin that separated GOD and mankind. CHRIST opened the path from GOD to each person and whoever seeks salvation is free to approach GOD through CHRIST. Through faith, you ask CHRIST to forgive you of your sins and to come into your life. Quicker than the twinkling of the eye HE comes into your life. In that instant you are forgiven, born-again in your spirit into the family of GOD and receive the gift of eternal life. Nothing you can do after that instant will ever change the fact that you are GOD’S child. In essence, you are 100% human and 100% divine. GOD leaves you upon earth to serve HIM. GOD is your heavenly FATHER and the instant your body (earth suit) dies, you are in heaven with GOD and CHRIST for all eternity. When CHRIST returns for the second time you will return with HIM to receive your new Glorified Body, which will be like JESUS’ Glorified Body following HIS resurrection. WOW!!! Now ponder that.

This process of salvation is repeated thousands of times every day through the miracle of rebirth. It all began with the seed of woman, Mary and a loving GOD WHO so loved us that HE sent HIS ONLY SON into the world to die for us and to save all who believe in HIM from sin and death.

Before the prophesy, given by the Prophet Micah could be fulfilled, the right time had to come. There was a falling away of the Jews from GOD. The Jews were conquered by rulers surrounding the Jewish territory. They were taken into captivity. The Jews came back to GOD, Jerusalem and the temple was rebuilt in 516 B.C. The last book in the Old Testament was written by the prophet Malachi about 430 B.C. still no Messiah. Four-hundred and thirty (430) years had to pass before GOD sent the promised Messiah. How blessed we are to have the entire Bible to be able to see GOD’S plan and handiwork unfold through HIS Word.

Mary, the mother of JESUS, who was of the exact lineage that GOD had revealed through prophesies had to be born. She had to be willing to become the mother of the Messiah.

By the time of the birth of JESUS the Romans were in charge and had built a wonderful network of roads for JESUS to travel to the areas GOD led HIM. The roads and travel system had to be in place for the spread of the gospel. With GOD, timing is everything. HE waited about 700 years from the time HE gave Micah the prophesy to the birth of JESUS.

Let’s read Micah 5:4-5a:

4 He will stand and shepherd [them]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. [7] Isa 40:11 in the strength of • Yahweh, in the majestic name of Yahweh His God. They will live securely, for then His greatness will extend to the ends of the earth. 5 There[8] Or He will be peace.[9] Isa 9:6

“HE” in verse 4 refers to the promised Messiah, JESUS. HE will stand and shepherd, not in HIS strength, but in the strength of the covenant name of GOD. JESUS will stand firm on the foundation of HIS authority given by GOD, HIS FATHER, in HIS earthly ministry and in the lives of all who accept HIM as their SAVIOR. Stand means ruler. As ruler appointed by GOD, HE will shepherd all who believe in HIM. Shepherd means to feed, care for and protect. All believers’ security will be in HIM because of the assurance and security given to each believer through the indwelling HOLY SPIRIT.

As the Good Shepherd, HE will feed those longing for Spiritual food and lead and protect all who believe in HIM and seek to obediently follow HIM. Those who believe in HIM will live in the security of the assurance of the indwelling HOLY SPIRIT. All believers will live in the peace of knowing that they are secure in the truth of GOD’S presence in their lives. Living in peace is the peace that can only come from GOD as a result of believers being made spiritually whole through their relationship with HIM through CHRIST.

The Bible provides the complete facts of prophesies, birth, life, ministry, death, resurrection and ascension of JESUS. Today, we can connect all the dots of Old Testament prophesy to its fulfillment.

Read these verses again and think of the ministry of JESUS. Did HE bring attention to Himself or did HE always refer to HIS FATHER? HE ministered in the name and power of YAHWEH, the covenant name of GOD, HIS FATHER. As we consider the message of CHRIST or the Good News of the Gospel, has it and is it being spread to the ends of the earth? Once we accept CHRIST as our SAVIOR do we have peace?

Let’s read Micah 7:18-20:

18 Who is a God like You,[19] Ex 15:11; Ps 71:19; Isa 40:18 removing iniquity and passing over rebellion[20] Rm 3:25 for the remnant of His inheritance? He does not hold on to His anger forever, because He delights in faithful love. 19 He will again have compassion on us; He will vanquish our iniquities. You will cast all our[21] Some Hb mss, LXX, Syr, Vg; other Hb mss read their sins into the depths of the sea.[22] Ps 103:9–12; Isa 43:25 20 You will show loyalty to Jacob and faithful love to Abraham, as You swore to our fathers from days long ago.

Micah asked the question, “Who is a GOD like YOU?” The answer is no one. Micah had already used the covenant name for GOD, “YAHWEH.”

What is GOD referring to in the next statement in verse 18, “removing iniquity and passing over rebellion for the remnant of HIS inheritance?” Only the true GOD has the power to remove sin and pass over rebellion because HE knows the hearts of those who will become faithful followers. This statement could extend beyond the life of one of our ancestors.

Let’s consider Ephesians 1:3-4 - 3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavens,[2] Eph 1:20; 2:6; 3:10; 6:12 in Christ; 4 for He chose[3] Rm 11:5–7; 1 Co 1:26–31; 1 Th 1:4; 2 Th 2:13; 1 Pt 1:1–2 us in Him, before the foundation of the world, to be holy and blameless in His sight.[4] Vv. 3–14 are 1 sentence in Gk. In love[5] Or In His sight in love

GOD knew each one of us before HE created the world. Does that mean HE gave special protection to our ancestors along our ancestral line that we came from to ensure that we would be born? GOD has a plan for each of us and each of us has the opportunity to receive salvation but it is our choice. The Good News is that GOD knows how we will choose.

Forgiveness of sins will come from the promised Messiah because HE looks upon the heart. GOD could withhold HIS protection from those who rebel against HIM but HE sees their hearts and knows their potential. Once we ask GOD to forgive us of our sins, HE forgives, casts them into the sea and forgets. I heard, Ms Corrie ten Boon say, “and when HE casts our sins into the sea HE also places a no fishing sign there.”
GOD wanted HIS people to know that HE was different than the gods that others worshipped. There was the notion that Israel’s GOD was weak because HE did not protect them from their enemies. They did not know that GOD used their enemies to get the attention of the Israelites and draw them back to HIM. In other words, defeat had a purpose. Just because they were defeated did not mean that GOD had abandoned them. They had abandoned GOD but HE was always ready to accept them back once they realize their sin. GOD works with believers the same today. Believers may move away from GOD but HE is always ready with open arms to welcome them back, once they have realized what they have done. Never forget that!!! GOD never moves you do.

Micah cycles back to the covenant relationship of Jacob and Abraham with GOD. GOD is faithful and can be trusted. Look at biblical history. When GOD agrees to a covenant, it is forever. HE will send the Messiah and what HE says the Messiah will do is covered under the covenant promise of GOD.

This is a fitting study to follow our study in James. GOD is eager to forgive us when we ask HIM. GOD is concerned with the spiritual wholeness or completeness of all believers. GOD is more interested in our spiritual growth and maturity than punishing us. This does not mean that HE condones or overlooks our sin but HIS desire is for us to see the error of our way, ask for forgiveness and repent. HE will forgive, restore and forget. Satan will make certain that we remember our sins and feel unworthy to serve GOD after HE has forgiven us. But the victory has already been won by JESUS. Enjoy it!!!

The heart of GOD’S message through Micah is the peace that HE promises is not based upon our earthly surroundings but upon our heart being in harmony with HIM through CHRIST, the Messiah. It is the quiet peace and assurance that regardless of the earthly outcome of our circumstances, we are at peace because our trust is in GOD. There is no war between our flesh and our spirit but there is harmony because we have been made spiritually whole, fully mature in HIM. That is perfect peace!!! Live the abundant life in HIM!