“For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.” Luke 2:11
December 23, 2024
The angel appeared to the shepherds and announced three titles given to the baby born in Bethlehem. The birth of Jesus was God’s gift to Israel of her Messiah. The story of redemption and Israel’s coming King flowed from the Old Testament into the spectacular birth announcement. Israel’s Messiah is the anointed Prophet (Deut. 18:15; Acts 3:22-24). He proclaimed God’s message like no other prophet before or since. He was to suffer and bring to fulfillment God’s promises given in the Abrahamic, Davidic, and New Covenant. Regenerated Israel has a glorious future (Rom. 11:26). As Messiah Jesus was the anointed Priest (Heb. 5:1-7; 7:1-3). The priest speaks to God for man and so does Jesus as the Mediator between God and man (1 Tim. 2:5). As Messiah Jesus is the anointed King (Isa. 9:7; Rev. 19:16; Lk. 1:32-33). He has the right to rule over Israel and the entire earth. He is heir to the throne of David. Let the Christmas carol echo through your thoughts, “Hark the herald angels sing, ‘Glory to the newborn King.”
H
“I praise you, O God, for giving us, your children, the truth about Israel, the church, and the coming kingdom. I praise you for the gift of Jesus who intercedes for those who are helpless. I praise you for the future glory of the reign of your Son before whom every knee shall bow.”