Class Lesson December 23, 2018

THE FULL PICTURE OF CHRISTMAS

Isaiah's Prophecy

Lesson # 4

THE BIBLE MEETS LIFE

’Tis the season to be … traveling. Some of us travel constantly, while others rarely leave our own communities. Wherever you fall in that spectrum, it’s likely you have traveled during the Christmas season.

Traveling for Christmas is nothing new. The reason we even have Christmas started with a journey—Joseph and Mary’s journey to Bethlehem. I doubt it was an easy trip, either.

When my wife and I were expecting our first child, she read a book about pregnancy that validated her extreme exhaustion. The book claimed the energy of a woman’s pregnant body at rest exerted more energy than a non-pregnant mountain climber.1 On several occasions, I heard my exhausted wife declare, “I was just climbing mountains.”

The story of Jesus’ birth is one of a journey. Joseph and Mary may have felt like their trip included “climbing mountains!” But the story includes an even greater journey. Jesus, the Son of God, left the glories of His throne in heaven to journey to earth. He came as an infant with one sole purpose: to bring us salvation. 

WHAT DOES THE BIBLE SAY?

Luke 2:1-7

1 In those days Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world. 2 (This was the first census that took place while Quirinius was governor of Syria.) 3 And everyone went to their own town to register. 4 So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David. 5 He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child. 6 While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, 7 and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no guest room available for them.

“Caesar Augustus issued a decree.” This particular Caesar was born Gaius Octavius and was the adopted son of Julius Caesar. He was given the honorary title of Augustus as a sign of religious veneration. Under his long reign, the Roman Empire grew and flourished. He ordered the entire Empire to be registered, and for this registration, Joseph and Mary made the ninety-mile trek to Bethlehem. 

It is significant that Christ was born in Bethlehem. Both Mary and Joseph were descendants of David; thus, Bethlehem was their ancestral home. Micah had prophesied eight hundred years earlier that Bethlehem would be the birthplace of the Messiah: “Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel, whose origins are from of old, from ancient times” (Mic. 5:2). 

Micah’s prophecy was intended to bring comfort to the despairing Israelites. In contrast to their broken situation, a great ruler would come to truly shepherd God’s people. And He did come, at another time when God’s people faced outside oppression. 

When the Messiah came—when Jesus was born—Mary “placed him in a manger, because there was no guest room available for them.” We’re not sure of the exact nature of this location, although it implies that this type of quarters was usually a place occupied by animals. We’ve often heard, “There was no room in the inn,” assuming the family was left outside. But Jesus used the same word in sending the disciples to ask about a “guest room” to prepare for the Passover meal. (See Luke 22:11.) 

It is possible that Mary and Joseph were in a home, even a relative’s home, but they were staying in a separate area where the animals were brought at night. In any case, the only available space to lay the newborn Jesus was in the animal trough attached to the wall between the living quarters and the area where the animals were kept. The feeding trough or manger was certainly no ideal place for a crib. 

Such a humble beginning for any king—especially for the King of kings—but it was all according to God’s plan and timing. Luke captured the simplicity of this grand and glorious event with these words: “she gave birth to her firstborn, a son.” To those who were eyewitnesses in the small village of Bethlehem, or even staying in the same place, they probably saw nothing more than a young mother with her first child. Any birth is a wondrous event in itself, yet the majesty and glory of this particular birth was masked by the “ordinariness” of it all. Jesus came to be among us, so it is fitting that the moment of His birth was, in a sense, like any other birth. 

But the “ordinary” nature of Jesus’ arrival was about to be overshadowed by a heavenly announcement. This was no ordinary birth! 

Luke 2:8-14

8 And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. 9 An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. 10 But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. 11 Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. 12 This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.” 13 Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, 14 “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.” 

In verse 8, Luke shifted scenes from the baby lying in a manger to shepherds who “living out in the fields.” Bethlehem was home to many shepherds who tended to the sheep used in the temple sacrifices in Jerusalem, about six miles away. 

When “an angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them,” the shepherds were understandably “terrified.” Zechariah had been “startled and was gripped with fear” (1:12) and Mary “was greatly troubled” (v. 29) when the angel Gabriel appeared to them. And just as Gabriel had told Zechariah and Mary, this unnamed angel now told the shepherds, “Do not be afraid.” 

No doubt, the appearance of God’s holy messenger could trigger a healthy dose of awe and fear, but as mighty and awe-inspiring as an angel could be, he came with news that would banish their fears. 

In this case, fear would be replaced with joy. “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people.” The source of this joy was the birth of Jesus, whom the angel described using several important terms. 

• A Savior. The name Jesus is tied to the name Joshua, which means God is Salvation. It is a most fitting name because our salvation is the very reason God came to earth.                                                       
• The Messiah. The Greek word is Christos, and we often translate this as “Christ.” It means the Anointed One, the One God chose for the task of our salvation.                                                                              
• The Lord. Lord is the title Luke used most often for Jesus. He is the Master, the Supreme Authority in all things. This baby in the manger was God Himself. 

In verse 13, we see the word suddenly. Biblical writers often used this word to describe the unexpected nature of God’s acts—especially events that involved life-changing circumstances. A “great company” of angels—“the heavenly host”—“suddenly” appeared in the fields of Bethlehem. The angelic group was not addressing the shepherds; they were “praising God,” but the shepherds clearly heard their words of praise. And what climactic words they were! “Glory to God in the highest heaven.” 

God deserves our praise for sending His Son to be the perfect sacrifice for our sins. Angels recognize the worth of God’s presence and praise Him for it. Our purpose in life is also to glorify God, and realizing the wonderful salvation of God should deepen our desire to fulfill our purpose of glorifying Him.

The angels also proclaimed, “On earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.” God’s peace is that inner sense of wholeness that only God can bring to believing hearts. His perfect peace “transcends all understanding” (Phil. 4:7), but it is real for all who believe. In this arrangement we receive peace and God gets all the glory. All this happens because God’s favor rests on us. 

LIVE IT OUT

As you remember God’s wonderful gift of salvation, consider the following applications: 

• Trust. Reflect on the goodness of God’s salvation. If you’ve never accepted God’s offer of salvation, do so now. For more on how to become a Christian, read the inside front cover of this book.                                                                                                                                                               
• Worship. As the angels gave glory and highest honor to God, we likewise should aim to give all praise to God in our daily lives. Ask the Lord for a fresh zeal to live a life that glorifies Him in all things.                                                                                                                                                                      
• Pray. Pray for someone you know who needs to be saved. Consider how his or her life would be changed by the good news, and how God would be glorified. Ask God to begin softening that person’s heart to the message of Christ. Pray that God would open a door for you to share your faith. 

As Jesus came on a great journey for us, we are to be on mission with Him. And that mission includes helping others find salvation also! 

Hope to see you this Sunday!

In His Love,

David & Susan

Teacher's Notes:

The Angels Announcement

Point: Jesus came for our salvation.

Passage: Luke 2:1-14

Jesus, the Son of God, left the glory of His throne in heaven to journey to earth. He came as an infant with one sole purpose: to bring us salvation.

The story of Christmas – the birth of Jesus – is a familiar one to most everyone. Such familiarity, however, does not mean everyone understands what God accomplished and idealized. Unfortunately, when the season has ended many people leave Jesus in the manger until the next Christmas. They miss the point that in the birth of Jesus God came to earth to bring us Himself and the salvation He provides.

Setting: Luke wrote his gospel account to present an orderly record of the life of Christ and to present Him as the Savior. He particularly had in mind that someone named Theophilus might know with certainty what he had been taught and be more deeply grounded in the truth. His is the most comprehensive of the synoptic Gospels – Matthew, Mark, and Luke. Therefore, it is only fitting that he included the most extensive records of the events surrounding Jesus’ birth. 

Actually, he tells the stories of two births; that of John (the Baptist) and Jesus Christ. The birth parents of John – Zacharias and Elisabeth – and the legal father and birth mother of Jesus – Joseph and Mary – learn of their son’s birth through angelic visitations. Both are told that their sons are part of the plan of God; one (John) to prepare the way for the other (Jesus). One would be great (John); the other was God-in-flesh (Jesus). One (John) would submit himself to the other (Jesus). Both would die at the hands of the authorities because they challenged the prevailing systems. One (John) would be honored in death by the other (Jesus). One would gloriously arise as the Living Lord and Savior; of course, that is Jesus the Baby of Bethlehem over whom the angels rejoiced. The specific verses for this lesson comprise the “Christmas story,” so frequently read at this time of the year. They remind us that Jesus was born according to God’s time and place. Angels announced His miraculous birth, glorifying Him as Jesus, Christ, the Lord who came for our salvation.

I. The providence of His birth.

Luke 2:1-7

In those days Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world. (This was the first census that took place while Quirinius was governor of Syria.) And everyone went to their own town to register. So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David. He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child. While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no guest room available for them.

Though the story is familiar, what elements of the story still stand out to you as being miraculous, only something God could do?

• Jesus was born according to God’s time and place.
• These circumstances happened according to the providence of God.
• God used the Roman census to fulfill Micah 5:2.
• Mary’s virginity was in fulfillment of Isaiah 7:14.
• We stand amazed that the birth of Jesus, God’s Son, our Savior, took place in such humble surroundings. God often works in unusual ways, which in themselves become a testimony to His greatness. 
• One of the great ironies in world history was the fact that God’s own Son was born in a manger. Can you imagine what would have happened if any other king or nobility had chosen to stay in a common man’s home? The family would have given him the best room in the house, even if it meant someone else had to sleep in the stable. Yet the baby born that night was no mere king. He was the King of Kings! 

When has God used outside circumstances to get you where He wanted you to be?

How do the circumstances of Jesus’ birth help you relate to Him?

Why was Jesus born in a manger?

• So, why was the Savior and King born in a place where animals were kept? And why was He then laid in the animals’ food trough? Surely, God’s Son deserved a high-profile birth in the most elegant of surroundings. But, instead, God’s own Son made His appearance on earth in the lowliest of circumstances. This humble birth conveys an amazing message to creation: the transcendent God condescended to come to us. Instead of coming to earth as a pampered, privileged ruler, Jesus was born in meekness, as one of us. He is approachable, accessible, available—no palace gates bar the way to Him; no ring of guards prevents our approach. The King of kings came humbly, and His first bed was a manger.

It is significant that Christ was born in Bethlehem. Both Mary and Joseph were descendants of David; thus, Bethlehem was their ancestral home. Micah had prophesied eight hundred years earlier that Bethlehem would be the birthplace of the Messiah: “Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel, whose origins are from of old, from ancient times” (Mic. 5:2).

About 700 years before Christ, the prophet Isaiah prophesied concerning the Jesus’ birth, saying in Isaiah 7:14, “The Lord Himself will give you a sign: Behold, the virgin will conceive and will bear a son, and she will call his name Immanuel.”

Many years later, in recounting this mysterious story, the aged apostle John made these profound statements in John 1:1 and 14: “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.” “And the Word became flesh.”

Understand the background of Caesar Augustus and his census.

[Verses 1-2] Jesus was born according to God’s intent while Caesar Augustus ruled Rome (31 BC to AD 14). Luke emphasized this took place when Quirinius was governing Syria. It is possible Quirinius served two terms as the governor of Syria. From 6-4 BC, during the time Jesus was born, he conducted the initial process requiring people to register for a census. During his second term, AD 6-9, he finished the census. The only external record of Quirinius’s reign is the latter one, which would not work with the dating of Jesus’ birth. Herod died in 4 BC and Jesus was born before the death of Herod. However, if Quirinius served two terms, that would explain the presence of the first registration mentioned in Luke as opposed to the one he conducted during his second term. Some evidence points to Quirinius being governor in the first decade BC as well as the verified date of AD 6-9. [Verses 3-4] Luke 2:39 identifies Nazareth as Joseph and Mary’s hometown. However, they left Nazareth to go to Bethlehem to register. The intention of the decree was most likely for them to travel to their ancestral home. As a descendant of David, Bethlehem would have been that place for Joseph and Mary. Nazareth was a small town in Galilee about eighty-five to ninety miles from Bethlehem. Bethlehem was called the town of David because that was his ancestral home. The journey from Nazareth to Bethlehem had more than logistical or political reasons for happening. The census was the vehicle that moved Joseph and Mary from Nazareth of Galilee to Bethlehem of Judea. It enabled the prophecy of Micah 5:2 to come to fruition. God can use anything or anyone to further His purposes. After Herod died, Joseph was going to move back to Bethlehem, but he was warned in a dream to return to Nazareth, fulfilling the words of the prophets that He was a Nazarene. (See Matt. 2:23.) Thus, both streams of prophecy found their fulfillment in Jesus. [Verses 5-7] Joseph and Mary went to register for the census issued by Augustus. Mary had stayed with Elizabeth three months during her pregnancy. (See Luke 1:56.) Additional time probably elapsed before their journey to Bethlehem. It is likely Mary was in her last trimester of pregnancy when they began the trip to Bethlehem. They could not have been in Bethlehem long because there still was no room for them. The time came for Mary to give birth, and she gave birth to her firstborn Son. This implied she later had other children. Jesus, the long-awaited Messiah, had finally entered the world He came to save. Mary wrapped Him tightly in cloth, the normal practice of a mother with her child. They swaddled the child in order to keep its limbs straight. (See Ezek. 16:4.) This extraordinary child arrived in such an ordinary, humble way. Mary placed Jesus in a manger, a feeding trough for animals. Luke noted that there was no guest room available for them. Thus, they settled in a space reserved for animals. Even in those circumstances, Jesus came in God’s way, demonstrating the great humility this special Child would display throughout His time on earth.

II. The proclamation of His birth.

Luke 2:8-14

And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.” Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.” 

Angels announced the birth of Christ, the Messiah. (Luke 2:8-14)

• No one is outside the scope of God’s love. He desires that all know the joyous message of salvation.
• That Jesus is Savior, Messiah, and Lord gives us cause to rejoice.
• True peace is a gift of God not a result of human effort.
• God is worthy of joyous and glorious praise. 

Just as the shepherds responded to what was made known to them by going to see for themselves what God was doing, what personal actions will you take to see more of what God is doing in your life?

What’s so good about the news the angels delivered?

The source of this joy was the birth of Jesus, whom the angel described using several important terms.

• A Savior. The name Jesus is tied to the name Joshua, which means God is Salvation. It is a most fitting name because our salvation is the very reason God came to earth.
• The Messiah. The Greek word is Christos, and we often translate this as “Christ.” It means the Anointed One, the One God chose for the task of our salvation.
• The Lord. Lord is the title Luke used most often for Jesus. He is the Master, the Supreme Authority in all things. This baby in the manger was God Himself.

[Verse 8] Somewhere in the fields near Bethlehem where King David had kept his sheep, a small group of shepherds were doing their duty guarding their sheep. The shepherds were staying out in the fields and keeping watch at night. Nighttime was one of the most dangerous times for sheep. Both thieves and predators could take advantage of the cover of darkness. The text does not give a month this took place. With relatively mild winters, it could have been about any time of the year. These shepherds were most likely devout men. It was not unlike most other nights they had been in the fields. But that was about to change. Not far away lay the Son of God. [Verse 9] Suddenly an angel of the Lord interrupted the shepherds. Unlike other times in the Book of Luke (see Luke 1:11,19,26), this angel remains unnamed. How did they know it was an angel if he did not identify himself? Obviously, they noticed that the glory of the Lord shone around them. This was the manifest presence of God among them. Though the glory of God often was manifested in such ways as fire or clouds, on this occasion His glory shone like a beam of light on a darkened night. The shepherds were terrified. Those who had an encounter with God or His angels often needed reassurance for their fear. (See Luke 1:30; 2:10; 8:50.) [Verse 10] As the shepherds shrunk in terror, the angel spoke words of reassurance. First, the angel encouraged the shepherds with the words, “Do not be afraid.” This was an oft-used expression of angels. (See Gen. 21:17; Acts 27:24.) Those who were afraid were in danger of missing the greatest birth announcement of all time. They needed to calm down and hear the gospel. The angel told the shepherds he came to proclaim good news that will cause great joy. Good news is the Greek word from which we get the word gospel. The angel preached the gospel for the first time to a group of shepherds on a hillside keeping their sheep at night. [Verse 11] The good news the angel announced was not a program but a person. The gospel is not a religion but a relationship with the Messiah who came into the world to save sinners. Luke identified the beginning of this new Messianic age with the word today. From that day forward, all people had a new hope of salvation based upon God’s sending His Messiah into the world. The event took place in the town of David. Bethlehem, the home of the shepherd David, was also the first home of the shepherd Messiah. The angel used three lofty terms for this special child. First, he identified Jesus as Savior. The only other time this term is used in Luke’s Gospel is in reference to God in Mary’s song known as the Magnificat. (See Luke 1:47.) The angel also referred to Jesus as Messiah. This is the Hebrew word that corresponds to the Greek word Christ. Literally it meant anointed one and was a reference to the One God promised would come and deliver His people. The final reference to Jesus was as Lord. This was the usual word for secular rulers, but it was also the standard translation for Yahweh, the primary name used for God in the Old Testament. God the Messiah came to be the Savior of the world. That was good news indeed. [Verse 12] While the titles of Jesus were exalted, the events of His birth were humble. The shepherds were supposed to look for a sign. If the shepherds found a baby … in a manger in Bethlehem, it would point to the truthfulness and accuracy of the angel’s message. Bethlehem was not a large town. They would not have to look far to find a baby laid in a manger on that particular night. The baby would have two humble qualities. First, he would be wrapped in cloths. This referred to a process by which babies were wrapped in long strips of cloth and swaddled. It gave them warmth, security, and protection. And He would be lying in a manger. Think of the absurdity of the angel’s words. God, the Messiah, the Savior, would be born, wrapped up like a little baby, and placed in a feeding trough for animals. [Verse 13] The word suddenly often describes the unexpected nature of God’s supernatural acts. Here it is a signal something unusual happened. As if a conversation with an angel were not sudden enough, the countryside filled with a great company of the heavenly host. Host was a reference to an army. This, however, was not an army of war but an army announcing peace. (See 2:14.) The angel army joined together in two related actions. First, they were praising God. Praise was the expected response both of the believer (see 2:20; 19:37; 24:53; Acts 2:47; 3:8-9) and of creation itself (see Ps. 148:1-4), of which the angels would have been a part. The praise of the angels expressed itself in the second related action: speaking. They spoke the gospel, as the one angel had done. Proclaiming the gospel is not often thought of as an act of worship, but it should be! [Verse 14] The birth of the Messiah, Savior, and Lord brought glory to God. The glory of God displayed His majesty and authority. The psalmist remarked, “The heavens declare the glory of God; and the skies proclaims the work of his hands” (Ps. 19:1). Another psalm declares, “The voice of the Lord is over the waters; the God of glory thunders, the Lord thunders over the mighty waters. The voice of the Lord is powerful; the voice of the Lord is majestic” (29:3-4). The coming of Messiah highlighted all the incredible qualities of God. The glory of God reached to the highest heaven. Jesus brought glory to God, and God brought peace on earth. Peace referred to more than mere absence of conflict. The peace God offered provided wholeness for those who received it. It was a peace that affected the entire person. The people on whom his favor rests includes all those who have found God’s grace through Jesus Christ. Through Jesus, people have the opportunity to have their sins forgiven and their lives made whole.

The Point: Jesus came for our salvation. 

Wrap It Up

In a couple of days, Christmas will have come and gone for another year. The seasonal decorations will begin to come down, packed in boxes, and returned to the attic, including the Baby Jesus in the manger, where they will reside for another year. We can get back to normal living, whatever that is. If normal means we return to life as it was – mistreating others, living selfishly, rejecting the less fortunate, ignoring what God is doing – then we have only celebrated a holiday. However, if during these weeks we have freshly heard the message of the joyous gift of Jesus as “Savior, who is Christ the Lord” and have renewed our relationship with Him, then normal will have a different look. A God-given “new normal” of the eternal, abundant life made possible because Christ has come. 

As Jesus came on a great journey for us, we are to be on mission with Him. And that mission includes helping others find salvation also! 

What is your personal testimony of the difference the birth of Christ has made in your life? How is He Savior, Christ, and Lord to you?

One of the great ironies in world history was the fact that God’s own Son was born in a manger. Can you imagine what would have happened if any other king or nobility had chosen to stay in a common man’s home? The family would have given him the best room in the house, even if it meant someone else had to sleep in the stable. Yet the baby born that night was no mere king. He was the King of Kings! 

I. The providence of His birth.

A. It happened during the days of Caesar Augustus (Octavian).

1. He was the nephew of Julius Caesar.

a. After Julius Caesar was murdered, he became part of the “Second Triumvirate”, along with Mark Antony and Lepidus.

b. He defeated Mark Antony at the Battle of Actium in 31 B.C., and he became ruler of Rome.

c. His reign began a long period of relative peace and stability that historians call the Pax Romana.

2. He decreed “that all the world should be taxed”.

a. It was actually a census for the purpose of taxation.

b. Everyone was required to return to the city of his ancestry.

• The Romans normally let different regions carry out a census according to their own customs. The custom of returning to the city of one’s ancestry seems more Jewish than Roman.

3. Mary went along with Joseph.

a. Luke called her “his espoused wife”. They had come together as husband and wife, but in those days a marriage was not considered official until the couple had sexual relations.

b. Jesus was conceived supernaturally in the womb of a virgin.

B. These circumstances happened according to the providence of God.

1. God used the Roman census to fulfill Micah 5:2.

2. Mary’s virginity was in fulfillment of Isaiah 7:14.

II. The proclamation of His birth.

A. An angel appeared to a group of shepherds.

1. Of all the people God could have chosen to tell this news, why did He choose these shepherds?

a. Shepherds were some of the most despised members of society.

b. The Bible says God’s ways are not our ways (Isaiah 55:8).

c. When God does things that defy human logic and human wisdom, He gets more glory (1 Corinthians 1:27-29).

2. “The glory of the Lord shone round about them”.

a. The Old Testament uses the phrase “glory of the Lord” to refer to the visible presence of God.

b. The shepherds were “sore afraid”. However, this was not a visitation of judgment, but an announcement of good news.

B. Suddenly they were joined by a whole multitude of angels.

1. Most likely, the whole sky was lit up with angels.

a. We know Jesus had more than twelve legions of angels at His command (Matthew 26:53). By Roman reckoning, one legion was about 6000 men, so twelve legions would have been 72,000.

b. If the shepherds were “sore afraid” at the sight of one angel, imagine how they felt when they saw this whole host of angels!

2. “And on earth peace, good will toward men” – This phrase is often quoted during the Christmas season, but most people misunderstand it.

a. The angels were not talking about peace among men, but peace between man and God.

b. We were under God’s judgment, but Jesus was born so that we might have peace with Him (Romans 5:1).

The Giving Manger

ALL YEAR we would wait with joy and delight

To receive a wood toy on Christmas night.

Father would carve them with love and care

Because we had little money to spare.

ONE CHRISTMAS was different. A new tradition began.

On Thanksgiving Day Father told us the plan.

“Children, we will give more gifts this year.”

More than one gift, I was thrilled to hear.

“THE GIVING will start on the first day of December.”

Those days of waiting were the longest I remember.

On December First, I ran downstairs to see 

Just what special thing my first present would be.

NO WRAPPING, no ribbon, no presents were there,

Just a simple wood manger Father’d made with care.

“Children, this manger’s my gift to you,

Listen, and I’ll tell you just what to do.”

“THIS CHRISTMAS we’ll celebrate the great gift of all – 

Jesus Christ born, a baby so small.

Throughout His life, Christ always was giving,

Loving, serving, and never receiving.”

“THIS YEAR we will offer gifts back to Him,

By serving others, giving gifts from within.

Each time you serve someone, you also serve Christ – 

Remember the Scripture we read last night.”

Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me. – Matthew 25:40

“AS YOU serve others, you also serve Jesus.

That is the message this Scripture teaches.

Each time you serve, put a straw in the manger –

Serve your brother, put a straw in the manger – 

Serve your brother, your mother, a friend, or a stranger.”

I FELT sad that this manger was all I would get.

Dad said “more gifts” – I couldn’t forget!

I noticed my brother had tears in his eyes.

I could not remember ever seeing him cry. 

“I CANNOT believe Dad would do this,” he said,

“He promised us gifts, then just gave us this bed.

We don’t ask for much, just one measly toy.

Why is he taking our Christmas joy?”

THAT MORNING was filled with frustration and anger.

I wanted to throw away the manger.

But when I got home from school that day,

The manger held ten pieces of hay.

MY CHORES were all finished, my laundry all done.

A note on my bed said, “Anne, go have fun.”

My mother had worked hard serving me.

Gifts aren’t always found under a tree.

IT WAS my turn to serve and give to others.

I’d follow the example of Christ and my mother.

I thought about Jesus – that if he’d been there,

He’d want me to love, he’d want me to care. 

I STARTED to give by washing dishes,

Then cleaned off Dad’s boots and gave him kisses.

I wrote a kind note for my brother Ben,

Placed straw in the manger, went to bed with a grin.

BUT BEN was still mad, refused to join in.

I decided I’d fix it by serving him.

While Ben did his homework, I snuck out the door.

And shoveled the snow, his least favorite chore.

“THE NEXT day I saw him put straw in the manger –

Gone was the sadness, disappointment, and anger.

He’d woken up early, heading out to the shed.

Building and painting a baby doll bed.

HE’D MADE this gift for the girl down the street.

They had no toys or money, and little to eat.

I asked my mom if we had food we could spare.

We walked to her house, hoping no one would hear.

WE KNOCKED, left the gifts, and ran away,

Hid behind a bush to hear what they’d say.

Jane opened the door with tears in her eyes –

“Our prayers were answered, look at this surprise.”

AS WE walked away, I looked up at Ben.

“We served Jesus, Anne, by helping them.

Now I see what serving really can do:

It brings joy to those you serve, and changes you.”

ON CHRISTMAS the manger was full – we’d done it!

Then Father told us there was one more present:

A small baby Jesus, carved by our mother. 

So simple, so humble, and like no other.

“YOU DID it my children, the manger is full.

Full of service and love, the baby it now holds.

Baby Jesus had no crib for a bed,

But you gave Him this manger filled with love instead.” 

Class Lesson December 16, 2018

THE FULL PICTURE OF CHRISTMAS

Isaiah's Prophecy

Lesson # 3

THE BIBLE MEETS LIFE

Let’s admit it, we interact with things every day we’re clueless about, but we trust them anyway. Perhaps one of these applies to you:

• Many of us don’t understand how an internal combustion engine works, but we still trust our cars to get us around.

• You may not comprehend electricity with its ohms, amps, volts, and watts, but you still turn the lights on.

• The technology behind cell phones and Wi-Fi befuddles most of us, yet we still log on and send a text or an email.

I felt clueless in college. I did not even know what a “major” was, but I felt the pressure to figure out what I wanted to do for the next fifty years. I was clueless, but I asked God to show me what He was engineering for my life. I asked and I trusted.

Mary, the mother of Jesus, surely didn’t understand what was about to happen in her life, but she trusted. We see in her experience that, even without fully comprehending everything in God’s plan, we can trust and embrace what He wants us to do.

WHAT DOES THE BIBLE SAY?

Luke 1:26-30

26 In the sixth month of Elizabeth’s pregnancy, God sent the angel Gabriel to Nazareth, a town in Galilee, 27 to a virgin pledged to be married to a man named Joseph, a descendant of David. The virgin’s name was Mary. 28 The angel went to her and said, “Greetings, you who are highly favored! The Lord is with you.” 29 Mary was greatly troubled at his words and wondered what kind of greeting this might be. 30 But the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary; you have found favor with God.

Fear came upon Mary with the arrival of the angel Gabriel. Angels are God’s servants that in many cases deliver important messages. In fact the word “angel” means “messenger.” Gabriel is one of the few angels named in the Bible. Gabriel delivered messages to Daniel (see Dan. 8:16-26; 9:21-27) and Zechariah the priest (see Luke 1:11-20), but surely his greatest message was to Mary.

Gabriel’s initial message wasn’t complex, but it was confusing. “Greetings, you who are highly favored! The Lord is with you.” I’m sure most of us would be startled—even afraid—if an angel confronted us with such a message. Mary apparently was no exception, since Luke’s account reported, “was greatly troubled at his words.” But then Gabriel told her, “Do not be afraid, Mary.”

Obviously God had bestowed a special honor on Mary. Why else would He send an angel to tell her God was with her? For many of us, knowing God is present can be a comfort; while for others, the presence of God might cause them to tremble with fright. Mary, though, was troubled because she did not know why she was favored or blessed with the presence of God.

The reason Mary did not need to be afraid was because she had “found favor with God.” To find favor with God means to be “full of grace.” This phrase clearly portrays Mary as a recipient of God’s grace. Some have erroneously made Mary to be a dispenser of grace, though she was in need of it herself. 

And thankfully, it can now be said of all who have accepted God by faith and have become His children that we also are full of grace. Paul used the same Greek word when he wrote that, because we are adopted into God’s family through Christ, we have received “his glorious grace, which he has freely given us in the One he loves” (Eph. 1:6).

God’s gracious presence should dispel any fear. Fear wants to cripple us and have the last word in our lives, but God’s presence wins over fear every time. “For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline” (2 Tim. 1:7).

Luke 1:31-34

31 You will conceive and give birth to a son, and you are to call him Jesus. 32 He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of his father David, 33 and he will reign over Jacob’s descendants forever; his kingdom will never end.” 34 “How will this be,” Mary asked the angel, “since I am a virgin?”

Gabriel’s next words made it clear how God had favored Mary. She would give birth to “the Son of the Most High.” My dad was a professor. As a kid, I would go to the seminary’s gym and people noticed my resemblance to my father. It was an honor to be his son, but it didn’t get me a nicer towel, a free snack, or a better ball.

But Jesus’ relationship with His heavenly Father gives Him rich benefits. Jesus’ Father is the “Most High” God. Mary could not have missed the powerful significance of hearing those words. This term coveys the power, strength, and authority of God. This term also shows us that Jesus’ divine sonship is linked to His messiahship; therefore, He is equal with God. (See Phil. 2:6.) It also reminds us that Jesus has the same nature as God the Father. 

Mary’s child would be royalty. “The Lord God will give him the throne of his father David, and he will reign over Jacob’s descendants forever; his kingdom will never end.” Jesus’ kingdom is divine and eternal. The promises may have reminded Mary of God’s promise to David: “Your house and your kingdom will endure forever before me; your throne will be established forever” (2 Sam. 7:16).

Mary did not doubt this amazing announcement, but she did have questions. Mary was confusion because she thought the angel was describing a normal conception from an act she and Joseph had engaged in. Since she knew she and Joseph had not consummated their marriage, she asked for clarification. “How will this be … since I am a virgin?”

Six months earlier, Mary’s relative, Zechariah (the father of John the Baptist) asked Gabriel a seemingly similar question, but it was the wrong question. Have you ever asked someone a wrong question? Maybe you unintentionally insulted someone with your question. Maybe you displayed an unbecoming attitude as you asked. Sometimes it’s not the content of our words but our tone or attitude that is not right. We’ve all seen how the wrong question can elicit a very negative response.

Mary asked, “How will this be?” but Zechariah had asked, “How can I be sure of this?” (Luke 1:18). Even though Zechariah used similar words to Mary’s words, his question came with a different attitude. Zechariah wanted a confirming sign, but Mary asked for insight. And as we will see in the next verses, her question was born of trust. 

Luke 1:35-38

35 The angel answered, “The Holy Spirit will come on you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. So the holy one to be born will be called the Son of God. 36 Even Elizabeth your relative is going to have a child in her old age, and she who was said to be unable to conceive is in her sixth month. 37 For no word from God will ever fail.” 38 “I am the Lord’s servant,” Mary answered. “May your word to me be fulfilled.” Then the angel left her.

The angel’s answer to Mary’s question described the creative work of the Holy Spirit. “The Holy Spirit will come on you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you.” Overshadow carries the sense of the holy, powerful presence of God. God’s mighty presence was sufficient to sustain Mary and bring about the virgin birth. Creatively, the Holy Spirit brought the physical conception of Jesus.

This news was truly amazing—and miraculous. Mary gave no hint of doubt; nevertheless, Gabriel reminded Mary of the mighty power of God to do anything He so desires: “For no word from God will ever fail.”

Mary responded to the God of the impossible with words that can only be described as beautiful. ”’I am the Lord’s servant,’ Mary answered. ‘May your word to me be fulfilled.’” Mary saw her primary calling as one of submission and obedience to the Lord. By claiming to be the Lord’s servant, she was voluntarily giving up her rights to control her life.

Mary didn’t understand everything, but she trusted—and she obeyed. In humble submission, Mary was now ready to serve God and follow His will. Her attitude was all the more amazing when we realize Mary would have been in an extremely embarrassing and difficult situation because of this news. Mary surely understood she most likely would have been accused of adultery, yet she still graciously submitted to the will of God. This attitude of willful submission to God should also permeate our lives.

LIVE IT OUT

God has a call of obedience for each of us. How can you practically embrace God’s call on your life? Consider these suggestions:

• Commit. Commit your fears to God. Write a list of fears you struggle with. One by one, prayerfully commit them to the Lord.

• Obey. If you feel you’re facing an impossible situation, maybe there’s a step of obedience that needs to be your first step. Meditate on the verse: “For no word from God will ever fail” (Luke 1:37).

• Serve. Mary’s response was one of a servant. Do you see yourself as a servant of God? Ask God to open your eyes to a way you can serve someone. Look for ways to live out your calling by yielding your rights and living as God’s servant.

There are circumstances in life that will certainly catch us by surprise. It’s good to know that the One in whom we trust is never caught off guard. He can be trusted with our lives!

Hope to see you on Sunday!

In His Love,

David & Susan

Teacher Notes:

Click Here to Watch

A better question might be: When has God not changed the plans you had? 

There is a common saying, “If you want to make God laugh, tell Him your plans!” 

While I don’t think God is malicious in his laughter; I do believe He wonders why we think we had the right to determine our course in the first place. Proverbs 16 is filled with wise sayings that give the true perspective of who is in charge of “making plans.” “In his heart a man plans his course, but the LORD determines his steps.” (Prov. 16:9) Many of the wise sayings in Proverbs 16 identify that while it is natural, if not even good for me to make plans, I must recognize my future plans often may seem right to me, but are truly selfish and lead to bad results (Prov. 16:1, 2, 25). The good news is: God is in the business of changing our plans to His plan, resulting in something much better than I could hope for. 

However, the plans we make usually don't involve pain and humiliation and inconvenience. How often have you planned on suffering or experiencing persecution or being shamed in front of other people? And yet doesn't Scripture say: Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. And let endurance have its perfect result, so that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing (James 1:2-4). And not only this, but we also exult in our tribulations, knowing that tribulation brings about perseverance; and perseverance, proven character; and proven character, hope; and hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out within our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us (Romans 5:3-5). 

We just don’t usually incorporate trials and tribulation into our plans, but God’s plans for us always seem to involve them. Why? 

Because we live in a cursed world, for one. But also, because trials and tribulations grow our faith; they build character; they keep us humble; they keep our eyes turned to God; and they allow us to see the power of God at work as He sustains us, gives us joy in the middle of pain and suffering, enables us to persevere through the hard times, and through it all makes us more like Christ…giving us hope as we see the fruit of God’s work in our lives. Trials and tribulations give us an opportunity to show the world that our faith is real and powerful. Well, God’s plan for Joseph definitely included trials and tribulations and Joseph experienced a major change of plans here in Matthew chapter 1. 

We’re going to learn some powerful truths today as we watch God's plans unfold and how Mary and Joseph responded to a radically different future than they had envisioned. 

A Change of Plans 

Embracing God’s plan will require change in your life, 

but 

"It's a Wonderful Life" 

Luke 1:26-38 

In the sixth month of Elizabeth’s pregnancy, God sent the angel Gabriel to Nazareth, a town in Galilee, to a virgin pledged to be married to a man named Joseph, a descendant of David. The virgin’s name was Mary. The angel went to her and said, “Greetings, you who are highly favored! The Lord is with you.” Mary was greatly troubled at his words and wondered what kind of greeting this might be. But the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary; you have found favor with God. You will conceive and give birth to a son, and you are to call him Jesus. He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of his father David, and he will reign over Jacob’s descendants forever; his kingdom will never end.” “How will this be,” Mary asked the angel, “since I am a virgin?” The angel answered, “The Holy Spirit will come on you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. So the holy one to be born will be called the Son of God. Even Elizabeth your relative is going to have a child in her old age, and she who was said to be unable to conceive is in her sixth month. For no word from God will ever fail.” “I am the Lord’s servant,” Mary answered. “May your word to me be fulfilled.” Then the angel left her. 

Why does Luke open Gabriel’s visit to Mary with it happening in the sixth month of Elizabeth’s pregnancy? Why did Luke identify Mary as a virgin and Joseph as a descendant of David? What did Gabriel mean when he said that Mary was highly favored?  How did Gabriel explain Mary’s conception?  What declaration did Gabriel make to explain how these miraculous occurrences could take place? What did Mary have to surrender to God in order to join Him in His plan? Why did God choose Mary?  

Matthew 1:18-25 

This is how the birth of Jesus the Messiah came about: His mother Mary was pledged to be married to Joseph, but before they came together, she was found to be pregnant through the Holy Spirit. Because Joseph her husband was faithful to the law, and yet did not want to expose her to public disgrace, he had in mind to divorce her quietly. But after he had considered this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, “Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.” All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet: “The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel” (which means “God with us”). When Joseph woke up, he did what the angel of the Lord had commanded him and took Mary home as his wife. But he did not consummate their marriage until she gave birth to a son. And he gave him the name Jesus. 

What thoughts were going through Joseph’s mind when he first heard Mary was pregnant? 

What were Joseph’s options? 

Matthew described Joseph as faithful to the law. He abided by God’s law and had moral character. Joseph and Mary were young, Jewish people, well versed in the law of God, with a desire to please God. News of Mary's pregnancy sent Joseph into a dilemma. What should he do? Joseph had options. Old Testament law set the penalty for sexual relations before marriage as stoning. (See Deut. 22:13-21.) But by New Testament times, the most common way of dealing with this uncommon problem was to issue a certificate of divorce. (See 24:1.) This would often involve a public trial. However, Joseph did not want to disgrace her publicly. He was a righteous man who also had great compassion—an important combination. Instead of divorcing Mary publicly, Joseph determined he could divorce her quietly. 

What did Joseph have to surrender in order to embrace God’s plan? 

His Thinking. Dealing with a change in plans requires us to have God’s thoughts in our focus! It is no wonder Jesus immediately discusses the conditions of discipleship with all his followers at this point of Matthew’s Gospel. He insists if anyone has the plan to follow him, “he must deny himself and take up his cross and follow me” (Matt. 16:24). Following Jesus requires a change in my plans. I must relinquish (deny) my desire to plan, scheme, and insist on my way through daily surrendering my life to Jesus. While my salvation is secure through my Savior Jesus, the struggle to make Jesus Lord is a constant giving up my plans for God’s plan. I must daily fill and focus my mind with God’s thoughts, including his plans for my life. That is why, when God changes my plans, I must refocus my mind, asking what is God’s design for this moment. 

His Trust. A key component to adjusting your life to God’s plan involves trust in God’s sovereignty. Review the different areas of your life and identify the ways you should fully trust God in each of those areas. 

His Obedience. The essence of trust is obedience. If you trust who God is, it is only natural to do what He says. What is a specific area in your life where you need to obey God this week? 

Why didn’t Joseph have sexual relations with Mary after their marriage? 

The angel never said Joseph could not have sexual relations with Mary after their marriage, but Joseph refrained anyway. In doing so there was no question in their minds that this child was a gift of God. Joseph’s actions kept the focus on Jesus not on the new couple. The fact Joseph took God’s command seriously, marrying his pregnant fiancée, and beyond that allowing her to remain a virgin until the birth of the child, indicates Joseph was a man committed to aligning himself with God’s plan. 

How did Joseph respond to the instructions he received from the angel in his dream? 

He obeyed 

Who wants this gift?

After hands are raised, say: 

• Accepting this gift will completely change the direction of your life. 
• You may end up becoming an outcast with family and friends. 
• You may face incredible heartache and disappointment. 

Now, who still wants this gift? 

How have you learned to trust God’s plan for your life? What does it take to really listen to God and discern His plan for us? How do you approach prayer when you are confused about God’s plan? How can we live like nothing is impossible with God? How have you experienced God’s plan being better than your plan? 

What it means that Mary was “favored.” 

[Verse 26] Luke’s story of Jesus’ birth starts with a barren woman named Elizabeth, who miraculously conceived a child with her husband, Zechariah. (See Luke 1:5-25.) Their child would prove to be the forerunner of Jesus’ ministry, John the Baptist. Luke located the announcement that Mary would have a child as the sixth month. This is not a reference to the sixth month of the year but the sixth month of Elizabeth’s pregnancy with John. At that time, Mary had a heavenly visitor, the angel Gabriel, who had also announced Elizabeth’s upcoming pregnancy to Zechariah. (See v. 19.) There Gabriel is described as one who “stand[s] in the presence of God.” God’s presence was coming to Mary through one of His messengers, an angel whom God sent, who made two big announcements in Luke 1. The angel found Mary in Galilee, the territory north of Samaria that contained the city of Nazareth, a small village about 70 miles northeast of Jerusalem. [Verses 27-28] Gabriel came to deliver a message to a virgin, a woman who had not engaged in sexual relations. Mary was pledged to be married, a Jewish process more legally binding than modern engagement because it required a formal divorce to be broken. However, the couple did not participate in sexual relations until the marriage was finalized. Joseph was a descendant of David. Thus, when Joseph “adopted” Jesus, it meant Jesus also was legally from the lineage of David, fulfilling prophecies God had made to David about an eternal place on the throne for his descendants. (See 2 Sam. 7:16.) Gabriel delivered typical greetings based on the same root as the next word, highly favored. By calling her highly favored, Gabriel identified her as the recipient of grace. She had done nothing to gain God’s favor and give birth to the Messiah. Rather, God had poured His grace upon her by giving her that opportunity. In addition to highlighting God’s grace, the angel also emphasized the presence of God: “the Lord is with you.” Before God ever called Mary to be part of His plan, He assured her His presence was with her. [Verses 29-30] Mary felt greatly troubled by the angel’s statement. Zechariah had feared the angel (see Luke 1:12), but Mary’s concern was more with the saying she was highly favored. Why would the angel greet her with such an exalted greeting? Grace is often hard to understand in a world that mostly operates on merit. Seeing an angel was enough to stir one up, but hearing the angel pronounce you as favored by God is even more perplexing. Mary wondered what kind of greeting the angel had given to her. Gabriel told Mary not to be afraid. Gabriel reminded her she had found favor with God. The word favor is the usual word for grace. Nothing is said before or after the announcement about Mary’s piety or ability to curry favor from God. She was God’s sovereign choice to bring the Messiah into the world. Her job was to rely on the presence of the Lord and receive His grace in her life. We too have a similar job, regardless of what God has prepared for us in His kingdom. 

Understand how Mary would become the mother of the Savior. 

[Verse 31] This verse echoes Isaiah 7:14’s prophecy of Jesus’ birth. Mary would conceive and give birth to a son, as Isaiah had said. Gabriel’s words were consistent with the words of God to Isaiah. In Gabriel’s conversation with Zechariah, the angel had given the name John to the elderly parents. (See v. 13.) Gabriel was also the one to tell Mary her baby’s name would be Jesus. Isaiah had said the child would be named Immanuel, meaning, “God is with us.” Jesus means, “the Lord is salvation” or “the Lord saves.” Both names are fitting of Jesus’ role in the plan of God. [Verses 32-33] Gabriel revealed four realities about Jesus. First, He would be great. Zechariah was told the same thing about John the Baptist. (See v. 15.) John’s greatness centered upon his calling to be separate from the world and set apart for the Holy Spirit, but Jesus’ greatness would be unfolded in the other three realities mentioned in these verses. Second, Jesus’ greatness came from the fact He was the Son of the Most High. Most High is a typical reference to the God of Israel. (See 1:35,76; 6:35; Acts 7:48.) Zechariah’s prophecy over John referred to his son as a prophet of the Most High (see Luke 1:76), but the angel referred to Jesus as the Son of the Most High. Jesus was uniquely different than John or any other being ever born on the earth. A third reality highlighted by Gabriel was that God would give Jesus the throne of his father David. God had promised David an eternal reign (see 2 Sam. 7:12-16), and Jesus stepped in as the Messiah who would fulfill that role. As the Son of God and the Messiah from the line of David, Jesus would establish a kingdom that would be both spiritual and everlasting. The final reality about Jesus in this passage is that Jesus would reign over Jacob’s descendants forever. This was a typical way of referring to the kingdom of Israel. But unlike other earthly rulers, Jesus’ kingdom would have no end. Saints in the Old Testament had longed for such a kingdom (see Isa. 9:6; Dan. 7:14; Mic. 4:7), and now that would become a reality in Jesus. [Verse 34] Mary moved from being perplexed (see Luke 1:28) to being curious about how she could have a child. She asked, “How will this be?” It would be enough to wonder how her child could be the Messiah and the initiator of an eternal kingdom, much less how her child could be the Son of the Most High. These grand visions of what her child would be could have caused anyone to question. But that was not what had her questioning. The part that perplexed her was that as a virgin, she had not had sexual relations. She was engaged to Joseph, but they had not completed the marriage ceremony, much less consummated the marriage. Unlike Zechariah, Mary did not doubt the angel or ask for a sign to prove its veracity. She accepted the pronouncement but asked for more information of how it could happen. She trusted in the plan of God, even when it was difficult to understand how it could happen. 

Understand the word “overshadow.” 

[Verse 35] In response to Mary’s request for more information, Gabriel encouraged her to trust in the power of God. First, he explained that the Holy Spirit would come on her. The language avoided the connotation of mating with God or sexual relations. Rather it reflected the creative power and work of the Holy Spirit. Second, the Most High would overshadow Mary. The word carried the idea of the holy, mighty presence of the Lord. The idea describes the way the cloud covered the tabernacle when it was filled with God’s glory (see Ex. 40:35) and the mount of transfiguration when God revealed He was pleased with His Son. (See Matt. 17:5; Mark 9:7; Luke 9:34.) The result of the Spirit’s activity in Mary’s life would be a child who was human but also the Son of God. Only God’s power could produce such a miracle in Mary, and it was difficult for her to comprehend. [Verses 36-37] As an example of the power of God, Gabriel cited the miracle God had done in Mary’s relative Elizabeth. God had opened her womb even though she was barren and advanced beyond the age of childbearing. Doubtless she and Zechariah had tried unsuccessfully through the prime years of her youth, but she probably had long ago given up hope she would have a child. Despite everything working against Elizabeth, she was now in her sixth month of pregnancy. God was calling upon Mary to trust in His power. The angel of the Lord made an incredible pronouncement to Mary: For no word from God will ever fail. This was not the first time an expression like this was spoken. Abraham and Sarah (see Gen. 18:14), Jeremiah (see Jer. 32:27), Job (see Job 42:2), and later Jesus’ disciples (see Matt. 19:26) heard similar words. These examples of the power of God encourage us to believe in the power of God more than our own senses. [Verse 38] Mary responded favorably to the angel’s pronouncement: “I am the Lord’s servant.” She surrendered to His plan and purpose for her life. Who was she to question the God who was present and so full of grace? Her simple surrender to the Lord despite the consequences was impressive. Mary responded simply, “May your word to me be fulfilled.” Her service to the Lord was not a begrudging obedience to the will of God but a joyous surrender. Mary’s attitude mirrored Hannah’s in the Old Testament when the barren woman surrendered her will to God’s will. (See 1 Sam. 1:18.) Both women were committed to what God wanted to do in their lives. Mary said God could do with her according to His word. The word of the angel was the Word of God, and she joyfully submitted to God’s Word in her life. Her joyful submission was followed by the words, the angel left her. Gabriel’s purpose was done. He had announced the birth of Jesus and prepared Mary for the changes that were about to take place in her body and in her life. She would have to trust God. His presence was with her through the Holy Spirit. 

The context of engagement and divorce during this time. 

[Verse 18] Of Jesus the Messiah is placed first in the Greek text, making it emphatic. After a genealogy emphasizing person after person, Matthew emphasized Jesus’ birth as the point of the genealogy. It occurred differently from all the others previously mentioned. It took place when His parents were pledged to be married. This process lasted about a year. It was far more binding than engagement today, for the couple had to divorce to break the contract. During betrothal, the man already was known as the husband (see Matt. 1:19), though the couple would not yet have sexual relations until after a public ceremony. Jesus’ parents appear without fanfare or background information. Joseph and Mary’s plans for their future were disrupted by an unusual set of events. Before they came together certainly refers to sexual relations. They had not consummated the marriage but were still merely engaged. Even so, Mary was pregnant, typically a source of shame for both the man and the woman. For Joseph, who knew the baby was not his, it would cause deep soul-searching. Matthew clearly indicated this child was through the Holy Spirit. What was happening was not a result of immorality but of God’s supernatural power. Luke recorded that the angel told Mary the Holy Spirit would come upon her and His power would overshadow her. (See Luke 1:35.) God overshadowed Mary with His power and she mothered a child while still a virgin. The virgin birth was the genius plan of God, but at this point Joseph could not see it. He struggled with the fact his wife was pregnant and the child was not his. [Verse 19] Matthew described Joseph as faithful to the law. He abided by God’s law and had moral character. Joseph and Mary were young, Jewish people, well versed in the law of God, with a desire to please God. News of Mary's pregnancy sent Joseph into a dilemma. What should he do? Joseph had options. Old Testament law set the penalty for sexual relations before marriage as stoning. (See Deut. 22:13-21.) But by New Testament times, the most common way of dealing with this uncommon problem was to issue a certificate of divorce. (See 24:1.) This would often involve a public trial. However, Joseph did not want to disgrace her publicly. He was a righteous man who also had great compassion—an important combination. Instead of divorcing Mary publicly, Joseph determined he could divorce her quietly. An alternative to death and public disgrace allowed for private divorce with two witnesses. This would allow Joseph to divorce Mary without being vindictive in trying to ruin her life. Joseph, a man of great compassion, decided to take this course of action. The decision showed remarkable restraint for a young man. The minimum age for marriage in Israel was twelve for women and thirteen for men. Joseph determined to divorce Mary in a way that would avoid the most embarrassment for her and provide an opportunity for both to move on in life. Mary’s pregnancy was not his plan for life, but the disruption it caused was God’s plan. Thankfully Joseph did not act quickly or impulsively. He remained open to hearing from God and committed to obedience. 

The significance of Jesus’ earthly and heavenly lineage. 

[Verse 20] Joseph’s plan to divorce Mary privately (see Matt. 1:19) may have looked best to him, but God’s plan was best for Joseph; a plan delivered in a dream by an angel. Dreams were not God’s normal way of delivering direction and guidance, but it occasionally happened in the New Testament. God directed His people in dreams throughout the infancy narratives. The wise men were warned not to return to Herod. (See 2:12.) Joseph was warned to take his child to Egypt (see v. 13), to return to Israel after Herod died (see vv. 19-20), and to go to Galilee instead of Judea. (See v. 22.) Pilate’s wife was warned that her husband should have nothing to do with Jesus’ trial. (See 27:19.) Here the angel addressed Joseph as the son of David, emphasizing that this special child would be in the lineage of King David. The angel instructed Joseph not to be afraid to marry Mary. He couldn’t worry about what people would say or do about his marrying a woman with a child who was not his. The angel emphasized the child was not conceived from man but from the Holy Spirit. [Verse 21] Not only did the angel encourage Joseph to wed Mary, but he encouraged Joseph to take the child as his own son. Long before sonograms, God revealed the child’s gender in the womb. The angel instructed Joseph to name Him Jesus. Naming a child was something the father (see Gen. 4:26) or the mother might do. (See v. 25.) That the angel assigned this task to Joseph indicated Joseph was to raise Him as his own. He would become legally Joseph’s child and legally the son of David. Why name Him Jesus? This was not a unique name in Jesus’ day. It was the same name as Joshua and Jeshua in the Old Testament. It means “the Lord saves.” This meaning was reflected in the pronouncement of this special child’s role: He would save his people from their sins. Though Israel expected a political Messiah, the idea of salvation from sins was also present in the Old Testament. (See Isa. 53:5-6; Jer. 31:31-34). Joseph was beginning to understand that this disruption in his plans was all part of God’s plan to save humanity from their sins. [Verses 22-23] Matthew recognized the message of the dream as fulfilling Isaiah’s prophecy. He quoted Isaiah 7:14, who spoke of a virgin, which in Hebrew merely could have referred to a young woman of marriageable age. But Matthew made clear by using the Greek word that had to mean a virgin since Mary had never had relations with a man. (See Luke 1:34.) Even after Joseph took her into his home, he did not have sexual relations with her before the child’s birth. (See Matt. 1:25.) Jesus would have another name that brought hope and comfort to Israel—Immanuel, which Matthew translated as God with us. (See last week’s study for further details.) Matthew noted the fulfillment of that prophecy, a remarkable claim about the child inside Mary’s womb, in the birth of Jesus. Not only was He the promised Messiah, but He was also God. He was God with His people. Joseph’s head must have been spinning at this point. 

Understanding Joseph’s obedience. 

[Verse 24] When Joseph awoke from the dream, he aligned himself with God’s plan. He did as the angel had commanded him. Joseph’s obedience to do what God asked of him was an extension of his righteous character. (See Matt. 1:19.) He was committed to obeying God before he was placed in the situation to believe some difficult things and take some difficult actions. Living in the righteousness of Christ today will give us the opportunity to hear from Him about tomorrow. After the dream, Joseph married Mary as commanded by the angel in verse 20. The obedience of Joseph is remarkable. He did not question God or ask for another night’s sleep to consider it. He immediately aligned himself with God’s plan. Since Joseph was already betrothed to Mary, this passage indicates he took the next steps to finalize the marriage. After the betrothal period of about one year, the husband would complete a formal marriage ceremony, take his wife into his own household, and consummate the marriage through sexual relations. Joseph did all of these except the latter. [Verse 25] The angel never said Joseph could not have sexual relations with Mary after their marriage, but Joseph refrained anyway. In doing so there was no question in their minds that this child was a gift of God. Joseph’s actions kept the focus on Jesus not on the new couple. The fact Joseph took God’s command seriously, marrying his pregnant fiancée, and beyond that allowing her to remain a virgin until the birth of the child, indicates Joseph was a man committed to aligning himself with God’s plan. Joseph’s obedience continued. He would move his family to Egypt because God warned him to move. (See 2:13.) He would settle in Nazareth because of the command of God. (See vv. 19-23.) His actions fulfilled prophecies about Jesus and ensured He would be safe from Archelaus. (See v. 22.) Later steps of obedience often depend upon obedient steps in the beginning. Joseph also obeyed the Lord by taking Jesus as his own child. Matthew summarized, he gave him the name Jesus. Naming a child took place eight days after birth at the time of circumcision. The name had been given to both Joseph (see 1:21) and Mary. (See Luke 1:31.) They were in harmony because they both heard from God concerning the name and purpose of the child. He would “save his people from their sins” (Matt. 1:21). He would be the Messiah promised by God from days of old. God interrupted Joseph’s plans. Joseph did what he always does in Matthew’s Gospel—he obeyed. He aligned himself with God’s plans and embraced God’s disruption in his life in order to experience the abundance of God. In doing so, he got to hold the Son of God in his hands. He got to mold the early years of Jesus’ life. Sometimes change and disruption is a part of God’s plan, and if it is, it is not a bad thing! 

An Interrupted Life 

My life is filled with interruptions, inconveniences, frustrations, and unexpected events. Things break. Accidents happen. The phone rings just as I climb into bed. Traffic makes me late. Just when we don’t need another added expense, an appliance breaks. Unexpected illnesses change my carefully crafted plans. I could go on and on. You probably could too. 

The problem is, I usually handle these interruptions to my life poorly. I react with frustration and anger. Like a young child, I want to stomp my feet and say, “It’s not fair!” I blame others for inconveniencing me. I’ll even throw my own pity parties. 

“Small frustrations and interruptions give us opportunities to rely on God.” 

Though these interruptions are unexpected and catch me off guard, they do not catch God off guard. They are not random, meaningless events. In fact, these interruptions are divinely placed in my path for a reason. God uses these interruptions to change me to be more like Christ. 

Slow traffic, a sick child, or a costly home repair may not seem like important tools in our sanctification, but they are. We often overlook these interruptions and inconveniences and instead expect God to work in our lives through huge life-changing circumstances. But the reality is, we often won’t have major events in our life that cause us to trust God and obey him in some deeply profound way. We won’t be called to build an ark or take an only child up Mount Moriah. Rather, it’s in these small frustrations and interruptions, the little things in our life, where we are given opportunities to rely on God, to obey him, and to bring Him glory. 

Paul Tripp puts it like this: You and I don’t live in a series of big, dramatic moments. We don’t careen from big decision to big decision. We all live in an endless series of little moments. The character of a life isn’t set in ten big moments. The character of a life is set in ten thousand little moments of everyday life. It’s the themes of struggles that emerge from those little moments that reveal what’s really going on in our hearts. (Whiter Than Snow, 21) 

Interruptions of Grace 

These ten thousand little moments come in the form of our children asking us to play a game with them when we are tied up with something else. They are moments like when we get stuck behind a school bus when we’re already late to an appointment, or when we have a flat tire on the way to work. They are in all those moments all throughout the day when things don’t go our way, our plans fail, and our life is interrupted. 

It’s these moments where the rubber meets the road — where our faith is stretched and we look down to see whether we are standing on rock or sand. Do we really believe that God is in control of all the details of our life? Do we really believe that His grace is sufficient to get us through the day? Do we really believe that the gospel of Christ is powerful enough not only to save us for eternity, but also to sustain and strengthen us in the midst of life’s interruptions? Do we really believe that Christ is enough to satisfy all the deepest needs of our heart? 

These interruptions are acts of God’s grace. They force us to work through these questions. They make us face our sin. They are God’s way of taking off our blinders and making us see that we need the gospel in every moment of the day. They are a light that shines on the darkest recesses of our heart, revealing the truth of what’s really there — the sins and idols that we’ve pushed off into the corner, thinking that if we can’t see them, they must not exist. 

The Reminder We Need 

These interruptions remind us that we don’t have life figured out and that we can’t do it on our own. They are like the Shepherd’s rod, pulling us back from our wandering ways, back to our Great Shepherd. We need these interruptions. Like nothing else, they push us to the cross of Christ where we must remember the gospel and receive his grace and forgiveness. 

“Christ cares more about our transformation than about our daily comfort.” 

It’s hard to see all the little frustrating events and interruptions in our day as divinely placed opportunities to grow in grace, but they are. And seeing them as such helps us take our eyes off ourselves and put them on Christ, who cares more about our transformation than about our daily comfort. Rather than giving us a life of ease, He interrupts our lives with grace and shows us what we need most of all: Himself. 

How about you? Is your life filled with interruptions? Do you see God’s hand at work in them?