Christmas is now world famous, and so the only surprise many people expect during this season is while opening presents. But in fact the manner of the Messiah’s coming was unexpected for many, even among those who looked for him — and he will continue to be a mystery to us today, if we do not know him through his word, the Bible.
This Messiah did not come as an earthly king, but as a lowly servant. He did not come to conquer empires but to suffer for sins. And this Messiah is not proud and removed, but humble and present with each of his people. He is majestic in his meekness, holy in his compassion, mighty in his poverty.
Join us this Advent season, as we consider the Messiah we didn’t expect.
In this message from Isaiah 9:6, we notice:
1) The shocking context of this passage.
Point to ponder: We do not deserve God’s mercy. That’s why it is mercy.
Question to consider: Do you feel entitled to God’s grace, or do you realize grace is never earned?
2) The surprising promise in this passage.
Point to ponder: To his natural enemies, God gives his Son.
Question to consider: What would God not do for you, having given you his Son?
3) The necessary response to this passage.
Point to ponder: Jesus has been called many things: names blasphemous and names glorious.
Question to consider: What do you call Jesus, personally — do you call him Lord?