Christmas

The Sacrifice of the Manger

The Sacrifice of the Manger

Only Matthew and Luke tell the story of Jesus’ birth.  Although differing in how they tell their stories, they are united in one vital detail. Jesus’ conception in the Virgin Mary was an act of God.  Joseph, a good and righteous man, was Jesus’ legal, not biological father.  The Virgin Birth points to, what we now call, The Incarnation.  It is on this point; I want to discuss two profound passages…

Isaiah, Matthew, and Advent – Part One

Isaiah, Matthew, and Advent – Part One

The eighth century BC began with almost unparalleled prosperity for Israel and Judah, and ended in utter catastrophe, with the end of the Northern Kingdom, and the near complete destruction of Judah. Into this tumultuous century came something new for Israel, and an incredible blessing for us. Israel always had prophets, but in this century, their oracles were written and preserved. Amos, Hosea, Micah, and Isaiah were the “Literary Prophets,” of the eighth century…