Life can get overwhelming, and when our expectations are unmet, we can question God and take matters into our own hands. Regardless of the trials we face or the turmoil within us, remember that God is always at work, especially when we are waiting. Our journey with God isn’t about understanding every step but about following Him every step of the way.
Emmanuel, “God with us,” isn’t just a historical statement; it’s a vital component of the salvation story, affirming God’s love for us. Matthew’s gospel provides a glimpse into the experience of Joseph and reminds us that God is at work even when everything else is falling apart.
During this Advent season, remember that worship is more than just raising our hands. Worship is about surrendering ourselves entirely to God—heart, soul, and voice. Our obedience is a declaration of our total reliance on His grace. REJOICE: WITH HEART AND SOUL AND VOICE!
Outline
God is always at
God’s
God’s
The wonder and mystery of “God with us” was not just a prophecy, it was necessary for our
“Since therefore the children share in flesh and blood, he himself likewise partook of the same things, that through death he might destroy the one who has the power of death, that is, the devil, and deliver all those who through fear of death were subject to lifelong slavery. For surely it is not angels that he helps, but he helps the offspring of Abraham. Therefore he had to be made like his brothers in every respect, so that he might become a merciful and faithful high priest in the service of God, to make propitiation for the sins of the people. For because he himself has suffered when tempted, he is able to help those who are being tempted.”
—Hebrews 2:14–18, ESV
- Worship is not just hands raised, it is
Application
In what sense is Jesus with you?
Where are you looking for the wisdom and understanding you seek?
How are you responding to God in the waiting and wondering?
Questions
- How does a denial of Jesus’ virgin birth affect the gospel message?
- What details of Jesus’ earthly ministry demonstrate His full humanity?
- List several characteristics of Jesus’ ministry that display His divinity.
- Explain how Jesus’ divine and human natures are different, yet unified.
- Why is it insufficient to say that Jesus was only a great moral example for us?
- How did Jesus’ birth fulfill the promise of Genesis 3:15?
- How is Jesus contrasted with Adam?
- How did Jesus fulfill Isaiah 7:14?
- How would you explain to an unbeliever that Jesus is both God and man?
- How should Matthew 1:21 shape the way you read the rest of this Gospel?