Pulpit Curriculum: Finding Jesus - A light In The Darkness
Kent Emile-Smith
December 15, 2024

Pulpit Curriculum: Finding Jesus - A light In The Darkness

December 15th – December 21st, 2024


Want to have this page read aloud to you? Click here for instructions


Sermon Summary

As we continue our journey through the sermon series ‘Finding Jesus’, this week’s sermon ‘A Light in the Darkness (Star of Jacob), focuses our attention on Balaam’s prophecy contained within his fourth oracle. Found in Numbers 24:17, the prophecy foretells a star rising out of Jacob and a scepter coming out of Israel. This imagery symbolizes a powerful ruler emerging from Israel and points to the coming of the Messiah who will lead and protect His people

Verse of the Week (ESV)

Numbers 24:17
17“I see him, but not now; I behold him, but not near: a star shall come out of Jacob, and a scepter shall rise out of Israel; it shall crush the forehead of Moab and break down all the sons of Sheth.”

Going Deeper

This section of the Pulpit Curriculum is meant to support Bible reflection, and encourage readers to come away with a high view of Scripture.

Review Numbers 24:17

1) The king of Moab sent for Balaam to curse the children of Israel (Numbers 22:4-6). Who was Balaam?

a) What does Numbers 22-24 and other bible references tell us about Balaam’s heart and his motives for prophesying?

2) Compare the prophecy in Numbers 24:17 to the other prophecies Balaam speaks in the preceding verses of the chapter.

a) What aspects of God’s character are revealed through the prophecies?

b) Why do you think Balaam refers to the coming ruler in such veiled language (“I see him, but not now”.

3) How is this text (Numbers 24:17) connected to other Messianic prophecies about Jesus Christ? Use scripture references to support your response.

4) According to the preacher “the imagery of the star speaks of light in the darkness, hope in uncertainty, and guidance for those who seek God while the scepter represents royal power and authority”

a) What are the similarities between the imagery of the star and scepter in this text and the descriptions of Jesus in the New Testament?

Assess Your Life

The following questions are meant to encourage personal reflection and identify areas for spiritual growth in your relationship with God. Ask yourself the questions, respond honestly, write down your responses, and then prayerfully seek God’s conviction and guidance to move forward to repentance and restoration. In discussions with your friends and family, or in your Small Group, be open to sharing your responses with others in a spirit of accountability and transparency.


1 “Balaam’s mention of a star reflects a sign of hope and divine guidance.”

a) How can we cultivate a deeper trust in God’s timing and sovereignty while waiting for His direction?

b) What areas in your life needs Christ’s illuminating presence?

2 Numbers 24:17 reminds us that God is in control of history and will establish His rule.

a) Reflect on the areas of your life where you struggle to give God full control. What are these areas and how can you surrender these areas more completely to Him?

3 How does the anticipation of Christ’s return influence your daily life, your priorities, and your relationships with others?

a) What are you challenged to do differently?

Application

One key objective of this Pulpit Curriculum is taking God’s truth as exposed in the sermon and helping people apply that truth in practical and intentional ways to plot a course toward obedience and transformation. This section is intended to achieve that objective.


1) This week I will pray for the following :

a. For patience and faith to trust in God’s divine timing and guidance.
b. For a heart of submission to God’s authority.
c. To be an instrument of justice and mercy.
d. For Christ’s promised return to fuel my desire to share the gospel.

2) During this Christmas season, how will you be more intentional about participating in God’s redemptive mission?

a) What practical steps can you take to serve others and to encourage them to look to the star of Christ for guidance and hope?


Sermon Main Points

As we reflect on Jesus – A light in the darkness. He is:

A Star Rising from Jacob (Numbers 24:17a) Symbol of Hope, Light, and Guidance

Balaam’s mention of a star reflects a sign of hope and divine guidance. This star points to Jesus, who said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness but will have the light of life” (John 8:12). The star is not just for Israel but a sign that the Messiah’s light would draw all nations to Himself.

Application: Seek Jesus’ guidance in your life! Just as the wise men followed the star, look to Jesus as your source of light and direction.

A Scepter to Rule (Numbers 24:17b)
The scepter represents royal power and authority. Balaam’s prophecy points to a Ruler who will come from Israel, One who will have dominion over all. This is fulfilled in Jesus Christ.

Application: Submit to Jesus’ authority in your life. He is not just a Savior but also a King who calls us to live under His rule of love and truth.

Christ as Light in the Darkness : Jesus as the Light of the World (Matthew 5:16)
The prophecy of the star reminds us that Jesus shines in the midst of our darkest moments. He illuminates the truth and offers hope to those who are lost or weary.

Application: Shine Christ’s light to those around you! Allow His light to transform you so that others can see His hope through your words and actions


Sermon Reflection

What stood out for me in this sermon?

What can I do to remember this?


5 Day Study Plan

Use the Inductive Bible Study method to study these scriptures this week and remember to share with someone else.

Follow these steps

1. Observe the text.
(What do you see in the text? Look for answers to questions like: Who? What? When? Where? Why? How?)

2. Interpret the text.
(What did God and the human author of the text want the original people reading this text to understand/do? Why?)

3. Apply the text.
(How do I need to change in my thinking, my affections, my attitudes, and/or my actions?)


Day 1 - Psalm 45:6

God’s eternal reign and divine authority

What I learned / How I will Respond?

Day 2 - Ephesians 1:20-22

The supremacy of Christ above all powers, authorities and rulers

What I learned / How I will Respond?

Day 3 - Philippians 2:10-11

Universal recognition of Christ’s lordship

What I learned / How I will Respond?

Day 4 - John 8:12

Jesus light of the world

What I learned / How I will Respond?

Day 5 - Matthew 5:16

Reflect the light of Christ

What I learned / How I will Respond?


For best results, this content should be read and prepared privately and then discussed in your small group or with family / friends. We were not created to do life alone - get connected with a small group and grow