Perfecting God’s Gifts
by Terri Copeland Pearsons
The birth of Jesus is not just Christmas card fodder. Each and every part of His story is relevant now, and will be forever.
Relevancy is good news! It means angels are still relevant; aren’t you glad? Obedience is relevant. It paid off for Joseph and Mary and will for us today. Divine protection is relevant. It couldn’t have been any more desirable then than in the world we live in today. Divine provision is certainly relevant! Who couldn’t use a camel-load in their time of need?
While the angels tend to get top billing surrounding the birth of Jesus, the prophets really should be hailed as the most valuable players.
When you think about the birth of the Savior, what prophets do you think of?
Most Christians recall the prophecies given by Zacharias, John the Baptist’s father, and maybe even Simeon and the prophetess, Anna, who both recognized Jesus to be the Savior and spoke openly to others, proclaiming that He was. Then there is the prophecy spoken through Isaiah declaring, “A virgin shall…bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel…. For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given…” (Isaiah 7:14, 9:6).
The truth is, every Old Testament prophet prophesied of Jesus—not only His birth, but every detail of His life.
Matthew 1:22, "The Amplified Bible, Classic Edition," says, “All this took place that it might be fulfilled which the Lord had spoken through the prophet.” Fifteen more times, Matthew says “that it might be fulfilled.”
They spoke the Word of God that Jesus based every action of His ministry on. Furthermore, Jesus is the Word made flesh, right? What word? The Word spoken by the prophets!
Could it be that the ministry of the prophet is relevant for us today? Some say, “No, that’s passed away.” Others disagree, but don’t really know how it is relevant and how to use their faith for this glorious ministry gift. Let’s explore.
12 : BVOV
