Advent: Part 1

November 29th, 2008

This week we begin our advent series, as we prepare ourselves to celebrate the birth of Christ. Tomorrow I will be touching on a few of the prophecies from the OT regarding Jesus christ. But I wanted to to give a deeper look at the prophecies of Christ we find in the OT. This not a full, exhaustive list but it covers a lot:

Many Old Testament Prophecies Of Jesus Christ Were Fulfilled In The New Testament

Jesus is eternal in His existence

Micah 5:1-2 (NIV) Marshal your troops, O city of troops, for a siege is laid against us. They will strike Israel’s ruler on the cheek with a rod. 2 “But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel, whose origins are from of old, from ancient times.”

John 1:1 (NIV) In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.

John 1:14 The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the One and Only, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.

John 8:58 (NIV) “I tell you the truth,” Jesus answered, “before Abraham was born, I am!”

Ephesians 1:3-14 (NIV) Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ. 4 For he chose us in him before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in his sight. In love 5 he predestined us to be adopted as his sons through Jesus Christ, in accordance with his pleasure and will– 6 to the praise of his glorious grace, which he has freely given us in the One he loves. 7 In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God’s grace 8 that he lavished on us with all wisdom and understanding. 9 And he made known to us the mystery of his will according to his good pleasure, which he purposed in Christ, 10 to be put into effect when the times will have reached their fulfillment–to bring all things in heaven and on earth together under one head, even Christ. 11 In him we were also chosen, having been predestined according to the plan of him who works out everything in conformity with the purpose of his will, 12 in order that we, who were the first to hope in Christ, might be for the praise of his glory. 13 And you also were included in Christ when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation. Having believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, 14 who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God’s possession–to the praise of his glory.

Colossians 1:15-19 (NIV) He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation. 16 For by him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things were created by him and for him. 17 He is before all things, and in him all things hold together. 18 And he is the head of the body, the church; he is the beginning and the firstborn from among the dead, so that in everything he might have the supremacy. 19 For God was pleased to have all his fullness dwell in him,

Revelation 1:18 (NIV) I am the Living One; I was dead, and behold I am alive for ever and ever! And I hold the keys of death and Hades.

Jesus is the Son of God

Psalms 2:7 (NIV) I will proclaim the decree of the LORD: He said to me, “You are my Son ; today I have become your Father.

Proverbs 30:4 (NIV) Who has gone up to heaven and come down? Who has gathered up the wind in the hollow of his hands? Who has wrapped up the waters in his cloak? Who has established all the ends of the earth? What is his name, and the name of his son? Tell me if you know!

Matthew 3:17 (NIV) And a voice from heaven said, “This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased.”

Luke 1:32 (NIV) He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of his father David,

Romans 1:4 (NIV) and who through the Spirit of holiness was declared with power to be the Son of God by his resurrection from the dead: Jesus Christ our Lord.


Jesus would be anointed with the Spirit of God

Isaiah 11:2 (NIV) The Spirit of the LORD will rest on him– the Spirit of wisdom and of understanding, the Spirit of counsel and of power, the Spirit of knowledge and of the fear of the LORD–

Isaiah 61:1 (NIV) The Spirit of the Sovereign LORD is on me, because the LORD has anointed me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners,

Psalms 45:7-8 (NIV) You love righteousness and hate wickedness; therefore God, your God, has set you above your companions by anointing you with the oil of joy. 8 All your robes are fragrant with myrrh and aloes and cassia; from palaces adorned with ivory the music of the strings makes you glad.

Matthew 3:16 (NIV) As soon as Jesus was baptized, he went up out of the water. At that moment heaven was opened, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and lighting on him.

John 3:34 (NIV) For the one whom God has sent speaks the words of God, for God gives the Spirit without limit.

Acts 10:38 (NIV) how God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and power, and how he went around doing good and healing all who were under the power of the devil, because God was with him.

Jesus’ name is the same as the Tetragrammaton (YHWH)

Isaiah 9:5-7 (NIV) Every warrior’s boot used in battle and every garment rolled in blood will be destined for burning, will be fuel for the fire. 6 For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. 7 Of the increase of his government and peace there will be no end. He will reign on David’s throne and over his kingdom, establishing and upholding it with justice and righteousness from that time on and forever. The zeal of the LORD Almighty will accomplish this.

Jeremiah 23:5-6 (NIV) “The days are coming,” declares the LORD, “when I will raise up to David a righteous Branch, a King who will reign wisely and do what is just and right in the land. 6 In his days Judah will be saved and Israel will live in safety. This is the name by which he will be called: The LORD Our Righteousness.

Romans 10:9 (NIV) That if you confess with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.

Philippians 2:9-11 (NIV) Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, 10 that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, 11 and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

Jesus would be The King

Psalms 2:6 (NIV) “I have installed my King on Zion, my holy hill.”

John 18:33-37 (NIV) Pilate then went back inside the palace, summoned Jesus and asked him, “Are you the king of the Jews?” 34 “Is that your own idea,” Jesus asked, “or did others talk to you about me?” 35 “Am I a Jew?” Pilate replied. “It was your people and your chief priests who handed you over to me. What is it you have done?” 36 Jesus said, “My kingdom is not of this world. If it were, my servants would fight to prevent my arrest by the Jews. But now my kingdom is from another place.” 37 “You are a king, then!” said Pilate. Jesus answered, “You are right in saying I am a king. In fact, for this reason I was born, and for this I came into the world, to testify to the truth. Everyone on the side of truth listens to me.”

Jesus would be a Prophet

Deuteronomy 18:15 (NIV) The LORD your God will raise up for you a prophet like me from among your own brothers. You must listen to him.

Deuteronomy 18:18 (NIV) I will raise up for them a prophet like you from among their brothers; I will put my words in his mouth, and he will tell them everything I command him.

Acts 3:20-22 (NIV) and that he may send the Christ, who has been appointed for you–even Jesus. 21 He must remain in heaven until the time comes for God to restore everything, as he promised long ago through his holy prophets. 22 For Moses said, ‘The Lord your God will raise up for you a prophet like me from among your own people; you must listen to everything he tells you.

Jesus would be a Priest

Psalms 110:4 (NIV) The LORD has sworn and will not change his mind: “You are a priest forever, in the order of Melchizedek.”

Hebrews 5:5-6 (NIV) So Christ also did not take upon himself the glory of becoming a high priest. But God said to him, “You are my Son; today I have become your Father.” 6 And he says in another place, “You are a priest forever, in the order of Melchizedek.”

Hebrews 6:20 (NIV) where Jesus, who went before us, has entered on our behalf. He has become a high priest forever, in the order of Melchizedek.

Hebrews 7:14-17 (NIV) For it is clear that our Lord descended from Judah, and in regard to that tribe Moses said nothing about priests. 15 And what we have said is even more clear if another priest like Melchizedek appears, 16 one who has become a priest not on the basis of a regulation as to his ancestry but on the basis of the power of an indestructible life. 17 For it is declared: “You are a priest forever, in the order of Melchizedek.”

Jesus would come the first time after sixty-two “sevens” and the second time after seven “sevens”

Daniel 9:24-26 (NIV) “Seventy ’sevens’ are decreed for your people and your holy city to finish transgression, to put an end to sin, to atone for wickedness, to bring in everlasting righteousness, to seal up vision and prophecy and to anoint the most holy. 25 “Know and understand this: From the issuing of the decree to restore and rebuild Jerusalem until the Anointed One, the ruler, comes, there will be seven ’sevens,’ and sixty-two ’sevens.’ It will be rebuilt with streets and a trench, but in times of trouble. 26 After the sixty-two ’sevens,’ the Anointed One will be cut off and will have nothing. The people of the ruler who will come will destroy the city and the sanctuary. The end will come like a flood: War will continue until the end, and desolations have been decreed.

Matthew 2:1 (NIV) After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the time of King Herod, Magi from the east came to Jerusalem

Matthew 2:16 When Herod realized that he had been outwitted by the Magi, he was furious, and he gave orders to kill all the boys in Bethlehem and its vicinity who were two years old and under, in accordance with the time he had learned from the Magi.

Jesus would die sixty two “sevens” after the order to rebuild Jerusalem

Daniel 9:24-26 (NIV) “Seventy ’sevens’ are decreed for your people and your holy city to finish transgression, to put an end to sin, to atone for wickedness, to bring in everlasting righteousness, to seal up vision and prophecy and to anoint the most holy. 25 “Know and understand this: From the issuing of the decree to restore and rebuild Jerusalem until the Anointed One, the ruler, comes, there will be seven ’sevens,’ and sixty-two ’sevens.’ It will be rebuilt with streets and a trench, but in times of trouble. 26 After the sixty-two ’sevens,’ the Anointed One will be cut off and will have nothing. The people of the ruler who will come will destroy the city and the sanctuary. The end will come like a flood: War will continue until the end, and desolations have been decreed.

Romans 5:16 (NIV) Again, the gift of God is not like the result of the one man’s sin: The judgment followed one sin and brought condemnation, but the gift followed many trespasses and brought justification.

1 Peter 3:18 (NIV) For Christ died for sins once for all, the righteous for the unrighteous, to bring you to God. He was put to death in the body but made alive by the Spirit,

Jesus would be the “seed of the woman” that would crush the serpent’s head

Genesis 3:15 (NIV) And I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your offspring and hers; he will crush your head, and you will strike his heel.”

Galatians 4:4 (NIV) But when the time had fully come, God sent his Son, born of a woman, born under law,

1 John 3:8 (NIV) He who does what is sinful is of the devil, because the devil has been sinning from the beginning. The reason the Son of God appeared was to destroy the devil’s work.

Jesus would be the “seed of Abraham”

Genesis 12:3 (NIV) I will bless those who bless you, and whoever curses you I will curse; and all peoples on earth will be blessed through you.”

Matthew 1:1 (NIV) A record of the genealogy of Jesus Christ the son of David, the son of Abraham:

Acts 3:25 (NIV) And you are heirs of the prophets and of the covenant God made with your fathers. He said to Abraham, ‘Through your offspring all peoples on earth will be blessed.’

Galatians 3:16 (NIV) The promises were spoken to Abraham and to his seed. The Scripture does not say “and to seeds,” meaning many people, but “and to your seed,” meaning one person, who is Christ.

Jesus would be the “seed of Isaac”

Genesis 17:9 (NIV) Then God said to Abraham, “As for you, you must keep my covenant, you and your descendants after you for the generations to come.

Genesis 21:12 (NIV) But God said to him, “Do not be so distressed about the boy and your maidservant. Listen to whatever Sarah tells you, because it is through Isaac that your offspring will be reckoned.

Matthew 1:2 (NIV) Abraham was the father of Isaac, Isaac the father of Jacob, Jacob the father of Judah and his brothers,

Luke 3:34 (NIV) the son of Jacob, the son of Isaac, the son of Abraham, the son of Terah, the son of Nahor,

Hebrews 11:17-19 (NIV) By faith Abraham, when God tested him, offered Isaac as a sacrifice. He who had received the promises was about to sacrifice his one and only son, 18 even though God had said to him, “It is through Isaac that your offspring will be reckoned.” 19 Abraham reasoned that God could raise the dead, and figuratively speaking, he did receive Isaac back from death.

Jesus would be the “seed of Jacob”

Genesis 28:14 (NIV) Your descendants will be like the dust of the earth, and you will spread out to the west and to the east, to the north and to the south. All peoples on earth will be blessed through you and your offspring.

Numbers 24:17-19 (NIV) “I see him, but not now; I behold him, but not near. A star will come out of Jacob; a scepter will rise out of Israel. He will crush the foreheads of Moab, the skulls of all the sons of Sheth. 18 Edom will be conquered; Seir, his enemy, will be conquered, but Israel will grow strong. 19 A ruler will come out of Jacob and destroy the survivors of the city.”

Matthew 1:2 (NIV) Abraham was the father of Isaac, Isaac the father of Jacob, Jacob the father of Judah and his brothers,

Luke 3:34 (NIV) the son of Jacob, the son of Isaac, the son of Abraham, the son of Terah, the son of Nahor,

Jesus would be of the tribe of Judah

Genesis 49:10 (NIV) The scepter will not depart from Judah, nor the ruler’s staff from between his feet, until he comes to whom it belongs and the obedience of the nations is his.

Matthew 1:2-3 (NIV) Abraham was the father of Isaac, Isaac the father of Jacob, Jacob the father of Judah and his brothers, 3 Judah the father of Perez and Zerah, whose mother was Tamar, Perez the father of Hezron, Hezron the father of Ram,

Luke 3:33 (NIV) the son of Amminadab, the son of Ram, the son of Hezron, the son of Perez, the son of Judah,

Hebrews 7:14-17 (NIV) For it is clear that our Lord descended from Judah, and in regard to that tribe Moses said nothing about priests.

Jesus would be come from David’s family and be heir to his throne

2 Samuel 7:12-16 (NIV) When your days are over and you rest with your fathers, I will raise up your offspring to succeed you, who will come from your own body, and I will establish his kingdom. 13 He is the one who will build a house for my Name, and I will establish the throne of his kingdom forever. 14 I will be his father, and he will be my son. When he does wrong, I will punish him with the rod of men, with floggings inflicted by men. 15 But my love will never be taken away from him, as I took it away from Saul, whom I removed from before you. 16 Your house and your kingdom will endure forever before me ; your throne will be established forever.’”

Psalms 89:3-4 (NIV) You said, “I have made a covenant with my chosen one, I have sworn to David my servant, 4 ‘I will establish your line forever and make your throne firm through all generations.’” Selah

Psalms 110:1 (NIV) Of David. A psalm. The LORD says to my Lord: “Sit at my right hand until I make your enemies a footstool for your feet.”

Psalms 132:11 (NIV) The LORD swore an oath to David, a sure oath that he will not revoke: “One of your own descendants I will place on your throne–

Isaiah 9:6-7 (NIV) For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. 7 Of the increase of his government and peace there will be no end. He will reign on David’s throne and over his kingdom, establishing and upholding it with justice and righteousness from that time on and forever. The zeal of the LORD Almighty will accomplish this.

Isaiah 11:1-5 (NIV) A shoot will come up from the stump of Jesse; from his roots a Branch will bear fruit. 2 The Spirit of the LORD will rest on him– the Spirit of wisdom and of understanding, the Spirit of counsel and of power, the Spirit of knowledge and of the fear of the LORD– 3 and he will delight in the fear of the LORD. He will not judge by what he sees with his eyes, or decide by what he hears with his ears; 4 but with righteousness he will judge the needy, with justice he will give decisions for the poor of the earth. He will strike the earth with the rod of his mouth; with the breath of his lips he will slay the wicked. 5 Righteousness will be his belt and faithfulness the sash around his waist.

Jeremiah 23:5 (NIV) “The days are coming,” declares the LORD, “when I will raise up to David a righteous Branch, a King who will reign wisely and do what is just and right in the land.

Matthew 1:1 (NIV) A record of the genealogy of Jesus Christ the son of David, the son of Abraham:

Matthew 1:6 (NIV) and Jesse the father of King David. David was the father of Solomon, whose mother had been Uriah’s wife,

Matthew 22:44 (NIV) “‘The Lord said to my Lord: “Sit at my right hand until I put your enemies under your feet.”‘

Mark 12:36 (NIV) David himself, speaking by the Holy Spirit, declared: “‘The Lord said to my Lord: “Sit at my right hand until I put your enemies under your feet.”‘

Luke 1:69-70 (NIV) He has raised up a horn of salvation for us in the house of his servant David 70 (as he said through his holy prophets of long ago),

Luke 2:4-7 (NIV) So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David. 5 He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child. 6 While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, 7 and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.

Luke 20:42-44 (NIV) David himself declares in the Book of Psalms: “‘The Lord said to my Lord: “Sit at my right hand 43 until I make your enemies a footstool for your feet.”‘ 44 David calls him ‘Lord.’ How then can he be his son?”

John 7:42 (NIV) Does not the Scripture say that the Christ will come from David’s family and from Bethlehem, the town where David lived?”

Revelation 22:16 (NIV) “I, Jesus, have sent my angel to give you this testimony for the churches. I am the Root and the Offspring of David, and the bright Morning Star.”

Jesus would be born in Bethlehem

Micah 5:1 (NIV) Marshal your troops, O city of troops, for a siege is laid against us. They will strike Israel’s ruler on the cheek with a rod. 2 “But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel, whose origins are from of old, from ancient times.”

Matthew 2:1 (NIV) After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the time of King Herod, Magi from the east came to Jerusalem

Matthew 2:6 (NIV) “‘But you, Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, are by no means least among the rulers of Judah; for out of you will come a ruler who will be the shepherd of my people Israel.’”

Luke 2:4-7 (NIV) So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David. 5 He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child. 6 While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, 7 and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.

John 7:42 (NIV) Does not the Scripture say that the Christ will come from David’s family and from Bethlehem, the town where David lived?”

Jesus would be born of a virgin and called Immanuel

Isaiah 7:14 (NIV) Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign: The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel.

Matthew 1:18-2:1 (NIV) This is how the birth of Jesus Christ came about: His mother Mary was pledged to be married to Joseph, but before they came together, she was found to be with child through the Holy Spirit. 19 Because Joseph her husband was a righteous man and did not want to expose her to public disgrace, he had in mind to divorce her quietly. 20 But after he had considered this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, “Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. 21 She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.” 22 All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet: 23 “The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel” –which means, “God with us.” 24 When Joseph woke up, he did what the angel of the Lord had commanded him and took Mary home as his wife. 25 But he had no union with her until she gave birth to a son. And he gave him the name Jesus. 2:1 After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the time of King Herod, Magi from the east came to Jerusalem

Luke 1:26-35 (NIV) In the sixth month, God sent the angel Gabriel to Nazareth, a town in Galilee, 27 to a virgin pledged to be married to a man named Joseph, a descendant of David. The virgin’s name was Mary. 28 The angel went to her and said, “Greetings, you who are highly favored! The Lord is with you.” 29 Mary was greatly troubled at his words and wondered what kind of greeting this might be. 30 But the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, you have found favor with God. 31 You will be with child and give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus. 32 He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of his father David, 33 and he will reign over the house of Jacob forever; his kingdom will never end.” 34 “How will this be,” Mary asked the angel, “since I am a virgin?” 35 The angel answered, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. So the holy one to be born will be called the Son of God.

Bethlehem’s children would be killed at Jesus’ Coming

Genesis 35:19-20 (NIV) So Rachel died and was buried on the way to Ephrath (that is, Bethlehem). 20 Over her tomb Jacob set up a pillar, and to this day that pillar marks Rachel’s tomb.

Genesis 48:7 (NIV) As I was returning from Paddan, to my sorrow Rachel died in the land of Canaan while we were still on the way, a little distance from Ephrath. So I buried her there beside the road to Ephrath” (that is, Bethlehem).

Jeremiah 31:15 (NIV) This is what the LORD says: “A voice is heard in Ramah, mourning and great weeping, Rachel weeping for her children and refusing to be comforted, because her children are no more.”

Matthew 2:16-18 (NIV) When Herod realized that he had been outwitted by the Magi, he was furious, and he gave orders to kill all the boys in Bethlehem and its vicinity who were two years old and under, in accordance with the time he had learned from the Magi. 17 Then what was said through the prophet Jeremiah was fulfilled: 18 “A voice is heard in Ramah, weeping and great mourning, Rachel weeping for her children and refusing to be comforted, because they are no more.”

Jesus would live in Egypt

Hosea 11:1 (NIV) “When Israel was a child, I loved him, and out of Egypt I called my son.

Matthew 2:14-15 (NIV) So he got up, took the child and his mother during the night and left for Egypt, 15 where he stayed until the death of Herod. And so was fulfilled what the Lord had said through the prophet: “Out of Egypt I called my son.”

Jesus would live in Galilee

Isaiah 9:1-2 (NIV) Nevertheless, there will be no more gloom for those who were in distress. In the past he humbled the land of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali, but in the future he will honor Galilee of the Gentiles, by the way of the sea, along the Jordan– 2 The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of the shadow of death a light has dawned.

Matthew 4:13-16 (NIV) Leaving Nazareth, he went and lived in Capernaum, which was by the lake in the area of Zebulun and Naphtali– 14 to fulfill what was said through the prophet Isaiah: 15 “Land of Zebulun and land of Naphtali, the way to the sea, along the Jordan, Galilee of the Gentiles– 16 the people living in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of the shadow of death a light has dawned.”

Jesus would bind up the brokenhearted, proclaim liberty to the captives and announce the acceptable year of the Lord

Isaiah 61:1-2 (NIV) The Spirit of the Sovereign LORD is on me, because the LORD has anointed me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners, 2 to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor and the day of vengeance of our God, to comfort all who mourn,

Luke 4:18-21 (NIV) “The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to release the oppressed, 19 to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor.” 20 Then he rolled up the scroll, gave it back to the attendant and sat down. The eyes of everyone in the synagogue were fastened on him, 21 and he began by saying to them, “Today this scripture is fulfilled in your hearing.”

Jesus would heal people of disease and sickness

Isaiah 53:4 (NIV) Surely he took up our infirmities and carried our sorrows, yet we considered him stricken by God, smitten by him, and afflicted.

Isaiah 35:5-6 (NIV) Then will the eyes of the blind be opened and the ears of the deaf unstopped. 6 Then will the lame leap like a deer, and the mute tongue shout for joy. Water will gush forth in the wilderness and streams in the desert.

Isaiah 42:18 (NIV) “Hear, you deaf; look, you blind, and see!

Matthew 8:16-17 (NIV) When evening came, many who were demon-possessed were brought to him, and he drove out the spirits with a word and healed all the sick. 17 This was to fulfill what was spoken through the prophet Isaiah: “He took up our infirmities and carried our diseases.”

Matthew 11:5 (NIV) The blind receive sight, the lame walk, those who have leprosy are cured, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, and the good news is preached to the poor.

Jesus would teach in parables

Isaiah 6:9-10 (NIV) He said, “Go and tell this people: “‘Be ever hearing, but never understanding; be ever seeing, but never perceiving.’ 10 Make the heart of this people calloused; make their ears dull and close their eyes. Otherwise they might see with their eyes, hear with their ears, understand with their hearts, and turn and be healed.”

Psalms 78:2 (NIV) I will open my mouth in parables, I will utter hidden things, things from of old–

Matthew 13:11-15 (NIV) He replied, “The knowledge of the secrets of the kingdom of heaven has been given to you, but not to them. 12 Whoever has will be given more, and he will have an abundance. Whoever does not have, even what he has will be taken from him. 13 This is why I speak to them in parables: “Though seeing, they do not see; though hearing, they do not hear or understand. 14 In them is fulfilled the prophecy of Isaiah: “‘You will be ever hearing but never understanding; you will be ever seeing but never perceiving. 15 For this people’s heart has become calloused; they hardly hear with their ears, and they have closed their eyes. Otherwise they might see with their eyes, hear with their ears, understand with their hearts and turn, and I would heal them.’

Matthew 13:34-35 (NIV) Jesus spoke all these things to the crowd in parables; he did not say anything to them without using a parable. 35 So was fulfilled what was spoken through the prophet: “I will open my mouth in parables, I will utter things hidden since the creation of the world.”

Jesus would be tender and compassionate

Isaiah 40:11 (NIV) He tends his flock like a shepherd: He gathers the lambs in his arms and carries them close to his heart; he gently leads those that have young.

Isaiah 42:3 (NIV) A bruised reed he will not break, and a smoldering wick he will not snuff out. In faithfulness he will bring forth justice;

Matthew 12:15-21 (NIV) Aware of this, Jesus withdrew from that place. Many followed him, and he healed all their sick, 16 warning them not to tell who he was. 17 This was to fulfill what was spoken through the prophet Isaiah: 18 “Here is my servant whom I have chosen, the one I love, in whom I delight; I will put my Spirit on him, and he will proclaim justice to the nations. 19 He will not quarrel or cry out; no one will hear his voice in the streets. 20 A bruised reed he will not break, and a smoldering wick he will not snuff out, till he leads justice to victory. 21 In his name the nations will put their hope.”

Hebrews 4:15 (NIV) For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are–yet was without sin.

Jesus would be meek and humble

Isaiah 42:2 (NIV) He will not shout or cry out, or raise his voice in the streets.

Matthew 12:15-21 (NIV) Aware of this, Jesus withdrew from that place. Many followed him, and he healed all their sick, 16 warning them not to tell who he was. 17 This was to fulfill what was spoken through the prophet Isaiah: 18 “Here is my servant whom I have chosen, the one I love, in whom I delight; I will put my Spirit on him, and he will proclaim justice to the nations. 19 He will not quarrel or cry out; no one will hear his voice in the streets. 20 A bruised reed he will not break, and a smoldering wick he will not snuff out, till he leads justice to victory. 21 In his name the nations will put their hope.”

Jesus would be sinless and without guile

Isaiah 53:9 (NIV) He was assigned a grave with the wicked, and with the rich in his death, though he had done no violence, nor was any deceit in his mouth.

1 Peter 2:22 (NIV) “He committed no sin, and no deceit was found in his mouth.”

Jesus would bear the reproaches due others

Isaiah 53:12 (NIV) Therefore I will give him a portion among the great, and he will divide the spoils with the strong, because he poured out his life unto death, and was numbered with the transgressors. For he bore the sin of many, and made intercession for the transgressors.

Psalms 69:9-10 (NIV) for zeal for your house consumes me, and the insults of those who insult you fall on me. 10 When I weep and fast, I must endure scorn;

Romans 15:3 (NIV) For even Christ did not please himself but, as it is written: “The insults of those who insult you have fallen on me.”

Jesus would make a triumphal entry into Jerusalem on a donkey

Isaiah 62:11 (NIV) The LORD has made proclamation to the ends of the earth: “Say to the Daughter of Zion, ‘See, your Savior comes! See, his reward is with him, and his recompense accompanies him.’”

Zechariah 9:9 (NIV) Rejoice greatly, O Daughter of Zion! Shout, Daughter of Jerusalem! See, your king comes to you, righteous and having salvation, gentle and riding on a donkey, on a colt, the foal of a donkey.

Psalms 118:26 (NIV) Blessed is he who comes in the name of the LORD. From the house of the LORD we bless you.

Matthew 21:1-9 (NIV) As they approached Jerusalem and came to Bethphage on the Mount of Olives, Jesus sent two disciples, 2 saying to them, “Go to the village ahead of you, and at once you will find a donkey tied there, with her colt by her. Untie them and bring them to me. 3 If anyone says anything to you, tell him that the Lord needs them, and he will send them right away.” 4 This took place to fulfill what was spoken through the prophet: 5 “Say to the Daughter of Zion, ‘See, your king comes to you, gentle and riding on a donkey, on a colt, the foal of a donkey.’” 6 The disciples went and did as Jesus had instructed them. 7 They brought the donkey and the colt, placed their cloaks on them, and Jesus sat on them. 8 A very large crowd spread their cloaks on the road, while others cut branches from the trees and spread them on the road. 9 The crowds that went ahead of him and those that followed shouted, “Hosanna to the Son of David!” “Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!” “Hosanna in the highest!”

Mark 11:1-11 (NIV) As they approached Jerusalem and came to Bethphage and Bethany at the Mount of Olives, Jesus sent two of his disciples, 2 saying to them, “Go to the village ahead of you, and just as you enter it, you will find a colt tied there, which no one has ever ridden. Untie it and bring it here. 3 If anyone asks you, ‘Why are you doing this?’ tell him, ‘The Lord needs it and will send it back here shortly.’” 4 They went and found a colt outside in the street, tied at a doorway. As they untied it, 5 some people standing there asked, “What are you doing, untying that colt?” 6 They answered as Jesus had told them to, and the people let them go. 7 When they brought the colt to Jesus and threw their cloaks over it, he sat on it. 8 Many people spread their cloaks on the road, while others spread branches they had cut in the fields. 9 Those who went ahead and those who followed shouted, “Hosanna! ” “Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!” 10 “Blessed is the coming kingdom of our father David!” “Hosanna in the highest!” 11 Jesus entered Jerusalem and went to the temple. He looked around at everything, but since it was already late, he went out to Bethany with the Twelve.

John 12:12-16 (NIV) The next day the great crowd that had come for the Feast heard that Jesus was on his way to Jerusalem. 13 They took palm branches and went out to meet him, shouting, “Hosanna! ” “Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!” “Blessed is the King of Israel!” 14 Jesus found a young donkey and sat upon it, as it is written, 15 “Do not be afraid, O Daughter of Zion; see, your king is coming, seated on a donkey’s colt.” 16 At first his disciples did not understand all this. Only after Jesus was glorified did they realize that these things had been written about him and that they had done these things to him.

Jesus would enter the Temple with authority

Haggai 2:7-9 (NIV) I will shake all nations, and the desired of all nations will come, and I will fill this house with glory,’ says the LORD Almighty. 8 ‘The silver is mine and the gold is mine,’ declares the LORD Almighty. 9 ‘The glory of this present house will be greater than the glory of the former house,’ says the LORD Almighty. ‘And in this place I will grant peace,’ declares the LORD Almighty.”

Malachi 3:1 (NIV) “See, I will send my messenger, who will prepare the way before me. Then suddenly the Lord you are seeking will come to his temple; the messenger of the covenant, whom you desire, will come,” says the LORD Almighty.

Matthew 21:12 (NIV) Jesus entered the temple area and drove out all who were buying and selling there. He overturned the tables of the money changers and the benches of those selling doves.

Luke 2:27-38 (NIV) Moved by the Spirit, he went into the temple courts. When the parents brought in the child Jesus to do for him what the custom of the Law required, 28 Simeon took him in his arms and praised God, saying: 29 “Sovereign Lord, as you have promised, you now dismiss your servant in peace. 30 For my eyes have seen your salvation, 31 which you have prepared in the sight of all people, 32 a light for revelation to the Gentiles and for glory to your people Israel.” 33 The child’s father and mother marveled at what was said about him. 34 Then Simeon blessed them and said to Mary, his mother: “This child is destined to cause the falling and rising of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be spoken against, 35 so that the thoughts of many hearts will be revealed. And a sword will pierce your own soul too.” 36 There was also a prophetess, Anna, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was very old; she had lived with her husband seven years after her marriage, 37 and then was a widow until she was eighty-four. She never left the temple but worshiped night and day, fasting and praying. 38 Coming up to them at that very moment, she gave thanks to God and spoke about the child to all who were looking forward to the redemption of Jerusalem.

Luke 2:45-50 (NIV) When they did not find him, they went back to Jerusalem to look for him. 46 After three days they found him in the temple courts, sitting among the teachers, listening to them and asking them questions. 47 Everyone who heard him was amazed at his understanding and his answers. 48 When his parents saw him, they were astonished. His mother said to him, “Son, why have you treated us like this? Your father and I have been anxiously searching for you.” 49 “Why were you searching for me?” he asked. “Didn’t you know I had to be in my Father’s house?” 50 But they did not understand what he was saying to them

John 2:13-22 (NIV) When it was almost time for the Jewish Passover, Jesus went up to Jerusalem. 14 In the temple courts he found men selling cattle, sheep and doves, and others sitting at tables exchanging money. 15 So he made a whip out of cords, and drove all from the temple area, both sheep and cattle; he scattered the coins of the money changers and overturned their tables. 16 To those who sold doves he said, “Get these out of here! How dare you turn my Father’s house into a market!” 17 His disciples remembered that it is written: “Zeal for your house will consume me.” 18 Then the Jews demanded of him, “What miraculous sign can you show us to prove your authority to do all this?” 19 Jesus answered them, “Destroy this temple, and I will raise it again in three days.” 20 The Jews replied, “It has taken forty-six years to build this temple, and you are going to raise it in three days?” 21 But the temple he had spoken of was his body. 22 After he was raised from the dead, his disciples recalled what he had said. Then they believed the Scripture and the words that Jesus had spoken.

Jesus would be hated without reason

Isaiah 49:7 (NIV) This is what the LORD says– the Redeemer and Holy One of Israel– to him who was despised and abhorred by the nation, to the servant of rulers: “Kings will see you and rise up, princes will see and bow down, because of the LORD, who is faithful, the Holy One of Israel, who has chosen you.”

Psalms 69:4 (NIV) Those who hate me without reason outnumber the hairs of my head; many are my enemies without cause, those who seek to destroy me. I am forced to restore what I did not steal.

John 15:24-25 (NIV) If I had not done among them what no one else did, they would not be guilty of sin. But now they have seen these miracles, and yet they have hated both me and my Father. 25 But this is to fulfill what is written in their Law: ‘They hated me without reason.’

Jesus would be rejected by the Jews

Psalms 69:4 (NIV) Those who hate me without reason outnumber the hairs of my head; many are my enemies without cause, those who seek to destroy me. I am forced to restore what I did not steal.

Psalm 69:8 (NIV) I am a stranger to my brothers, an alien to my own mother’s sons;

Isaiah 6:10 (NIV) Make the heart of this people calloused; make their ears dull and close their eyes. Otherwise they might see with their eyes, hear with their ears, understand with their hearts, and turn and be healed.”

Isaiah 29:13 (NIV) The Lord says: “These people come near to me with their mouth and honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me. Their worship of me is made up only of rules taught by men.

Isaiah 53:3 (NIV) He was despised and rejected by men, a man of sorrows, and familiar with suffering. Like one from whom men hide their faces he was despised, and we esteemed him not.

Isaiah 63:1-6 (NIV) Who is this coming from Edom, from Bozrah, with his garments stained crimson? Who is this, robed in splendor, striding forward in the greatness of his strength? “It is I, speaking in righteousness, mighty to save.” 2 Why are your garments red, like those of one treading the winepress? 3 “I have trodden the winepress alone; from the nations no one was with me. I trampled them in my anger and trod them down in my wrath; their blood spattered my garments, and I stained all my clothing. 4 For the day of vengeance was in my heart, and the year of my redemption has come. 5 I looked, but there was no one to help, I was appalled that no one gave support; so my own arm worked salvation for me, and my own wrath sustained me. 6 I trampled the nations in my anger; in my wrath I made them drunk and poured their blood on the ground.”

Matthew 15:1-9 (NIV) Then some Pharisees and teachers of the law came to Jesus from Jerusalem and asked, 2 “Why do your disciples break the tradition of the elders? They don’t wash their hands before they eat!” 3 Jesus replied, “And why do you break the command of God for the sake of your tradition? 4 For God said, ‘Honor your father and mother’ and ‘Anyone who curses his father or mother must be put to death.’ 5 But you say that if a man says to his father or mother, ‘Whatever help you might otherwise have received from me is a gift devoted to God,’ 6 he is not to ‘honor his father ‘ with it. Thus you nullify the word of God for the sake of your tradition. 7 You hypocrites! Isaiah was right when he prophesied about you: 8 “‘These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me. 9 They worship me in vain; their teachings are but rules taught by men.’”

Mark 6:3 (NIV) Isn’t this the carpenter? Isn’t this Mary’s son and the brother of James, Joseph, Judas and Simon? Aren’t his sisters here with us?” And they took offense at him.

Mark 7:6-7 (NIV) He replied, “Isaiah was right when he prophesied about you hypocrites; as it is written: “‘These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me. 7 They worship me in vain; their teachings are but rules taught by men.’

Luke 9:58 (NIV) Jesus replied, “Foxes have holes and birds of the air have nests, but the Son of Man has no place to lay his head.”

John 1:11 (NIV) He came to that which was his own, but his own did not receive him.

John 7:3-5 (NIV) Jesus’ brothers said to him, “You ought to leave here and go to Judea, so that your disciples may see the miracles you do. 4 No one who wants to become a public figure acts in secret. Since you are doing these things, show yourself to the world.” 5 For even his own brothers did not believe in him.

John 12:38-40 (NIV) This was to fulfill the word of Isaiah the prophet: “Lord, who has believed our message and to whom has the arm of the Lord been revealed?” 39 For this reason they could not believe, because, as Isaiah says elsewhere: 40 “He has blinded their eyes and deadened their hearts, so they can neither see with their eyes, nor understand with their hearts, nor turn–and I would heal them.”

John 15:25 (NIV) But this is to fulfill what is written in their Law: ‘They hated me without reason.’

Jesus would be plotted against by Jews and Gentiles together

Psalms 2:1-2 (NIV) Why do the nations conspire and the peoples plot in vain? 2 The kings of the earth take their stand and the rulers gather together against the LORD and against his Anointed One.

Acts 4:27 (NIV) Indeed Herod and Pontius Pilate met together with the Gentiles and the people of Israel in this city to conspire against your holy servant Jesus, whom you anointed.

Jesus would be betrayed for 30 pieces of silver

Zechariah 11:12-13 (NIV) I told them, “If you think it best, give me my pay; but if not, keep it.” So they paid me thirty pieces of silver. 13 And the LORD said to me, “Throw it to the potter”–the handsome price at which they priced me! So I took the thirty pieces of silver and threw them into the house of the LORD to the potter.

Matthew 26:15 (NIV) and asked, “What are you willing to give me if I hand him over to you?” So they counted out for him thirty silver coins.

Matthew 27:3-10 (NIV) When Judas, who had betrayed him, saw that Jesus was condemned, he was seized with remorse and returned the thirty silver coins to the chief priests and the elders. 4 “I have sinned,” he said, “for I have betrayed innocent blood.” “What is that to us?” they replied. “That’s your responsibility.” 5 So Judas threw the money into the temple and left. Then he went away and hanged himself. 6 The chief priests picked up the coins and said, “It is against the law to put this into the treasury, since it is blood money.” 7 So they decided to use the money to buy the potter’s field as a burial place for foreigners. 8 That is why it has been called the Field of Blood to this day. 9 Then what was spoken by Jeremiah the prophet was fulfilled: “They took the thirty silver coins, the price set on him by the people of Israel, 10 and they used them to buy the potter’s field, as the Lord commanded me.”

Jesus the shepherd would be struck

Zechariah 13:7 (NIV) “Awake, O sword, against my shepherd, against the man who is close to me!” declares the LORD Almighty. “Strike the shepherd, and the sheep will be scattered, and I will turn my hand against the little ones.

Micah 5:1 (NIV) Marshal your troops, O city of troops, for a siege is laid against us. They will strike Israel’s ruler on the cheek with a rod.

Matthew 27:30 (NIV) They spit on him, and took the staff and struck him on the head again and again.

Matthew 26:31 (NIV) Then Jesus told them, “This very night you will all fall away on account of me, for it is written: “‘I will strike the shepherd, and the sheep of the flock will be scattered.’

Mark 14:27 (NIV) “You will all fall away,” Jesus told them, “for it is written: “‘I will strike the shepherd, and the sheep will be scattered.’

Jesus would be spat on

Isaiah 50:6 (NIV) I offered my back to those who beat me, my cheeks to those who pulled out my beard; I did not hide my face from mocking and spitting.

Matthew 26:67 (NIV) Then they spit in his face and struck him with their fists. Others slapped him

Matthew 27:30 (NIV) They spit on him, and took the staff and struck him on the head again and again.

Jesus would be mocked

Isaiah 50:6 (NIV) I offered my back to those who beat me, my cheeks to those who pulled out my beard; I did not hide my face from mocking and spitting.

Psalm 22:7-8 (NIV) All who see me mock me; they hurl insults, shaking their heads: 8 “He trusts in the LORD; let the LORD rescue him. Let him deliver him, since he delights in him.”

Matthew 26:67-68 (NIV) Then they spit in his face and struck him with their fists. Others slapped him 68 and said, “Prophesy to us, Christ. Who hit you?”

Matthew 27:31 (NIV) After they had mocked him, they took off the robe and put his own clothes on him. Then they led him away to crucify him.

Matthew 27:39-44 (NIV) Those who passed by hurled insults at him, shaking their heads 40 and saying, “You who are going to destroy the temple and build it in three days, save yourself! Come down from the cross, if you are the Son of God!” 41 In the same way the chief priests, the teachers of the law and the elders mocked him. 42 “He saved others,” they said, “but he can’t save himself! He’s the King of Israel! Let him come down now from the cross, and we will believe in him. 43 He trusts in God. Let God rescue him now if he wants him, for he said, ‘I am the Son of God.’” 44 In the same way the robbers who were crucified with him also heaped insults on him.

Jesus would be beaten

Isaiah 50:6 (NIV) I offered my back to those who beat me, my cheeks to those who pulled out my beard; I did not hide my face from mocking and spitting.

Matthew 26:67 (NIV) Then they spit in his face and struck him with their fists. Others slapped him

Matthew 27:26 (NIV) Then he released Barabbas to them. But he had Jesus flogged, and handed him over to be crucified.

Matthew 27:30 (NIV) They spit on him, and took the staff and struck him on the head again and again.

Jesus would be executed by crucifixion, having His hands and feet pierced

Zechariah 12:10 (NIV) “And I will pour out on the house of David and the inhabitants of Jerusalem a spirit of grace and supplication. They will look on me, the one they have pierced, and they will mourn for him as one mourns for an only child, and grieve bitterly for him as one grieves for a firstborn son.

Psalms 22:16 (NIV) Dogs have surrounded me; a band of evil men has encircled me, they have pierced my hands and my feet.

Matthew 27:35 (NIV) When they had crucified him, they divided up his clothes by casting lots.

Luke 24:39 (NIV) Look at my hands and my feet. It is I myself! Touch me and see; a ghost does not have flesh and bones, as you see I have.”

John 19:18 (NIV) Here they crucified him, and with him two others–one on each side and Jesus in the middle.

John 19:34-37 (NIV) Instead, one of the soldiers pierced Jesus’ side with a spear, bringing a sudden flow of blood and water. 35 The man who saw it has given testimony, and his testimony is true. He knows that he tells the truth, and he testifies so that you also may believe. 36 These things happened so that the scripture would be fulfilled: “Not one of his bones will be broken,” 37 and, as another scripture says, “They will look on the one they have pierced.”

John 20:20-28 (NIV) After he said this, he showed them his hands and side. The disciples were overjoyed when they saw the Lord. 21 Again Jesus said, “Peace be with you! As the Father has sent me, I am sending you.” 22 And with that he breathed on them and said, “Receive the Holy Spirit. 23 If you forgive anyone his sins, they are forgiven; if you do not forgive them, they are not forgiven.” 24 Now Thomas (called Didymus), one of the Twelve, was not with the disciples when Jesus came. 25 So the other disciples told him, “We have seen the Lord!” But he said to them, “Unless I see the nail marks in his hands and put my finger where the nails were, and put my hand into his side, I will not believe it.” 26 A week later his disciples were in the house again, and Thomas was with them. Though the doors were locked, Jesus came and stood among them and said, “Peace be with you!” 27 Then he said to Thomas, “Put your finger here; see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it into my side. Stop doubting and believe.” 28 Thomas said to him, “My Lord and my God!”

Revelation 1:7 (NIV) Look, he is coming with the clouds, and every eye will see him, even those who pierced him; and all the peoples of the earth will mourn because of him. So shall it be! Amen.

Jesus the Lamb would not have a broken bone
Exodus 12:46 (NIV) “It must be eaten inside one house; take none of the meat outside the house. Do not break any of the bones.

Numbers 9:12 (NIV) They must not leave any of it till morning or break any of its bones. When they celebrate the Passover, they must follow all the regulations.

Psalms 34:20 (NIV) he protects all his bones, not one of them will be broken.

John 19:31-37 (NIV) Now it was the day of Preparation, and the next day was to be a special Sabbath. Because the Jews did not want the bodies left on the crosses during the Sabbath, they asked Pilate to have the legs broken and the bodies taken down. 32 The soldiers therefore came and broke the legs of the first man who had been crucified with Jesus, and then those of the other. 33 But when they came to Jesus and found that he was already dead, they did not break his legs. 34 Instead, one of the soldiers pierced Jesus’ side with a spear, bringing a sudden flow of blood and water. 35 The man who saw it has given testimony, and his testimony is true. He knows that he tells the truth, and he testifies so that you also may believe. 36 These things happened so that the scripture would be fulfilled: “Not one of his bones will be broken,” 37 and, as another scripture says, “They will look on the one they have pierced.”

Jesus would die with transgressors

Isaiah 53:9-12 (NIV) He was assigned a grave with the wicked, and with the rich in his death, though he had done no violence, nor was any deceit in his mouth. 10 Yet it was the Lord’s will to crush him and cause him to suffer, and though the LORD makes his life a guilt offering, he will see his offspring and prolong his days, and the will of the LORD will prosper in his hand. 11 After the suffering of his soul, he will see the light of life and be satisfied ; by his knowledge my righteous servant will justify many, and he will bear their iniquities. 12 Therefore I will give him a portion among the great, and he will divide the spoils with the strong, because he poured out his life unto death, and was numbered with the transgressors. For he bore the sin of many, and made intercession for the transgressors.

Matthew 27:38 (NIV) Two robbers were crucified with him, one on his right and one on his left.

Luke 22:37 (NIV) It is written: ‘And he was numbered with the transgressors’ ; and I tell you that this must be fulfilled in me. Yes, what is written about me is reaching its fulfillment.”

Jesus’ dying words were prophesied

Psalms 22:1 (NIV) For the director of music. To the tune of “The Doe of the Morning.” A psalm of David. My God, my God, why have you forsaken me? Why are you so far from saving me, so far from the words of my groaning?

Psalms 31:5 (NIV) Into your hands I commit my spirit; redeem me, O LORD, the God of truth.

Matthew 27:46 (NIV) About the ninth hour Jesus cried out in a loud voice, “Eloi, Eloi, lama sabachthani?”–which means, “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?”

Mark 15:34 (NIV) And at the ninth hour Jesus cried out in a loud voice, “Eloi, Eloi, lama sabachthani?”–which means, “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?”

Luke 23:46 (NIV) Jesus called out with a loud voice, “Father, into your hands I commit my spirit.” When he had said this, he breathed his last.

Jesus’ death would atone for the sins of mankind

Isaiah 53:5-7 (NIV) But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was upon him, and by his wounds we are healed. 6 We all, like sheep, have gone astray, each of us has turned to his own way; and the LORD has laid on him the iniquity of us all. 7 He was oppressed and afflicted, yet he did not open his mouth; he was led like a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep before her shearers is silent, so he did not open his mouth.

Isaiah 53:12 (NIV) Therefore I will give him a portion among the great, and he will divide the spoils with the strong, because he poured out his life unto death, and was numbered with the transgressors. For he bore the sin of many, and made intercession for the transgressors.

Mark 10:45 (NIV) For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”

John 1:29 (NIV) The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him and said, “Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!

John 3:16 (NIV) “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.

Acts 8:30-35 (NIV) Then Philip ran up to the chariot and heard the man reading Isaiah the prophet. “Do you understand what you are reading?” Philip asked. 31 “How can I,” he said, “unless someone explains it to me?” So he invited Philip to come up and sit with him. 32 The eunuch was reading this passage of Scripture: “He was led like a sheep to the slaughter, and as a lamb before the shearer is silent, so he did not open his mouth. 33 In his humiliation he was deprived of justice. Who can speak of his descendants? For his life was taken from the earth.” 34 The eunuch asked Philip, “Tell me, please, who is the prophet talking about, himself or someone else?” 35 Then Philip began with that very passage of Scripture and told him the good news about Jesus.

Jesus would be buried by a rich man

Isaiah 53:9 (NIV) He was assigned a grave with the wicked, and with the rich in his death, though he had done no violence, nor was any deceit in his mouth.

Matthew 27:57-60 (NIV) As evening approached, there came a rich man from Arimathea, named Joseph, who had himself become a disciple of Jesus. 58 Going to Pilate, he asked for Jesus’ body, and Pilate ordered that it be given to him. 59 Joseph took the body, wrapped it in a clean linen cloth, 60 and placed it in his own new tomb that he had cut out of the rock. He rolled a big stone in front of the entrance to the tomb and went away.

Jesus would rise from the dead on the third day

Isaiah 53:9-10 (NIV) He was assigned a grave with the wicked, and with the rich in his death, though he had done no violence, nor was any deceit in his mouth. 10 Yet it was the Lord’s will to crush him and cause him to suffer, and though the LORD makes his life a guilt offering, he will see his offspring and prolong his days, and the will of the LORD will prosper in his hand.

Psalms 2:7 (NIV) I will proclaim the decree of the LORD: He said to me, “You are my Son ; today I have become your Father.

Psalm 16:8-11 I have set the LORD always before me. Because he is at my right hand, I will not be shaken. 9 Therefore my heart is glad and my tongue rejoices; my body also will rest secure, 10 because you will not abandon me to the grave, nor will you let your Holy One see decay. 11 You have made known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand.

Hosea 6:2 (NIV) After two days he will revive us; on the third day he will restore us, that we may live in his presence.

Jonah 1:7 (NIV) Then the sailors said to each other, “Come, let us cast lots to find out who is responsible for this calamity.” They cast lots and the lot fell on Jonah.

Matthew 12:40 (NIV) For as Jonah was three days and three nights in the belly of a huge fish, so the Son of Man will be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth.

Matthew 28:1-20 (NIV) After the Sabbath, at dawn on the first day of the week, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went to look at the tomb. 2 There was a violent earthquake, for an angel of the Lord came down from heaven and, going to the tomb, rolled back the stone and sat on it. 3 His appearance was like lightning, and his clothes were white as snow. 4 The guards were so afraid of him that they shook and became like dead men. 5 The angel said to the women, “Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. 6 He is not here; he has risen, just as he said. Come and see the place where he lay. 7 Then go quickly and tell his disciples: ‘He has risen from the dead and is going ahead of you into Galilee. There you will see him.’ Now I have told you.” 8 So the women hurried away from the tomb, afraid yet filled with joy, and ran to tell his disciples. 9 Suddenly Jesus met them. “Greetings,” he said. They came to him, clasped his feet and worshiped him. 10 Then Jesus said to them, “Do not be afraid. Go and tell my brothers to go to Galilee; there they will see me.” 11 While the women were on their way, some of the guards went into the city and reported to the chief priests everything that had happened. 12 When the chief priests had met with the elders and devised a plan, they gave the soldiers a large sum of money, 13 telling them, “You are to say, ‘His disciples came during the night and stole him away while we were asleep.’ 14 If this report gets to the governor, we will satisfy him and keep you out of trouble.” 15 So the soldiers took the money and did as they were instructed. And this story has been widely circulated among the Jews to this very day. 16 Then the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain where Jesus had told them to go. 17 When they saw him, they worshiped him; but some doubted. 18 Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 19 Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”

Luke 24:46 (NIV) He told them, “This is what is written: The Christ will suffer and rise from the dead on the third day,

Acts 2:25-32 (NIV) David said about him: “‘I saw the Lord always before me. Because he is at my right hand, I will not be shaken. 26 Therefore my heart is glad and my tongue rejoices; my body also will live in hope, 27 because you will not abandon me to the grave, nor will you let your Holy One see decay. 28 You have made known to me the paths of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence.’ 29 “Brothers, I can tell you confidently that the patriarch David died and was buried, and his tomb is here to this day. 30 But he was a prophet and knew that God had promised him on oath that he would place one of his descendants on his throne. 31 Seeing what was ahead, he spoke of the resurrection of the Christ, that he was not abandoned to the grave, nor did his body see decay. 32 God has raised this Jesus to life, and we are all witnesses of the fact.

Acts 13:33-35 (NIV) he has fulfilled for us, their children, by raising up Jesus. As it is written in the second Psalm: “‘You are my Son; today I have become your Father.’ 34 The fact that God raised him from the dead, never to decay, is stated in these words: “‘I will give you the holy and sure blessings promised to David.’ 35 So it is stated elsewhere: “‘You will not let your Holy One see decay.’

Jesus would ascend to the right hand of God

Psalms 16:11 (NIV) You have made known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand.

Psalm 68:18-19 (NIV) When you ascended on high, you led captives in your train; you received gifts from men, even from the rebellious– that you, O LORD God, might dwell there. 19 Praise be to the Lord, to God our Savior, who daily bears our burdens. Selah

Psalms 110:1 (NIV) Of David. A psalm. The LORD says to my Lord: “Sit at my right hand until I make your enemies a footstool for your feet.”

Luke 24:51 (NIV) While he was blessing them, he left them and was taken up into heaven.

Acts 1:9-11 (NIV) After he said this, he was taken up before their very eyes, and a cloud hid him from their sight. 10 They were looking intently up into the sky as he was going, when suddenly two men dressed in white stood beside them. 11 “Men of Galilee,” they said, “why do you stand here looking into the sky? This same Jesus, who has been taken from you into heaven, will come back in the same way you have seen him go into heaven.”

Acts 7:55 (NIV) But Stephen, full of the Holy Spirit, looked up to heaven and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing at the right hand of God.

Hebrews 1:3 (NIV) The Son is the radiance of God’s glory and the exact representation of his being, sustaining all things by his powerful word. After he had provided purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty in heaven.

Jesus would exercise His Priestly Office in Heaven

Zechariah 6:13 (NIV) It is he who will build the temple of the LORD, and he will be clothed with majesty and will sit and rule on his throne. And he will be a priest on his throne. And there will be harmony between the two.’

Romans 8:34 (NIV) Who is he that condemns? Christ Jesus, who died–more than that, who was raised to life–is at the right hand of God and is also interceding for us.

Hebrews 7:25-8:2 (NIV) Therefore he is able to save completely those who come to God through him, because he always lives to intercede for them. 26 Such a high priest meets our need–one who is holy, blameless, pure, set apart from sinners, exalted above the heavens. 27 Unlike the other high priests, he does not need to offer sacrifices day after day, first for his own sins, and then for the sins of the people. He sacrificed for their sins once for all when he offered himself. 28 For the law appoints as high priests men who are weak; but the oath, which came after the law, appointed the Son, who has been made perfect forever. 8:1 The point of what we are saying is this: We do have such a high priest, who sat down at the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in heaven, 2 and who serves in the sanctuary, the true tabernacle set up by the Lord, not by man.

Jesus would be the cornerstone of God’s Messianic Community

Isaiah 28:16 (NIV) So this is what the Sovereign LORD says: “See, I lay a stone in Zion, a tested stone, a precious cornerstone for a sure foundation; the one who trusts will never be dismayed.

Psalms 118:22-23 (NIV) The stone the builders rejected has become the capstone; 23 the LORD has done this, and it is marvelous in our eyes.

Matthew 21:42 (NIV) Jesus said to them, “Have you never read in the Scriptures: “‘The stone the builders rejected has become the capstone ; the Lord has done this, and it is marvelous in our eyes’?

Ephesians 2:20 (NIV) built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the chief cornerstone.

1 Peter 2:5-7 (NIV) you also, like living stones, are being built into a spiritual house to be a holy priesthood, offering spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ. 6 For in Scripture it says: “See, I lay a stone in Zion, a chosen and precious cornerstone, and the one who trusts in him will never be put to shame.” 7 Now to you who believe, this stone is precious. But to those who do not believe, “The stone the builders rejected has become the capstone,”

Jesus would be sought after by Gentiles

Isaiah 11:10 (NIV) In that day the Root of Jesse will stand as a banner for the peoples; the nations will rally to him, and his place of rest will be glorious.

Isaiah 42:1 (NIV) “Here is my servant, whom I uphold, my chosen one in whom I delight; I will put my Spirit on him and he will bring justice to the nations

Acts 10:45 (NIV) The circumcised believers who had come with Peter were astonished that the gift of the Holy Spirit had been poured out even on the Gentiles.

Acts 13:46-48 (NIV) Then Paul and Barnabas answered them boldly: “We had to speak the word of God to you first. Since you reject it and do not consider yourselves worthy of eternal life, we now turn to the Gentiles. 47 For this is what the Lord has commanded us: “‘I have made you a light for the Gentiles, that you may bring salvation to the ends of the earth.’” 48 When the Gentiles heard this, they were glad and honored the word of the Lord; and all who were appointed for eternal life believed.

Jesus would be accepted by the Gentiles

Isaiah 11:10 (NIV) In that day the Root of Jesse will stand as a banner for the peoples; the nations will rally to him, and his place of rest will be glorious.

Isaiah 42:1-4 (NIV) “Here is my servant, whom I uphold, my chosen one in whom I delight; I will put my Spirit on him and he will bring justice to the nations. 2 He will not shout or cry out, or raise his voice in the streets. 3 A bruised reed he will not break, and a smoldering wick he will not snuff out. In faithfulness he will bring forth justice; 4 he will not falter or be discouraged till he establishes justice on earth. In his law the islands will put their hope.”

Isaiah 49:1 (NIV) Listen to me, you islands; hear this, you distant nations: Before I was born the LORD called me; from my birth he has made mention of my name.

Isaiah 49:12 (NIV) See, they will come from afar– some from the north, some from the west, some from the region of Aswan.”

Matthew 12:15-21 (NIV) Aware of this, Jesus withdrew from that place. Many followed him, and he healed all their sick, 16 warning them not to tell who he was. 17 This was to fulfill what was spoken through the prophet Isaiah: 18 “Here is my servant whom I have chosen, the one I love, in whom I delight; I will put my Spirit on him, and he will proclaim justice to the nations. 19 He will not quarrel or cry out; no one will hear his voice in the streets. 20 A bruised reed he will not break, and a smoldering wick he will not snuff out, till he leads justice to victory. 21 In his name the nations will put their hope.”

Romans 9:30 (NIV) What then shall we say? That the Gentiles, who did not pursue righteousness, have obtained it, a righteousness that is by faith;

Romans 10:20 (NIV) And Isaiah boldly says, “I was found by those who did not seek me; I revealed myself to those who did not ask for me.”

Romans 11:11 (NIV) Again I ask: Did they stumble so as to fall beyond recovery? Not at all! Rather, because of their transgression, salvation has come to the Gentiles to make Israel envious.

Romans 15:10 (NIV) Again, it says, “Rejoice, O Gentiles, with his people.”

Unspeakables Part 5:Q and A

October 22nd, 2008

What about the man the woman was caught in adultery with? What would have happened to the man the woman was caught with?

The question is in reference to the story in John 8.

Scripture does not tell us anything about the man that was involved with the woman. I am not sure why. Maybe the Pharisees wrongfully disregarded the sin of the man or maybe because there was such a wrongfully low value placed on women during this time and in that culture (BTW: we will cover the issue of Christianity and women Nov. 9th) that the Pharisees decided not to bring shame on a man. We are not sure.

However, I can tell you what the punishment should have been for the man according to the law. According to Leviticus 20:10, “ ‘If a man commits adultery with another man’s wife—with the wife of his neighbor—both the adulterer and the adulteress must be put to death.”

Should Christ’s response to the adulteress affect our view on the death penalty?

The answer to that question is controversial. Many Christ-followers believe that the Bible has spoken to the issue, but others believe that the New Testament ethic of love replaces the Old Testament law. Let me give you a few perspectives for you to process.

Throughout the OT we see examples of capital punishment being enforced by both God and man. A few Examples:

1) The flood in Genesis 6-8. God destroyed all human and animal life except that which was on the ark.
2) Another example is Sodom and Gomorrah (Gen. 18-19), where God destroyed the two cities because of the heinous sin of the inhabitants.
3) In the time of Moses, God took the lives of the Egyptians’ first-born sons (Exod. 11) and destroyed the Egyptian army in the Red Sea (Exod. 14).
4) There were also punishments such as the punishment at Kadesh-Barnea (Num. 13-14) or the rebellion of Korah (Num. 16) against the Jews wandering in the wilderness.

In a sense, God used capital punishment to deal with Israel’s sins and the sins of the nations surrounding Israel.

The Old Testament also teaches that God instituted capital punishment in the Jewish law code and even before the OT law was prescribed. According to Genesis 9:6, capital punishment is based upon a belief in the sanctity of life. It says, “Whoever sheds man’s blood by man his blood shall be shed, for in the image of God, He made man.”

The Mosaic Law set forth numerous offenses that were punishable by death (refer to Exodus 21-22, Leviticus 20 and Deuteronomy 18-19).

When it comes to the NT some Christians believe that capital punishment does not apply.

First we must acknowledge that God gave the principle of capital punishment even before the institution of the Old Testament law code (Genesis 6:9). The principle is not rooted in the Old Testament theocracy, but rather in the creation order. It is a much broader biblical principle that carries into the New Testament.

However some would argue that in the gospels we see Jesus doing away with the death penalty. In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus is not arguing against the principle of a life for a life. Rather He is speaking to the issue of our personal desire for vengeance. He is not denying the power and responsibility of the government. In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus is speaking to individual Christians. He is telling Christians that they should not try to replace the power of the government. Another example is in John 8 (the passage we discussed).

However in other places in the New Testament we see the principle of capital punishment being reinforced. Romans 13:1-7, for example, teaches that human government is ordained by God and that the civil magistrate is a minister of God. We are to obey government for we are taught that government does not bear the sword in vain. The fact that the Apostle Paul used the image of the sword further supports the idea that capital punishment was to be used by government.

The New Testament did not necessarily abolish the death penalty; it reinforced the principle of capital punishment by government. However the deeper issue that we see from Jesus in the NT (the sermon on the mount), is pointed toward us as individual Christ-followers – that we should love our enemy. That as individuals we should let the love of Christ compel us even in our attitudes and actions against others.

These are factors that one should process as they make their personal conviction on the issue.

As Humans we sin all the time but does that mean we live in immorality? Homosexuality is a lifestyle so that to me is living in immorality… what do you think?

Sure as humans we do live in sin all the time, therefore in a sense we do live in immorality. However there is a distinct difference between those who are redeemed by Christ and saved by His grace and those who do not trust in Christ as their savior. As a Christ-follower though we sin and sometime sin bad and even do very immoral things, we are still redeemed people of God. We are no longer sinners we are saints! Paul reminds us of this very fact in Ephesians 2:1-9. But for those who have not placed their faith in Christ they are still under the law and under sin (I would read through Romans 3-6). All this to say, that those who are in Christ may do immoral things, however our identity rests in the cross – our identity is in a the Savior not our sin. For those who are not in Christ their identity is still resting in sin.

Why would a cultural norm bring clarity? Seems like you are saying if everyone is doing it, it is okay. Said another way, it is norm to be a sinner so I guess it is okay to sin.

I think I understand your question. I think you are referring to the argument that homosexuality is not a normal lifestyle and your thought process is that if this is true then we could say, “well if living in sin is the norm of our culture then living in sin is okay.”

Here is where that argument breaks down. In referring to homosexuality as not a normal lifestyle is in the context of its design. The argument breaks down when we compare design verse behavior. The design of male and female in creation is God’s design. Therefore that is the norm based on design. In your argument sin is a behavior. Therefore to make a leap to that conclusion would not be accurate.

Unspeakables Part 4: Pornography

October 14th, 2008

The following are the question we did not answer during the Q and A on Sunday;1. How would we define “pornography” from a biblical perspective? According to the 1986 Attorney General Commission on Pornography, pornography is defined as material that is “predominantly sexually explicit and intended primarily for the purpose of sexual arousal.” Hard-core pornography “is sexually explicit in the extreme, and devoid of any other apparent content or purpose.” I would also submit to the conversation this definition: ” Pornography is the viewing of sexually explicit material that dehumanizes, objectifies and degrades men/women for the purpose of sexual arousal.”2. What is the biblical stance of masturbation? Let me go ahead and answer the question in this way. In Matthew 5, Jesus talks about lust and adultery - He says, “But I say to you if anyone who looks with lustful intent at a woman he has already committed adultery.” We also see in Job 31:1. “I have made a covenant with my eyes not to look lustfully at young women.”  Both of these passages give us a biblical perspective and connection between our eyes and lust. Now as far as masturbation is concerned, the starting point of the behavior is lust. Is not like you just decide to masturbate without any lustful thoughts - no lustful thoughts are involved. The greater aim is that scripture calls us to have a renewing of the mind (Romans 12) and to set our thoughts on things above - Godliness and Christ (Col. 3).  Therefore, I am not sure how we can reconcile masturbation and these passages. Masturbation does not set our minds on the things above, it does not renew our mind and it is not void of lustful thoughts. 3. When I engage in pornography am I cheating on my wife? For this answer I would refer you again to Matthew 5:27-30. 

Unspeakables Part 3: Q&A

October 2nd, 2008

Q: Do you think there is a connection between the rise in male eating disorders and the increasing demasculinization of our culture? 

Yes – sure. To be honest, I can’t really site a study or statistic to back up my opinion, but I would say through observation of our culture there could very much be a connection. Men today are told to be more feminine. It’s not okay to just drink dark, nasty coffee from the gas station – we have to go to Starbucks and get café mocha. Men can’t just eat a donut anymore (unless it is fat free and tastes gross) – we have to settle with a bagel. I think my grandfather might be ashamedJ. But seriously, I do believe that the demasculinization of our culture is a contributing factor.

 

With that said, I also believe that a major contributor to the rise of male eating disorders is our culture in general. Now more than ever we are seeing our culture value the superficial. Even a young man cannot escape the constant pressure from our media driven culture that focuses so much on the outward appearance.

 

Q: What can young, single men in the church do to support young women who are struggling with eating disorders?

 

In short I think there are a few helpful things that young men in the church can do today to help young women in the church who struggle with this issue:

 

  1. Treat Young Women The Way God (Their Father) Would Desire: This means in dating relationships we treat women with great respect. We value their heart and Christ-likeness more than we do their body. We live in purity in our relationships. We encourage them to find their significance in Christ, not in the fleeting things of this world. Young men should fashion their desires around the Proverbs 31 woman and show young women that those attributes are more desirable than the perfect hair.
  2. Preach The Gospel to Them: Constantly preach the promises of the gospel into their life. Help them see that their worth is found in the great worth of our Lord Jesus Christ.
  3. Pray for them: Pray earnestly that they would long for the things of Christ, that they would long for the fullness of Christ in their life. Even more, do all you can to be a Godly leader by edifying young ladies in God’s truth and be true spiritual leaders.

 

Q: How can you help someone with an eating disorder?

 

Three simple words: Accept – Accountability- Admonish

 

First, we must show others that we accept them no matter their struggle. We are all sinful people who struggle with a variety of issues. We are called to accept one another in love and help carry each other burdens.

 

Secondly, we can offer to be their accountability partner. But be an accountability partner who operates in grace, speaks truth and does both with a great heart of compassion and love. Help them know that you are safe person and create a safe environment for them to be authentic, open and vulnerable without fear of rejection.

 

Third, admonish them in God’s promises and truth. Constantly speak the powerful message of the gospel into their lives. Remind them of their identity and worth in Christ. Be diligent to remind them of God’s faithfulness and His mercy and grace. Also, be faithful in praying for them and with them.

 

Q: How can an eating disorder be a sin if it’s an addiction and not a choice?

 

Great question. Let’s see if I can bring some clarity.

 

As with all behavior that is not glorifying to God it starts with a choice. A choice in which we believe that it is better to follow my own desires and fallen wisdom rather than following scripture and the will of God.  Someone becomes an alcoholic by making a choice to live an indulgent lifestyle, etc… Eating disorders start with a choice to not follow the will of God. But as with many behaviors, our poor choices and sinful behavior can turn into an addiction but that does not change the fact that it is still a sin.

 

As with any sin, it must be dealt with quickly. Jesus said, “If your right eye causes you to sin gouge it out. If your right hand causes you sin, cut it off.” Sin is a serious issue. Though God’s grace and by the blood of Christ we are made righteous, that does not mean we should continue in our sinful behavior even if it is an addiction.  Why? Mainly because it does not glorify God and it strips us of our ultimate joy in Christ.

 

Q: What is the best thing to say to someone close to me who is struggling?

 

I think the best thing you can communicate to them is that you accept and love them. But even more importantly you can encourage them to get help, to seek counseling and that you will be with them in the midst of their recovery. Let them know you will be in deep prayer for them and that you are available to help them anyway you can. 

Is God Green Q and A: Part 2

September 16th, 2008

Here are a few more questions I was able to get to today. if you would like to see all the questions I have answered so far, click on the link below to take you to the main page of the blog.

1. Would it be better stewardship to protect the environment and buy organic, or to save money and buy commercial?

This is a great practical question. Let me put it this way— Let’s say you have $10 to your name. I am not sure it would be your best interest to stock up on organic foods that are more expensive than your commercial brands. However, lets say money is not an issue for you and you have the ability to spend more money to buy organic products – I encourage you to do so. As an example, organic milk costs more than your average commercial brand milk. But on the flipside the organic milk does have a longer shelf life than your average commercial brand milk.

My suggestion is to consider these issues when praying through what is the best use of the resources God has given me. Consider how can I be a good steward of all that God has given me?

2. So not being a good steward is showing a lack of responsibility and gratefulness?

I would say that is correct. Along with God’s blessings comes responsibility.

3. What do you mean by “exploiting” the earth?…. How do we define exploitation? Cutting down trees to build houses, not exploitation. Drilling for oil on Alaska??

What I mean by exploiting the earth is when we act in a way that takes from the earth to get the greatest advantage of it’s resources even when it is more than we need. Remember our scriptural directive regarding the earth is to “work it” and “keep it”. I believe we have been given the resources by God to build houses, to eat the animals of the earth and to work the earth for our human advancement when it comes to meeting our needs. However, where I caution us is when we don’t live in contentment. When our desire for more and more keep us from not being content. This is the greater spiritual struggle. Will I be content with the 2,000 square foot home or do I really NEED the 5,000 square foot home? Do I really need to drive a SUV that gets 12 MPG or can I be content with a mini-van or smaller vehicle that has better gas economy?

In all areas of our spiritual life this issue of contentment is a struggle. The Apostle Paul reminds us that he, “knows what is to be in need, I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in all situations…” (Phil. 4).

4. What about environmental agencies who put environmental and animal rights over human rights?

I think it is a admirable duty to look after the rights of animals. However, the big difference is that in our biblical perspective mankind has more value. We were made in the image of God. This is what separates us from the birds of the sky and the beasts of the field. We are moral being with a spiritual capacity. For more on this discussion refer to my answer in yesterday’s blog concerning being made in the image of God.

All in all I think there is a great balance that we must consider. We know that God has given us all the fruits of the land, the birds of the sky and the animals on the earth to meet our physical needs. We know that everything God created was good and we are to enjoy all of it. I would refer you to Acts 9 when Peter has a vision in which God tells him and gives him permission to eat all that he desires.

I am hopeful I can get to the remaining few question in the next 24 hours.

Great dialogue… great discussion.

Peace, Denny
It becomes problematic when we become poor stewards of creation. When we kill creation for sport. When we don’t fully understand game management and that if we enjoy to hunt – fine. But do so responsibly by eating the game you kill, etc…

The Unspeakables: “Is God Green?”

September 15th, 2008

So we started our new series on Sunday titled - “The Unspeakables”. It was great kick-off to the series.To do a quick recap of the sermon. What we learned about the biblical response that we should have as Christ-followers on the issue of caring for the environment is:

1. That our motivation to care for the environment is mainly because God created all things and that His glory is revealed through creation.

2. That our responsibility is to be managers and good stewards of creation. God gave man dominion over the earth and we are given the directive to “work it” and “keep it” (Genesis 2:15).

3. Therefore, we should live our lives in a way that shows good stewardship by protecting the environment rather than exploiting the environment. Though scripture tells us that this earth will pass away, it does not alleviate our responsibility to care for it.

Now that we have covered that - let me move on to some of the question everyone texted in that our relevant to this discussion. I will answer more of them as the week continues, but here is what I have so far:

1. Is there an example in the bible of caring for the environment?

Answer: In short, “For six years sow your fields, and for six years prune your vineyards and gather their crops. But in the seventh year the land is to have a Sabbath to the Lord. Do not sow your fields or prune your vineyards. Do not reap what grows of itself or harvest the grapes of your untended vines. The land is to have a year of rest.” Leviticus 25:3-5

This is one passage in the bible where we see God commanding us to practical care for our land. I think we see an example of God showing us that –Yes we can “work” our land, but we must also care for it and protect it.

2. Image bearers of God….does that mean we look like Him? We’re good like Him, we have powers like Him or what?

Great question… here is something to think about:

God said, “Let us make man in our image, after our likeness” (Genesis 1:26). God formed man from the dust and gave him life by sharing His own breath (Genesis 2:7). So man is unique among all God’s creations, having both a material (body) and an immaterial (soul / spirit) part.

Having the “image” or “likeness” of God means, in the simplest terms, that we were made to resemble God. Adam did not resemble God in the sense of God’s having flesh and blood. Scripture says that “God is a spirit” (John 4:24) and therefore exists without a body. The image of God refers to the immaterial part of man. It sets man apart from the animal world, fits him for the “dominion” God intended (Genesis 1:28), and enables him to commune with his Maker. It is a likeness mentally, morally, and socially.

Mentally, man was created as a rational being—in other words, man can reason and man can choose. This is a reflection of God’s intellect and freedom. Any time someone invents a machine, writes a book, paints a landscape, enjoys a symphony, calculates a sum, or names a pet, he or she is proclaiming the fact that we are made in God’s image.

Morally, man was created in righteousness and perfect innocence, a reflection of God’s holiness. Our conscience or “moral compass” is a vestige of that original state. Whenever someone writes a law, recoils from evil, praises good behavior, or feels guilty, he is confirming the fact that we are made in God’s own image.

Socially, man was created for fellowship. In Eden, man’s primary relationship was with God (Genesis 3:8 implies fellowship with God), and God made the first woman because “it is not good that the man should be alone” (Genesis 2:18). Every time someone marries a wife, makes a friend, hugs a child, or attends a church, he is demonstrating the fact that we are made in the likeness of God.

Part of being made in God’s image means that Adam had the capacity to make free choices. Although he was given a righteous nature, Adam made an evil choice to rebel against his Maker. In so doing, Adam marred the image of God within himself, and he passed that damaged likeness on to all his children, including us (Romans 5:12). Today, we still bear the image of God (James 3:9), but we also bear the scars of sin. Mentally, morally, socially, and physically, we show the effects.

The good news is that, when God redeems an individual, He begins to restore the original image of God, creating “the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness” (Ephesians 4:24; see also Colossians 3:10).

3. What does God say about giving up everything to take care of the environment?

Honestly in scripture we don’t see God calling us explicitly to give up everything for the care of the environment. When comes to the environment we are called to “work it” and “keep it” – to be good stewards of His creation. However what we do see in scripture is Christ calling us to give up everything for His sake. As Christ-followers we are to live our lives with an eternal perspective in which we align the passion and vision of our lives around the mission of God – Redeeming people for His glory.

Keep checking back. I still have a few more questions that we were not able to cover during the Q and A time on Sunday.

Peace, Denny

Preparing for the Unspeakables

September 10th, 2008

So today I am spending the day at my study that is located off-site.  Every Wednesday I make my way to my little study that is pretty basic . I have four walls, a desk, a chair and boxes upon boxes of books that have yet to be unpacked and placed on the appropriate shelves (Hopefully I can get to fixing that in the next few weeks).  But for the most part my study is pretty quiet and pretty isolated from the outside world. I can hear a few voices of people talking as they walk down the hallway, but for the most part it is like my little cave in this huge, busy world.  

But over the last few weeks this little study has been quite the place of action and not so peaceful. You may be asking why? Well, I have been preparing for our new series starting this week called, “Unspeakables”. This series is an honest look at the issues that each one of us deal with or struggle with, yet the church never talks about it. But these issue are more than just topics such as the environment, some of these issues have the ability to completely make us ineffective for Christ.  With this in mind, I can understand why my little study has drawn so much action. It seems like the moment I sat down to start prepping for this series, Satan has been attacking. It could be simple things like, “Why is the battery on my computer dead!!!” or “Why is everyone calling me- don’t they know it is Wednesday - my study day!?”. But mainly, I have found myself overwhelmed and burdened by the hurt, pain and struggles of  college students who desperately want to live for Christ but they just can’t seem to go over ______________ (you fill in the blank).  But then I look at my own life and I see areas where I desperately need God.  My heart —- it is just heavy.  No other way to explain it.

 My greatest prayer that this series and this season of ministry for our church will be a testament to God’s healing and freeing power. That as we discuss difficult issues such as depression, eating disorders, pornography, homosexuality - we will see God work in each one of our lives. That we will experience God’s truth and we will experience that comes with it. My challenge to each on of you— find a friend, bring friend!  The bible speaks to the issues that each on of your friends struggle with. God’s word is not a relic or outdated. No- it is relevant, timeless and speaks to us.   I am prayerful that God’s word will speak loudly to us as we talk about the unspeakables.  

denny  

Operation UT - Great Start To A New Year!

August 24th, 2008

Wow…. What a weekend it has been here at the University of Texas.  On Friday many of our students came back to Austin early to join our adults and church family to take part in Operation UT. What is Operation UT? Operation UT is our big outreach full of 4 days of events as we lead into the school year.

 Friday night we opened up Operation UT with prayer and praise - praying that God will do great things this year on campus. Saturday over 150 adults and students showed up to help move in 100’s of students into their dorms. While moving in students our church was able to have 100’s of conversations with new students and parents and let them know that HCBCUT is here to serve the university.  Saturday evening we had a giant movie night on campus for the purpose of us engaging students -100’s of students showed up to Gregory Plaza and we were able to connect with many new students. This morning we had our worship gathering and filled our multiple services (standing room only). Then finally tonight - I just received a text from our college staff informing me that our open mic night at Gregory Plaza is amazing. 100’s of students showed up! We ran out of food and drinks:(, but that is a good thing. Why? Because it shows us that God is already doing more than we could ever ask or imagine.

The fun is not over, it has just begun. Tomorrow night we are taking over the Underground Bowling Center at the Union - free bowling and pizza for everyone. Also tomorrow I will be training and spending time with 60 student leaders who will be launching community groups and bible studies all over campus this semester.  These are very exciting times!

I look forward to see what God is going to continue to do at The University of Texas. Please continue to pray that God will redeem this campus for His glory.

He Is So Good, Denny 

New School Year

August 22nd, 2008

It’s that time again around HCBCUT when everything gets real crazy! The staff is running on all cylinders, our entrepreneurs have started to re-think their decision to be in the program, our ministry leaders are hoping their “best laid” plans will work and I am just trying to keep my head above water while trying to prioritize all the demands on my time. But I will be honest with you, I don’t think there is anyone in our church who would like it any other way! The new academic year for us means another 9 months of hard work and Lord willing - fruitful ministry.


There is great anticipation in the air. This morning I will be meeting with my sermon research team as we continue to plan and discuss my upcoming fall series, “Unspeakables” (BTW- I think it is going to be amazing:). Then I am going to try to sneak a few hours in my study to prepare for Sunday. Later this afternoon I will be teaching and casting vision to our students who have come back early to be part of Operation UT. I can’t wait to see our students again!!!!! Tonight we will launch Operation UT with prayer and praise at the church- then off to the Flying Saucer with all the young adults. Then tomorrow morning the alarm will go off, Operation UT begins and the so does the launch of a new ministry year!!

I continue to wonder what God will do this year at the University of Texas. Whose life will He change? Whose heart will He heal? Which students will He redeem? It is times like this that I feel completely desperate and utterly dependent upon God. As we enter our three year birthday as a church I look back over all that God has done and I realize that:

1. God Has accomplished exactly what He has wanted to accomplish

When we started this church 3 years ago we had nothing. Well, we had some things like a trailer, a sound system and a few ideas (mostly bad btw:). But God still accomplished everything He desired over the last three years. God continues to refine us to be a church that is strategic in reaching the students at the University of Texas. It seems we learn more and more each semester and from each student on how we can reach this generation with the life-transforming power of the gospel.

2. God is faithful to us

I won’t lie - this journey of establishing a church at the University of Texas for the collegiate generation has not been a walk in the park. It has been difficult - it has been tiring. How do you fund a church comprised of 80% college students? How do create a stable financial model? How do you effective do evangelism on a secular, liberal campus? How do you get the right adults to give their lives to this generation? This list goes on and on… But God has been faithful! Every step of the way He has showed up JUST IN TIME! Not too early and never late. I know God will show His faithfulness to us again this year.

3. God still does miracles God’s arms are never to short.

He never runs our of resources. He never stops doing miracles. I have watched God take the hearts of 12 college students 3 years ago and grow this little church of HCBCUT to minister to over 500 students a week. I have witnessed the hardest of hearts melt before the glory of the cross. I have seen broken lives be restored and relationships renewed. When I survey the work that God has done at the University of Texas and in our church it reaffirms to me that He is still in the business of doing miracles.

But make no doubt —- We are banking that God will do even more miracles this year. We are boldly praying that God will expand our reach, change more lives and sustain our missionary work at the University of Texas. We are praying that God will send the right people at the right time, we are praying that God will give us the resources we need right when we need them and we are praying that He gets glory in every heart that comes to see the beauty of the gospel.

So we have done what we can to plan for this new year.Now we rest in God’s truth:”Declaring the end from the beginning, and from ancient time things that are not yet done, saying, ‘My counsel shall stand. And I will do all My pleasure.’” — Isaiah 46:10

Praying for miracles,
Denny

The next few weeks

July 27th, 2008

So it is Sunday morning and doing some final prep for my sermon but wanted to take a few minutes to write down a few thoughts.  We will be wrapping up our 16 week series on the book of Colossians next week. But as we transition out of this series I am going to be spending the next 4 weeks preparing our congregation for the work that God has in store for us this upcoming school year. I am excited to share my heart, to discuss our challenges, our opportunities and how God continues to guide and direct us in our mission to reach the University of Texas with the marvelous gospel. This week I find myself pressed with the words of Paul to the church of Colossae:

2 Continue steadfastly in prayer, being watchful in it with thanksgiving. 3 At the same time, pray also for us, that God may open to us a door for the word, to declare the mystery of Christ, on account of which I am in prison— 4 that I may make it clear, which is how I ought to speak. 5 Walk in wisdom toward outsiders, making the best use of the time. “6 Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how you ought to answer each person.”

My outline this morning is real simple… Paul directs us to pray with devotion, to be alert and to be thankful. He also directs us in what we should pray. He says to pray that God would open doors for ministry and as He opens those doors that we would be able to clearly share the gospel, that the character and conduct of our lives would be appealing and lastly that our words would be full of grace and discernment.

This is so relevant to us today as church. As the season of a new school year is quickly approaching I pray that we will turn our hearts to God and expect Him to do more than we could imagine. I pray that doors of ministry will open to us in new ways. I pray that God will open doors to dorms, frats, differing schools and campus clubs. I pray that our students will find themselves fully engaged in the greatest mission of all - living for the glory of Christ. I pray that as missionaries to the University of Texas we will find ourselves living out Paul’s words. I pray that we will have clarity in our message, that we will walk wisely and that our words would be full of grace and discernment.

Soon we will be celebrating our 3 year birthday as a church. I am humbled to see what God has done among us- and am at awe when I think of what He wants to continue to do among us and through us.

Our prayer today is that the glory of Jesus Christ will be made known to every student at the University of Texas - for their great joy!

Denny