Christmas 2016 “THE CHRIST” Matthew 1:17-25
The Birth of ‘The Christ’ THE FOCUS OF THE TEXT: Lack of sexual connection The participation of the Holy Spirit:
The Birth of ‘The Christ’ CIRCUMSTANCES ONLY EXPLAINABLE SUPERNATURALLY: (vs.18) The Birth: Gen 3:15 and Isa 7:14 The Jewish tradition of engagement Emphasis on sexual abstinence The Holy Spirit
The Birth of ‘The Christ’ COMMUNICATION OF GOD FOR THE EVENTS OF MARY’S CONCEPTION: (vs.19-21) The angel spoke to his lineage. The angel spoke to his fear The angel spoke explanation: (miraculous conception) The angel spoke assignment to him: “name Him Jesus” The angel spoke Jesus’ mission: “He Will Save His People From Their Sins”
The Birth of ‘The Christ’ THE ENCOUNTER AS A FULFILLMENT OF PROPHECY: (vs.22,23) The Prophet: Isaiah 7:14 and 9:6 The Name: “Immanuel” – God with us, The Incarnation – John 1:14
The Birth of ‘The Christ’ JOSEPH WITH THE OPPORTUNITY: (vs.24,25) He was convinced God communicated to him: He took Mary and her child as his own: