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Listen "The Anticipated Arrival - Micah 5:2 & Matthew 2:6 - Chris - December 15, 2024"
Episode Synopsis
We continue the "The King is Coming" series, focusing on the anticipated arrival of Christ during the Christmas season. He opens with a prayer, acknowledging the tension between joy and hardship in life, highlighting the beauty of celebrating Christ's coming amidst struggles.
Reflecting on personal anticipation, Chris shares a vivid memory of his wedding day, emphasizing that just as he wanted control over that moment, many people desire to dictate how Christ should come into their lives. He introduces the story of the Magi from Matthew 2:1-11, detailing their journey to find Jesus, which challenges the audience to examine their own expectations of Christ's arrival.
The sermon contrasts two groups: King Herod, who felt threatened by the Magi's search for the new king and attempted to manipulate the situation; and the Jewish leaders, who possessed knowledge of Scripture but remained indifferent. In contrast, the Magi, described as worshipful seekers, recognized the significance of the star indicating Christ's birth and came prepared to worship Him.
Richards connects this to the prophecy in Micah 5:2-6, emphasizing Micah's role in pointing the Israelites to the Messiah amidst a time of political instability and spiritual decline. He discusses Micah’s prophetic mention of Bethlehem, affirming the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies regarding Jesus. The anticipation of Christ's arrival is rooted in a deep understanding of His dual nature as both fully God and fully man, emphasizing the importance of recognizing Jesus not just as a historical figure, but as the Savior who has come for each individual.
Chris prompts us to reflect on how they anticipate Christ's coming in their own lives, urging them to worship authentically and prepare their hearts for Him. The sermon concludes with an encouragement to embrace the hope and joy that comes from the promise of Christ's presence amidst life's uncertainties.
Reflecting on personal anticipation, Chris shares a vivid memory of his wedding day, emphasizing that just as he wanted control over that moment, many people desire to dictate how Christ should come into their lives. He introduces the story of the Magi from Matthew 2:1-11, detailing their journey to find Jesus, which challenges the audience to examine their own expectations of Christ's arrival.
The sermon contrasts two groups: King Herod, who felt threatened by the Magi's search for the new king and attempted to manipulate the situation; and the Jewish leaders, who possessed knowledge of Scripture but remained indifferent. In contrast, the Magi, described as worshipful seekers, recognized the significance of the star indicating Christ's birth and came prepared to worship Him.
Richards connects this to the prophecy in Micah 5:2-6, emphasizing Micah's role in pointing the Israelites to the Messiah amidst a time of political instability and spiritual decline. He discusses Micah’s prophetic mention of Bethlehem, affirming the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies regarding Jesus. The anticipation of Christ's arrival is rooted in a deep understanding of His dual nature as both fully God and fully man, emphasizing the importance of recognizing Jesus not just as a historical figure, but as the Savior who has come for each individual.
Chris prompts us to reflect on how they anticipate Christ's coming in their own lives, urging them to worship authentically and prepare their hearts for Him. The sermon concludes with an encouragement to embrace the hope and joy that comes from the promise of Christ's presence amidst life's uncertainties.
In God we trust