Scripture Reading: Matthew 1:18-25, Genesis 3:15
Review: In Genesis 3:15, God revealed that there would be some type of ultimate conflict between the serpent (representing Satan) and the promised offspring of the woman: "he (meaning, the offspring of the woman) shall crush your head, and you (meaning, the serpent) shall bruise his heel." When the head of a serpent is crushed, the serpent dies. This is why we understand what is revealed here as some type of ultimate conflict. The promised offspring of the woman ultimately wins out against the serpent (Satan). Keep in mind, the larger conflict between the side of the serpent versus the side of the offspring of the woman. With respect to this larger conflict, the crushing of the serpent's head means deliverance or salvation for the side of the offspring of the woman. Thus, Genesis 3:15 reveals the offspring of the woman to be a Deliverer or Savior of his people. And this is precisely what Matthew 1:18-25 indicates: "you shall call his name Jesus, for he shall save his people from their sins" (1:21).
Reflection Questions: Matthew 1:21 seems to say that sin itself is an enemy of the Savior's people. We all know how sin will be defeated ultimately some day, but how is it being defeated now in your life? What indications are there of your being saved from your sins?
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