Scripture Reading: Matthew 1:18-25; Genesis 3:15
Review: One very intriguing feature of God's announcement in Genesis 3:15 in His reference to the promised Savior as "the offspring of the woman". The word "offspring" is more literally translated "seed". Normally, the word "seed" in contexts like this is associated with males. In this case, calling the promised Savior "the seed of the woman" indicates that he will be born without the usual agency of a man. In other words, the promised Savior will be virgin-born. Of course, the only way to accomplish such a conception and birth is through the agency of God Himself. This means the promised Savior, in addition to being human, will also be Divine. And since God is King of all the Universe, this promised Divine-human Savior will also be a King. These same elements of virgin-birth, Divinity, and Kingship form part of the angel's announcement to Joseph of Jesus' conception and birth in Matthew 1:18-25. The angel referred to Joseph as the son of David, a clear reference to the royal lineage of Jesus legally. The angel also told Joseph that the baby in Mary's womb was "of the Holy Spirit", an indication of Jesus' Divinity. Finally, and most famously of all, the angel clearly connects the birth of Jesus with the prophecy in Isaiah of a virgin conceiving and bringing forth a son.
Reflection Questions: Can you explain why the virgin birth of Jesus has become the central focus of liberal attacks on the biblical account of the first Christmas story? What does Jesus' humanity mean to you in your daily struggle to cope with this world? What role does His Divinity play? His Kingship?
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