Thursday, December 23, 2010

The Kingdom of God Devotional Guide - Thursday, Dec 23

Scripture Reading: Matthew 1:18-25 and Genesis 3:15

Review: Yet another element of God's announcement in Genesis 3:15 to restore the earth as a place where His rule is fully honored and obeyed through a virgin-born King is the conflict between the serpent and the woman and between the offspring of the serpent and the offspring of the woman. The angel's announcement to Joseph in Matthew 1:18-25 also indicates conflict between the two sides. Matthew 1:21 tells us: "for he shall save his people from their sins." The need to save "his people" assumes their involvement in the struggle against sin and its consequences. So, once again, the angel's announcement to Joseph how God was working to fulfill the plan He laid out in the Garden in the first place.

Reflection Questions: What evidence do you see in today's headlines of "enmity" or conflict between the offspring of the serpent and the offspring of the woman? What specifically can you point to in your life that contributes to the values and success of the side of "the woman and her offspring"? In addition to the way you live, how does sharing your faith in Christ contribute to the fulfillment of Matthew 1:21?
 

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