Christmas in the Old Testament

KEY VERSES:

• Genesis 3:15
• Genesis 12:1-3
• 2 Samuel 7:14
• Micah 5:2
• Numbers 24:17
• Hosea 11:1
• Jeremiah 31:15
• Isaiah 7:14
• Isaiah 11:1
• Isaiah 9:2-7
• Ephesians 1:4

HIGHLIGHTS:

• God’s Promises of a Savior
  • Genesis 3:15: The first prophecy of the Messiah, promising victory over Satan.
  • Genesis 12:1-3: The Messiah will be a descendant of Abraham, blessing all nations.
  • 2 Samuel 7:14: The Messiah will come from David’s lineage and establish an eternal kingdom.
• Predetermined Places in the Messiah’s Birth
  • Micah 5:2: The Messiah will be born in Bethlehem.
  • Numbers 24:17: A star will announce the Messiah’s birth.
  • Hosea 11:1: The Messiah will come out of Egypt.
  • Jeremiah 31:15: There will be mourning in connection with His coming.
• The Plan Carried Out
  • Isaiah 7:14: The virgin birth proves Christ’s divinity and humanity.
  • Isaiah 11:1: The Messiah is the “Branch” from David’s line, filled with God’s Spirit.
  • Isaiah 9:2-7: A son is given to bring light, hope, and justice to the world.

TALK ABOUT IT:

1. What does Genesis 3:15 reveal about God’s plan for salvation?
2. How do the prophecies about the Messiah’s lineage and birthplace demonstrate God’s sovereignty?
3. Why is the virgin birth essential to understanding Christ as both human and divine?
4. What does the title “Branch” tell us about Jesus’ mission and character?
5. How do the prophecies give you confidence in the Bible’s reliability?
6. What can we learn about God’s love and patience through the gradual unfolding of His plan?
7. How does the fulfillment of prophecy challenge you to trust God with your life?
8. Who can you invite to experience the hope of Christmas this season?

APPLY IT:

• Reflect on what you rely on for security and surrender it to Christ.
• Read and meditate on the Old Testament prophecies to deepen your understanding of God’s plan.
• Share the message of Christ with others, especially during the Christmas season.
• Trust in God’s faithfulness as seen through the fulfillment of His promises in Christ.
• Pray for courage to follow the light of Christ in a dark world.