Meditation
THE SIGNIFICANCE OF ADVENT
Text: Isaiah 11
27 November 2022
THE FIRST ADVENT
The first advent (“coming”) was prophesied by a number of prophets. But sadly, few failed to understand and appreciate the meaning of the coming (advent) of the Messiah!
Advent is more widely celebrated as “Christmas” all over the world. The Coming of the Lord Jesus has far greater implications than the world realises.
COMMON MISTAKES THAT MANY MAKE
There are a few common mistakes that many make concerning the 1st Advent of the Messiah.
- Many limit it to His exemplary life on earth
a) His like is inimitable
b) But there is more to it than that
- Others limit it to His death on the Cross
a) The death of the Lord Jesus is of the greatest significance
b) But His death was not everything either
- The Resurrection is of course theologically most vital
a) That is true. The doctrine of the Resurrection is a key teaching in the Scriptures
b) But again, there are other things that are missing
THE FIRST ADVENT IN ITS CONTEXTUAL PERSPECTIVE
The 1st Advent must be studied in the perspective of its context. Isaiah 11 deserves more attention than it is given!
- The 1st Advent focused on what the Saviour came to do
a) The focus was essentially spiritual
b) The problem of sin and Satan had to be dealt with
c) Salvation was offered to all who found faith in the Lord Jesus
- The context of Isaiah is quite grim
a) It is a context of war
b) A context that points to the necessity of the 2nd Advent
c) The 1st Advent must be linked to the 2nd Advent where the Saviour would restore the earth
OUR CHALLENGE
Let us be encouraged to deepen our understanding of the Scriptures!
- Take time to read afresh Isaiah 7-11 for a start
- Trace the Lord’s plan for mankind
a) It begins with the 1st advent
b) It will only conclude with the 2nd Advent
May our hearts and minds be greatly enlightened and strengthened!