Jesus: From Cradle to Crown

The Promise Hope for a Savior Foretold

Sunday December 1, 2024 - Pastor Wungreiso Valui

Isaiah 7:14

Focus verse: "Therefore the Lord Himself will give you a sign: Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a Son, and shall call His name Immanuel." - Isaiah 7:14 (NKJV)

"Is it a small thing for you to weary men, but will you weary my God also?"(v. 13)

Unbelief Tests God's Patience: Our lack of faith can exhaust not only others but dishonor God..

"The Lord Himself will give you a sign."(v. 14a)

God Takes Initiative, A Sign of Assurance: In our trials, God offers signs of His presence-through His Word, His Spirit, and His Church.

"Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a Son, and shall call His name Immanuel." (v. 14b)

Immediate Fulfillment, Ultimate Fulfillment in Jesus Christ: Recognize God's active presence in your life, even in difficult times. Trust in Jesus, who fulfills all of God's promises and brings us into His presence.

Practical and Spiritual Lessons

• 1. God's Sovereign Initiative: Despite Ahaz's lack of faith, God remains faithful to His covenant.
• 2. Dual Fulfillment of Prophecy: The prophecy had an immediate application in Isaiah's time, assuring Judah of deliverance. The prophecy finds its ultimate expression in the birth of Jesus Christ, who fulfills the promise of "God with us."
• 3. Trust in God Over Human Solutions: Ahaz sought alliances (e.g., Assyria) rather than relying on God.
• 4. The Sign of Immanuel: God's Presence: The name "Immanuel" reassures that God is always present with His people.
• 5. Virgin Birth: A Foundation of Faith: The virgin birth of Christ affirms His divine nature and mission as Savior.
• 6. The Faithfulness of God: The prophecy underscores God's faithfulness to His promises, even when humanity fails.

Challenge: Reflect on the promises of God that bring you hope today, even in uncertain times. Are you holding onto the hope found in Jesus?

Question: How can remembering God's promises strengthen your faith and bring peace?