Jesus: From Cradle to Crown

The Promised Messiah

Sunday December 15, 2024 - Pastor Wungreiso Valui

Micah 5:2

But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are little among the thousands of Judah, yet out of you shall come forth to Me the One to be Ruler in Israel, whose goings forth are from of old, from everlasting." - Micah 5:2 (NKJV)."

Message: Jesus is the long-awaited Messiah, fulfilling God's promises and bringing real hope to humanity.

"But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are little among the thousands of Judah, yet out of you shall come forth to Me the One to be Ruler in Israel, whose goings forth are from of old, from everlasting." (NKJV). Verse 2a: "But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are little among the thousands of Judah."

Contrast of insignificance and divine purpose: Bethlehem, though small, is chosen by God for a monumental role.

This reflects God's sovereignty and the principle that He uses the weak to confound the strong (1 Corinthians 1:27). But God has chosen the foolish things of the world to put to shame the wise, and God has chosen the weak things of the world to put to shame the things which are mighty.

Verse 2b: "Yet out of you shall come forth to Me the One to be Ruler in Israel." The Ruler: Refers to the Messiah, a descendant of David who would fulfill the covenantal promise (2 Samuel 7:12-13). "When your days are fulfilled and you rest with your fathers, I will set up your seed after you, who will come from your body, and I will establish his kingdom. He shall build a house for My name, and I will establish the throne of his kingdom forever.

To Me: Indicates divine commissioning. The ruler's purpose is to fulfill God's plan. God's Design for Us to "Come to Him" Through Christ

Verse 2c: "Whose goings forth are from of old, from everlasting."

1. "Goings forth": Points to the Messiah's eternal nature and preexistence, consistent with the New Testament revelation of Christ (John 1:1-3).
2. "From everlasting": Affirms the divine origin of the Messiah, highlighting His eternal existence and deity.

Question: How does knowing Jesus fulfills God's promises bring comfort and assurance? In what ways can you share this hope with those around you?

Challenge: Reflect on areas of your life where you need renewed hope. How can the promise of Jesus as the Messiah inspire you to trust in God's faithfulness?