Whether you are a family that celebrates Christmas, or chooses to reflect on the coming of the Messiah in other ways, this season is still a beautiful opportunity to teach our children not only about the birth of Jesus but also about how this miraculous event fulfilled God’s promises in the Old Testament.
When we show our children the connection between Old Testament prophecies and the life of Jesus, we help them see the incredible reliability of Scripture and the breadth of God’s redemptive plan.
Jesus' birth is far more than a heartwarming "Christmas story"—it’s the culmination of centuries of prophecy, the fulfillment of God’s promises, and a reminder that His word is trustworthy and true.
The Promises of the Messiah in the Old Testament
The Old Testament is filled with promises of a coming Messiah. These prophecies gave hope to God’s people during dark and uncertain times. Today, as we await Christ’s return, these fulfilled prophecies remind us that God always keeps His word.
Let’s explore some of these prophecies and how Jesus’ birth fulfilled them:
1. The Messiah’s Birthplace
Prophecy: "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
Fulfillment: Jesus was born in Bethlehem, just as Micah foretold, fulfilling this prophecy about His humble yet significant birthplace.
2. Born of a Virgin
Prophecy: "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
Fulfillment: Mary, a virgin, conceived Jesus through the Holy Spirit. His birth was a miraculous sign that God was with us—Immanuel.
3. Descendant of David
Prophecy: "Behold, the days are coming,” says the Lord, “That I will raise to David a Branch of righteousness; a King shall reign and prosper, and execute judgment and righteousness in the earth."—Jeremiah 23:5
Fulfillment: Jesus was a direct descendant of King David, fulfilling the promise of a righteous King to sit on David’s throne forever.
4. A King Honored by the Nations
Prophecy: "The kings of Tarshish and of the isles will bring presents; the kings of Sheba and Seba will offer gifts. Yes, all kings shall fall down before Him; all nations shall serve Him."—Psalm 72:10-11
Fulfillment: The Magi, or wise men, traveled from afar to bring gifts to Jesus, recognizing Him as King.
5. Called Out of Egypt
Prophecy: "When Israel was a child, I loved him, and out of Egypt I called My son."—Hosea 11:1
Fulfillment: After fleeing to Egypt to escape King Herod’s decree, Joseph and Mary returned with Jesus, fulfilling this prophecy.
6. A Time of Mourning
Prophecy: "A voice was heard in Ramah, lamentation and bitter weeping, Rachel weeping for her children, refusing to be comforted for her children, because they are no more."—Jeremiah 31:15
Fulfillment: Herod’s massacre of the innocents fulfilled this heartbreaking prophecy, highlighting the lengths to which the enemy would go to try to thwart God’s plan.
7. The Light of the World
Prophecy: "Arise, shine; for your light has come! And the glory of the Lord is risen upon you. For behold, the darkness shall cover the earth, and deep darkness the people; but the Lord will arise over you, and His glory will be seen upon you. The Gentiles shall come to your light, and kings to the brightness of your rising."—Isaiah 60:1-3
Fulfillment: Jesus came as the Light of the World, bringing salvation not just to Israel but to the Gentiles as well.
Pointing Our Children to the Messiah
When we share these prophecies with our children, we’re doing more than recounting a nice story. We’re teaching them to trust God’s promises, marvel at His sovereignty, and find hope in His redemptive plan.
Here’s why this matters:
God’s Word is Trustworthy: These prophecies were written hundreds of years before Jesus’ birth, yet every detail came to pass. This reinforces that God’s word is true and reliable.
God Keeps His Promises: The long-awaited Messiah came just as God said He would. This gives us confidence that Jesus will return again, fulfilling His promise to us.
The Bible Tells One Big Story: The Old and New Testaments work together to reveal God’s plan of redemption through Jesus Christ.
Keeping Christ at the Center of the Every Season
As Christian moms, it’s easy to get caught up in the busyness of not just a holiday season, but any season. But I encourage you to take time to refocus your hearts and homes on what truly matters: God’s incredible plan to redeem the world through His Son.
Here are a few practical ways to incorporate these prophecies into your family’s Bible study:
Create a Family Devotional: Write out these prophecies and discuss their meanings with your children.
Sing Songs of Prophecy: Include carols like "O Come, O Come, Emmanuel," which reflect on the fulfillment of these promises.
Pray Together: Thank God for His faithfulness and ask Him to help you live in anticipation of Jesus’ return.
Looking Forward with Hope
Just as God’s people awaited the first coming of the Messiah, we now await His glorious return. As you teach your children about the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies, remind them that God’s plan is not finished. One day, Jesus will return as King of Kings and Lord of Lords.
Let this season be a time of joyful anticipation as we celebrate the birth of our Savior and look forward to His coming again.
Glory to God in the highest!
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