We are concluding a short series for the Christmas season and talking about the Holy Spirit in relation to the Incarnation. Last time we talked about Jesus’ divine nature; the fact that Jesus is God.
This being the last Sunday of 2024, we want to end the year with a blessing. One of the things that the Patriarchs did in the Old Testament was give a blessing to their sons and daughters. We see that in Abraham's life and in Isaac's blessing to Esau and Jacob.
That's what Jacob did, he blessed his sons. He prayed that the Lord's favor would rest upon them, but it was bigger than that. His blessing contained a spiritual component; it was inspired by the Holy Spirit; that is the Holy Spirit inspires him to speak a prophetic word; he prophesied over his sons. He tells him some things to come, and about who they would become.
Genesis 4: 9 Judah is a lion’s whelp; from the prey, my son, you have gone up. He bows down, he lies down as a lion; and as a lion, who shall rouse him? 10 The scepter shall not depart from Judah, nor a lawgiver from between his feet, until Shiloh comes; and to Him shall be the obedience of the people.
“Shiloh” means tranquillity - peace. It is a name that is synonymous with the Messiah - the Prince of Peace. Shiloh was a name that Israel gave to the resting place of the Ark of the Covenant - when they finally got out of the wilderness and came into the promised land of Canaan.
This season of “Christmas” is one of Peace, so-called… We sing songs that talk about peace; even though in many of our homes, our countries, and the world there is turmoil… wars are raging, unrest seems to be on every corner.
But as believers, we celebrate the Prince of Peace who has come and one day, He will sit upon His throne on earth. Shiloh is coming to rule and reign as King of kings and Lord of lords.
Isaiah 9:6 For unto us a Child is born, unto us a Son is given; And the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. 7 Of the increase of His government and peace there will be no end…
Join us in person on Sunday at 10:00 a.m. or via livestream by going to https://www.firstbaptistsudbury.com and clicking on livestream for “Shiloh’s Coming.”
Blessings,
Kevin
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