Category: What do you think?

The Transformative Power of Jesus in Isaiah

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JEFF TURNER

The biblical prophecy of Jesus Christ foretold in Isaiah 6:6-7 gives us a message of hope and divine purpose. At the heart of this prophecy lies a transformative understanding that God’s gift of salvation was not for His own benefit, but entirely for humanity’s redemption.

The prophecy from Isaiah highlights Jesus as a multifaceted divine figure, offering humanity exactly what it needs. His identity is defined by extraordinary qualities: Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, and Prince of Peace. Each title represents a unique aspect of divine intervention designed to address human spiritual needs.

As a Wonderful Counselor, Jesus provides wisdom beyond human comprehension. His love transcends all limitations, demonstrated through unconditional grace that offers salvation not based on human merit, but on divine compassion. John 3:16 powerfully encapsulates this love: “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten son.”

The prophecy emphasizes that God’s strength is not just a rescue mechanism for moments of weakness, but a transformative power intended to elevate human potential. Jesus represents divine strength that enables individuals to accomplish purposes far beyond their own capabilities, inviting people to lean into a higher spiritual empowerment.

Ultimately, this prophecy reveals that God’s intervention through Jesus was a deliberate, selfless act of love. The phrase “unto us” repeatedly underscores that this divine gift was given not for divine benefit, but as an extraordinary expression of grace specifically designed for human restoration and hope.

The Journey of Hope in the Story of Emmanuel

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JEFF TURNER

The story of Emmanuel is journey of hope, anticipation, and divine promise spanning thousands of years. Throughout centuries of waiting, the people of Israel held onto a belief in a coming Messiah who would bring redemption and hope.

The prophecy of Emmanuel, meaning “God with us,” was a promise of divine presence and salvation. Foretold by the prophet Isaiah 800 years before its fulfillment, this prophecy spoke of a virgin who would bear a son, a child destined to be more than a mere political leader. God’s plan extended far beyond the expectations of the time, promising a savior not just for Israel, but for all people.

The birth of Jesus was a humble yet extraordinary event. Born in Bethlehem, not in a royal palace but in a simple manger, this child represented a different kind of kingdom. Shepherds were the first to receive the miraculous announcement. This message wasn’t just for rulers, Shepherds and ordinary people received it. It was for everyone – the lowly and the great alike. The divine plan was meticulously orchestrated, with the child’s name and purpose predetermined before his conception.

The significance of Emmanuel goes beyond a historical moment. It represents God’s intimate involvement with humanity, a promise of hope and redemption. It is a testament to patient hope, divine planning, and the transformative power of God’s love.

The Journey of Ancient Seekers Transforming into Worshippers

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JEFF TURNER

In ancient Persia, a group of scholars spotted an unusual star blazing in the night sky. This celestial sign set them on an extraordinary journey that would transform them from astronomers into worshippers. These learned men understood that the star heralded something big – the birth of a prophesied king. Despite the lengthy and dangerous thousand-mile trek ahead, they gathered precious gifts and set out toward Jerusalem.

These seekers from the East carried gold fit for royalty, sweet-smelling frankincense used in temple worship, and myrrh – an aromatic resin used in burial customs. While these physical gifts were valuable, their greatest offering was their wholehearted devotion. As Luke 2:11 records, they sought “a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.” Unlike the religious scholars in Jerusalem who knew the prophecies but remained unmoved, these travelers acted on what they discovered.

The visitors’ encounter with King Herod revealed two starkly different responses to Jesus. While Herod reacted with fear and hostility toward a potential rival, the Eastern scholars approached with humility and worship. When warned in a dream to avoid returning to Herod, they immediately obeyed, protecting the young Jesus from harm. Their responsiveness to divine guidance demonstrated that wisdom isn’t just about having knowledge – it’s about acting on it.

Throughout his life, Jesus demonstrated this same attitude of humble obedience. From his birth in a humble manger to washing his disciples’ feet with a servant’s towel, he consistently showed that true greatness comes through service. Even in death, he was wrapped in burial linens, fulfilling ancient prophecies. But the story didn’t end there – he now reigns wrapped in majesty and glory.

The journey of these ancient seekers shows us the most precious gift we can offer isn’t gold or incense, but our very selves. Like humble gift wrap that draws attention to what’s inside rather than itself, our lives can point others to Christ through attitudes of obedience, worship, and service.

Standing Firm Through Life’s Challenges as a Christian

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FLOYD ROGERS

Some people believe that becoming a Christian will make life easier, but Scripture shows that is not always the case. There will be times when challenges and hardship arise, even for those who follow Christ. These difficulties are not meaningless; they are part of God’s plan to shape believers to be more like Jesus.

Christians may face mistreatment or opposition, but these struggles are part of the spiritual battle that comes with faith. Rather than expecting an easy path, believers are called to stay strong, stand firm, and endure when trials come.

Followers of Christ can face life’s challenges with courage and confidence, knowing that victory is certain because of their identity in Him.

For those whom He foreknew, He also predestined to become conformed to the image of His Son, so that He would be the firstborn among many brothers and sisters;

Romans 8:29

The One Who Did Not See Decay

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AMY TURNER

In the book of Acts, Peter explained an important truth on the day of Pentecost. He quoted from Psalm 16, which says that God would not leave His holy one in the grave or let His body decay. Peter made clear that this passage was not speaking about King David. David died, was buried, and his body remained in the tomb.

Peter said it pointed instead to Jesus. Unlike all others, Jesus did not stay in the grave. His body did not waste away. He rose from the dead. Because of this, He has been lifted up and now sits at the right hand of God the Father.

I believe there is one way to respond to this. We must turn from our sins, put our trust in Jesus, and be baptized in His name. No one else is worthy of this honour. Only He has conquered death.

For if we have become united with Him in the likeness of His death, certainly we shall also be in the likeness of His resurrection,

Romans 6:5