Unexplainable Jesus: 10 Days To Rediscovering The God You Thought You KnewPrimjer

Luke is writing a historical narrative, defending both the humanity and deity of Christ. Time and again we will see him reference the prophecies spoken of Christ by the angels, Elizabeth, Mary, Zechariah, and today two more: Simeon and Anna. 

It is important to remember that the prophecies Luke cites in his gospel were steeped in Scriptures, which are now our Old Testament, quoted by Luke’s characters. Luke is not merely showing how Jesus fulfilled that which these people had personally spoken, but rather how Jesus is the fulfillment of all the prophecies throughout the history of Israel. 

He surrounds his defense with indisputable historical facts that could easily be corroborated using extrabiblical sources, adding further weight to the intricacy and exactness of his research and arguments. 

Remember what the author himself told us as to his purpose in writing: “that you may have certainty concerning the things you have been taught.” 

Jesus, the great shepherd of Israel, the true king of the world, is contrasted with the current king of the world, Caesar Augustus. While we read of shepherding analogies in Scripture and can understand why God used them to illustrate beautiful truths of His care and guidance, it is important to understand that shepherding in biblical times was an occupation of very low status. Isn’t it God’s way that He would select the great king of Israel, David, from the sheep-fold? Then reveal the King of the World to shepherds! 

Some scholars suggest that due to Bethlehem’s proximity to Jerusalem (under 6 miles) these shepherds may have had the responsibility of caring for the sheep that were used for sacrifice in the temple. How fitting, that the promised Lamb of God would first be revealed to the men who spent their lives caring for the annual Passover Lambs! 

Every spring each Jewish family would select a lamb and slaughter it on Passover as a sacrifice for their sins. Jesus became the final sacrifice for sins through His death on the cross. 

Jesus’ arrival is the good news of salvation, which brings peace to men. 

Friend, do you need peace in your life today?