Page 41
Lk 1:41.
Lk 1:42.
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Lk 1:43.
Lk 1:44.
Lk 1:45.
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Lk 1:46.
Lk 1:47.
Lk 1:48.
Lk 1:49.
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Lk 1:50.
Lk 1:51
Page 45
Lk 1:52.
Lk 1:53.
Lk 1:54.
Lk 1:55.
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Lk 1:56.
Lk 1:57
Lk 1:58.
Lk 1:59.
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Lk 1:60.
Lk 1:61.
Lk 1:62.
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Lk 1:63.
Lk 1:64.
Lk 1:65.
Lk 1:66.
Page 49
Lk 1:67.
Lk 1:68.
Lk 1:69.
Lk 1:70.
Lk 1:71.
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Lk 1:72.
Lk 1:73.
Lk 1:74.
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Lk 1:75.
Lk 1:76.
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Lk 1:77.
Lk 1:78.
Lk 1:79.
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Mt 1:1.
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Mt 1:2.
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Mt 1:3.
Mt 1:4.
Mt 1:5.
Mt 1:6.
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Mt 1:7.
Mt 1:8.
Mt 1:9.
Mt 1:10.
Mt 1:11.
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Mt 1:12.
Mt 1:13.
Mt 1:14.
Mt 1:15.
Mt 1:16.
Mt 1:17.
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Page 59
Page 60
Lk 3:23 (pt 2).
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Lk 3:24.
Lk 3:25.
Lk 3:26.
Lk 3:27.
Lk 3:28.
Lk 3:29.
Lk 3:30.
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Lk 3:31.
Lk 3:32.
Lk 3:33.
Lk 3:34.
Lk 3:35.
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Lk 3:36.
Lk 3:37.
Lk 3:38.
Jn 1:4.
Jn 1:5.
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Mt 1:18.
Mt 1:19.
Mt 1:20.
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Mt 1:21.
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Mt 1:22.
Mt 1:23.
Mt 1:24.
Lk 2:1.
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Lk 2:2.
Lk 2:3.
Lk 2:4.
Lk 2:5.
Lk 2:6.
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Mt 1:25.
Lk 2:7.
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Lk 2:8.
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Lk 2:9.
Lk 2:10.
Lk 2:11.
Lk 2:12.
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Lk 2:13.
Lk 2:14.
Lk 2:15.
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Lk 2:16.
Lk 2:17.
Lk 2:18.
Lk 2:19.
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Lk 2:20.
Lk 2:21.
Lk 2:22.
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Lk 2:23.
Lk 2:24.
Lk 2:25.
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Lk 2:26.
Lk 2:27.
Lk 2:28.
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Lk 2:29.
Lk 2:30.
Lk 2:31.
Lk 2:32.
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Lk 2:33.
Lk 2:34.
Lk 2:35.
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Lk 2:36.
Lk 2:37.
Lk 2:38.
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AND IT CAME TO PASS, THAT, WHEN ELISABETH HEARD THE (GREETING) OF MARY, THE BABE LEAPED (or was stirred) IN HER WOMB; AND ELISABETH WAS FILLED WITH THE HOLY GHOST:
ELIZABETH PROPHESIES
8 MONTHS
PRIOR TO THE BIRTH OF JESUS
AND SHE (SPOKE) OUT WITH A LOUD VOICE, AND SAID, BLESSED (ARE) (YOU) AMONG WOMEN, AND (how) BLESSED IS THE FRUIT (or child) OF (YOUR) WOMB (or child you will bear-NIV).
AND (WHY) IS THIS (happened) TO ME (or why am I so favored-NIV, or who am I), THAT THE MOTHER OF MY LORD SHOULD COME TO ME?
FOR, (BEHOLD), AS SOON AS THE (SOUND) OF (YOUR) (GREETING) (REACHED) (MY) EARS, THE (BABY) LEAPED IN MY WOMB FOR JOY.
AND BLESSED IS SHE THAT BELIEVED (or trusted) (that what the Lord has said to her will be accomplished-NIV): FOR THERE SHALL BE A (FULFILLMENT) OF THOSE THINGS WHICH WERE TOLD HER FROM THE LORD.
MARY’S SOUL MAGNIFIES THE LORD
8 MONTHS
PRIOR TO THE BIRTH OF JESUS
AND MARY SAID, MY SOUL DOTH MAGNIFY (or glorifies, or exalts) THE LORD,
AND MY SPIRIT (HAS) REJOICED IN GOD MY SAVIOR.
FOR HE (HAS) (BEEN MINDFUL OF) THE (HUMBLE) (POSITION) OF HIS HANDMAIDEN (or bond slave, or servant girl): FOR, BEHOLD (Imagine it!), FROM (THIS TIME ON) ALL GENERATIONS SHALL CALL ME BLESSED.
FOR HE THAT IS MIGHTY (HAS) DONE TO ME GREAT THINGS; AND (indeed) HOLY IS HIS NAME.
AND HIS MERCY (EXTENDS TO) THEM THAT FEAR HIM (IN EVERY GENERATION).
HE (HAS) (DONE MIGHTY DEEDS) WITH HIS ARM; HE (HAS) SCATTERED (or routed) THE PROUD IN THE IMAGINATION OF THEIR HEARTS (or scattered those who are-NIV) (secretly proud) (in their inmost thoughts-NIV) (from their heart).
HE (HAS) (BROUGHT) DOWN THE MIGHTY (or rulers) FROM THEIR (THRONES), AND (has) EXALTED (or raised up) THEM OF LOW DEGREE (or those who were humble-NASB)
.
HE (HAS) FILLED THE HUNGRY WITH GOOD THINGS; AND THE RICH HE (HAS) (SENT AWAY EMPTY).
HE (HAS) (HELPED) HIS SERVANT ISRAEL, IN REMEMBRANCE OF HIS MERCY;
AS HE (SPOKE) (or promised) TO OUR FATHERS, TO ABRAHAM, AND TO HIS (OFFSPRING) FOR EVER.
AND MARY (STAYED) WITH (ELIZABETH) ABOUT THREE MONTHS, AND (then) RETURNED TO HER OWN HOUSE.
JOHN THE BAPTIST BORN
6 MONTHS
PRIOR TO THE BIRTH OF JESUS
NOW ELISABETH'S FULL TIME CAME THAT SHE SHOULD (GIVE BIRTH) (or have her baby); AND SHE (GAVE BIRTH TO) A SON.
AND HER NEIGHBORS AND HER (RELATIVES) HEARD HOW THE LORD HAD (SHOWN) GREAT MERCY UPON HER; AND THEY REJOICED WITH HER.
AND IT CAME TO PASS, THAT ON THE EIGHTH DAY THEY CAME TO CIRCUMCISE THE CHILD; AND THEY CALLED HIM (or were going to name him-NIV) ZACHARIAS, AFTER THE NAME OF HIS FATHER.
AND HIS MOTHER ANSWERED AND SAID, (NO!); BUT HE SHALL BE CALLED JOHN.
AND THEY SAID (TO) HER, THERE IS NONE OF (YOUR) (RELATIVES) THAT IS CALLED BY THIS NAME.
AND THEY MADE SIGNS TO HIS FATHER, (to find out) (WHAT) HE WOULD HAVE (THE CHILD) CALLED.
AND HE (MOTIONED) FOR A WRITING (TABLET), AND WROTE, SAYING, HIS NAME IS JOHN. AND THEY (WERE ALL ASTONISHED).
AND HIS MOUTH WAS OPENED IMMEDIATELY, AND HIS TONGUE LOOSED, AND HE (SPOKE), AND PRAISED GOD.
AND FEAR (or awe) CAME ON ALL (the neighbors) THAT DWELT (AROUND) THEM: AND ALL THESE (MATTERS) WERE (TALKED ABOUT) ABROAD THROUGHOUT ALL THE HILL COUNTRY OF (JUDEA).
AND ALL THEY THAT HEARD THEM (KEPT) THEM UP IN THEIR HEARTS (or mind) (or wondered about it), SAYING, WHAT (KIND) OF CHILD SHALL THIS (turn out to) BE! AND THE HAND OF THE LORD WAS WITH HIM.
ZACHARIAS PROPHESIES
6 MONTHS
PRIOR TO THE BIRTH OF JESUS
AND HIS FATHER ZACHARIAS WAS FILLED WITH THE HOLY GHOST, AND PROPHESIED, SAYING,
BLESSED (or Praised) BE THE LORD GOD OF ISRAEL; FOR HE (HAS) (COME) AND (ACCOMPLISHED REDEMPTION FOR) HIS PEOPLE (or He has visited and made a ransom to liberate His people-JNT),
AND (HAS) RAISED UP AN HORN OF SALVATION (or mighty Deliverer) FOR US (WHO IS A DESCENDANT OF-JNT) THE HOUSE OF HIS SERVANT DAVID;
AS HE (SPOKE) BY THE MOUTH OF HIS HOLY PROPHETS, WHICH HAVE BEEN SINCE THE WORLD BEGAN (or from of old) (or it is just as He has spoken through the mouth of the prophets from the very beginning-JNT):
THAT WE SHOULD BE SAVED (or delivered) FROM OUR ENEMIES, AND FROM THE (POWER) OF ALL THAT HATE US;
(This has happened) TO (SHOW) THE MERCY PROMISED TO OUR FATHERS, AND TO REMEMBER HIS HOLY COVENANT;
THE OATH WHICH HE (SWORE) TO OUR FATHER ABRAHAM,
THAT HE WOULD GRANT (TO) US, THAT WE BEING DELIVERED (or freed) OUT OF THE HAND OF OUR ENEMIES MIGHT SERVE HIM WITHOUT FEAR,
IN HOLINESS AND RIGHTEOUSNESS BEFORE HIM, ALL THE DAYS OF OUR LIFE.
AND (YOU), (My) CHILD, (WILL) BE CALLED THE PROPHET OF THE (MOST HIGH): FOR (YOU) (WILL) GO BEFORE THE FACE OF THE LORD TO PREPARE (THE WAY FOR HIM-NIV);
TO GIVE KNOWLEDGE OF SALVATION (TO) HIS PEOPLE BY THE (FORGIVENESS) OF THEIR SINS (or that deliverance comes by having sins forgiven-JNT),
THROUGH (or because of) THE TENDER MERCY OF OUR GOD; WHEREBY THE DAYSPRING (or sunrise) FROM ON HIGH (HAS) VISITED US (or by which the rising sun will come to [visit] us from heaven-NIV),
TO GIVE LIGHT TO (or shine on) THEM THAT SIT IN DARKNESS AND IN THE SHADOW OF DEATH, TO GUIDE OUR FEET INTO THE WAY OF PEACE.
Commentary scriptures continue on pg. 53
THE GENEALOGY OF JESUS CHRIST
THE BOOK (or record) OF THE GENERATION (or genealogy) OF JESUS CHRIST (the Messiah), THE SON OF DAVID, THE SON OF ABRAHAM.
THE GENEALOGY OF JESUS CHRIST
FROM ABRAHAM TO JESUS
ABRAHAM BEGAT (or was the father of-NIV) ISAAC; AND ISAAC BEGAT (or was the father of-JNT) JACOB; AND JACOB BEGAT (or was the father of-JNT) JUDAS AND HIS (BROTHERS);
AND JUDAS BEGAT (or was the father of-JNT) PHARES AND ZARA OF (or whose mother was) THAMAR; AND PHARES BEGAT (or was the father of-JNT) ESROM; AND ESROM BEGAT (or was the father of-JNT) (RAM);
AND (RAM) BEGAT (or was the father of-JNT) (AMMINADAB); AND (AMMINADAB) BEGAT (or was the father of-JNT) (NAHSHON); AND (NAHSHON) BEGAT (or was the father of-JNT) SALMON;
AND SALMON BEGAT (or was the father of-JNT) BOOZ OF (or whose mother was) RACHAB; AND BOOZ BEGAT (or was the father of-JNT) OBED OF (or whose mother was) RUTH; AND OBED BEGAT JESSE;
AND JESSE BEGAT (or was the father of-JNT) DAVID THE KING; AND DAVID THE KING BEGAT (or was the father of-JNT) SOLOMON OF HER THAT HAD BEEN THE WIFE OF URIAS;
AND SOLOMON BEGAT (or was the father of-JNT) ROBOAM; AND ROBOAM BEGAT (or was the father of-JNT) ABIA; AND ABIA BEGAT (or was the father of-JNT) ASA;
AND ASA BEGAT (or was the father of-JNT) JOSAPHAT; AND JOSAPHAT BEGAT (or was the father of-JNT) JORAM; AND JORAM BEGAT (or was the father of-JNT) OZIAS;
AND OZIAS BEGAT (or was the father of-JNT) JOATHAM; AND JOATHAM BEGAT (or was the father of-JNT) ACHAZ; AND ACHAZ BEGAT (or was the father of-JNT) EZEKIAS;
AND EZEKIAS BEGAT (or was the father of-JNT) MANASSES; AND MANASSES BEGAT (or was the father of-JNT) AMON; AND AMON BEGAT (or was the father of-JNT) JOSIAS;
AND JOSIAS BEGAT (or was the father of-JNT) JECHONIAS AND HIS (BROTHERS), ABOUT THE TIME THEY WERE CARRIED AWAY (or the exile, or deportation) TO BABYLON:.
AND AFTER THEY WERE BROUGHT TO BABYLON, JECHONIAS BEGAT (or was the father of-JNT) SALATHIEL; AND SALATHIEL BEGAT (or was the father of-JNT) ZOROBABEL;
AND ZOROBABEL BEGAT (or was the father of-JNT) ABIUD; AND ABIUD BEGAT (or was the father of-JNT) ELIAKIM; AND ELIAKIM BEGAT (or was the father of-JNT) AZOR;
AND AZOR BEGAT (or was the father of-JNT) SADOC; AND SADOC BEGAT (or was the father of-JNT) ACHIM; AND ACHIM BEGAT (or was the father of-JNT) ELIUD;
AND ELIUD BEGAT (or was the father of-JNT) ELEAZAR; AND ELEAZAR BEGAT (or was the father of-JNT) MATTHAN; AND MATTHAN BEGAT (or was the father of-JNT) JACOB;
AND JACOB BEGAT (or was the father of-JNT) JOSEPH THE HUSBAND OF MARY, OF WHOM WAS BORN JESUS (or Yeshua), WHO IS CALLED CHRIST (or the Messiah).
SO ALL THE GENERATIONS FROM ABRAHAM TO DAVID ARE FOURTEEN GENERATIONS; AND FROM DAVID UNTIL THE CARRYING AWAY (or exile, captivity, or deportation) INTO BABYLON ARE FOURTEEN GENERATIONS; AND FROM THE CARRYING AWAY (or exile, captivity, or deportation) INTO BABYLON UNTO (the time of) CHRIST (or the Messiah) ARE FOURTEEN GENERATIONS.
Commentary scriptures continue on pg. 60
THE GENEALOGY OF JESUS
FROM JOSEPH TO ADAM
(He) BEING ([SUPPOSEDLY] [or so it was thought-NIV]) THE SON OF JOSEPH, WHICH WAS THE SON OF HELI,
WHICH WAS THE SON OF MATTHAT, WHICH WAS THE SON OF LEVI, WHICH WAS THE SON OF MELCHI, WHICH WAS THE SON OF JANNA, WHICH WAS THE SON OF JOSEPH,
WHICH WAS THE SON OF MATTATHIAS, WHICH WAS THE SON OF AMOS, WHICH WAS THE SON OF (NAHUM), WHICH WAS THE SON OF ESLI, WHICH WAS THE SON OF (NAGGAI),
WHICH WAS THE SON OF MAATH, WHICH WAS THE SON OF MATTATHIAS, WHICH WAS THE SON OF SEMEI, WHICH WAS THE SON OF JOSEPH, WHICH WAS THE SON OF (JUDAH),
WHICH WAS THE SON OF JOANNA, WHICH WAS THE SON OF RHESA, WHICH WAS THE SON OF (ZERUBBABEL), WHICH WAS THE SON OF (SHEALTIEL), WHICH WAS THE SON OF NERI,
WHICH WAS THE SON OF MELCHI, WHICH WAS THE SON OF ADDI, WHICH WAS THE SON OF COSAM, WHICH WAS THE SON OF ELMODAM, WHICH WAS THE SON OF ER,
WHICH WAS THE SON OF JOSE, WHICH WAS THE SON OF ELIEZER, WHICH WAS THE SON OF JORIM, WHICH WAS THE SON OF MATTHAT, WHICH WAS THE SON OF LEVI,
WHICH WAS THE SON OF SIMEON, WHICH WAS THE SON OF (JUDAH), WHICH WAS THE SON OF JOSEPH, WHICH WAS THE SON OF JONAN, WHICH WAS THE SON OF ELIAKIM,
WHICH WAS THE SON OF MELEA, WHICH WAS THE SON OF MENAN, WHICH WAS THE SON OF MATTATHA, WHICH WAS THE SON OF NATHAN, WHICH WAS THE SON OF DAVID,
WHICH WAS THE SON OF JESSE, WHICH WAS THE SON OF OBED, WHICH WAS THE SON OF (BOAZ), WHICH WAS THE SON OF SALMON, WHICH WAS THE SON OF (NAHSHON),
WHICH WAS THE SON OF (AMMINADAB), WHICH WAS THE SON OF (RAM), WHICH WAS THE SON OF (HEZRON), WHICH WAS THE SON OF (PEREZ), WHICH WAS THE SON OF (JUDAH),
WHICH WAS THE SON OF JACOB, WHICH WAS THE SON OF ISAAC, WHICH WAS THE SON OF ABRAHAM, WHICH WAS THE SON OF (TERAH), WHICH WAS THE SON OF (NAHOR),
WHICH WAS THE SON OF (SERUG), WHICH WAS THE SON OF (REU), WHICH WAS THE SON OF (PELEG), WHICH WAS THE SON OF HEBER, WHICH WAS THE SON OF (SHELAH),
WHICH WAS THE SON OF CAINAN, WHICH WAS THE SON OF ARPHAXAD, WHICH WAS THE SON OF (SHEM), WHICH WAS THE SON OF NOAH, WHICH WAS THE SON OF LAMECH,
WHICH WAS THE SON OF (METHUSELAH), WHICH WAS THE SON OF ENOCH, WHICH WAS THE SON OF JARED, WHICH WAS THE SON OF (MAHALALEL), WHICH WAS THE SON OF CAINAN,
WHICH WAS THE SON OF ENOS, WHICH WAS THE SON OF SETH, WHICH WAS THE SON OF ADAM, WHICH WAS THE SON OF GOD.
DARKNESS DOES NOT COMPREHEND
LIGHT
IN HIM WAS LIFE; AND THE LIFE WAS THE LIGHT OF (MANKIND).
AND THE LIGHT (SHINES) IN (the) DARKNESS; AND THE DARKNESS COMPREHENDED (or understood) IT NOT.
Commentary scriptures continue on pg. 65
AN ANGEL APPEARS TO JOSEPH
LEADING UP TO THE BIRTH OF JESUS
NOW THE BIRTH OF JESUS CHRIST (or Yeshua the Messiah-JNT) (WAS AS FOLLOWS): WHEN AS HIS MOTHER MARY WAS ESPOUSED (or engaged, pledged, or betrothed) TO (be married to) JOSEPH, (but) BEFORE THEY CAME TOGETHER (or were married), SHE WAS FOUND (to be) (PREGNANT) OF THE HOLY GHOST (or Holy Spirit).
THEN JOSEPH HER HUSBAND (to be), BEING A (RIGHTEOUS) MAN (or a man who did what was right-JNT), AND NOT WILLING TO MAKE HER A PUBLIC EXAMPLE (or public shame, or disgrace), (HAD IN MIND) TO PUT HER AWAY (QUIETLY) (or secretly).
BUT WHILE HE (CONSIDERED) THESE THINGS, BEHOLD, THE ANGEL OF THE LORD APPEARED (TO) HIM IN A DREAM, SAYING, JOSEPH, THOU SON OF DAVID, FEAR NOT TO TAKE (TO) THEE MARY (YOUR) WIFE (or do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife-NIV): FOR THAT WHICH IS CONCEIVED IN HER IS (FROM) THE HOLY GHOST (or Holy Spirit).
AND SHE SHALL (GIVE BIRTH TO) (or bear) A SON, AND (YOU) (SHALL) CALL HIS NAME JESUS (or Yeshua, [which means 'Adonai saves',-JNT]: FOR (it is) HE (Who) SHALL SAVE HIS PEOPLE FROM THEIR SINS.
Commentary scriptures continue on pg. 68
NOW ALL THIS (HAPPENED) (or took place), THAT IT MIGHT BE FULFILLED WHICH WAS SPOKEN OF THE LORD BY THE PROPHET, SAYING,
BEHOLD, A VIRGIN SHALL (CONCEIVE), AND SHALL (GIVE BIRTH TO) (or bear) A SON, AND THEY SHALL CALL HIS NAME EMMANUEL, WHICH BEING (TRANSLATED) IS, GOD (is) WITH US.
THEN JOSEPH BEING RAISED (or awoke, or arose) FROM SLEEP DID AS THE ANGEL OF THE LORD HAD (TOLD) (or commanded) HIM, AND (he) TOOK (Mary) (TO) HIM (as) HIS WIFE:
JOSEPH AND MARY WENT TO
BETHLEHEM
JUST PRIOR TO THE BIRTH OF JESUS
AND IT CAME TO PASS IN THOSE DAYS, THAT THERE WENT OUT A DECREE FROM CAESAR AUGUSTUS, THAT ALL THE (Roman) WORLD (or Empire) SHOULD BE TAXED (or a census should be taken-NASB).
(AND THIS TAXING [or census, or registration] [the first of its kind-JNT] WAS FIRST MADE WHEN CYRENIUS [or Quirinius] WAS GOVERNOR OF SYRIA.)
AND ALL WENT TO BE TAXED (or to register for the census-NASB), EVERY ONE INTO HIS OWN CITY (or town).
AND JOSEPH ALSO WENT UP FROM GALILEE, OUT OF THE (TOWN) OF NAZARETH, INTO (JUDEA), (TO) THE CITY OF DAVID, WHICH IS CALLED BETHLEHEM; (BECAUSE HE WAS OF THE HOUSE AND LINEAGE [or family] OF DAVID:)
TO BE TAXED (or in order to register-NASB) (along) WITH MARY HIS ESPOUSED WIFE (or who was engaged to him-NASB), BEING (PREGNANT) WITH (a) CHILD.
AND SO IT WAS, THAT, WHILE THEY WERE THERE, THE DAYS WERE (COMPLETED) THAT SHE SHOULD (GIVE BIRTH).
JOSEPH KNEW HER NOT
PRIOR TO THE BIRTH OF JESUS
AND KNEW HER NOT (or he did not have sexual relations-JNT, or union with her) TILL SHE HAD BROUGHT FORTH (or given birth to) HER FIRSTBORN SON: AND HE CALLED (or gave Him) HIS NAME JESUS.
DATES OF SCRIPTURES, PLUS THE
BIRTH AND CRUCIFIXION OF JESUS
CHRIST
Since it is not known for sure the exact year and date that Jesus was actually born, the verses are dated in relation to the birth of Jesus. If the date says 0 days, it means 0 days have gone by since His birth. If it would say 3 years plus 2 months, then this is the approximate amount of time that has passed since His birth. It is generally agreed by most born-again Bible scholars that Jesus was born somewhere between 6 B.C. to 2 B.C., and perhaps in the month of September or October and was crucified when He was about 33½ years old.
THE BIRTH OF JESUS
0 DAYS
AND SHE (GAVE BIRTH TO) HER FIRSTBORN (child, a) SON, AND WRAPPED HIM IN SWADDLING CLOTHES, AND LAID HIM IN A (FEEDING TROUGH); BECAUSE THERE WAS NO ROOM (or space) FOR THEM IN THE INN.
Commentary scriptures continue on pg. 71
THE SHEPHERDS AND THE ANGELS
0 DAYS
AFTER THE BIRTH OF JESUS
AND THERE WERE IN THE SAME COUNTRY (or countryside, or region nearby) SHEPHERDS (STAYING OUT) IN THE FIELD, KEEPING WATCH OVER (or guarding) THEIR FLOCK BY NIGHT.
AND, LO, THE ANGEL OF THE LORD (suddenly) (STOOD BEFORE) THEM, AND THE GLORY OF THE LORD SHONE (AROUND) THEM: AND THEY WERE (GREATLY) AFRAID.
AND THE ANGEL SAID (TO) THEM, (DO NOT BE AFRAID-NIV): FOR, BEHOLD, I BRING YOU GOOD (NEWS) OF GREAT JOY, WHICH SHALL BE TO ALL PEOPLE.
FOR (TO) YOU IS BORN THIS (very) DAY IN THE CITY (or town) OF DAVID A SAVIOR (or Deliverer), WHICH IS CHRIST (or Messiah) THE LORD.
AND THIS SHALL BE A SIGN (TO) YOU (or here is how you will know-JNT); (YOU) SHALL FIND THE (BABY) WRAPPED IN SWADDLING CLOTHES, (and) LYING IN A (FEEDING TROUGH).
AND SUDDENLY THERE WAS WITH THE ANGEL A (GREAT COMPANY) OF THE HEAVENLY HOST PRAISING GOD, AND SAYING,
GLORY TO GOD IN THE HIGHEST (heaven), AND ON EARTH PEACE, GOOD WILL TOWARD MEN (or peace among people of good will-JNT, or peace to men on whom His favor rests-NIV).
AND IT CAME TO PASS, AS THE ANGELS WERE GONE AWAY FROM THEM INTO HEAVEN, THE SHEPHERDS SAID ONE TO ANOTHER, LET US NOW GO EVEN (straight) (TO) BETHLEHEM, AND SEE THIS THING WHICH IS COME TO PASS, WHICH THE LORD (HAS) MADE KNOWN (TO) US.
AND THEY (HURRIED), AND FOUND (their way to) MARY, AND JOSEPH, AND THE (BABY) (Who was) LYING IN A (FEEDING TROUGH).
AND WHEN THEY HAD SEEN (HIM), THEY (SPREAD) ABROAD THE (STATEMENT) WHICH WAS TOLD THEM CONCERNING THIS CHILD.AND ALL THEY THAT HEARD IT (WERE AMAZED) AT THOSE THINGS WHICH WERE TOLD THEM BY THE SHEPHERDS.
AND ALL THEY THAT HEARD IT (WERE AMAZED) AT THOSE THINGS WHICH WERE TOLD THEM BY THE SHEPHERDS.
BUT MARY KEPT (or treasured up) ALL THESE THINGS, AND (KEPT MULLING) THEM (over) IN HER HEART.
AND THE SHEPHERDS RETURNED (back), GLORIFYING AND PRAISING GOD FOR ALL THE THINGS THAT THEY HAD HEARD AND SEEN, (which was just) AS IT WAS TOLD UNTO THEM.
FROM THIS POINT ON THE DATING
COVERS FROM THE BIRTH OF JESUS.
EXAMPLE, 8 DAYS WOULD INDICATE 8
DAYS AFTER JESUS WAS BORN.
THE CIRCUMCISING OF THE CHILD
HIS NAME WAS CALLED JESUS
8 DAYS
AND WHEN EIGHT DAYS WERE (COMPLETED) FOR THE CIRCUMCISING OF THE CHILD (or on the eighth day, when it was time to circumcise Him-NIV), HIS NAME WAS CALLED JESUS, WHICH WAS SO NAMED OF THE ANGEL BEFORE HE WAS CONCEIVED IN THE WOMB.
JESUS BROUGHT TO JERUSALEM
A SACRIFICE OFFERED
40 DAYS
AND WHEN THE DAYS OF HER PURIFICATION ACCORDING TO THE LAW OF MOSES WERE (COMPLETED), THEY BROUGHT HIM (up) TO JERUSALEM, TO PRESENT HIM TO THE LORD;
(AS IT IS WRITTEN IN THE LAW OF THE LORD, EVERY [first-born] MALE THAT [OPENS] THE WOMB SHALL BE CALLED HOLY [or is to be consecrated-NIV] TO THE LORD;)
AND (also) TO OFFER A SACRIFICE ACCORDING TO THAT WHICH IS SAID IN THE LAW OF THE LORD, A PAIR OF TURTLEDOVES, OR TWO YOUNG PIGEONS.
SIMEON PROPHESIES
40 DAYS
AND, BEHOLD, THERE WAS A MAN IN JERUSALEM, WHOSE NAME WAS SIMEON; AND THE SAME MAN WAS (RIGHTEOUS) AND DEVOUT, WAITING (eagerly) FOR THE CONSOLATION OF (or God to comfort) ISRAEL: AND THE HOLY GHOST (or Spirit) WAS UPON HIM.
AND IT WAS REVEALED (TO) HIM BY THE HOLY GHOST (or Spirit), THAT HE SHOULD NOT (DIE), BEFORE HE HAD SEEN THE LORD'S CHRIST (or Messiah).
AND HE CAME (or was prompted) BY THE SPIRIT INTO THE TEMPLE (courts): AND WHEN THE PARENTS BROUGHT IN THE CHILD JESUS, TO (CARRY OUT) FOR HIM AFTER THE CUSTOM OF THE LAW (or what the.Law required-NIV),
THEN (SIMEON TOOK) HIM UP IN HIS ARMS, AND BLESSED (or praised) GOD, AND SAID,
Sovereign) LORD, NOW (YOU ARE LETTING) (YOUR) (bond) SERVANT DEPART IN PEACE, ACCORDING TO (YOUR) WORD (or as You have promised-NIV) (or Your servant is at peace as You let him go-JNT):
FOR (MY) (own) EYES HAVE SEEN (YOUR) SALVATION,
WHICH (YOU) (HAVE) PREPARED (IN THE PRESENCE) OF ALL PEOPLE;
A LIGHT TO LIGHTEN (or bring revelation to) THE GENTILES, AND THE GLORY OF (YOUR) PEOPLE ISRAEL.
AND JOSEPH (the child's father) AND HIS MOTHER (WERE AMAZED) AT THOSE THINGS WHICH WERE SPOKEN OF HIM.
AND SIMEON BLESSED THEM, AND SAID (TO) MARY HIS MOTHER, BEHOLD, THIS CHILD IS (DESTINED) (TO CAUSE) THE FALL AND RISING AGAIN OF MANY IN ISRAEL; AND (He) (will become) A SIGN WHICH SHALL BE SPOKEN AGAINST (or opposed);
([YES], A SWORD SHALL PIERCE THROUGH [YOUR] OWN SOUL ALSO,) (all this will happen in order-JNT) THAT THE (inmost) THOUGHTS OF MANY (people's) HEARTS MAY BE REVEALED.
ANNA, A PROPHETESS
40 DAYS
AND THERE WAS (also) ONE ANNA, A PROPHETESS, THE DAUGHTER OF PHANUEL, OF THE TRIBE OF (ASHER): SHE WAS (VERY OLD), AND HAD LIVED WITH AN HUSBAND SEVEN YEARS (AFTER HER MARRIAGE);
AND (then) SHE WAS A WIDOW OF ABOUT FOURSCORE AND FOUR YEARS (or had remained a widow ever since; now she was eighty-four-JNT), WHICH (NEVER LEFT) THE TEMPLE (grounds), BUT SERVED (or worshipped) GOD WITH FASTINGS AND PRAYERS NIGHT AND DAY.
AND SHE COMING IN (at) THAT INSTANT GAVE THANKS LIKEWISE (TO) THE LORD, AND (SPOKE) OF HIM TO ALL THEM THAT LOOKED FOR REDEMPTION IN JERUSALEM (or the redemption of Jerusalem-NIV) (or Jerusalem) (to be liberated).
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Lk 1:41. AND IT CAME TO PASS, THAT,
WHEN ELISABETH HEARD THE (GREETING) OF MARY,
THE BABE (which was yet to be born John, who was later called the Baptist). THE BABE–
LEAPED (or was stirred) IN HER WOMB. At this time, Elizabeth was about 6 months pregnant. John the Baptist was the one selected by God to prepare the people for the coming of the Lord. Mary, the mother of Jesus, greets Elizabeth and the babe leaped or was stirred. This appears to have been more of a stirring than the motion that would normally take place. The verse continues–
AND ELISABETH WAS FILLED WITH THE HOLY GHOST. It appears that the babe was stirred in her womb and she was filled with the Holy Spirit at the same time.
Zacharias was later filled with the Holy Ghost in verse 67. It appears that prior to the resurrection of Jesus, certain people were filled with the Holy Spirit for specific tasks and purposes. This is not the same as the Holy Spirit being given when one is born-again; as it is written in Jn 7:39–(BUT THIS SPAKE HE OF THE SPIRIT, WHICH THEY THAT BELIEVE ON HIM SHOULD RECEIVE: FOR THE HOLY GHOST WAS NOT YET GIVEN; BECAUSE THAT JESUS WAS NOT YET GLORIFIED.)
Mary enters the house. The babe in Mary’s womb is Jesus. Rev 19:10–THE TESTIMONY OF JESUS IS THE SPIRIT OF PROPHECY. Elizabeth begins to prophesy–
Lk 1:42. AND SHE (SPOKE) OUT WITH A LOUD VOICE, AND SAID. How or when Elizabeth learned about Mary’s situation is not told in the Bible. It appears that God gave Elizabeth prophetic knowledge about Mary. It appears she spoke by the Spirit of God and said–
#1–BLESSED (ARE) (YOU) AMONG WOMEN. This is the first recorded case of anyone prophesying anything in the New Testament. After about 400 years from the time of Malachi (the last book of the Old Testament), the angel of the Lord had appeared to Zacharias. Since the time of Malachi, there was no communication or prophet recorded in the Bible as being sent to the people of Israel from God. With the appearance of the angel Gabriel, that silence is finally broken–ref Lk 1:19.
Elizabeth will be the first person recorded in the Scriptures to prophesy after that long period of time–ref Lk 1:42. She did so when visited by Mary–ref Lk 1:42–45. Zacharias would later prophesy when they came to circumcise John–ref Lk 1:67–79. John the Baptist would be the greatest prophet of all, except for Jesus–ref Lk 7:28. Notwithstanding, there was a prophetess in Jerusalem named Anna–ref Lk 2:36. Simeon was in Jerusalem also and prophesied in Lk 2:34,35.
There was no jealousy in Elizabeth of any kind toward Mary, that Mary was chosen by God to be the mother of Jesus and not herself. There was only rejoicing.
Elizabeth confirms what the angel had already told Mary in Lk 1:28–BLESSED (ARE) (YOU) AMONG WOMEN. She did not say “above women” as the Catholic Church might have you believe. The verse continues–
#2–AND (how) BLESSED IS THE FRUIT (or child) OF (YOUR) WOMB (or child you will bear–NIV). She then prophesies that the child in Mary’s womb is blessed.
The fantastic news of the coming birth of the long awaited Lord and Messiah comes forth. It would come from Mary’s womb. Indeed BLESSED is that fruit.
With the fall of Adam and starting with Gen 3:15, the coming of the Messiah was revealed. Enoch also prophesied about the Messiah even before the days of Noah–ref Jude 14. Many writers of the Old Testament prophesied of His coming. Now, after thousands of years, the fulfillment of these prophecies is about to happen, and Mary is the person chosen by God to bring forth a son–and that son will be the Son of God.
This also shows that Mary had become pregnant, perhaps even while the angel spoke with her or very shortly thereafter, as Mary went to Zacharias’ house quickly after this encounter.
FIRST AND SECOND ADAM.
ATONEMENT
SALVATION, FAITH AND BAPTISM
The first Adam sinned and brought death to all humanity–ref 1 Cor 15:22. All the human family came forth from his loins and thus are under the sentence of death.
As a result, there had to be a second Adam to atone for the death sentence that came forth from the first Adam.
Jesus became that last Adam–ref 1 Cor 15:45. He had to be born as a man, but not as the result of a man. Thus the sentence of death handed down through the human race by Adam was not handed to the Son of God. His atoning death for sin on the cross made eternal life possible for all that would put their faith and trust in Him as their only hope of salvation–note Lk 1:27.
When we come to Jesus by faith, we are to come in repentance and put away the intentional practice of sin with His help, which includes disobedience and rebellion against God.
After we come by faith, in repentance, we are under commandment to be baptized by full immersion; as it is written in Ro 6:4–BURIED WITH HIM BY BAPTISM (or buried with Him in Water) and Col 2:12–BURIED WITH HIM IN BAPTISM (or buried with Him in water). That baptism is to be done in the NAME OF THE FATHER, AND OF THE SON, AND OF THE HOLY GHOST–ref Mt 28:19. Elizabeth continues–
Lk 1:43. AND (WHY) IS THIS (happened) TO ME (or why am I so favored–NIV, or who am I)? Elizabeth reflects a very humble spirit with pure thoughts. Elizabeth continues with these words–
THAT THE MOTHER OF MY LORD. Elizabeth’s eyes had been opened by God to understand the magnitude of who was in Mary’s womb. Elizabeth calls the baby in Mary’s womb MY LORD.
The son that Elizabeth was to have would be great in the sight of the Lord–ref Lk 1:15. Among them that are born of women there was not a greater than John the Baptist–ref Mt 11:11, except Jesus. He would be filled with the Holy Ghost from his mother’s womb–ref Lk 1:15, and turn many of the children of Israel to the Lord their God–ref Lk 1:16. He would make ready a people prepared for the Lord–ref Lk 1:17. As great as her own son was to be, yet the mother of one far greater was now present. The verse continues–
SHOULD COME TO ME? She wonders why she is so favored that Mary, who is the person chosen by God to bear her Lord, would visit her.
Elizabeth reflects tremendous faith. She is positive that this is, indeed, her Lord that is in Mary’s womb. How she knew that Mary was pregnant and about the child in Mary’s womb is unclear, except that God had revealed it to her in some way. She already would have known that the coming of the Lord was near as Zacharias would have communicated to her about their own son and that his purpose would be to make ready a people prepared for the Lord.
Elizabeth’s son, about 30 years later, would express deep humility and a similar view when Jesus came to him. John would say in Mt 3:14–AND COMEST THOU TO ME?
Most people that were expecting the Messiah had a false impression about Him. They thought He had come to restore the Kingdom to Israel–ref Acts 1:6. They did not foresee a suffering Messiah that must be crucified and then rise again. They did not understand that He would ascend up to heaven and come back at some future time to restore the Kingdom to Israel.
The verses continue–
Lk 1:44. FOR, (BEHOLD), AS SOON AS THE (SOUND) OF (YOUR) (GREETING)
(REACHED) (MY) EARS,
THE (BABY) LEAPED IN MY WOMB FOR JOY. There is, indeed, joy in the presence of the Lord. Would it not be wonderful if Christians would leap in His presence. How is it that an unborn child that could not understand could leap with joy, but Christians that do understand, express less joy? Elizabeth then continues her prophesying–
Lk 1:45. #3–AND BLESSED IS SHE or blessed is Mary, which is the one–
#4–THAT BELIEVED (or trusted) (that what the Lord has said to her will be accomplished–NIV). In other words, blessed is Mary which had believed God’s Word. As noted in Lk 1:38, Mary had no doubts regarding what the angel had told her. Indeed, Elizabeth’s own husband had doubted what the angel had told him, and thus he could no longer speak. Note three key words or items: 1–believed 2–the Word, and the result is 3–being blessed.
Elizabeth continues–
#5–FOR THERE SHALL BE A (FULFILLMENT)
OF THOSE THINGS.
#6–WHICH WERE TOLD HER
FROM THE LORD. Elizabeth confirms to Mary, after being filled with the Spirit, that those things which were told to her by the angel shall be or would indeed come to pass. Whether she ever prophesied at any other time is not mentioned in the Scriptures.
Now it would seem that Mary would have been tired after such a long trip, but this does not seem to be the case. It is written–
Lk 1:46. AND MARY SAID. Mary’s words in verses 46 to 55 bears some resemblance to Hannah’s prayer in 1 Sam 2:1–10. Mary’s words magnifies God while asking for nothing. She said–
MY SOUL DOTH MAGNIFY (or glorifies, or exalts) THE LORD. Mary’s response shows no pride, but only humility, gratefulness, and rejoicing in God, despite potential social concerns. Her whole being radiates glorifying God. How prophetic it is that while Mary magnifies the Lord, the Catholic Church erroneously magnifies her.
Lk 1:47. AND MY SPIRIT (HAS) REJOICED IN GOD MY SAVIOR. This shows clearly that Mary needed a savior just as all people do in order to be saved. She rejoiced in God her Savior. This, and many Scriptures, refutes the false doctrine of Rome of the sinless and immaculate person of Mary. Mary needed a savior just as everyone else. Mary inherited the sin nature as we all do.
Elizabeth called the baby that Mary was carrying–HER LORD, in Lk 1:43. Mary refers to the same baby as GOD MY SAVIOR.
What is faith? Note the words of Mary as she states her very soul magnifies, glorifies, or exalts the Lord and her spirit rejoices in God her Savior. She realizes that God, her Savior (which is the Messiah), is currently in her womb. She knew this to be a fact. This is faith.
Lk 19:10–Jesus (our Savior) which is THE SON OF MAN IS COME TO SEEK AND TO SAVE THAT WHICH WAS LOST. The Scriptures continue–
Lk 1:48. FOR HE (which is God)
(HAS) (BEEN MINDFUL OF) THE (HUMBLE) (POSITION). To summarize, the woman that God chose to be the mother of Jesus had been residing in a district that was not highly regarded by the Pharisees and in a town that did not seem to be highly esteemed among the people. She was a humble person that was of a low or humble position or estate. Yet this is the woman that was highly favored by God. It might be said that God had compassion on her as she was humble, poor, unnoticed, and perhaps the least in her father’s house. She could have been a family outcast. Often times those that the world despises, oppresses, looks down on, and wrongfully accuses, but they endure it with a sweet and patient spirit, not taking revenge, God has mercy on them and exalts them. The verse continues–
OF HIS HANDMAIDEN (or bondslave, or servant girl). In Lk 1:38 Mary had called herself a handmaid (or bondslave, or servant). Here she uses these same words in response to what her cousin Elizabeth had said. The 4 things Mary had said up to this point were centered in exalting God and humbling herself. Now she brings forth approximately 21 things. They include a prophecy of the future–what people will say about her, exalting God and showing how God deals with different kinds of people. Mary continues–
FOR, BEHOLD (Imagine it!),
#1–FROM (THIS TIME ON) which includes the future–
#2–ALL GENERATIONS SHALL CALL ME BLESSED. Mary appears to be prophesying about the future, but the Scriptures do not say she was filled with the Holy Ghost as with Elizabeth–ref Lk 1:41, or Zacharias–ref Lk 1:67. She is stating all generations from that time and including the future shall call her blessed.
Lk 1:49. #3–FOR HE (which is God)THAT IS MIGHTY. Mary is speaking of His power.
#4–(HAS) DONE TO ME GREAT THINGS;
#5–AND (indeed) HOLY IS HIS NAME. One name for God is HOLY. Mary speaks of His holiness.
Lk 1:50. #6–AND HIS MERCY. Mary is speaking of His mercy. Lk 1:54 also speaks of His mercy. Jesus being sent to this earth to seek and save that which was lost is mercy. That mercy–
(EXTENDS TO) THEM
#7–THAT FEAR HIM (IN EVERY GENERATION). Does a self–righteous person fear God? Does God's mercy extend to everyone? It is written it extends to them that FEAR HIM. That includes every generation. Do the Catholics, who sometimes even worship Mary, believe her words? Mary herself tells all people to fear God. What writers of the Bible feared God? All did. What apostles feared God? All did. Yet, few, in this generation, fear God or even reverence Him.
Fearing God is a message seldom heard in the Laodicean, lukewarm generation. Preaching on the fear of God has all but ceased. Occasionally, reverencing God is heard in place of the fear of God. Perhaps, these two scriptures convey the fear of God. It is written, GOD IS GREATLY TO BE FEARED IN THE ASSEMBLY OF THE SAINTS, AND TO BE HAD IN REVERENCE OF ALL THEM THAT ARE ABOUT HIM–Ps 89:7. Note the words of Jesus Himself. It is written, BUT I WILL FOREWARN YOU WHOM YE SHALL FEAR: FEAR HIM, WHICH AFTER HE HATH KILLED HATH POWER TO CAST INTO HELL; YEA, I SAY UNTO YOU, FEAR HIM–Lk 12:5. The word “fear” means exactly what it says. In a few scriptures, the words denoting “fear God“ can be translated as “reverence.” However, in most, it means to “be afraid.” In some, it means to “tremble.” Many people, in this lukewarm church age, want to make God appear smaller than He really is. They want to elevate or magnify themselves. The fear of God will be taught correctly by the 144,000 during the Tribulation.
Jesus shall return. This Jesus is far different from the one pictured by many churches. This is He that will pour out His wrath on those who have rejected the forgiveness He offered them. He is a God of love; He is also a God of mercy, and mercy rejoices against judgment.
Note how God’s Word in Acts is in perfect harmony with what Mary had just stated.
Acts 13:16–THEN PAUL STOOD UP, AND BECKONING WITH HIS HAND SAID, MEN OF ISRAEL, AND YE THAT FEAR GOD, GIVE AUDIENCE.
Acts 13:26–MEN AND BRETHREN, CHILDREN OF THE STOCK OF ABRAHAM, AND WHOSOEVER AMONG YOU FEARETH GOD, TO YOU IS THE WORD OF THIS SALVATION SENT.
Acts 5:11–AND GREAT FEAR CAME UPON ALL THE CHURCH, AND UPON AS MANY AS HEARD THESE THINGS.
Acts 9:31–THEN HAD THE CHURCHES REST THROUGHOUT ALL JUDAEA AND GALILEE AND SAMARIA, AND WERE EDIFIED; AND WALKING IN THE FEAR OF THE LORD, AND IN THE COMFORT OF THE HOLY GHOST, WERE MULTIPLIED.
Nothing further on this subject needs to be said.
Mary continues–
Lk 1:51. #8–HE (which is God)–
(HAS) (DONE MIGHTY DEEDS). Mary speaks of God’s mighty deeds. Some of the mighty deeds which God has done are listed in verses 51–55. The verse continues–
#9–WITH HIS ARM;
#10–HE (HAS) SCATTERED (or routed) THE PROUD. Mary speaks of the righteousness of God. Their wrong thoughts has caused them to be scattered by God. This is in perfect harmony with Ja 4:6–GOD RESISTETH THE PROUD, BUT GIVETH GRACE UNTO THE HUMBLE. God helps the humble. Mary continues–
#11–IN THE IMAGINATION OF THEIR HEARTS (or scattered those who are–NIV) (secretly proud) (in their inmost thoughts–NIV) (from their heart). The proud are scattered, routed, and resisted by God. The reward of those that are filled with pride now will be the eternal lake of fire. From the proud man’s imagination of his own heart he has been scattered or brought down. Through the very thoughts that they used to try to advance and establish themselves, God has brought them down.
Lk 1:52. #12–HE (HAS) (BROUGHT) DOWN THE MIGHTY (or rulers)
#13–FROM THEIR (THRONES),
#14–AND (has) EXALTED (or raised up) THEM OF LOW DEGREE (or those who were humble–NASB). Mary again speaks of the righteousness of God. This will have its complete fulfillment when Jesus returns and in the Millennium. Mary was one of a low degree, but God exalted her. Mary’s son would say the words of Lk 18:14 about 34 years later–EVERY ONE THAT EXALTETH HIMSELF SHALL BE ABASED; AND HE THAT HUMBLETH HIMSELF SHALL BE EXALTED. While God has scattered some of the proud, brought down some the mighty, and sent some of the rich away empty in the past and present, these will have their complete fulfillment when Jesus returns and at the judgment.
Lk 1:53. #15–HE (HAS) FILLED THE HUNGRY
#16–WITH GOOD THINGS. This can speak of those that hunger and thirst after righteousness–ref Mt 5:6 and also the poor that have a humble and broken spirit. The verse continues–
#17–AND THE RICH HE (HAS) (SENT AWAY EMPTY). Mary again speaks of the righteousness of God. It is written in Lk 6:24–BUT WOE UNTO YOU THAT ARE RICH! FOR YE HAVE RECEIVED YOUR CONSOLATION. Mt 19:23, 24–THEN SAID JESUS UNTO HIS DISCIPLES, VERILY I SAY UNTO YOU, THAT A RICH MAN SHALL HARDLY ENTER INTO THE KINGDOM OF HEAVEN. AND AGAIN I SAY UNTO YOU, IT IS EASIER FOR A CAMEL TO GO THROUGH THE EYE OF A NEEDLE, THAN FOR A RICH MAN TO ENTER INTO THE KINGDOM OF GOD.
Lk 1:54. #18–HE (which is God)–
(HAS) (HELPED) HIS SERVANT ISRAEL. Note, Israel is called HIS SERVANT, even though they had stopped serving God long ago. Israel had corrupted God’s way. Yet, the verse states that He has helped them–
#19–IN REMEMBRANCE OF HIS MERCY. Lk 1:50 also speaks of God’s mercy. God has helped Israel not as a result of their faithfulness, but because of His mercy and promise. The Scriptures continue–
Lk 1:55. #20–AS HE (SPOKE) (or promised)
#21–TO OUR FATHERS, TO ABRAHAM, AND TO HIS (OFFSPRING) FOR EVER. God is sending the Lord, the Messiah, the Savior, the Promised One to Israel in remembrance of His mercy. As a result of the child that Mary was to have, God was being merciful to Abraham and to his seed or offspring. The long awaited Savior, which had been promise, was about to arrive. Note God’s Word on this subject.
COVENANT FROM GOD AND PROMISE TO ABRAHAM, ISAAC, AND JACOB
IN THY SEED SHALL ALL THE FAMILIES OF THE EARTH BE BLESSED
PROMISE OF THE MESSIAH
Gen 12:3–IN THEE (or in the seed of Abram) SHALL ALL FAMILIES OF THE EARTH BE BLESSED.
Gen 18:18–ABRAHAM…ALL THE NATIONS OF THE EARTH SHALL BE BLESSED IN HIM.
Gen 22:18–IN THY SEED SHALL ALL THE NATIONS OF THE EARTH BE BLESSED; BECAUSE THOU HAST OBEYED MY VOICE.
Gen 26:1,4–ABRAHAM. AND ISAAC…IN THY SEED SHALL ALL THE NATIONS OF THE EARTH BE BLESSED;
Gen 28:14–16–IN THY SEED (the seed of Jacob) SHALL ALL THE FAMILIES OF THE EARTH BE BLESSED.
Acts 3:22–26–FOR MOSES TRULY SAID UNTO THE FATHERS, A PROPHET SHALL THE LORD YOUR GOD RAISE UP UNTO YOU OF YOUR BRETHREN, LIKE UNTO ME; HIM SHALL YE HEAR IN ALL THINGS WHATSOEVER HE SHALL SAY UNTO YOU. AND IT SHALL COME TO PASS, THAT EVERY SOUL, WHICH WILL NOT HEAR THAT PROPHET, SHALL BE DESTROYED FROM AMONG THE PEOPLE. YEA, AND ALL THE PROPHETS FROM SAMUEL AND THOSE THAT FOLLOW AFTER, AS MANY AS HAVE SPOKEN, HAVE LIKEWISE FORETOLD OF THESE DAYS. YE ARE THE CHILDREN OF THE PROPHETS, AND OF THE COVENANT WHICH GOD MADE WITH OUR FATHERS, SAYING UNTO ABRAHAM, AND IN THY SEED SHALL ALL THE KINDREDS OF THE EARTH BE BLESSED. UNTO YOU FIRST GOD, HAVING RAISED UP HIS SON JESUS, SENT HIM TO BLESS YOU, IN TURNING AWAY EVERY ONE OF YOU FROM HIS INIQUITIES.
Gal 3:8–AND THE SCRIPTURE, FORESEEING THAT GOD WOULD JUSTIFY THE HEATHEN THROUGH FAITH, PREACHED BEFORE THE GOSPEL UNTO ABRAHAM, SAYING, IN THEE SHALL ALL NATIONS BE BLESSED.
The verses continue–
Verse 46 began with Mary stating her soul glorifies or exalts the Lord, and it ends with verse 54 and 55 remembering His mercy and promise to Abraham.
Lk 1:56. AND MARY (STAYED) WITH (ELIZABETH) ABOUT THREE MONTHS. Luke 1:36 shows that the angel talked with Mary when Elizabeth was already in her 6th month. From the time the angel spoke with Mary to the time that Mary arrived at the house of Zacharias, should have been a few days to perhaps a week or two. It is written–
AND THIS IS THE SIXTH MONTH WITH HER. This shows that Mary stayed with Elizabeth from well into her 6th month to into her 9th month. This seems to indicate that John the Baptist was born while she was still there. They undoubtedly comforted each other. Zacharias could not talk and probably could not hear. The verse continues–
AND (then) RETURNED TO HER OWN HOUSE. It would appear from the time mentioned, that she would have returned to her house shortly after John the Baptist was born. At the time Mary returned to Nazareth, she should have been about 3 months pregnant, yet she was still a virgin. Exactly when Joseph and Mary got married is not mentioned.
If a person looks to man, he can only get what man can give. If he looks to God, he can receive what God gives abundantly, plus life eternal.
Lk 1:57. NOW ELISABETH’S FULL TIME CAME
THAT SHE SHOULD (GIVE BIRTH) (or have her baby);
AND SHE (GAVE BIRTH TO) A SON. About 31 years later, Jesus spoke these words regarding John the Baptist. Lk 7:28–AMONG THOSE THAT ARE BORN OF WOMEN THERE IS NOT A GREATER PROPHET THAN JOHN THE BAPTIST: BUT HE THAT IS LEAST IN THE KINGDOM OF GOD IS GREATER THAN HE.
Lk 1:58. AND HER NEIGHBORS AND HER (RELATIVES)
HEARD HOW THE LORD HAD (SHOWN) GREAT MERCY UPON HER. f they lived in Hebron, many of the neighbors and relatives may have been fellow priests of the family of Aaron. It was mercy that took away Elizabeth’s reproach among women. It was mercy that her son would be great in the site of the Lord. The verse continues–
AND THEY REJOICED WITH HER. Elizabeth’s neighbors and relatives rejoiced with her regarding the birth of the baby. Just how much others had been told, regarding the things that transpired with Zacharias in the Temple, is unknown. For example, they did not know that his name was to be John–ref Lk 1:59.
Lk 1:59. AND IT CAME TO PASS, THAT ON THE EIGHTH DAY
THEY CAME
TO CIRCUMCISE THE CHILD. This was required on the eighth day according to God’s covenant with Abraham–ref Gen 17:10–14; Lev 12:2, 3. Hebron appears to have been the first place that circumcision was instituted.
CIRCUMCISION–OLD TESTAMENT
Gen 17:10–14–THIS IS MY COVENANT, WHICH YE SHALL KEEP, BETWEEN ME AND YOU AND THY SEED AFTER THEE; EVERY MAN CHILD AMONG YOU SHALL BE CIRCUMCISED. AND YE SHALL CIRCUMCISE THE FLESH OF YOUR FORESKIN; AND IT SHALL BE A TOKEN OF THE COVENANT BETWIXT ME AND YOU. AND HE THAT IS EIGHT DAYS OLD SHALL BE CIRCUMCISED AMONG YOU, EVERY MAN CHILD IN YOUR GENERATIONS, HE THAT IS BORN IN THE HOUSE, OR BOUGHT WITH MONEY OF ANY STRANGER, WHICH IS NOT OF THY SEED. HE THAT IS BORN IN THY HOUSE, AND HE THAT IS BOUGHT WITH THY MONEY, MUST NEEDS BE CIRCUMCISED: AND MY COVENANT SHALL BE IN YOUR FLESH FOR AN EVERLASTING COVENANT. AND THE UNCIRCUMCISED MAN CHILD WHOSE FLESH OF HIS FORESKIN IS NOT CIRCUMCISED, THAT SOUL SHALL BE CUT OFF FROM HIS PEOPLE; HE HATH BROKEN MY COVENANT.
Lev 12:2,3–SPEAK UNTO THE CHILDREN OF ISRAEL, SAYING, IF A WOMAN HAVE CONCEIVED SEED, AND BORN A MAN CHILD:…AND IN THE EIGHTH DAY THE FLESH OF HIS FORESKIN SHALL BE CIRCUMCISED.
CIRCUMCISION–NEW TESTAMENT TEACHING
Gal 5:6–Gal 5:6–FOR IN JESUS CHRIST NEITHER CIRCUMCISION AVAILETH ANY THING, NOR UNCIRCUMCISION; BUT FAITH WHICH WORKETH BY LOVE.
Gal 6:15–FOR IN CHRIST JESUS NEITHER CIRCUMCISION AVAILETH ANY THING, NOR UNCIRCUMCISION, BUT A NEW CREATURE.
Col 2:10–14–AND YE ARE COMPLETE IN HIM, WHICH IS THE HEAD OF ALL PRINCIPALITY AND POWER: IN WHOM ALSO YE ARE CIRCUMCISED WITH THE CIRCUMCISION MADE WITHOUT HANDS, IN PUTTING OFF THE BODY OF THE SINS OF THE FLESH BY THE CIRCUMCISION OF CHRIST: BURIED WITH HIM IN BAPTISM, WHEREIN ALSO YE ARE RISEN WITH HIM THROUGH THE FAITH OF THE OPERATION OF GOD, WHO HATH RAISED HIM FROM THE DEAD. AND YOU, BEING DEAD IN YOUR SINS AND THE UNCIRCUMCISION OF YOUR FLESH, HATH HE QUICKENED TOGETHER WITH HIM, HAVING FORGIVEN YOU ALL TRESPASSES; BLOTTING OUT THE HANDWRITING OF ORDINANCES THAT WAS AGAINST US, WHICH WAS CONTRARY TO US, AND TOOK IT OUT OF THE WAY, NAILING IT TO HIS CROSS;
Phil 3:1,3–FINALLY, MY BRETHREN, REJOICE IN THE LORD. FOR WE ARE THE CIRCUMCISION, WHICH WORSHIP GOD IN THE SPIRIT, AND REJOICE IN CHRIST JESUS, AND HAVE NO CONFIDENCE IN THE FLESH.
Col 3:10,11–AND HAVE PUT ON THE NEW MAN, WHICH IS RENEWED IN KNOWLEDGE AFTER THE IMAGE OF HIM THAT CREATED HIM: WHERE THERE IS NEITHER GREEK NOR JEW, CIRCUMCISION NOR UNCIRCUMCISION, BARBARIAN, SCYTHIAN, BOND NOR FREE: BUT CHRIST IS ALL, AND IN ALL.
The verse continues–
AND THEY CALLED HIM (or were going to name him–NIV) ZACHARIAS,
AFTER THE NAME OF HIS FATHER. This indicates that neither Zacharias or Elizabeth had told these people what had happened to Zacharias in the Temple. At the time that God gave the covenant to Abram including circumcision, He also changed his name to Abraham and Sarai to Sarah.
This is the same day they were circumcised. Thus, on the day the child was to be circumcised, he was also to be named.
Lk 1:60. AND HIS MOTHER ANSWERED AND SAID, (NO!). When the angel had appeared to Zacharias in Lk 1:13, he said–THOU SHALT CALL HIS NAME JOHN. Zacharias apparently had communicated this and undoubtedly all that had happened to his wife, and thus his wife told the people, “No.” The verse continues–
BUT HE SHALL BE CALLED JOHN. Elizabeth obeyed God and not her neighbors and relatives.
Lk 1:61. AND THEY SAID (TO) HER,
THERE IS NONE OF (YOUR) (RELATIVES)
THAT IS CALLED BY THIS NAME. Both her neighbors and relatives argued with her. They were tempting Elizabeth to disobey God’s decree, which was handed down from the angel to her husband. They used clever words to pressure Elizabeth to turn Elizabeth aside, by saying, THERE IS NONE OF (YOUR) (RELATIVES) THAT IS CALLED BY THIS NAME.
From the time a person considers giving their life to Jesus to the time their life ends, this same kind of pressure can be expected to come upon them. Whatever God’s Word says to do or God speaks to a person’s heart to d, which is in harmony with His Word, there may be pressure and threats from friends, neighbors, relatives, employers, even government officials religious leaders, and others to try to persuade the Christian to disobey God in some way. They often use very clever and persuasive words, pressure, threats, and sometimes even hostile actions to try to turn the Christian from doing what God has commanded. Regretfully, many Christians give in to these temptations and turn aside from doing the will of God.
Elizabeth would not allow the pressure from her neighbors and relatives to turn her aside from obeying God.
Finally, the neighbors and relatives gave up on Elizabeth and then tempted Zacharias. The verses continue–
Lk 1:62. AND THEY MADE SIGNS TO HIS FATHER. Note, they made signs to Zacharias. This indicates clearly that he not only could not speak, but he also could not hear. They could not persuade Elizabeth to bend to their will, so they hoped that Zacharias would. They made signs to Zacharias–
(to find out) (WHAT) HE WOULD HAVE (THE CHILD) CALLED.
Lk 1:63. AND HE (MOTIONED) FOR A WRITING (TABLET). Writing tablets were sometimes made of wood covered with wax on one side and the edges were not covered. This could be written on with a pointed object. The verse continues–
AND WROTE, SAYING, HIS NAME IS JOHN. Zacharias gave the final word. He would not turn aside from obeying God. He no longer doubted. He had learned the lesson well–not to doubt God’s Word. He had learned the fear of the Lord.
How regretful it is that so many people that call themselves a Christian, have no fear of God at all.
The verse continues–
AND THEY (WERE ALL ASTONISHED).
Lk 1:64. AND HIS MOUTH WAS OPENED IMMEDIATELY.
AND HIS TONGUE LOOSED. Zacharias obeyed God and immediately his mouth was opened and he was able to hear. The verse continues–
AND HE (SPOKE). Zacharias had doubted the angel’s word that was sent to him from God in Lk 1:18. He had made excuses justifying why he doubted. Indeed, without faith, it is impossible to please God. As a result, the angel pronounced judgment on Zacharias. He would no longer be able to speak until the day that the things that the angel had spoken were performed. Thus, for over 9 months, Zacharias could not speak and probably could not hear. For over 9 months, he had time to consider his doubting heart. He had doubted and wanted a sign. He got the sign, but it was not the one he wanted. The sign he had received was a judgment upon his unbelief. Adam and Eve had also doubted God’s Word thousands of years before. When Adam disobeyed God, judgment came upon him and all his offspring.
Now Zacharias fears God far more than any pressure from the neighbors and relatives. Now he knows what he is to do. He now obeys God and confirmed that his son's name would be John and would not give in to any temptation and pressure to call his son’s name after himself. The last words that Zacharias had spoken more than 9 months previously were words of doubt in Lk 1:18. Now, the very first words out of his mouth were words of praise to God. The verse continues–
AND PRAISED GOD. He was in no wise bitter against God. (Note–an evil heart might be bitter against God for the judgment that had come upon him. An evil heart might still justify its lack of faith). Zacharias praised God. He had learned a lesson. His attitude toward God had changed. He now realized how blessed he and his wife were. The son God had given them would indeed be great–ref Lk 1:15. The words of the prophecy given by the angel, in Lk 1:20, that Zacharias would not be able to speak until these things shall be performed were not completely fulfilled–but, in this case, the things referred to were those relating to the birth and naming of his son. Doubt had closed Zacharias’s mouth. Faith and obedience had opened it.
Lk 1:65. AND FEAR (or awe) CAME ON ALL (the neighbors)
THAT DWELT (AROUND) THEM:
AND ALL THESE (MATTERS) WERE (TALKED ABOUT) ABROAD
THROUGHOUT ALL THE HILL COUNTRY OF (JUDEA). The events that happened regarding Zacharias and Elizabeth appeared to be the talk of a very large area–all the hill country of Judea.
Lk 1:66. AND ALL THEY THAT HEARD THEM
(KEPT) THEM UP IN THEIR HEARTS (or mind) (or wondered about it), SAYING,
WHAT (KIND) OF CHILD SHALL THIS (turn out to) BE! Just how much Zacharias or Elizabeth had told the people is not known. Did they tell the people all that the angel had spoken to Zacharias, or just some is not stated in the Scriptures. The people that heard of the things that had happened kept them in their hearts. They would have noted the meaning of the name John and knew the birth of John was an incredible miracle in addition to all the other things that had happened. They wondered what kind of a child John was going to be. The verse continues–
AND THE HAND OF THE LORD WAS WITH HIM. Undoubtedly, the people also noticed over a period of time that the Lord was with him.
Lk 1:67. AND HIS FATHER ZACHARIAS
WAS FILLED WITH THE HOLY GHOST. Zacharias had been forgiven by God and was restored. But even more, he was now filled with the Holy Ghost. The verse continues–
AND PROPHESIED, SAYING. Elizabeth had been filled with the Holy Ghost in Lk 1:41 and prophesied in Lk 1:42. Mary had begun speaking in Lk 1:46. Now Zacharias is filled with the Holy Ghost and begins to prophesy. Zacharias had been brought low, but upon his repentance, it may be said, that he had been elevated higher than before by God. A Christian may stray from the will of God and then God chastises him. Upon his repentance, he can sometimes be elevated higher than before, especially if he has grown from his chastising.
He begins with–
Lk 1:68. #1—BLESSED (or Praised) BE THE LORD GOD OF ISRAEL. This is another name for Jesus. The first words out of Zacharias’ mouth, after over 9 months, were words of praise to God–ref Lk 1:64. The first word here is blessed. The verse continues–
#2–FOR HE (which is God)–
(HAS) (COME). What comforting words, HE HAS COME. The verse continues–
AND (ACCOMPLISHED REDEMPTION FOR) HIS PEOPLE (or He has visited and made a ransom to liberate His people–JNT). This is another reason why Jesus came. After praising God, Zacharias first does not talk of the birth of his son, but rather the redemption being accomplished or ransom to free His people. Jesus was that ransom.
Zacharias was now fully persuaded. He was sure God had accomplished redemption for His people. This is faith. Even before he prophesied this, he undoubtedly knew about the miracle pregnancy of Mary and the promised Messiah.
Lk 1:69. #3–AND (HAS) RAISED UP AN HORN OF SALVATION (or mighty Deliverer). This is another reason why Jesus came and another name for Jesus. Horns can denote power. The verse continues–
FOR US
#4–(WHO IS A DESCENDANT OF–JNT) THE HOUSE OF HIS SERVANT DAVID. David is called God’s servant. The Messiah (or Christ) had to be a descendant of the house of David–ref 2 Sam 7:16. Note the Scriptures on this subject under Lk 1:32–David and the throne of David and also note Lk 1:55.
The following is repeated in part under Lk 1:27. Joseph was a direct descendant of David through Solomon–ref Mt 1:6–16. Joseph needed to be of the house of David, as it is written, in Isa 9:6,7 and 2 Sam 7:16 and many other verses–AND THINE HOUSE AND THY KINGDOM SHALL BE ESTABLISHED FOR EVER BEFORE THEE: THY THRONE SHALL BE ESTABLISHED FOR EVER.
Mary was also of the house of David but through Nathan, another of David’s sons. She was of a low (or humble position)–ref Lk 1:48. The lineage of Jesus given in Lk 3:23–31 is Mary’s line. The reason Joseph is mentioned as being a son of Heli is that he was a son–in–law of Heli. Heli was the father of Mary, but may have had no sons. Thus, Joseph, who married Mary, would become the son of Heli as ordained in Num 36:1–13. Because of th, he is listed as having two fathers–Jacob, ref Mt 1:1, and Heli, ref Lk 3:23.
The name of David is used 3 times in Lk chapter 1–ref Lk 1:27, 32, 69.
Lk 1:70. #5–AS HE (SPOKE)
BY THE MOUTH OF HIS HOLY PROPHETS,
#6–WHICH HAVE BEEN SINCE THE WORLD BEGAN (or from of old) (or it is just as He has spoken through the mouth of the prophets from the very beginning–JNT). God has had prophets from the beginning. The first was Abel–ref Mt 23:35. The coming of the Messiah was foretold by the words of God in Gen 3:15. His coming was foretold throughout many passages written by many prophets in the Old Testament. After thousands of years, the time has arrived. Many Old Testament prophecies would now be fulfilled as a result of the coming of Jesus.
Lk 1:71. #7–THAT WE SHOULD BE SAVED (or delivered)
FROM OUR ENEMIES. This is another reason why Jesus came. Some might have interpreted this as being saved from Rome. The coming of Jesus was not for redemption only. As should be covered further on in this commentary, there were multiple reasons why Jesus came.
Christians might have interpreted this as being saved from their enemies. The true enemies of the Christian are PRINCIPALITIES,…POWERS,…THE RULERS OF THE DARKNESS OF THIS WORLD, (and)…SPIRITUAL WICKEDNESS IN HIGH PLACES–ref Eph 6:12. Only Jesus can truly save the Christian from their enemies. Israel shall be saved from their enemies when Jesus returns at the time of Armageddon. The verse continues–
#8–AND FROM THE (POWER)
OF ALL THAT HATE US. This is another reason why Jesus came. Much of the world hates the Jewish people. When Israel was reborn into a nation in 1948, God saved them from the hateful multitudes that had gathered against them. Again, in the Six–Day War of 1967, God saved them against fantastic odds. Israel will yet again be saved during the Russian–Arab invasion of Israel, which happens during the first part of the Tribulation; however, much hardship awaits Israel during that time. Yet they will be saved from their enemies when Jesus returns.
Much of the world hates the born—again Christian also, especially the few that have their light burning brightly for Jesus.
Lk 1:72. #9–(This has happened) TO (SHOW) THE MERCY PROMISED TO OUR FATHERS. This is another reason why Jesus came. God is love. God is mercy. Jesus is the manifestation of that mercy and He is mercy. Apart from God’s mercy, there is no help, no salvation, no hope. The verse continues–
#10–AND TO REMEMBER. God had not forgotten what He said after Adam had sinned. He had not forgotten His promises. The verse continues–
HIS HOLY COVENANT. This is another reason why Jesus came. It was foretold that Jesus would crush Satan’s head–ref Gen 3:15. It was Satan that tempted Eve and through Eve tempted Adam. Satan was the author of our ruin or downfall. Now God remembered His holy covenant and as a result, through faith in Jesus, people can now be restored to fellowship with God.
Lk 1:73. #11–THE OATH WHICH HE (SWORE). That covenant and oath, etc., has been covered under Lk 1:27, 32, 55. The verse continues–
TO OUR FATHER ABRAHAM. This is another reason why Jesus came. This is covered in some detail under Lk 1:32–under three titles: DAVID, AND THE THRONE OF DAVID; THE THRONE IS ALSO KNOWN BY OTHER NAMES; and JESUS RECEIVES A KINGDOM. It is also covered under Lk 1:33 under the title: HIS KINGDOM WILL NEVER END, and Lk 1:55 under the title of: THE COVENANT. Also see Elizabeth’s prophecies and Mary’ s regarding this subject.
Lk 1:74. #12–THAT HE WOULD GRANT (TO) US,
THAT WE. The word us and we is talking about Israel and also born–again Christians. The verse continues–
BEING DELIVERED (or freed)
OUT OF THE HAND OF OUR ENEMIES. Verse 71 had stated WE SHOULD BE SAVED FROM OUR ENEMIES AND FROM THE (POWER) OF ALL THAT HATE US. Note the differences. This is another reason why Jesus came. Zacharias, undoubtedly, could not have seen the full significance of what he was saying. Some might have interpreted this as being saved from Rome.
Christians might have interpreted this as being saved from their enemies. As was already said in the commentary on verse 71: the true enemies of the Christian are PRINCIPALITIES,…POWERS,…THE RULERS OF THE DARKNESS OF THIS WORLD, (and)…SPIRITUAL WICKEDNESS IN HIGH PLACES–ref Eph 6:12. Only Jesus can truly save the Christian from their enemies. Israel shall be saved from their enemies when Jesus returns at the time of Armageddon.
Much of the world hates the Jewish people. When Israel was reborn into a nation in 1948, God saved them from the hateful multitudes that had gathered against them. Again, in the Six–Day War of 1967, God saved them against fantastic odds. Israel will yet again be saved during the Russian–Arab invasion of Israel, which happens during the first part of the Tribulation; however, much hardship awaits Israel during that time. Yet they will be saved from their enemies when Jesus returns. The verse continues–
#13–MIGHT SERVE HIM WITHOUT FEAR. This is another reason why Jesus came. God’s Word tell us, THOU SHALT WORSHIP THE LORD THY GOD, AND HIM ONLY SHALT THOU SERVE–Mt 4:10. God promises to deliver them that they might serve Him without being afraid. However, disobedient Israel did not want Him to rule over them.
For the born–again Christian, he should serve the Lord, doing God's work without fear, trusting in Jesus to take care of the obstacles that confront us, and knowing THAT ALL THINGS WORK TOGETHER FOR GOOD TO THEM THAT LOVE GOD, TO THEM WHO ARE THE CALLED ACCORDING TO HIS PURPOSE–ref Ro 8:28.
SERVING GOD WITHOUT FEAR. WHAT THE BIBLE SAYS.
Jn 12:15–To Israel, Jesus said, FEAR NOT, DAUGHTER OF SION: BEHOLD, THY KING COMETH, SITTING ON AN ASS’S COLT.
To the born again Christian, Jew and Gentile alike Jesus said,
2 Tim 1:7–FOR GOD HATH NOT GIVEN US THE SPIRIT OF FEAR; BUT OF POWER, AND OF LOVE, AND OF A SOUND MIND.
Mt 10:28–AND FEAR NOT THEM WHICH KILL THE BODY, BUT ARE NOT ABLE TO KILL THE SOUL: BUT RATHER FEAR HIM WHICH IS ABLE TO DESTROY BOTH SOUL AND BODY IN HELL.
Lk 12:7–BUT EVEN THE VERY HAIRS OF YOUR HEAD ARE ALL NUMBERED. FEAR NOT THEREFORE: YE ARE OF MORE VALUE THAN MANY SPARROWS–ref Mt 10:31.
Lk 12:32–FEAR NOT, LITTLE FLOCK; FOR IT IS YOUR FATHER'S GOOD PLEASURE TO GIVE YOU THE KINGDOM.
Phili 1:14–Paul said, AND MANY OF THE BRETHREN IN THE LORD, WAXING CONFIDENT BY MY BONDS, ARE MUCH MORE BOLD TO SPEAK THE WORD WITHOUT FEAR.
Heb 13:6–SO THAT WE MAY BOLDLY SAY, THE LORD IS MY HELPER, AND I WILL NOT FEAR WHAT MAN SHALL DO UNTO ME.
1 Jn 4:18–THERE IS NO FEAR IN LOVE; BUT PERFECT LOVE CASTETH OUT FEAR: BECAUSE FEAR HATH TORMENT. HE THAT FEARETH IS NOT MADE PERFECT IN LOVE.
Rev 2:10–FEAR NONE OF THOSE THINGS WHICH THOU SHALT SUFFER: BEHOLD, THE DEVIL SHALL CAST SOME OF YOU INTO PRISON, THAT YE MAY BE TRIED; AND YE SHALL HAVE TRIBULATION TEN DAYS: BE THOU FAITHFUL UNTO DEATH, AND I WILL GIVE THEE A CROWN OF LIFE. The verses continue–
Lk 1:75. #14–IN HOLINESS AND RIGHTEOUSNESS BEFORE HIM. God wants His people to serve Him in holiness and righteousness. Deceit and unholy things need to be repented of. Holiness and righteousness are imputed to us through the Cross. We are also to do that which is right. We should hunger and thirst after righteousness and seek to do that which is right in the eyes of a holy God. There is a need to study God’s Word to understand this more deeply. The verse continues–
#15–ALL THE DAYS OF OUR LIFE. This is another reason why Jesus came. God’s people are to serve Him all the days of our life. To follow Jesus is not now and then. To follow Jesus is not for Sundays only. When a person comes to Christ, from then on, it is all the days of his life. Serve God without fear, in holiness and righteousness, all the time.
Lk 1:76. #16–AND (YOU), (my) CHILD (this is talking about John the Baptist). The verse continues–
(WILL) BE CALLED THE PROPHET OF THE (MOST HIGH). This is another name for Jesus. John was destined to be the prophet of Jesus Christ, which here is called the MOST HIGH. John is the prophet of God. First, Zacharias had praised God, then talked about the Messiah and reasons for His coming, God’s mercy, and remembering His covenant, more reasons for the coming of the Messiah, and then serving God. Now, he begins to prophesy about his son, John. The verse continues–
#17–FOR (YOU) (WILL) GO BEFORE THE FACE OF THE LORD. At this time, the child is 8 days old. The verse continues–
#18–TO PREPARE (THE WAY FOR HIM–NIV). (Also note Lk 1:17, which says–AND HE SHALL GO (out) (as a forerunner) BEFORE HIM (or ahead of) (the Lord). John will go out before or ahead of the Messiah to prepare the people for the coming of the Lord Jesus Christ.
This was a fulfillment of Isa 40:3–THE VOICE OF HIM THAT CRIETH IN THE WILDERNESS, PREPARE YE THE WAY OF THE LORD, MAKE STRAIGHT IN THE DESERT A HIGHWAY FOR OUR GOD–ref Mt 3:3. This appears in similar form in Mk 1:2,3; Lk 3:4; and Jn 1:23. Zechariah would prophesy this shortly after John was born in Lk 1:76. This indicates that Zechariah might have understood that his son would be fulfilling the words of Malachi. John’s greatness was reflected in that he was the chosen messenger to prepare the way of the Son of God Himself–Jesus Christ.
It was a partial fulfillment of Mal 3:1–BEHOLD, I WILL SEND MY MESSENGER, AND HE SHALL PREPARE THE WAY BEFORE ME: AND THE LORD, WHOM YE SEEK, SHALL SUDDENLY COME TO HIS TEMPLE, EVEN THE MESSENGER OF THE COVENANT, WHOM YE DELIGHT IN: BEHOLD, HE SHALL COME, SAITH THE LORD OF HOSTS. The final and complete fulfillment of this and the rest of the verse shall come when Jesus returns.
JOHN THE BAPTIST PREACHED
John’s message was one testifying about the coming of Jesus–ref Jn 1:7. He went before the Lord to make straight paths for Jesus and to prepare the way for Him–ref Mt 3:3 and Mk 1:2. He preached that the people were to repent or turn from their sins unto God for the Kingdom of heaven was near–ref Mt 3:2. He told various groups of people what to do–in other words evidence of repentance was to do or stop doing certain things and start doing others–ref Lk 3:11–14. He baptized and preached the baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins, or proclaiming baptism by immersion involving turning to God from sin in order to be forgiven–ref Mk 1:4. The verses continue–
Lk 1:77. #19–TO GIVE KNOWLEDGE OF SALVATION (TO) HIS PEOPLE. This shows that Israel did not understand the true message of salvation. The verse continues–
#20–BY THE (FORGIVENESS) OF THEIR SINS (or that deliverance comes by having sins forgiven–JNT). This is another reason why Jesus came–that the people might receive forgiveness of their sins. This verse applies to John as well–ref Lk 3:3. Both people in Israel and throughout the world, then and today, do not comprehend that they cannot enter heaven except that their sins are forgiven. They do not understand that forgiveness is only possible through faith in Jesus Christ, Who did no sin–1 Pe 2:22, Who paid the penalty for our sin on the cross by dying. Many try to enter heaven by manmade religions, rules, regulations, their own ideas, or by trying to be a good person.
Lk 1:78. #21–THROUGH (or because of) THE TENDER MERCY
OF OUR GOD. It is because of God’s tender mercy that forgiveness is given. It is God’s tender mercy toward mankind that brought Christ to this earth and nailed Him to the cross so that those that believe in Him might have eternal life. The word mercy is used 5 times in Lk 1. Mercy appears in verses 50,54,58,72, and 78.
Lk 1:50–Mary said, AND HIS MERCY IS ON THEM THAT FEAR HIM FROM GENERATION TO GENERATION.
Lk 1:54–Mary said, HE HATH (HELPED) HIS SERVANT ISRAEL, IN REMEMBRANCE OF HIS MERCY.
Lk 1:58–Neighbors and cousins heard THE LORD HAD SHEWED GREAT MERCY UPON HER;
Lk 1:72–Zacharias prophesied, TO PERFORM THE MERCY PROMISED TO OUR FATHERS. The verse continues–
#22–WHEREBY THE DAYSPRING (or sunrise). Dayspring may be termed as the Branch or Christ–ref Jere 33:15. This is the Sun of righteousness–ref Mal 4:2. The verse continues–
FROM ON HIGH (HAS) VISITED US (or by which the rising sun will come to [visit] us from heaven–NIV). God, the One from on High, the rising Sun–as the sun rises there is a new day and hope and the darkness disappears as the light appears–He has visited us or come to this earth. God becoming man has visited us.
Lk 1:79. #23–TO GIVE LIGHT. Jesus said, Jn 8:12–I AM THE LIGHT OF THE WORLD: HE THAT FOLLOWETH ME SHALL NOT WALK IN DARKNESS, BUT SHALL HAVE THE LIGHT OF LIFE. Jesus came to give light, to give understanding–
TO (or shine on) THEM
#24–THAT SIT IN DARKNESS. Jesus is that light to shine on those in darkness. The verse continues–
AND IN THE SHADOW OF DEATH. This is another reason why Jesus came. Note the words darkness and death. They go together. He did not come only for Israel but for the whole world. The verse continues–
#25–TO GUIDE OUR FEET. It is our feet that carry us in the direction that we are going. A person’s feet need to be guided to go the way Jesus wants us to go, even–
INTO THE WAY OF PEACE. This is another reason why Jesus came. Many quotations and references to the Old Testament were made in the words that Zacharias spoke. If Zacharias ever prophesied at any other time, it is not revealed.
It is noted in Lk 1:66 that the people that heard of the things that had happened kept them in their hearts. They would have noted the meaning of the name John and knew the birth of John was a miracle in addition to all the other things that had happened. They wondered what kind of a child John was going to be. In addition when Zacharias prophesied these words, they would have wondered, marvelled, and feared or been in awe even more.
There must have been excitement in the air as the words had included the coming of the Lord and that John would go before Him and would be a prophet of the Most High.
The last word that Zacharias spoke in these verses of the words given to him by God was peace.
It is written in Lk 2:14–GLORY TO GOD IN THE HIGHEST, AND ON EARTH PEACE, GOOD WILL TOWARD MEN.
Ps 85:10–MERCY AND TRUTH ARE MET TOGETHER; RIGHTEOUSNESS AND PEACE HAVE KISSED EACH OTHER.
Ps 119:165–GREAT PEACE HAVE THEY WHICH LOVE THY LAW: AND NOTHING SHALL OFFEND THEM.
Jn 14:27–PEACE I LEAVE WITH YOU, MY PEACE I GIVE UNTO YOU: NOT AS THE WORLD GIVETH, GIVE I UNTO YOU. LET NOT YOUR HEART BE TROUBLED, NEITHER LET IT BE AFRAID.
Jn 16:33–THESE THINGS I HAVE SPOKEN UNTO YOU, THAT IN ME YE MIGHT HAVE PEACE. IN THE WORLD YE SHALL HAVE TRIBULATION: BUT BE OF GOOD CHEER; I HAVE OVERCOME THE WORLD.
REASONS JOHN THE BAPTIST CAME SUMMARIZED
Lk 1:16. #1–AND MANY OF THE CHILDREN OF ISRAEL SHALL HE (BRING BACK) TO THE LORD
THEIR GOD.
Lk 1:17. #2–AND HE SHALL GO (out) (as a forerunner) BEFORE HIM (or ahead of) (the Lord) IN THE
SPIRIT AND POWER OF ELIJAH,
Lk 1:76. #8–FOR (YOU) (WILL) GO BEFORE THE FACE OF THE LORD TO PREPARE (THE WAY FOR
HIM–NIV);
Lk 1:17. #3–TO TURN THE HEARTS OF THE FATHERS (back) TO THE CHILDREN,
#4–AND THE DISOBEDIENT TO THE WISDOM (or attitude) OF THE (RIGHTEOUS);
#5–TO MAKE READY A PEOPLE PREPARED FOR THE LORD.
Lk 1:77. #6–TO GIVE KNOWLEDGE OF SALVATION (TO) HIS PEOPLE BY THE (FORGIVENESS) OF
THEIR SINS (or that deliverance comes by having sins forgiven–JNT).
Lk 1:76. #7–AND (YOU), (My) CHILD, (WILL) BE CALLED THE PROPHET OF THE (MOST HIGH).
_______________________________________________________________________________________________________
Matthew’s Gospel was written mainly to new Jewish believers.
He begins his Gospel by portraying that Jesus is of Jewish descent, as it is written, Jn 4:22–SALVATION IS OF THE JEWS and is of the correct ancestry to be the Christ (the Messiah) and the King of Israel. He begins his Gospel with a genealogy to prove His Davidic lineage. The genealogy is that of Joseph. It was through David and Abraham that the Messiah must come, as it is written–
Deut 18:18,19 gives one of the many Old Testament prophecies of the coming of the Messiah. It is written–I WILL RAISE THEM UP A PROPHET FROM AMONG THEIR BRETHREN, LIKE UNTO THEE, AND WILL PUT MY WORDS IN HIS MOUTH; AND HE SHALL SPEAK UNTO THEM ALL THAT I SHALL COMMAND HIM. AND IT SHALL COME TO PASS, THAT WHOSOEVER WILL NOT HEARKEN UNTO MY WORDS WHICH HE SHALL SPEAK IN MY NAME, I WILL REQUIRE IT OF HIM.
The coming of the Messiah came exactly on time as prophesied by Daniel. Yet it was a most unlikely time in that the seed of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob was a dispersed people.
They were under the Roman yoke. The verses continue–
Mt 1:1. THE BOOK (or record)
OF THE GENERATION (or genealogy) or ancestors–
OF JESUS CHRIST (the Messiah). Jesus is the Greek, Joshua is the Hebrew translation. Jesus is the Christ which means the Saviour, the Messiah, the Anointed or Anointed One.
Genesis, the first book of the Old Testament, begins with the creation of God. Matthew, the first book of the New Testament, begins with the ancestry of the Creator. The verse continues–
THE SON OF DAVID. The last person to sit upon the royal throne (Jechonias) was about 600 years previous to the birth of John the Baptist. Regardless, the Messiah still had to be of a royal descent according to the prophecies. Jesus is called the Son of David, as David was his great, great, great, great–etc. grandfather. David’s name may be mentioned first, because the king that was to rule over the nation was to come through the lineage of David. Jesus is that King. Jesus is the OFFSPRING OF DAVID. This is another description of Jesus. Jesus is of the lineage of David both through Joseph and Mary. Thus, He is called the Son of David. The Messiah had to come through the seed of Abraham, through the tribe of Judah, and through the seed of David.
In the New Testament, Jesus is first called the SON OF DAVID, in Mt 1:1. This gives Him the right to the throne of David.
In the New Testament, Jesus is first called the SON OF ABRAHAM, in Mt 1:1. This gives Him the right to all of Israel.
In the New Testament, Jesus is first called the SON OF GOD, in Mt 4:3. This gives Him the right to everything. He is the Heir of all things.
In the New Testament, Jesus is first called the SON OF MAN, in Mt 8:20. This gives Him the right to all the earth.
The verse continues–
THE SON OF ABRAHAM. David is called the son of Abraham, as Abraham was his great, great, great, great, great–etc. grandfather.
Two covenants are alluded to here, the Davidic (2 Sam 7–which is covered under Lk 1:32, under the heading of David and the Throne of David, and Lk 1:33 under His Kingdom Will Never End), and the Abrahamic (Gen 12–which is covered under Lk 1:55, under the heading of God’s Covenant and Promise To Abraham) and also Gen 15.
Thus, Matthew deals with the lineage of Jesus through Joseph, demonstrating He is from the right ancestry. The legal right of Jesus to sit upon the throne of David as King needed to be established. His ancestry had to traced directly to the line of the throne of David through Solomon. This is an area that had to be dealt with to show that Jesus was the One to fulfil God's covenant. Matthew dealt with this question in detail. Thus, Son of David comes first followed by Son of Abraham.
If there had been any flaw in the genealogy of Jesus as to his identification of being the Christ, the Pharisees or other religious leaders would have surely found it and pointed it out. The verses continue–
Mt 1:2. #1–ABRAHAM BEGAT (or was the father of–NIV)
#2–ISAAC; AND ISAAC BEGAT (or was the father of–JNT)
#3–JACOB; AND JACOB BEGAT (or was the father of–JNT)
#4–JUDAS. Judas is Greek for Judah. This is the father of the tribe of Judah. The promise of Gen 49:8–12 was that the Messiah could come from the tribe of Judah. Thus, Jesus is called in Rev 5:5–THE LION OF THE TRIBE OF JUDA, THE ROOT OF DAVID.
JUDAH COMMENTARY–PROPHECY GIVEN BY JACOB
THOU ART HE WHOM THY BRETHREN SHALL PRAISE: THY HAND SHALL BE IN THE NECK OF THINE ENEMIES; THY FATHER'S CHILDREN SHALL BOW DOWN BEFORE THEE. JUDAH IS A LION’S WHELP (cub); FROM THE PREY, MY SON, THOU ART GONE UP (you return from the prey–NIV): HE STOOPED DOWN, HE COUCHED AS A LION, AND AS AN OLD LION; WHO SHALL ROUSE HIM UP? THE SCEPTER SHALL NOT DEPART FROM JUDAH, NOR A LAWGIVER (the ruler’s staff) FROM BETWEEN HIS FEET, UNTIL SHILOH COME (until He comes to whom it belongs–NIV); AND UNTO HIM SHALL THE GATHERING OF THE PEOPLE BE (the obedience of the nations is His–NIV). BINDING HIS FOAL (or donkey) UNTO THE VINE, AND HIS ASS’S COLT UNTO THE CHOICE VINE (or branch); HE WASHED HIS GARMENTS IN WINE, AND HIS CLOTHES (or robes) IN THE BLOOD OF GRAPES: HIS EYES SHALL BE RED WITH (or darker than) WINE, AND HIS TEETH WHITE WITH MILK (or whiter than milk)–Gen 49:8–12.
Judah would be praised and was to be powerful in warfare. Judah was to become the leader among the tribes of Israel. This did come to pass.
The Messiah was to come from this tribe. Jesus is the Lion of the tribe of Judah. The scepter is a symbol of royal power, and the ruler’s staff would rest between the ruler’s feet. Shiloh denotes the Prince of peace, the Messiah, the One to Whom the scepter and ruler’s staff belongs. Jesus, the Messiah, came and the people were gathered to Him. It is written, BEHOLD, THY KING COMETH UNTO THEE, MEEK, AND SITTING UPON AN ASS, AND A COLT THE FOAL OF AN ASS–Mt 21:5. He was crucified and shed His blood at Calvary. After three days, He rose from the dead and now sits at the right hand of God the Father. But Jesus shall return immediately after the Tribulation of those days, even at the time of Armageddon. It is written, AND THE WINEPRESS WAS TRODDEN WITHOUT THE CITY, AND BLOOD CAME OUT OF THE WINEPRESS, EVEN UNTO THE HORSE BRIDLES–Rev 14:20. AND HE WAS CLOTHED WITH A VESTURE DIPPED IN BLOOD: AND HIS NAME IS CALLED THE WORD OF GOD–Rev 19:13. Jesus shall reign and rule when He returns after the Tribulation; the gathering of the people and obedience of the nations shall be unto Him.
The verse continues–
AND HIS (BROTHERS) which are the fathers of the other tribes of Israel.
Mt 1:3. AND JUDAS BEGAT (or was the father of–JNT)
#5–PHARES AND ZARA OF (or whose mother was) THAMAR. This is the first of four Old Testament women mentioned in Mt 1:1–17. She is referred to, in Gen 38:24–26, as playing the harlot. She was the mother of two illegitimate sons named Pharez and Zarah–ref Gen 38:27–30.
The verse continues–
AND PHARES BEGAT (or was the father of–JNT)
#6–ESROM; AND ESROM BEGAT (or was the father of–JNT)
#7–(RAM);
Mt 1:4. AND (RAM) BEGAT (or was the father of–JNT)
#8–(AMMINADAB); AND (AMMINADAB) BEGAT (or was the father of–JNT)
#9–(NAHSHON); AND (NAHSHON) BEGAT (or was the father of–JNT)
#10–SALMON;
Mt 1:5. AND SALMON BEGAT (or was the father of–JNT). He married Rahab. The verse continues–
#11–BOOZ. Booz is the New Testament spelling. Boaz is the Old Testament spelling. He was the husband of Ruth. The verse continues–
OF (or whose mother was) RACHAB (or Rahab). This is the second of four Old Testament women mentioned in Mt 1:1–17. She is mentioned in Jos 2:1–24. She is also mentioned as the harlot in Heb 11:31 and Ja 2:25. She was the mother of Boaz and the converted, Canaanite prostitute of Jericho that hid the two spies of Israel. The verse continues–
AND BOOZ BEGAT (or was the father of–JNT)
#12–OBED OF (or whose mother was) RUTH. This is the third of four Old Testament women mentioned in Mt 1:1–17. Rachab was not a Jew and neither was Ruth. She is mentioned beginning in Ruth 1:4 and appears in all four chapters. She was a Moabitess that determined to follow Naomi. She made the God of Israel her God–ref Ruth 1:16. The verse continues–
AND OBED BEGAT
#13–JESSE;
Mt 1:6. AND JESSE BEGAT (or was the father of–JNT)
#14–DAVID THE KING; AND DAVID THE KING BEGAT (or was the father of–JNT). Many kings are named in this genealogy; however, only David is called the king. It is upon the throne of David that Jesus will sit. The verse continues–
#1–SOLOMON OF HER THAT HAD BEEN THE WIFE OF URIAS. This is the fourth of four Old Testament women mentioned in Mt 1:1–17. Bathsheba had committed adultery with David the king–2 Sam 11:2–5. Later she married David legitimately and became the mother of Solomon. Normally, women would not be included in a genealogy such as this. Why God chose to include these four women, we can only speculate.
Mt 1:7. AND SOLOMON BEGAT (or was the father of–JNT)
#2–ROBOAM (Rehoboam) (BC 945–929). The dates of each king’s reign are estimates. He was evil and later forsook the law. Under Roboam, the kingdom split into a northern kingdom and southern kingdom. The northern kingdom was called Israel and other names. It consisted of ten tribes. The southern kingdom was called Judah. It consisted of the tribes of Judah, Benjamin, and Levi. The verse continues–
AND ROBOAM BEGAT (or was the father of–JNT)
#3–ABIA (Abijam or Abijah) (BC 929–926). He did the sins of his father, but may have changed. The verse continues–
AND ABIA BEGAT (or was the father of–JNT)
#4–ASA. He was righteous, but not near the end.
Mt 1:8. AND ASA BEGAT (or was the father of–JNT)
#5–JOSAPHAT (Jehoshaphat) (BC 886–864). He was righteous–
AND JOSAPHAT BEGAT (or was the father of–JNT)
#6–JORAM (Jehoram) (BC 865–858). He was evil. He killed his brother and was sick at the end. Between Joram and Ozias, three names are omitted. Why they are omitted is not made known. Some speculate it was because of the evil of Joram and Athaliah that his next three descendants were omitted–to the third generation. The verse continues–
AND JORAM BEGAT (or was the father of–JNT). The word begat, in this case, appears to mean lineage or descended from, not the actual father. The verse continues–
#7–OZIAS. (Uzziah) (BC 799–748) He was righteous, but then became prideful and sinned. He became leprous till the day of his death.
Mt 1:9. AND OZIAS BEGAT (or was the father of–JNT)
#8–JOATHAM (Jothan) (BC 748–732). He was righteous. The verse continues–
AND JOATHAM BEGAT (or was the father of–JNT)
#9–ACHAZ (Ahaz) (BC 732–717). He was very evil, perhaps the worst–he forsook God. The verse continues–
AND ACHAZ BEGAT (or was the father of–JNT)
#10–EZEKIAS (Hezekiah) (BC 717–698). He was righteous, but had pride. He later repented.
Mt 1:10. AND EZEKIAS BEGAT (or was the father of–JNT)
#11–MANASSES (Manasseh) (BC 698–642). He was evil but repented. The verse continues–
AND MANASSES BEGAT (or was the father of–JNT)
#12–AMON (BC 642–640). He was evil. The verse continues–
AND AMON BEGAT (or was the father of–JNT)
#13–JOSIAS (Josiah) (BC 640–609). He was very righteous and had the great Passover. The verse continue–
Mt 1:11. AND JOSIAS BEGAT (or was the father of–JNT)
#14–JECHONIAS (Jehoiachin). Jere 22:30 states–WRITE YE THIS MAN CHILDLESS, A MAN THAT SHALL NOT PROSPER IN HIS DAYS: FOR NO MAN OF HIS SEED SHALL PROSPER, SITTING UPON THE THRONE OF DAVID, AND RULING ANY MORE IN JUDAH. This verse is not saying he shall not have a child, but that his seed or any child he has will not prosper sitting on the throne of David. None of his sons sat upon the throne, but the right to the throne did continue through them. Should Jesus have been of the actual seed of Joseph, he could not have occupied the throne of David. Jesus was not conceived through the seed of Joseph, but the Holy Ghost came upon Mary even though Joseph was his so–called legal father. He was, however, a direct physical descendant of David through Mary by way of Nathan–note Lk 3:31. The verse continues–
AND HIS (BROTHERS),
ABOUT THE TIME THEY WERE CARRIED AWAY (or the exile, or deportation)
TO BABYLON. These were the days of Daniel the prophet.
Mt 1:12. AND AFTER THEY WERE BROUGHT TO BABYLON,
JECHONIAS BEGAT (or was the father of–JNT)
#1–SALATHIEL. From Salathiel on to Joseph, none of these reigned as kings. The verse continues–
AND SALATHIEL BEGAT (or was the father of–JNT)
#2–ZOROBABEL. This is the one that God used regarding the building of the Temple following the return of the children of Israel to their homeland.
Mt 1:13. AND ZOROBABEL BEGAT (or was the father of–JNT)
#3–ABIUD; AND ABIUD BEGAT (or was the father of–JNT)
#4–ELIAKIM; AND ELIAKIM BEGAT (or was the father of–JNT)
#5–AZOR;
Mt 1:14. AND AZOR BEGAT (or was the father of–JNT)
#6–SADOC; AND SADOC BEGAT (or was the father of–JNT)
#7–ACHIM; AND ACHIM BEGAT (or was the father of–JNT)
#8–ELIUD;
Mt 1:15. AND ELIUD BEGAT (or was the father of–JNT)
#9–ELEAZAR; AND ELEAZAR BEGAT (or was the father of–JNT)
#10–MATTHAN; AND MATTHAN BEGAT (or was the father of–JNT)
#11–JACOB;
Mt 1:16. AND JACOB BEGAT (or was the father of–JNT)
#12–JOSEPH THE HUSBAND OF MARY. Should the kings of Israel have continued, Joseph would have been in line to become the king of Israel. The verse continues–
OF WHOM WAS BORN
#13–JESUS (or Yeshua), WHO IS CALLED CHRIST (or the Messiah). Note, it does not say that Joseph was the father of Jesus. It does not say that Joseph begat Jesus.
Why there are only 13 names in the third set, and not 14, is not known. Some believe that Jeconiah’s name being repeated in verse 12 gives the 14th name.
Mt 1:17. SO ALL THE GENERATIONS FROM ABRAHAM TO DAVID ARE FOURTEEN GENERATIONS;
AND FROM DAVID UNTIL THE CARRYING AWAY (or exile, captivity, or deportation)
INTO BABYLON ARE FOURTEEN GENERATIONS;
AND FROM THE CARRYING AWAY (or exile, captivity, or deportation)
INTO BABYLON UNTO (the time of)
CHRIST (or the Messiah)
ARE FOURTEEN GENERATIONS. Bible scholars have various opinions as to the meaning of the 14 generations. The number of people mentioned in the last group is not 14. In addition, there are certain kings left out in the previous group. The Lord used his own designations regarding the 3 groups of 14 generations.
(A summary which includes some items already covered)
Matthew’s chronology begins with Abraham and goes to David. Note, the words “the king” applied to David. From David, it goes to Solomon, then to Roboam and follows the priestly or the royal, legal line to Jesus through Joseph, His supposed father.
Luke’s chronology (which should follow) includes David, but then follows the line of Nathan, another son of David. It traces Jesus being the Son of Man. It begins with Jesus and traces Mary’s chronology back to Adam (who was the son of God) thus, showing Jesus was also human and that Mary was of the lineage of David. Therefore, Jesus was qualified as the Messiah through both lines: through Joseph, He was heir to David’s throne; through Mary, He was the Son of Man.
Note in Matthew’s Gospel, which says that Jacob begat Joseph. In Luke’s Gospel, it does not say this, but rather states that Joseph was the son of Heli. The word “begat” is not used here. Joseph would have been classified as the son of Heli by marriage to Mary. Heli is believed to have been Mary’s father.
Since Jesus was not physically descended from the lineage recorded in Matthew’s account, He did not receive of the curse placed on Jehoiachin. Jesus did not have an earthly father.
It is generally acknowledged that the Salathiel and Zorobabel mentioned in both Matthew’s chronology and Luke’s chronology may not be the same; however, there are other opinions on this as well as covered by Lk 3:27.
Many of the men and women were of questionable character in this lineage. The genealogy shows a shameful history of disobedient and rebellious kings. There are four women of questionable character mentioned in Matthew’s chronology: Thamar (Tamar), Rachab (Rahab), Ruth, and Bath–Sheba. Tamar and Rahab were prostitutes. Tamar was the mother of Phares (Pharez) and Zara (Zerah), two illegitimate sons. Rahab was a foreigner and was the prostitute of Jericho and the mother of Booz (Boaz). Note the words in Heb 11:31–BY FAITH THE HARLOT RAHAB PERISHED NOT. Ruth, a godly woman, was a foreigner, a Moabitess and a Gentile. Bath–sheba, who was the wife of Uriah, committed adultery with David. She later married David and became the mother of Solomon. Jesus came to save those that are lost. The genealogy shows that Jesus is not only the Saviour of the Jews, but of the Gentiles, also.
In Matthew’s chronology, the term “fourteen generations” is used. Certain names are also omitted. There are varied opinions as to why the Lord chose to present it in this way. We might take note of the word “so” in verse 17.
The words “the king” apply to David and the throne of David; however, it is not used regarding Solomon. It was not fulfilled in Solomon.
The wording in Matthew’s chronology, in verse 16 reads, AND JACOB BEGAT JOSEPH THE HUSBAND OF MARY, OF WHOM WAS BORN JESUS, WHO IS CALLED CHRIST. The words, OF MARY, OF WHOM WAS BORN JESUS, clearly show that Jesus was the physical child of Mary, but not of Joseph. This should be further explained in verses 18 to 25.
The spelling of some of the names may be different between the Old and New Testaments. This is because the Old Testament was primarily written in Hebrew, while the New Testament was mainly written in Greek.
CHRONOLOGY OF JESUS FROM MATTHEW AND LUKE
Kingly (or royal), legal line Son of Man line. The blood
from Joseph, Jesus’ legal line of Mary. It begins with
father. It began first with Jesus and goes backward to
David (Mt 1:1), from which Abraham and continues back
the Royal line began. Then the to Adam, which was the
lineage is given from Abraham son of God.
forward to Jesus.
Mt 1:2–16 Lk 3:23–34
Abraham begat Isaac Abraham
Isaac Isaac
Jacob Jacob
Judas (Judah) Judah
Phares Phares
Esrom Esrom
Aram Aram
Aminadab Aminadab
Naasson Naasson
Salmon Salmon
Booz Booz
Obed Obed
Jesse Jesse
David (the king)....... David
Solomon (a son of David) Nathan (a son of David)
Roboam Mattatha
Abia (Abijah) Menan
Asa Melea
Josaphat (Jehoshaphat) Eliakim
Joram (Jehoram) Jonan
Ozias (Uzziah) (Azariah) Joseph
Joatham (Jotham) Juda
Achaz (Ahaz) Simeon
Levi
Ezekias (Hezekiah) Matthat
Jorim
Manasses Eliezer
Jose
Amon Er
Elmodam
Josias (Josiah) Cosam
Addi
Jechonias (Jehoiachin) Melchi
(Coniah) (cursed)–Jere 22:30 Neri
Salathiel Salathiel
Zorobabel Zorobabel
Rhesa
Abiud Joanna
Juda
Eliakim Joseph
Semei
Azor Mattathias
Maath
Sadoc Nagge
Esli
Achim Naum
Amos
Eliud Mattathias
Joseph
Eleazar Janna
Melchi
Matthan Levi
Matthat
Jacob Heli (or Eli) (Mary's father)
(Joseph's father by marriage.
Heli was Joseph's father–in–law)
Joseph Joseph
Jesus Jesus
Jesus had to be fully God and fully man. He had to be the true Son of God and also the Son of Man. Thus, He, and He alone, could redeem sinful man from the curse that has existed from the fall of Adam. As a result, these two genealogies are of immense importance. Jesus became the second Adam, but did no sin. The first Adam sinned even though he had a perfect environment. Jesus did no sin even though He was surrounded by a sinful world and subject to the same temptations we are; as it is written, Heb 4:15–FOR WE HAVE NOT AN HIGH PRIEST WHICH CANNOT BE TOUCHED (or sympathize) WITH THE FEELING OF OUR INFIRMITIES (or our weaknesses) ; BUT WAS IN ALL POINTS (or every way) TEMPTED LIKE AS WE ARE, YET WITHOUT SIN.
Jesus gained back, for all that put their trust in Him, that which the first Adam lost. The verses continue–
Lk 3:23 (pt 2) (He) (which is Jesus)–
BEING ([SUPPOSEDLY] [or so it was thought–NIV])
THE SON OF
JOSEPH.
AND ADAM LIVED AN HUNDRED AND THIRTY YEARS, AND BEGAT A SON IN HIS OWN LIKENESS, AFTER HIS IMAGE; AND CALLED HIS NAME SETH–Gen 5:3. It is also written, AND ADAM KNEW HIS WIFE AGAIN; AND SHE BARE A SON, AND CALLED HIS NAME SETH: FOR GOD, SAID SHE, HATH APPOINTED ME ANOTHER SEED (or another child) INSTEAD OF ABEL, WHOM CAIN SLEW–Gen 4:25. Seth means “the appointed one.” It was from the lineage of Seth that eventually Noah, Shem, Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Judah, David, and Joseph would come forth. The verse continues–
WHICH WAS THE SON OF
HELI.
JESUS IS THE PHYSICAL CHILD OF MARY BUT NOT JOSEPH
Matthew’s chronology begins with Abraham and goes to David and then to Joseph. It is the ancestry of Joseph. Note, the words “the king” applied to David. From David, it goes to Solomon, then to Roboam and follows the priestly or the royal, legal line, or that of the king to Jesus through Joseph, His supposed father. (Note, it says Jacob “begat” Joseph, but it does not say Joseph “begat” Jesus.)
Luke’s chronology starts with Joseph, then goes back to Adam, the first man. It is the ancestry of Mary through Nathan, another son of David, then to David. It traces Jesus being the Son of Man. It shows that Jesus was also human and that Mary was of the lineage of David. Therefore, Jesus was qualified as the Messiah through both lines: through Joseph, He was heir to David’s throne; through Mary, He was the Son of Man.
Note in Matthew’s Gospel, which says that Jacob begat Joseph. In Luke’s Gospel, it does not say this, but rather states that Joseph was the son of Heli. The word “begat” is not used here. Joseph would have been classified as the son of Heli by marriage to Mary. Heli is believed to have been Mary’s father. In Numbers 36:1–13, the laws of inheritance are covered. It is believed that Mary’s father had no son. In such a case, when Joseph married Mary then he would, in effect, also become the son of Mary’s father. It was required that he be of the same tribe. Thus, Joseph had two fathers. The one was his real (or biological) father and the other was by the law through marriage to Mary.
Since Jesus was not physically descended from the lineage recorded in Matthew’s account, He did not receive of the curse placed on Jehoiachin.
The words “the king” apply to David, the throne of David; however, it is not used regarding Solomon. It was not fulfilled in Solomon.
The wording in Matthew–s chronology, in verse 16 reads, AND JACOB BEGAT JOSEPH THE HUSBAND OF MARY, OF WHOM WAS BORN JESUS, WHO IS CALLED CHRIST. The words, OF MARY, OF WHOM WAS BORN JESUS, clearly show that Jesus was the physical child of Mary but not of Joseph.
Jesus, the seed of the woman, is the one that would break the serpent's head. Thus, His ancestry is traced from the father of Mary, which is Heli, back to Adam–ref Gen 3:15. The verses continue–
Lk 3:24. WHICH WAS THE SON OF
MATTHAT, WHICH WAS THE SON OF
LEVI, WHICH WAS THE SON OF
MELCHI, WHICH WAS THE SON OF
JANNA, WHICH WAS THE SON OF
JOSEPH,
Lk 3:25. WHICH WAS THE SON OF
MATTATHIAS, WHICH WAS THE SON OF
AMOS, WHICH WAS THE SON OF
(NAHUM), WHICH WAS THE SON OF
ESLI, WHICH WAS THE SON OF
(NAGGAI),
Lk 3:26. WHICH WAS THE SON OF
MAATH, WHICH WAS THE SON OF
MATTATHIAS, WHICH WAS THE SON OF
SEMEI, WHICH WAS THE SON OF
JOSEPH, WHICH WAS THE SON OF
(JUDAH),
Lk 3:27. WHICH WAS THE SON OF
JOANNA, WHICH WAS THE SON OF
RHESA, WHICH WAS THE SON OF
(ZERUBBABEL), WHICH WAS THE SON OF
(SHEALTIEL). It is acknowledged by some that the Salathiel and Zorobabel mentioned in both Matthew’s chronology and Luke’s chronology may not be the same. There are differing views. One may be that Shealtiel was indeed the son of Neri, but perhaps was also considered legally to be the son of Jechonias through marriage, adoption or some other way. In this view, Zerubbabel would have had two sons–one was Rhesa and the other was Abiud. The verse continues–
WHICH WAS THE SON OF NERI,
Lk 3:28. WHICH WAS THE SON OF
MELCHI, WHICH WAS THE SON OF
ADDI, WHICH WAS THE SON OF
COSAM, WHICH WAS THE SON OF
ELMODAM, WHICH WAS THE SON OF
ER,
Lk 3:29. WHICH WAS THE SON OF
JOSE, WHICH WAS THE SON OF
ELIEZER, WHICH WAS THE SON OF
JORIM, WHICH WAS THE SON OF
MATTHAT, WHICH WAS THE SON OF
LEVI,
Lk 3:30. WHICH WAS THE SON OF
SIMEON, WHICH WAS THE SON OF
(JUDAH), WHICH WAS THE SON OF
JOSEPH, WHICH WAS THE SON OF
JONAN, WHICH WAS THE SON OF
ELIAKIM,
Lk 3:31. WHICH WAS THE SON OF
MELEA, WHICH WAS THE SON OF
MENAN, WHICH WAS THE SON OF
MATTATHA, WHICH WAS THE SON OF
NATHAN. He is the older brother of Solomon. The verse continues–
WHICH WAS THE SON OF
DAVID,
Lk 3:32. WHICH WAS THE SON OF
JESSE, WHICH WAS THE SON OF
OBED, WHICH WAS THE SON OF
(BOAZ). He married Ruth, the Moabitess. The verse continues–
WHICH WAS THE SON OF
SALMON. Rahab was married to Salmon. The verse continues–
WHICH WAS THE SON OF
(NAHSHON),
Lk 3:33. WHICH WAS THE SON OF
(AMMINADAB), WHICH WAS THE SON OF
(RAM), WHICH WAS THE SON OF
(HEZRON), WHICH WAS THE SON OF
(PEREZ), WHICH WAS THE SON OF
(JUDAH). It was through the tribe of Judah that the Messiah must come; as it is written in Gen 49:10–THE SCEPTRE SHALL NOT DEPART FROM JUDAH, NOR A LAWGIVER (or the ruler’s staff) FROM BETWEEN HIS FEET, UNTIL SHILOH COME (or until He comes to whom it belongs–NIV); AND UNTO HIM SHALL THE GATHERING OF THE PEOPLE BE (or it is He whom the people will obey–JNT).
Lk 3:34. WHICH WAS THE SON OF
JACOB, WHICH WAS THE SON OF
ISAAC, WHICH WAS THE SON OF
ABRAHAM. Matthew’s Gospel started with David, who was the king of Israel, then to Abraham and then forward. It had to be done this way to show that Jesus had the proper ancestry to be the King of Israel.
Luke’s Gospel started with Joseph, but was the genealogy of Mary, and went backward to Abraham, but continued on to Adam which was the Son of God. It had to be done this way to show that Jesus was the Son of Man.
The fact that this genealogy continues all the way to Adam indicates that Jesus came to save both Jews and Gentiles alike–that He was for all mankind, not only for the Jews. The verse continues–
WHICH WAS THE SON OF
(TERAH), WHICH WAS THE SON OF
(NAHOR),
Lk 3:35. WHICH WAS THE SON OF
(SERUG), WHICH WAS THE SON OF
(REU), WHICH WAS THE SON OF
(PELEG), WHICH WAS THE SON OF
HEBER, WHICH WAS THE SON OF
(SHELAH),
Lk 3:36. WHICH WAS THE SON OF
CAINAN, WHICH WAS THE SON OF
ARPHAXAD, WHICH WAS THE SON OF
(SHEM). It was through the seed of Shem, the firstborn of Noah, that the Messiah would also ultimately come. There were two other brothers also–Ham and Japheth. Shem–
WHICH WAS THE SON OF
NOAH. Noah’s lineage may have been the only one left on the earth that had not been corrupted by the fallen angels coming in to the daughters of men–ref Gen 6:4. Noah was perfect in his generations and Noah walked with God–ref Gen 6:9. Satan had attempted to corrupt the entire human race. If he had succeeded, it would have been impossible for the Messiah to come forth. Thus, the fulfillment of Gen 3:15 would have been nullified. The verse continues–
WHICH WAS THE SON OF
LAMECH,
Lk 3:37. WHICH WAS THE SON OF
(METHUSELAH) (He lived to be 969 years old–ref Gen 5:27.),WHICH WAS THE SON OF
ENOCH. He walked with God and was translated–ref Gen 5:22–24. Enoch also foretold of the second coming of Christ in Jude 14–AND ENOCH ALSO, THE SEVENTH FROM ADAM, PROPHESIED OF THESE, SAYING, BEHOLD, THE LORD COMETH WITH TEN THOUSANDS OF HIS SAINTS. Enoch–
WHICH WAS THE SON OF
JARED, WHICH WAS THE SON OF
(MAHALALEL). The verse continues–
WHICH WAS THE SON OF
CAINAN,
Lk 3:38. WHICH WAS THE SON OF
ENOS, WHICH WAS THE SON OF
SETH, WHICH WAS THE SON OF
ADAM, WHICH WAS THE SON OF
GOD. He was the Son of God through being created.
Jn 1:4. IN HIM (which is Jesus)
WAS LIFE. Only “in” Jesus is eternal life. As it is written, Acts 4:12–NEITHER IS THERE SALVATION IN ANY OTHER: FOR THERE IS NONE OTHER NAME UNDER HEAVEN GIVEN AMONG MEN, WHEREBY WE MUST BE SAVED. The verse continues–
AND THE LIFE (which is eternal, which is Jesus)
WAS THE LIGHT (Jesus was and is the life and the light). Note the words “life was the light.” Thus, it may be said that the “light” was the “life”. In Jesus is life, which is the light–
OF (MANKIND). The only light, the only way possible to receive eternal life is through and by the person of Jesus Christ, God’s only begotten Son. This is the only light through which mankind can have life eternal. Man lost the life and light in the garden of Eden, but in Christ Jesus is life and light which can be restored by trusting in Jesus.
Satan told Eve, Gen 3:5–YOUR EYES SHALL BE OPENED, AND YE SHALL BE AS GODS, KNOWING GOOD AND EVIL. When Adam disobeyed God, their eyes were not opened but rather closed. They chose to believe the lies of Satan, and as a result, all mankind fell from the life and light.
Jn 1:5. AND THE LIGHT (which is Jesus) (which is God) (which is salvation, which is the Word, which is correction) (which is the only way to God) (which is holy, or love, mercy and compassion) (which is humble, quiet childlikeness even when being corrected from God’s Word), the light–
(SHINES) (or radiates) (or is present)–
IN (the) DARKNESS (which represents unbelief, sin and evil) (which denotes death, ignorance and those things which are sinful and bad) (or which represents the world and death) (or which can represent hard or stiffnecked hearts) (which is an accusing, justifying, unchildlike attitude when being corrected from God’s Word) (which represents all that is contrary to light and God’s truth). Isa 9:2–THE PEOPLE THAT WALKED IN DARKNESS HAVE SEEN A GREAT LIGHT: THEY THAT DWELL IN THE LAND OF THE SHADOW OF DEATH, UPON THEM HATH THE LIGHT SHINED.
Light dispels darkness. If a person does not have Jesus, which is life and light, then he is in darkness.
The light shines in the darkness–
AND THE DARKNESS COMPREHENDED (or understood) IT NOT.
DARKNESS DOES NOT UNDERSTAND
The people which are unbelievers, sinful and evil, or prideful, which are hard and stiffnecked, which have hearts that are calloused or hard, which love this present world, even the world itself, even the accusing, self–justifying, unchildlike people, or all that is contrary to light and God’s truth, they do not understand the light. All whose works are evil when viewed by God’s Word, do not understand Jesus, the Bible, the Word, and God. They do not comprehend the true salvation or the holy. They do not perceive God’s love, mercy, and compassion. They do not comprehend the light. The very thoughts and intents of their heart are wrong when viewed in light of God’s Word; thus, their own hearts reshape and redefine God’s Word. They understand God’s Word in the context that their heart wants or chooses to understand it. They just do not understand God and His ways, although many are often positive they do. They see God’s Word as if viewed through darkened, distorted or colored sunglasses. When they sin, they may even say, “Doesn't everyone do it?” A lying and dishonest heart–how can it be truthful with itself?
When they read or hear God’s Word, their eyes, ears and heart do not understand what God’s Word really means.
Their perception of God’s Word is as if there was an impenetrable filter that filters out or removes the real truth. Their evil, dark, wounded, hurt, scarred, callused, self–seeking, worldly heart just cannot fully comprehend what they are hearing as it applies to themselves. When God’s Word comes in contact with their eyes, ears and heart, it is like good seed falling on cement, or seed that falls into dirt that is full of rock, or seed sprouting up but then the weeds and vines choke and kill the plants once they have begun to grow. Satan is able to remove God’s Word from some people's hearts as fast as it goes in. They have a wayside heart, thus their understanding is completely distorted. In others God’s Word gets through, but afterwards Satan is able to somehow stop any more of God’s Word coming in, or he is able to destroy or distort the correct meaning of God’s Word so that they also perish. Their heart has lots of stones or thorns in it. Fearfulness, hatred, anger, bitterness, resentment, loneliness, hurts, pride, selfishness, self–desires, feeling sorry for oneself, pleasures, cares of this world, the deceitfulness of riches, and lusts of all kinds are some of the things that distort, choke and kill God’s Word. Some begin to bear good fruit, but then the person becomes unfruitful, even as a tree begins to bring forth good fruit, but then withers and dies.
The darkness wants the light extinguished, as it exposes their evil deeds.
Unjust thoughts come forth from an unjust person. Those that have Satan for their father will not understand the light. They resist the light. They shall perish.
Where there is no pride, there should be no embarrassment.
Jn 5:26–FOR AS THE FATHER HATH LIFE IN HIMSELF; SO HATH HE GIVEN TO THE SON TO HAVE LIFE IN HIMSELF;
Jn 6:57–AS THE LIVING FATHER HATH SENT ME, AND I LIVE BY THE FATHER: SO HE THAT EATETH ME, EVEN HE SHALL LIVE BY ME.
Jn 10:10–THE THIEF COMETH NOT, BUT FOR TO STEAL, AND TO KILL, AND TO DESTROY: I AM COME THAT THEY MIGHT HAVE LIFE, AND THAT THEY MIGHT HAVE IT MORE ABUNDANTLY.
Jn 11:25–26–JESUS SAID UNTO HER, I AM THE RESURRECTION, AND THE LIFE: HE THAT BELIEVETH IN ME, THOUGH HE WERE DEAD, YET SHALL HE LIVE: AND WHOSOEVER LIVETH AND BELIEVETH IN ME SHALL NEVER DIE. BELIEVEST THOU THIS?
Jn 14:6–JESUS SAITH UNTO HIM, I AM THE WAY, THE TRUTH, AND THE LIFE: NO MAN COMETH UNTO THE FATHER, BUT BY ME.
Jn 17:3–AND THIS IS LIFE ETERNAL, THAT THEY MIGHT KNOW THEE THE ONLY TRUE GOD, AND JESUS CHRIST, WHOM THOU HAST SENT.
Jn 20:31–BUT THESE ARE WRITTEN, THAT YE MIGHT BELIEVE THAT JESUS IS THE CHRIST, THE SON OF GOD; AND THAT BELIEVING YE MIGHT HAVE LIFE THROUGH HIS NAME.
Jesus, Who is life and light, was manifested, THAT HE MIGHT DESTROY THE WORKS OF THE DEVIL (which is darkness) 1 Jn 3:8.
Mary returned home to Nazareth, seemingly just after the birth of John the Baptist. She had been pregnant for about 3 months. Some time after Joseph, her fiancee, learned that she was pregnant. The verses continue–
Mt 1:18. NOW THE BIRTH OF JESUS CHRIST (or Yeshua the Messiah–JNT)
(WAS AS FOLLOWS):
WHEN AS HIS MOTHER MARY
WAS ESPOUSED (or engaged, pledged, or betrothed)
TO (be married to)
JOSEPH,
(but) BEFORE THEY (which is Joseph and Mary), before they–
CAME TOGETHER (or were married) (or had intimate relations),–
SHE WAS FOUND (to be) (PREGNANT).
OF THE HOLY GHOST (or Holy Spirit). Note the words of Isa 49:5–THE LORD THAT FORMED ME FROM THE WOMB.
The Scriptures do not tell us at what point that it was discovered she was pregnant. Neither does it tell us when or if any others found out that she was pregnant. If the surrounding neighbors would have known, Mary might have suffered humiliation, ridicule, or even worse. Up to this point, Joseph had not been told by Mary what had happened to her. It is unlikely Joseph would have believed her even if she had told him.
Marriages were usually arranged by the parents. Once the arrangement took place, they were often referred to as married, even though they were only engaged. They were not allowed to live together or have intimate relations. The woman would continue to live with her parents. There was a waiting period they had to go through to see if the bride–to–be would be faithful. If she was, then after the waiting period, the bridegroom would come to receive his bride as his wife.
It is the same with the church today. Once a person has received Jesus as their Lord and Saviour, they are engaged. They go through a waiting period to see if they will remain faithful. Once the rapture or resurrection of the faithful takes place, then the marriage is consummated. Mary was found to be pregnant during this waiting period and so Joseph was going to put her away. Whether or not Mary had tried to tell Joseph how she had become pregnant is not revealed. It is written–
Mt 1:19. THEN JOSEPH (Joseph means “Increaser”). The verse continues–
HER HUSBAND (to be),
BEING A JUST (or righteous)
MAN (or a man who did what was right–JNT),
AND NOT WILLING TO MAKE HER A PUBLIC EXAMPLE (or public shame, or disgrace),
(HAD IN MIND)
TO PUT HER AWAY (QUIETLY) (or secretly). Note, Joseph must have been very hurt when he found out that his fiancee Mary was pregnant. He had planned to marry her. Yet despite his hurt, he did not wish to openly accuse or try to humiliate or discredit her. He just wanted to end their engagement quietly. Note that just thoughts were coming forth from a just man.
Mt 1:20. BUT WHILE HE (CONSIDERED) THESE THINGS. It is noted that this was very much in his thoughts. God let him consider the matter first, and then the angel came to give him advice. It appears even in his sleep, his thoughts were on this situation, and–
BEHOLD, THE ANGEL OF THE LORD APPEARED (TO) HIM IN A DREAM, SAYING. The angel is not identified. The verse continues–
JOSEPH, THOU SON OF DAVID. The angel addresses Joseph by his name and then identifies him as being of the house or descendants of David. He was a direct descendant of David through Solomon–ref Mt 1:6–16. Joseph was a legitimate heir of the throne of David, which had been vacant for hundreds of years. Joseph needed to be of the house of David, as it is written in Isa 9:6,7 and 2 Sam 7:16 and many other verses–AND THINE HOUSE AND THY KINGDOM SHALL BE ESTABLISHED FOR EVER BEFORE THEE: THY THRONE SHALL BE ESTABLISHED FOR EVER. The verse continues as the angel speaks–
FEAR NOT TO TAKE (TO) THEE MARY (YOUR) WIFE (or do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife–NIV):
FOR THAT WHICH IS CONCEIVED IN HER IS (FROM) THE HOLY GHOST (or Holy Spirit). Joseph understood and believed in the Holy Ghost.
Mt 1:21. AND SHE SHALL (GIVE BIRTH TO) (or bear)
A SON. The angel identifies to Joseph that the baby yet to be born will be a son, not a daughter–
AND (YOU) (which is Joseph)–
(SHALL) CALL HIS NAME JESUS (or Yeshua, [which means ’Adonai saves’,–JNT]: Joseph is being told what to name the son. This name means Adonai saved, or Jehovah saves. The very basis for the Gospel is in the name of Jesus.
Both Mary and Joseph have now been told what the Son’s name shall be. The verse continues–
FOR (it is) HE
(Who) SHALL SAVE HIS PEOPLE
FROM THEIR SINS. Note, it says “HE” shall save. Man cannot save himself. Religions cannot save. Trying to be good cannot save a person. The church cannot save a person. Following certain rules cannot save a person. Being religious cannot save a person. It is only Jesus that can save a person from their sins.
The reason that He shall be called Jesus, even the reason Jesus would be born of the virgin Mary was to save people from their sins. It is noted that the angel did not tell Joseph that Jesus shall save His people from Rome or other things, but from their sins. The message given to Joseph about Jesus was the purpose of His first coming–to save people from their sins.
This is a somewhat different message than was given to Mary by the angel. Note Lk 1:32, 33–HE SHALL BE GREAT, AND SHALL BE CALLED THE SON OF THE HIGHEST. The purpose given to Mary concerned that He would be great and would be called the Son of the Highest, but then the message went on to what would transpire when Jesus returned for His second coming. The verse continues–AND THE LORD GOD SHALL GIVE UNTO HIM THE THRONE OF HIS FATHER (or forefather) DAVID. AND HE SHALL REIGN OVER THE HOUSE OF JACOB FOR EVER; AND OF HIS KINGDOM THERE SHALL BE NO END (or His kingdom will never end–NIV). At that time, it was not clearly understood that Jesus must die, rise from the dead, ascend up to be with His Father, sit on the right hand of God the Father, and then return after an unspecified amount of time to this earth at the time of the Battle of Armageddon
Joseph undoubtedly would never have believed Mary about how she became pregnant. An angel of the Lord had to tell him. As a result of what was told to Joseph and Mary, a more complete picture comes forth. Both the first and second coming of Jesus are revealed. The first coming was as God’s Lamb to accomplish His people being saved from their sins. The second coming is that He shall reign as King of Kings. It is soon to come for Israel is now back in their land.
Jesus shall save His people from their sins.
It is disobedience to God. It is disobeying His Word. Sin is ultimately against God. It is doing things which we are not to do, and it is not doing things which we should do. It is not having a Christ–like attitude and not doing what Christ would do in every situation. It is speaking things that ought not to be spoken and not speaking things that are right. Sin is being stiff–necked, stubborn, and rebellious to correction from God’s Word. Sin is wrong response to God’s divine standards. It is rebelling against, falling short, or deviating from the ways that God has established. As it is written, Isa 30:21–THIS IS THE WAY, WALK YE IN IT. Sin is turning to the left or to the right–ref Deut 5:32, when God says to walk straight ahead or turn around. Sin is not walking IN ALL THE WAYS WHICH THE LORD GOD HATH COMMANDED YOU–ref Deut 5:33. Sin is not walking in the newness of life, not living and yielding unto God, and not obeying God from the heart. Sin is not yielding your bodies servants to righteousness unto holiness. Sin is not bringing forth fruit unto God or being conformed to the image of His Son. Sin is walking after the flesh and after self. Sin is not being ashamed of your past fruits or deeds–ref Ro 6. It is missing God’s mark but even more.
When a person follows self, they (or what the Bible calls the old man) is the center of their own universe. When a person follows Jesus, Jesus becomes the center of their universe.
Man’s very nature wants to deny what sin is. Some men's consciences are so corrupt that it is as if they are seared with a hot iron. They can do the most hideous acts and yet wipe their mouth and say, “I’ve done no wrong. I am not a sinner” They feel no shame or guilt no matter what they do. Man’s corrupt heart and thinking wants to deny he did, or does, anything wrong. He wants to accuse and point fingers at others and justify himself. Man's very nature from birth is wicked from the fall of Adam. People’s very nature is wrapped up in self, not in God. A child does not have to be taught to lie and disobey his parents. It is natural. Rather a child needs to be taught to be truthful and obey his parents. Which keeps a child in check? Is it because he loves his parents, or is it the fear of being spanked? It is by the fear of God that men depart from evil–ref Pv 16:6, not by the love of God. Those people that do not fear God as they ought, or refuse to believe it is God that chastens them when they do wrong, often continue to do wrong. As it is written, THERE IS NO FEAR OF GOD BEFORE THEIR EYES–Ro 1:18. Not only do people sin against God’s Word, but they usually think nothing about breaking some of their own laws. Example, do people consider it wrong to break the speed limits, run red lights, or not come to a complete stop at stop signs? Does man consider it wrong to curse God’s name, or listen to others doing it, even in the movies or on television? Do most people consider it wrong to lie in every situation or just in some situations? Man is so corrupt in his thinking that he says he believes in God, and he believes that God cannot lie, yet he refuses to believe all that God said in His Word. Many claim they believe in God, but do not believe that God created all things. They choose to believe in evolution, which has been proven to be false. Man will justify, do and believe that which is right in his own eyes. Pv 21:2; 16:2–Every way of a man is right (and clean) in his own eyes. He does this even though God’s Word tells him: Jere 17:9–THE HEART IS DECEITFUL ABOVE ALL THINGS, AND DESPERATELY WICKED: WHO CAN KNOW IT? Ro 3:23–FOR ALL HAVE SINNED, AND COME SHORT OF THE GLORY OF GOD. Ro 3:10–THERE IS NONE RIGHTEOUS, NO, NOT ONE. Isa 64:6–WE ARE ALL AS AN UNCLEAN THING, AND ALL OUR RIGHTEOUSNESSES ARE AS FILTHY RAGS; AND WE ALL DO FADE AS A LEAF; AND OUR INIQUITIES, LIKE THE WIND, HAVE TAKEN US AWAY.
Mankind by nature is spiritually dead. People are by nature the servants or slaves of sin, and of their own lusts, and warped desires. All need redemption. All need to repent. All need to acknowledge their sin, confess their sins, deny self and surrender their will to God's will. All need Jesus for without Jesus, only eternal damnation lies ahead. Jesus came to save His people from their sins. Few in a lukewarm, financially prosperous, comfort–seeking, and pleasure–filled society will do this. Few will give up and forsake all now in order to obtain eternity with Jesus later.
Many use the Satan–motivated sayings, “These Scriptures do not really mean what they say,” or “That is your interpretation, and it is wrong,” or “You don't understand my situation.” By saying these things, they nullify the authority and ability of their preacher to correct them from the error of their own ways. In believing these lies, they discredit any God–given counsel that might come through their minister. In other words, before their minister can open his mouth to speak one word of correction to help them from God’s Word, they have already deemed in their own wicked heart that that correction cannot be correct as he could not possibly understand their situation. But what they are really saying is that they do not want God and His Word to reign over them. What they are really showing is that they themselves are very worldly and have little or no real relationship with God. They will probably perish unless they come to true repentance, but few will believe this also, because the darkness of their own heart blinds their understanding.
It is written Mt 7:20–WHEREFORE BY THEIR FRUITS YE SHALL KNOW THEM. A mature believer is to be known by their Christ–like attitude and overcoming sin in their daily lives. A mature believer is known by his humble, childlike, no excuse, no self–justification, and repentant attitude toward all correction from God, from His Word; from those He speaks through, including His servants that He has ordained to be over us. The more a person understands God, the more broken and humbled he becomes. The closer a person gets to God, the more sinful he can see himself when viewed in light of God's Word and God's holiness, even as clean white clothes look good in a dim light, but when viewed in a bright light, one can see all the dirt. The lukewarm, Laodicean church of today has a very dim light indeed when looking to see sin and God’s truth. The more sinful a person sees himself, the more he loves God as he understands the wonderful merciful, loving kindness of God called grace. Grace came as a result of the bloody sacrifice, but glorious resurrection of Jesus.
Jesus came to save people from their sins. A person must put their faith and trust in Jesus Christ as their only hope of salvation. It must be the Jesus Christ of the Bible, not another Christ. A person must repent. After a person comes to Christ in trust and repentance, then he is commanded to be baptized as it is written. He is born–again and no longer comes under the law of sin and of death, but now comes under the law of liberty. The person receives God’s Spirit by faith–ref Gal 3:2 to help him overcome sin. Ref. Mt 1:21–This was all done according to God’s plan, as written over 700 years previously–
Mt 1:22. NOW ALL THIS (HAPPENED) (or took place),
THAT IT MIGHT BE FULFILLED
WHICH WAS SPOKEN OF THE LORD
BY THE PROPHET, SAYING,
Mt 1:23. BEHOLD, A VIRGIN SHALL (CONCEIVE),
AND SHALL (GIVE BIRTH TO) (or bear) A SON,
AND THEY SHALL CALL HIS NAME EMMANUEL,
WHICH BEING (TRANSLATED) IS,
GOD (is) WITH US. Ref Isa 7:14–THEREFORE THE LORD HIMSELF SHALL GIVE YOU A SIGN; BEHOLD, A VIRGIN SHALL CONCEIVE, AND BEAR A SON, AND SHALL CALL HIS NAME IMMANUEL. Immanuel is referring to such as God, Jehovah, the Messiah, the Son of David, the Son of God, etc. He is deity. He is very God and also very man. He is the second person of the Trinity, yet is such a perfect representation of the Father that Jesus said, Jn 14:9–HE THAT HATH SEEN ME HATH SEEN THE FATHER. Yet Jesus was also sent in the likeness of sinful flesh–ref Ro 8:3, but he was not sinful. He was MADE IN THE LIKENESS OF MEN–Phili 2:7
It also was the beginning of the fulfillment of Gen 3:15–AND I WILL PUT ENMITY BETWEEN THEE (which is Satan) AND THE WOMAN, AND BETWEEN THY SEED (the seed of Satan) AND HER SEED; IT (the seed of the woman) SHALL BRUISE THY HEAD, AND THOU (which is Satan) SHALT BRUISE HIS HEEL (the seed of the woman–which is Jesus).
It also was the beginning of the fulfillment of Gen 49:10 and many other Old Testament Scriptures. It is written, Gen 49:10–THE SCEPTRE SHALL NOT DEPART FROM JUDAH, NOR A LAWGIVER FROM BETWEEN HIS FEET, UNTIL SHILOH (or the Messiah) COME; AND UNTO HIM SHALL THE GATHERING OF THE PEOPLE BE.
Mt 1:24. THEN JOSEPH BEING RAISED (or awoke, or arose)
FROM SLEEP
DID AS THE ANGEL OF THE LORD HAD (TOLD) (or commanded)
HIM. Joseph believed what the angel had told him in the dream. He had a full recollection of all that was said to him. The verse continues–
AND (he) TOOK (Mary)
(TO) HIM (as) HIS WIFE. It appears that soon afterwards Joseph took Mary into his own house as his wife before the waiting period was over, but they did not have intimate relations. There may have been gossip about the situation.
It appears that when they went to Bethlehem, they were still not married–ref Lk 2:5; however, this may not be referring to marriage, but rather that they had not been intimate. In other words it appears the marriage ceremony had taken place, but the marriage was not consummated until sometime after Jesus had been born.
Lk 2:1. AND IT CAME TO PASS. Luke uses this phrase more than any other New Testament writer. The verse continues–
IN THOSE DAYS,
THAT THERE WENT OUT A DECREE FROM CAESAR AUGUSTUS,
THAT ALL THE (Roman) WORLD (or Empire)
SHOULD BE TAXED (or a census should be taken–NASB). All this is happening so the Scriptures could be fulfilled. The whole Roman empire was to be taxed God, through Caesar Augustus, set up the decree at exactly the right time and in exactly the right way to cause Joseph and Mary to go to Bethlehem at exactly the right time. Jesus had to be born in Bethlehem according to the Scriptures. It is written, Micah 5:2–BUT THOU, BETHLEHEM EPHRATAH, THOUGH THOU BE LITTLE AMONG THE THOUSANDS OF JUDAH, YET OUT OF THEE SHALL HE COME FORTH UNTO ME THAT IS TO BE RULER IN ISRAEL; WHOSE GOINGS FORTH HAVE BEEN FROM OF OLD, FROM EVERLASTING.
Thus God sets up a situation through Caesar that would accomplish this.
Caesar Augustus, it is estimated, ruled the Roman empire from 27 B.C. to 14 A.D.
Estimates of the exact year that Jesus was born vary from about 5 B.C. to about 1 B.C.
Also calendar changes or variations since that time make it difficult to pinpoint exactly what year it is right now in proportion to those dates.
Some believe the calendar used in the United States could be off from 1 to 4 years.
It is thought that at this time the Roman empire extended further than at any time previously or after. It is reported that Jerusalem had fallen to Rome about 60 years before the birth of Jesus.
Lk 2:2. (AND THIS TAXING [or census, or registration] [the first of its kind–JNT]
WAS FIRST MADE WHEN CYRENIUS [or Quirinius]
WAS GOVERNOR OF SYRIA.) There is also controversy and uncertainty as to what the exact dates were when Cyrenius was governor.
Lk 2:3. AND ALL WENT TO BE TAXED (or to register for the census–NASB),
EVERY ONE INTO HIS OWN CITY (or town). This is referring to the city of their ancestry.
Lk 2:4. AND JOSEPH ALSO WENT UP FROM GALILEE,
OUT OF THE (TOWN) OF NAZARETH,
INTO (JUDEA),
(TO) THE CITY OF DAVID,
WHICH IS CALLED BETHLEHEM. Bethlehem was only a small town located not far from Jerusalem. It means “house of bread”. Jesus is the bread of life. The verse continues–
(BECAUSE HE WAS OF THE HOUSE AND LINEAGE [or family] OF DAVID:). Joseph was of the family of David, who was from Bethlehem; thus, this is where he was required to go. The distance would have been 66 to 90 miles, depending on which way they traveled.
Lk 2:5. TO BE TAXED (or in order to register–NASB) (along)
WITH MARY HIS ESPOUSED WIFE (or who was engaged to him–NASB).
BEING (PREGNANT) WITH (a) CHILD. She went with Joseph. This verse indicates they were not married.
Mt 1:24–makes it clear that soon afterwards Joseph took Mary into his own house as his wife before the waiting period was over, but they did not have intimate relations. There may have been gossip about the situation.
It appears that when they went to Bethlehem, they were still not married–ref Lk 2:5; however, this may not be referring to marriage, but rather that they had not been intimate.
In other words it appears the marriage ceremony had taken place, but the marriage was not consummated until sometime after Jesus had been born.
Mary was about 9 months pregnant. She was about to have a child. A trip from Nazareth to Bethlehem was long and difficult. Yet this was all in the will of God, so that the Scriptures would be fulfilled.
Lk 2:6. AND SO IT WAS, THAT, WHILE THEY WERE THERE,
THE DAYS WERE (COMPLETED)
THAT SHE SHOULD (GIVE BIRTH). The date of the birth is arguable. Some believe it is probable that the birth of Jesus took place in September or October.
Mt 1:25. AND KNEW HER NOT (or he did not have sexual relations–JNT, or union with her)
TILL SHE HAD BROUGHT FORTH (or given birth to)
HER FIRSTBORN SON. It may have been a great temptation for Joseph to abstain all this time, yet he was a righteous man. The verse continues–
AND HE CALLED (or gave Him)
HIS NAME JESUS. Joseph obeyed God.
Lk 2:7. AND SHE (GAVE BIRTH TO) HER FIRSTBORN (child, a)
SON. The word "firstborn" indicates that she had no children. Jesus was the first. Other children would come afterward. Jesus had four half brothers at a later date. Their names were James, Joses, Simon, and Judas. He also had sisters–ref Mt 13:55,56. It was foretold that there would be other children, in Ps 69:8–I AM BECOME A STRANGER UNTO MY BRETHREN, AND AN ALIEN UNTO MY MOTHER´S CHILDREN. His brothers are also mentioned in Jn 7:3–5 when they tempted Him. They did not believe in Him until after the resurrection–ref Acts 1:14. Gal 1:19 mentions James, the Lord´s brother.
There is no mention that there was a midwife to help deliver the babe.
“FIRSTBORN” IN THE NEW TESTAMENT
Ro 8:29–FOR WHOM HE DID FOREKNOW, HE ALSO DID PREDESTINATE TO BE CONFORMED TO THE IMAGE OF HIS SON, THAT HE MIGHT BE THE FIRSTBORN AMONG MANY BRETHREN.
Col 1:15–WHO IS THE IMAGE OF THE INVISIBLE GOD, THE FIRSTBORN OF EVERY CREATURE:
Col 1:18–AND HE IS THE HEAD OF THE BODY, THE CHURCH: WHO IS THE BEGINNING, THE FIRSTBORN FROM THE DEAD; THAT IN ALL THINGS HE MIGHT HAVE THE PREEMINENCE.
Heb 12:23–TO THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY AND CHURCH OF THE FIRSTBORN, WHICH ARE WRITTEN IN HEAVEN, AND TO GOD THE JUDGE OF ALL, AND TO THE SPIRITS OF JUST MEN MADE PERFECT.
Also Mt 1:25; Lk 2:7 and Heb 11:28.
The verses continue–
AND WRAPPED HIM IN SWADDLING CLOTHES, (or strips of cloths) which some say was the custom of their time. Others believe this shows how poor they were in that they only had strips of cloth to wrap the baby in. The verse continues–
AND LAID HIM IN A (FEEDING TROUGH); (or a place where livestock fed). Jesus was born in a stable for animals, had an animal feeding trough for a bed, and was wrapped with strips of cloth. The verse continues–
BECAUSE THERE WAS NO ROOM (or space)
FOR THEM IN THE INN. If they would have been rich, undoubtedly, they would have made room for them at the inn. Whether the stable was in the open air, a cave, or other enclosure is not known. The fact that the inn was filled indicates that there were probably many animals in the stable. All of these things seem to indicate that Joseph and Mary were poor, but Mary was highly favored with God. Joseph was a righteous man and was of a royal line. Jesus is God, yet despite all this they could not get a room at the inn. Jesus had a very humble beginning. He was born in a stable. His first bed was a feeding trough. The very birth of Jesus teaches us not to seek for worldly glory or riches.
Gal 4:4–BUT WHEN THE FULNESS OF THE TIME WAS COME, GOD SENT FORTH HIS SON, MADE OF A WOMAN, MADE UNDER THE LAW. God chose not to give us that date that Jesus was born.
Jesus is the Word. The birth, life and death of Jesus goes like this. There was no place at the inn for Jesus to be born. During His ministry, He had no place to lay his head–ref Mt 8:20; and His own received Him not–Jn 1:11. The world knew Him not–Jn 1:10. As Jesus preached, many of his own disciples turned back from Him. He was betrayed by one of the twelve apostles. Most of the people rejected Him. Most of the religious leaders rejected Him. The people hated him so much that they wanted Barnabas released, but Jesus, who had done no sin, they wanted killed. Then when He died it was through being hung on a cross; as it IS WRITTEN, CURSED IS EVERY ONE THAT HANGETH ON A TREE–Gal 3:13. Then when He rose from the dead, people lied about it saying that His disciples stole Him away–ref Mt 28:13. Even today most refuse to believe the Bible or obey it. Many try to discredit it by saying–it was only written by men, it is not true, it cannot be understood.
The greatest event in the history of Earth was happening–the birth of Jesus Christ. God had come to this earth in human form, and yet the world did not even know it happened. Furthermore, even today, though much of the world celebrates Christmas–the date that celebrates the birth of Jesus–yet Jesus Christ, Who is God, has been replaced with a fantasy figure named Santa Claus–God forbid.
In the Revelation, it is written:
Rev 12:2–AND SHE (the woman–Israel) (was pregnant) BEING WITH CHILD (and) CRIED (or screamed), TRAVAILING IN BIRTH, AND PAINED (or in agony of labor) TO BE DELIVERED (or to give birth to the Messiah).
Isaiah confirms this, as it is written, BEFORE SHE (Israel) TRAVAILED, SHE BROUGHT FORTH; BEFORE HER PAIN CAME, SHE WAS DELIVERED OF A MAN CHILD–Isa 66:7,8. Also note ref Ro 9:4,5. The Roman Catholics have mistakenly confused the woman with Mary. No where in the Bible is Mary ever pictured as being clothed with the sun and the moon under her feet or having a crown of twelve stars upon her head. No where is she ever depicted as fulfilling Rev 12:6.
Rev 12:5–AND SHE BROUGHT FORTH A MAN CHILD (or son) (Whose name was Jesus). Isa 66:7 had said, SHE WAS DELIVERED OF A MAN CHILD. The One WHO WAS TO RULE ALL NATIONS. This will take place during the Millennium. Jesus will rule WITH A ROD OF IRON (or iron scepter).
Jesus will deal with sin severely. The verses continue–
Lk 2:8. AND THERE WERE IN THE SAME COUNTRY (or countryside, or region nearby)
SHEPHERDS (STAYING OUT) IN THE FIELD,
KEEPING WATCH OVER (or guarding)
THEIR FLOCK BY NIGHT. It may be said that these were destined to become the first preachers of a sort. This is symbolic of Jesus watching over us, as well as a faithful minister watching over his flock to insure that the wolves do not come and kill them. It is during the night that the wolves are more likely to attack.
It is reported that it was not the custom to keep flocks of sheep out at night from our October or November to after Passover in our March or April. December 25th does not appear to be the birth of Christ.
Lk 2:9. AND, LO, THE ANGEL OF THE LORD (suddenly)
(STOOD BEFORE) THEM. These faithful shepherds are the first to hear the glad tidings of the birth of Christ. The verse continues–
AND THE GLORY OF THE LORD SHONE (AROUND) THEM. This would seem to indicate that although it was night, all of a sudden, there was great light present. The verse continues–
AND THEY WERE (GREATLY) AFRAID.
Lk 2:10. AND THE ANGEL SAID (TO) THEM,
(DO NOT BE AFRAID–NIV). Such words as these are often used when an angel appears to someone. The shepherds were being reassured that they need not be afraid. The verse continues–
FOR, BEHOLD, I BRING YOU GOOD (NEWS). The news of the birth is indeed good news. The verse continues–
OF GREAT JOY. The birth of Jesus is indeed an event of great joy to people. The verse continues–
WHICH SHALL BE TO ALL PEOPLE. Jesus, even the Word, is for people throughout the world. He is for the Jews, but also for people from the east to the west. There is only one Gospel and one Messiah, and only one way to enter heaven.
However, how can this Good News do anyone any good, if people do not know about it. It needs to be proclaimed. It is for all people.
Lk 2:11. FOR (TO) YOU (to the shepherds, to the Jews). The verse continues–
IS BORN THIS (very) DAY
IN THE CITY (or town) OF DAVID. The town being referred to is Bethlehem. The verse continues–
A SAVIOR (or Deliverer). The angel now identifies what the Messiah is–He is the Savior. Jesus is not announced as a King, but as a Saviour. The wise men, which came looking for the King at a later date, are not presented in Luke’s Gospel. The verse continues–
WHICH IS CHRIST (or Messiah) (or Anointed)
THE LORD. Since this happened before He was circumcised, his name was not given to the shepherds. The babe was identified by saying he is Messiah, the Lord.
The birth of the long awaited Christ (or the Messiah) is being announced by the angels to the shepherds. Thousands of years before, after the fall of Adam, in Gen 3:15, God showed through the Scriptures that there would be a time when the Christ would come. Many of the writers of the Old Testament prophesied of such a time and more specifically gave information concerning His birth, life, death and even His resurrection. Finally, that long awaited day has arrived.
What was born was not a religion of rules, regulations, creeds, and sacraments, or a particular denomination, but a Person. The Messiah is the Word. The Messiah is God. Regretfully, man has turned Jesus into religion and denominations. God is seldom anymore feared in the assembly of the saints.
Religion and denominations have turned Christ Jesus into another Gospel and another Jesus. He is God. He is the Word, and the Word is to be obeyed. He is to be loved. He is Christ, manifested in the flesh, but few understand, believe, or proclaim this.
Lk 2:12. AND THIS SHALL BE A SIGN (TO) YOU (or here is how you will know–JNT). The shepherds are now told where to find the Messiah. The verse continues–
(YOU) SHALL FIND THE (BABY)
WRAPPED IN SWADDLING CLOTHES, (and)
LYING IN A (FEEDING TROUGH). The sign to the shepherds would be that they would find the baby wrapped in strips of cloth and lying in a feeding trough. The humble beginning that Jesus had was ordained of God.
It is a far cry from the beginnings many kings of the earth have. They are often born with much majesty and pomp in the best house and with many in attendance. The announcement of the birth of Christ by the angels was awesome, but what the shepherds were to find was humility—a baby lying in a feeding trough for animals.
Lk 2:13. AND SUDDENLY
THERE WAS WITH THE ANGEL
A (GREAT COMPANY) OF THE HEAVENLY HOST. When the angel had finished speaking, suddenly, or we might also say unexpectedly and immediately, a great company of the heavenly host joined in. One can only imagine how the area must have lit up with the great company of the heavenly host. The heavenly host was probably there all along; however, suddenly they appeared so they could be seen and heard. The verse continues–
PRAISING GOD. If heavenly angels praise God, how much more should His saints, who have been forgiven and redeemed, praise Him? The verse continues–
AND SAYING,
Lk 2:14. GLORY TO GOD IN THE HIGHEST (heaven). First, the heavenly host praise God and give Him glory. Many “so called” people that claim they are saved never praise God and give Him any glory, because they are not true believers. The verse continues–
AND ON EARTH PEACE,
GOOD WILL TOWARD MEN (or peace among people of good will–JNT, or peace to men on whom His favor rests–NIV). The good news of the birth of Jesus meant peace and good will among people on whom God´s favor rests, those of good will.
Note the words used:
good news,
great joy,
glory to God in the highest,
on earth peace,
and good will to men.
How horrible it is, the world rejected this message. For the most part the world rejected Jesus.
While these words have been fulfilled, there will indeed be on earth peace and good will to men during the millennium.
It is noted that the first to be told about the birth of Jesus were the shepherds. They in turn would spread the Word among the people.
Eph 6:15 tells us–AND YOUR FEET SHOD (or fitted). Again, we see another piece of the armor that God is telling us to have on. Our FEET are to be SHOD WITH THE PREPARATION (or readiness) OF THE GOSPEL OF PEACE. We should be ready and prepared. We are to stand on the “Rock,” the Gospel. We are to put on armor and be ready for the struggle; yet our message is “peace,” the GOSPEL OF PEACE. Indeed, peace on earth and good will toward men–ref Lk 2:14. We are to have peace, even in the midst of the struggle–the peace which passes all understanding–ref Phili 4:7.
The Scriptures do not tell us when Jesus was born. However, we are told He was crucified at the time of Passover, which usually occurs in April. He would have been approximately 33 ½ years old at the time, as His ministry began when he was about 30–ref Lk 3:23. The Scriptures indicate that His ministry was 3 ½ years long. It is unlikely that the shepherds would have been out tending their flocks at night during the winter, as it would be quite cold there. It is reasonable to believe He may have been born between August and October. Some believe it may have been on a Jewish feast date in September or October.
JESUS IS ANNOUNCED TO THE HUMBLE
It is further noted that the birth of Christ was not first announced to the great men or kings of the earth, or the religious leaders in Jerusalem, but to humble shepherds–ref Lk 2:8–12. It is much the same today. The coming of Jesus to remove His people from the earth, before the Antichrist comes forth and the Tribulation begins, is not understood by the great men or kings of the earth, or even to so–called religious leaders of the earth, but to humble shepherds and servants of God that have put their faith and trust in the Jesus of the Bible as their only hope. The verses continue–
Lk 2:15. AND IT CAME TO PASS,
AS THE ANGELS WERE GONE AWAY FROM THEM
INTO HEAVEN. It is interesting to note that the angels did not appear to the chief priest, other religious leaders, or those in authority at that time. Of all the great people on the earth, the angels appeared only to the shepherds. One can only imagine how the shepherds must have been after the angels left. They were undoubtedly astonished and still a bit afraid. The verse continues–
THE SHEPHERDS SAID ONE TO ANOTHER,
LET US NOW GO EVEN (straight) (TO) BETHLEHEM (which means “the house of bread”). Jesus is that true bread from heaven–ref Jn 6:32,33. The verse continues–
AND SEE THIS THING WHICH IS COME TO PASS,
WHICH THE LORD (HAS) MADE KNOWN (TO) US. The shepherds believed the angels. There was no doubt. It appears without hesitation, they desired to go to Bethlehem to see the Messiah. How many of them there were, or if any of them stayed behind to keep an eye on the sheep is not mentioned.
The arrival of the wise men was later on when Mary, Joseph and the child Jesus were living in a house. Note, there is no mention of the star which appeared to the wise men.
Lk 2:16. AND THEY (HURRIED). The shepherds went without delay–
AND FOUND (their way to) MARY, AND JOSEPH,
AND THE (BABY). The town of Bethlehem was little. The shepherds apparently knew exactly where to go. There is no mention of other people being present. There is no mention of a crowd being gathered for one of the greatest events in the history of the world. The verse continues–
(Who was) LYING IN A (FEEDING TROUGH). Jesus Christ (God, Who came to this earth in human form) had a very humble beginning. He was not born in a rich and prestigious environment. Later He would tell His followers, “Follow Me.” This He said many times, including in Lk 9:23. Jesus set the example. While the shepherds were there, they probably shared with Joseph and Mary the vision of the angels. Joseph and Mary may have shared some things with them as well.
Lk 2:17. AND WHEN THEY HAD SEEN (HIM),
THEY (which are the shepherds)
(SPREAD) ABROAD THE (STATEMENT)
WHICH WAS TOLD THEM CONCERNING THIS CHILD. The shepherds became the first preachers. First they spread the good news of the birth of the Messiah, and the message that the angel had given to them. They did not return first to their sheep.
Note the order of things. God first makes known to the shepherds (or the first preachers of the Good News) the message, and then they were to tell the people.
Lk 2:18. AND ALL THEY THAT HEARD IT (WERE AMAZED)
AT THOSE THINGS WHICH WERE TOLD THEM. The people that the shepherds told were greatly honored by God to be the first to learn of the birth of the Messiah after the shepherds were told by the angels and had seen the Christ with their own eyes. The verse continues–
BY THE SHEPHERDS. It is noted that all that heard the message from the shepherds were amazed. This would have included the events of the angels appearing to the shepherds, the birth of the Messiah, and the place and circumstances in which He was born. As a result of this, surely others that learned of the birth of the Messiah would have also gone to see the baby Jesus.
Lk 2:19. BUT MARY KEPT (or treasured up)
ALL THESE THINGS,
AND (KEPT MULLING) THEM (over)
IN HER HEART. The various events that were happening and the things which were being told to Mary, she kept thinking about them. The angel first appeared to Mary. Then she became pregnant though still a virgin. Then there were the events that happened to Elizabeth and her husband and the words she had spoken. Then there was the birth of John and what was done and spoken. Then an angel appeared to Joseph in a dream; now, the events that happened with the shepherds. Mary, indeed, had much to ponder.
Lk 2:20. AND THE SHEPHERDS RETURNED (back). After telling the people about the birth of the Messiah, then the shepherds returned to their sheep. They were–
GLORIFYING AND PRAISING GOD
FOR ALL THE THINGS THAT THEY HAD HEARD
AND SEEN,(which was just)
AS IT WAS TOLD UNTO THEM. The shepherds were fully persuaded this was the Messiah. They glorified and praised God.
Lk 2:21. AND WHEN EIGHT DAYS WERE (COMPLETED)
FOR THE CIRCUMCISING OF THE CHILD (or on the eighth day, when it was time to circumcise Him–NIV). This is covered in Lev 12:3, Gen 17:10–15, Ex 12:43–45, and Ro 4:1–16. Joseph and Mary obeyed the law that had been handed down regarding circumcism. If this took place in Bethlehem is not mentioned. The verse continues–
HIS NAME WAS CALLED JESUS. It was at this time that the baby was to be named. The name of Jesus is the Greek form of the Hebrew name of Joshua. It means “Saviour” or “Yahweh or God is salvation” or as Mt 2:21 says HE SHALL SAVE HIS PEOPLE FROM THEIR SINS. Jesus came to save mankind that are justly doomed to (death) which is eternal separation from God in the lake of fire under the law. The verse continues–
WHICH WAS SO NAMED OF THE ANGEL
BEFORE HE WAS CONCEIVED IN THE WOMB. Again Joseph and Mary obeyed the messages of the angels. An angel had commanded Joseph that the child should be called Jesus in Mt 1:21 and Mary had been commanded also in Lk 1:31.
Gal 4:4–Jesus was MADE OF A WOMAN, MADE UNDER THE LAW. Now he is circumcised which made Him obligated to do the whole law, which no man can do, but Jesus did. Jesus is able to redeem those under the curse of the law; as it is written: Gal 3:13–CHRIST HATH REDEEMED US FROM THE CURSE OF THE LAW, BEING MADE A CURSE FOR US: FOR IT IS WRITTEN, CURSED IS EVERY ONE THAT HANGETH ON A TREE.
No mention is made where in the area they were now living. It is assumed that many people sought them out because of the message they had heard from the shepherds.
t is noted that even before the Babe was conceived in the womb, His name had been given. God forbid, so many people in this wicked generation now kill unwanted babies in the womb.
Lk 2:22. AND WHEN THE DAYS OF HER PURIFICATION
ACCORDING TO THE LAW OF MOSES
WERE (COMPLETED). The time period here was 40 days after the birth of a male or 80 days after the birth of a daughter–ref Lev 12:2–8.
A child being born brought to remembrance the events that happened at Eden. It was the woman that was the instrument of the rebellion. Thus if a girl was born the mother could not go to the temple for 80 days. For a boy she could not go for 40 days. The verse continues–
THEY BROUGHT HIM (up)
TO JERUSALEM. Often times when the word "down" or "up" is used it refers to elevation, not a northern or southern direction. Two examples might be that he went "down" to Jericho from Jerusalem, or "up" to Jerusalem from Jericho. Jericho is below sea level. Jerusalem is located up in the hills and is west of Jericho. The verse continues–
TO PRESENT HIM TO THE LORD. The trip from Bethlehem to the temple in Jerusalem was about five miles. Jerusalem is north of Bethlehem. References–Ex 13:12, 22:19, 34:19,10; Num 13:13, and 18:15.
Lk 2:23. (AS IT IS WRITTEN IN THE LAW OF THE LORD,
EVERY [first–born] MALE
THAT [OPENS] THE WOMB
SHALL BE CALLED HOLY [or is to be consecrated–NIV] TO THE LORD;). This refers to the following. Ex 13:2–SANCTIFY UNTO ME ALL THE FIRSTBORN, WHATSOEVER OPENETH THE WOMB AMONG THE CHILDREN OF ISRAEL, BOTH OF MAN AND OF BEAST: IT IS MINE. Num 18:15–EVERY THING THAT OPENETH THE MATRIX IN ALL FLESH, WHICH THEY BRING UNTO THE LORD, WHETHER IT BE OF MEN OR BEASTS, SHALL BE THINE: NEVERTHELESS THE FIRSTBORN OF MAN SHALT THOU SURELY REDEEM, AND THE FIRSTLING OF UNCLEAN BEASTS SHALT THOU REDEEM. Col 1:13,15–…HIS DEAR SON (which is Jesus):…WHO IS THE IMAGE OF THE INVISIBLE GOD, THE FIRSTBORN OF EVERY CREATURE: Ro 8:29…THAT HE (Jesus) MIGHT BE THE FIRSTBORN AMONG MANY BRETHREN.
Lk 2:24. AND (also) TO OFFER A SACRIFICE ACCORDING TO THAT WHICH IS SAID
IN THE LAW OF THE LORD,
A PAIR OF TURTLEDOVES,
OR TWO YOUNG PIGEONS. Over and over, we are seeing that Joseph and Mary obeyed the law. The sacrifice that was given reflects poverty. The sacrifice recommended was a lamb of the first year for a burnt offering and a young pigeon, or a turtledove, for a sin offering, but if she be not able to bring a lamb, then she shall bring two turtledoves, or two young pigeons; the one for the burnt offering and the other for a sin offering. It is written, Lev 12:5–8–BUT IF SHE BEAR A MAID CHILD, THEN SHE SHALL BE UNCLEAN TWO WEEKS, AS IN HER SEPARATION: AND SHE SHALL CONTINUE IN THE BLOOD OF HER PURIFYING THREESCORE AND SIX DAYS.
AND WHEN THE DAYS OF HER PURIFYING ARE FULFILLED, FOR A SON, OR FOR A DAUGHTER, SHE SHALL BRING A LAMB OF THE FIRST YEAR FOR A BURNT OFFERING, AND A YOUNG PIGEON, OR A TURTLEDOVE, FOR A SIN OFFERING, UNTO THE DOOR OF THE TABERNACLE OF THE CONGREGATION, UNTO THE PRIEST:
WHO SHALL OFFER IT BEFORE THE LORD, AND MAKE AN ATONEMENT FOR HER; AND SHE SHALL BE CLEANSED FROM THE ISSUE OF HER BLOOD. THIS IS THE LAW FOR HER THAT HATH BORN A MALE OR A FEMALE.
AND IF SHE BE NOT ABLE TO BRING A LAMB, THEN SHE SHALL BRING TWO TURTLES (doves), OR TWO YOUNG PIGEONS; THE ONE FOR THE BURNT OFFERING, AND THE OTHER FOR A SIN OFFERING: AND THE PRIEST SHALL MAKE AN ATONEMENT FOR HER, AND SHE SHALL BE CLEAN.
The fact that she did not give a lamb appears to also indicate that the wise men had not yet come with their gifts, which included gold–ref Mt 2:11.
Lk 2:25. AND, BEHOLD,
THERE WAS A MAN IN JERUSALEM,
WHOSE NAME WAS SIMEON; AND THE SAME MAN
WAS (RIGHTEOUS) AND DEVOUT (or reverent). He was one of the few faithful in Israel that had not fallen into leaven or false traditions and teachings of the religious leaders. The verse continues–
WAITING (eagerly)
FOR THE CONSOLATION OF (or God to comfort)
ISRAEL. Israel was expecting the Messiah–ref Lk 2:25,36,38. However, they were not expecting a suffering Messiah, but rather one that would come and restore again the kingdom to Israel–ref Acts 1:6.
Then Jesus was born of a virgin–ref Lk 1:26,27,35; 2:4–7. The birth, life, crucifixion, and resurrection of Jesus, fulfilled hundreds of Scriptures. The Scriptures give us approximately 172 reasons why Jesus came the first time.
Later, when the wise men came to Jerusalem inquiring, WHERE IS HE THAT IS BORN KING OF THE JEWS?–Mt 2:2, Herod gathered the chief priests and scribes together. He demanded of them where Christ should be born–ref Mt 2:4. AND THEY SAID UNTO HIM, IN BETHLEHEM–Mt 2:5. Although they were troubled, it did not seem to surprise them that this was the time for the Messiah.
Daniel’s prophecy made it clear—this was the time to expect the Messiah. The Messiah is Jesus.
Later on, Joseph, the counselor of Arimathaea was also waiting for the kingdom of God–ref Lk 23:50,51.
Simeon was waiting and expecting the Messiah also. The verse continues–
AND THE HOLY GHOST (or Spirit) WAS UPON HIM. Note, it did not say "in" him but "upon" him.
Lk 2:26. AND IT WAS REVEALED (TO) HIM
BY THE HOLY GHOST (or Spirit),
THAT HE SHOULD NOT (DIE),
BEFORE HE HAD SEEN THE LORD´S CHRIST (or Messiah). It appears that Simeon had a special revelation from God regarding the coming of the Messiah. When things are revealed to us, they are revealed by the Holy Ghost.
It is written: Jn 14:26–BUT THE COMFORTER, WHICH IS THE HOLY GHOST, WHOM THE FATHER WILL SEND IN MY NAME, HE SHALL TEACH YOU ALL THINGS, AND BRING ALL THINGS TO YOUR REMEMBRANCE, WHATSOEVER I HAVE SAID UNTO YOU.
1 Cor 2:12,13–NOW WE HAVE RECEIVED, NOT THE SPIRIT OF THE WORLD, BUT THE SPIRIT WHICH IS OF GOD; THAT WE MIGHT KNOW THE THINGS THAT ARE FREELY GIVEN TO US OF GOD. WHICH THINGS ALSO WE SPEAK, NOT IN THE WORDS WHICH MAN´S WISDOM TEACHETH, BUT WHICH THE HOLY GHOST TEACHETH; COMPARING SPIRITUAL THINGS WITH SPIRITUAL. Whatever any person believes they have received from the Holy Ghost should always is checked by God´s Word. If it is contrary to God´s Word, then it cannot be from God.
There are even times when we believe we sense something, and it does comes to pass, but it is not in harmony with the Gospel. Then it is not from God, as it is written–Deut 13:1–3–IF THERE ARISE AMONG YOU A PROPHET, OR A DREAMER OF DREAMS, AND GIVETH THEE A SIGN OR A WONDER, AND THE SIGN OR THE WONDER COME TO PASS, WHEREOF HE SPAKE UNTO THEE, SAYING, LET US GO AFTER OTHER GODS, WHICH THOU HAST NOT KNOWN, AND LET US SERVE THEM; THOU SHALT NOT HEARKEN UNTO THE WORDS OF THAT PROPHET, OR THAT DREAMER OF DREAMS: FOR THE LORD YOUR GOD PROVETH YOU, TO KNOW WHETHER YE LOVE THE LORD YOUR GOD WITH ALL YOUR HEART AND WITH ALL YOUR SOUL. The verses continue–
Lk 2:27. AND HE CAME (or was prompted)
BY THE SPIRIT
INTO THE TEMPLE (courts). The Spirit of God can lead us to be in a certain place at a certain time for a certain event to fulfill His will. This can happen in different ways. He may have had a revelation or strong impression from God to go there for the very purpose he went. He may have gone to the Temple for another reason totally unrelated to seeing the child Jesus, not knowing the real reason God was leading him there. Through various events and situations that arise, even delays sometimes, God knows just how to have us at a certain place at an exact time to fulfill His will. In Mt 4:1, it is noted that Jesus was LED UP OF THE SPIRIT INTO THE WILDERNESS. The verse continues–
AND WHEN THE PARENTS BROUGHT IN THE CHILD JESUS,
TO (CARRY OUT) FOR HIM AFTER THE CUSTOM OF THE LAW (or what the.Law required–NIV). This was covered under verses 23 and 24. The baby at this time would have been about 6 weeks old.
Lk 2:28. THEN (SIMEON TOOK) HIM UP
IN HIS ARMS. Simeon held the baby Jesus, the Messiah, the Promised one. This is the first time it is mentioned that anyone (other than Mary or Joseph) held the baby Jesus. The verse continues–
AND BLESSED (or praised)
GOD. It is noted that he first praised God. One must have wondered what awesome thoughts Simeon must have had regarding actually holding the Messiah, and what grateful thoughts he had regarding God. One might even consider that he had tears of wonderment and gratefulness in his eyes. After this Simeon spoke. The verse continues–
AND SAID,
Lk 2:29. (Sovereign) LORD,
NOW (YOU ARE LETTING) (YOUR) (bond) SERVANT
DEPART IN PEACE. Death, in the case of a saved person, is a departure from corruption to incorruption, eternal joy and peace. It is not an “end,” but the welcomed “beginning” of eternity. The verse continues–
ACCORDING TO (YOUR) WORD (or as You have promised–NIV) (or Your servant is at peace as You let him go–JNT). God’s exact Word to him about seeing the Messiah had been fulfilled. The wording seems to indicate that much time may have passed since God had given him the revelation that he would see the Lord's Christ before he died. Simeon had the faith to stay the course and patiently wait on the Lord for the revelation to be fulfilled.
Simeon could recognize the Lord’s voice and was able to discern correctly. He had reached the point in his life where he had no fear of dying for he knew he would not perish
Lk 2:30. FOR (MY) (own) EYES HAVE SEEN (YOUR) SALVATION. The babe was like any other, yet through faith immediately Simeon knew that this baby was the Messiah. He knew this was God’s salvation. He had faith with no doubts. He knew that through this Baby, salvation would come. Jesus is salvation. Jesus is light. Jesus is life. Salvation is not found through faith (or trust) in a temple, a denomination, a church, a set of rules, or trying to be a good person. Salvation can only be found through faith (or trust) in the person of Jesus Christ alone. This is God’s salvation. This is God’s way.
Lk 2:31. WHICH (YOU) (HAVE) PREPARED
(IN THE PRESENCE)
OF ALL PEOPLE. Note the words in the following verses, God sent. It is written:
Jn 3:17–FOR GOD SENT...HIS SON INTO THE WORLD.THAT THE WORLD THROUGH HIM MIGHT BE SAVED.
Acts 10:36–THE WORD WHICH GOD SENT UNTO THE CHILDREN OF ISRAEL, PREACHING PEACE BY JESUS CHRIST: (HE IS LORD OF ALL:)
Gal 4:4–BUT WHEN THE FULNESS OF THE TIME WAS COME, GOD SENT FORTH HIS SON, MADE OF A WOMAN, MADE UNDER THE LAW,
1 Jn 4:9–IN THIS WAS MANIFESTED THE LOVE OF GOD TOWARD US, BECAUSE THAT GOD SENT HIS ONLY BEGOTTEN SON INTO THE WORLD, THAT WE MIGHT LIVE THROUGH HIM.
Lk 2:32. A LIGHT. Note that Jesus is light. He is directly or indirectly also referred to as light in Mt 4:16; Lk 1:79; 2:32; Jn 1:4,5,7,8, 20,21, 12:35,
Jesus is that TRUE LIGHT–ref Jn 1:9. He is that light that IS COME INTO THE WORLD–ref Jn 3:19. Jesus said clearly in Jn 8:12 and 9:5–I AM THE LIGHT OF THE WORLD. Other verses also refer to Jesus as light. The verse continues–
TO LIGHTEN (or bring revelation to)
THE GENTILES. Simeon is revealing that Jesus is not for the Jews only, but also a light or revelation to the Gentiles. This was also written in Isa 49:6–I WILL ALSO GIVE THEE FOR A LIGHT TO THE GENTILES, THAT THOU MAYEST BE MY SALVATION UNTO THE END OF THE EARTH.
Isa 42:6 also tells us–I.GIVE THEE FOR...A LIGHT OF THE GENTILES.
The revelation that Jesus came not only for the Jew but also for the Gentiles was difficult for the Jews to accept–ref Acts 11:1–18.The verse continues–
AND THE GLORY OF (YOUR) PEOPLE ISRAEL. Jesus is also the Glory of the people Israel yet He came unto His own, and His own received Him not–ref Jn 1:11. They did not recognize the time of their visitation–ref Lk 19:44. Jesus is the Glory as written but to believers, not to unbelievers. This verse shall have its complete fulfillment when Jesus returns in power and great glory–ref Mt 24:30.
We are reminded of Lk 4:18,19 when Jesus was in Nazareth. He said these words: THE SPIRIT OF THE LORD IS UPON ME, BECAUSE HE HATH ANOINTED ME TO PREACH THE GOSPEL TO THE POOR; HE HATH SENT ME TO HEAL THE BROKENHEARTED, TO PREACH DELIVERANCE TO THE CAPTIVES, AND RECOVERING OF SIGHT TO THE BLIND, TO SET AT LIBERTY THEM THAT ARE BRUISED, TO PREACH THE ACCEPTABLE YEAR OF THE LORD.
Lk 2:33. AND JOSEPH AND HIS MOTHER. It is noted that Joseph was not called the child’s father, but Mary was called the child’s mother. The verse continues–
(WERE AMAZED) AT THOSE THINGS
WHICH WERE SPOKEN OF HIM. Both Joseph and Mary were (as one might say) flabbergasted regarding the things that Simeon spoke. Just how much they understood what was being said is unknown.
Lk 2:34. AND SIMEON BLESSED THEM. Simeon blessed Joseph and Mary. No mention is made that he blessed the babe for Jesus is the one that blesses. The verse continues–
AND SAID (TO) MARY HIS MOTHER,
BEHOLD, THIS CHILD
IS (DESTINED) (TO CAUSE) THE FALL AND RISING AGAIN OF MANY IN ISRAEL. Many in Israel rejected Jesus, but a few did not. Many were enraged at the revelation of Jesus Christ, because of their sin. Jesus is the Foundation–ref 1 Cor 3:11, or Chief Corner Stone–ref Eph 2:20. He is hope and salvation to the obedient–but to the disobedient, He is the stone that people stumble over and a Rock that makes men fall. They stumble, because they disobey God’s Word–ref 1 Pe 2:8, Isa 8:14. Jesus said in Jn 15:22,24, If I had not come and spoken unto them, they had not had sin: but now they have no cloke for their sin. If I had not done among them the works which none other man did, they had not had sin: but now have they both seen and hated both me and my Father. Heb 4:12–For the word of God (which is Jesus) is living and active. Sharper than any double–edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes (or intents) of the heart–NIV.
The nation of Israel was overtaken by the Romans within a generation of the crucifixion of Jesus (app. 70 ad). Although Israel has now been reborn (May 14, 1948), yet she will accept the Antichrist as her Messiah, though one third of Israel will be saved and go into the Millennium. The verse continues–
AND (He) (will become) A SIGN
WHICH SHALL BE SPOKEN AGAINST (or opposed). In other words, Simeon was saying people would speak against and oppose the birth and virgin birth of the Messiah. It is written Isa 7:14–THEREFORE THE LORD HIMSELF SHALL GIVE YOU A SIGN; BEHOLD, A VIRGIN SHALL CONCEIVE, AND BEAR A SON, AND SHALL CALL HIS NAME IMMANUEL. Lk 2:12–AND THIS SHALL BE A SIGN UNTO YOU; YE SHALL FIND THE BABE WRAPPED IN SWADDLING CLOTHES, LYING IN A MANGER. Note again the words: He, (which is Jesus)…SHALL BE SPOKEN AGAINST (or opposed). Consider, on any given day upon this earth, how many people curse the name of Jesus or God, or use God’s name in conjunction with a curse (damn).
Money, fame, prosperity, education, worldly knowledge, or even living in a perfect environment where all your needs are met such as the garden of Eden cannot change the evil that is in the heart of man.
Lk 2:35. ([YES],
A SWORD SHALL PIERCE THROUGH [YOUR] OWN SOUL ALSO,) (all this will happen in order–JNT). With these words in verse 35, it is looking ahead about 33 years. In other words, Mary would be hurt greatly. She would see her son rejected by most (including the religious leaders, rulers, and people), and then crucified. Jesus never sinned. He was holy and perfect. He healed the sick and raised the dead. He spoke only truth. He is God, yet He died a horrific death at the hands of man, whom He had created. They hated Jesus without a cause–ref Jn 15:25.
Man does not want to be confronted with his sin, rebellious attitude and stubbornness. Man wants to rule over himself. He does not want a Holy God telling him what he should and should not do. The verse continues–
THAT THE (inmost) THOUGHTS
OF MANY (people´s) HEARTS. Note, that thoughts come from the heart. The verse continues–
MAY BE REVEALED. As already mentioned previously, Heb 4:12–For the word of God (which is Jesus) is living and active…it judges the thoughts and attitudes (or intents) of the heart–NIV.
Indeed, as Jesus preached later on, that “He“ was the only way to God, the only way to eternal life, and as He brought forth the Word His Father gave Him to speak, the thoughts of many hearts were revealed. Most opposed the words of God that flowed from the mouth of Jesus. The nation of Israel had waited for the coming of the Messiah for a very long time, but when He came, He was rejected–His own received Him not. It is the same today. When God’s Word regarding sin, judgment, and correction comes forth as a two–edged sword, it is usually rejected and even hated. Today, also, the thoughts of many hearts are revealed by God´s Word.
Man rejects God, because the things which he does are not right in the eyes of holy God, and he does not wish to change and repent.
Lk 2:36. AND THERE WAS (also)
ONE ANNA,
A PROPHETESS. We note that she was a profit which served God. The verse continues–
THE DAUGHTER OF PHANUEL,
OF THE TRIBE OF (ASHER). The Pharisees later said, OUT OF GALILEE ARISETH NO PROPHET–Jn 7:52. She was a prophet and the tribe of Asher that she was from was originally in the Galilee area. The verse continues–
SHE WAS (VERY OLD),
AND HAD LIVED WITH AN HUSBAND SEVEN YEARS (AFTER HER MARRIAGE). In other words, her husband had died after they had been married for seven years.
Lk 2:37. AND (then)
SHE WAS A WIDOW
OF ABOUT FOURSCORE AND FOUR YEARS (or had remained a widow ever since; now she was eighty–four–JNT). Some believe the wording here means she had lived about 84 years after her husband died and was now well over 100 years old. The verse continues–
WHICH (NEVER LEFT) THE TEMPLE (grounds),
BUT SERVED (or worshipped)
GOD
WITH FASTINGS AND PRAYERS. Note, she was a very old woman, but yet served God and also fasted.
NIGHT AND DAY. Note, God had a woman, a prophetess, in the Temple grounds continually. She faithfully served God, since her husband had died. She was highly favored with God as was Simeon and the shepherds.
Lk 2:38. AND SHE COMING IN (at)
THAT INSTANT. Again we have an example that God will have certain people at exact places at exact times. The verse continues–
GAVE THANKS LIKEWISE (TO) THE LORD. It is noted that the first thing she did was to gave thanks to the Lord. It is much like Simeon also did. The shepherds, then Simeon, and now Anna, all had no doubt that this babe was the long awaited Messiah. They believed. God had bestowed a great honor on them, and they rejoiced. Yet, how sad that most people then and even today would not have rejoiced at this same honor being bestowed upon them. Most spend their lives in vanity, seeking for the things of this world, and Jesus is not truly in their hearts. The verse continues–
AND (SPOKE) OF HIM (or spoke about Jesus which is the Christ or Messiah)–
TO ALL THEM THAT LOOKED FOR REDEMPTION
IN JERUSALEM (or the redemption of Jerusalem–NIV) (or Jerusalem) (to be liberated). First, the Baby Jesus (the Messiah) is revealed to Simeon, a man. Next He is revealed to Anna, a woman.
The shepherds had spread the Word of the Messiah. Certainly, Simeon also spread the Word of the Messiah. Now Anna
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