Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever. Hebrews 13:8
Jesus is the greatest person that has ever walked on the surface of this earth! He left an unforgettable impact on humanity. He was born in humble circumstances but destined for greatness, Jesus' life journey is filled with captivating moments that continue to transform and inspire millions of people around the world. Let's get into it as we explore the extraordinary path taken by Jesus, from His humble birth to His victorious resurrection.
Prophecies Leading To Jesus' Birth
Long before Jesus was born His death has already been prophecy by Prophets in the old testament. They foretold the coming of Jesus the Messiah, a Saviour who would bring salvation to mankind. These prophecies created an atmosphere of anticipation and laid the foundation for the extraordinary birth to come. (Isaiah 9:6)
Angelic Visitations and the Revelation to Mary
One of the extraordinary moments in Jesus' journey occurred when the angel Gabriel appeared to Mary, a young devout Jewish woman. The angel's message revealed that she had been chosen by divine providence to conceive and give birth to a child who would be the long-awaited Messiah. Mary's acceptance of this divine mission showcases her unwavering faith and sets in motion the extraordinary events to follow. (Luke 1:26.)
Bethlehem, the manger, and the birth of Jesus
Following a governmental decree, Joseph and Mary embarked on a journey to Bethlehem, Joseph's ancestral home, where Jesus would eventually be born. Despite the challenging journey and the lack of suitable accommodations, the birth of Jesus took place in a humble stable, with a manger serving as His first crib. This humble setting beautifully symbolizes Jesus' identification with the poor and marginalized. (Luke 2:7)
Adoration By Shepherds And The Wise Men
The joyous news of Jesus' birth was first proclaimed to humble shepherds, who were guided by a heavenly host of angels to witness the divine miracle. Their adoration demonstrated that the birth of Jesus had significance not only for the privileged but also for the common people. Later, wise men from the East journeyed, following His star, to pay homage to the newborn king. Their gifts, representing honour and worship, emphasized the exalted nature of Jesus' arrival. (Luke2:8-20) (Matthew 2:1-12)
The Wisdom Of A Young Jesus Baffled Religious Scholars
At the age of twelve, Jesus surprised religious scholars in the temple with his profound understanding of the scriptures and insightful interpretations. His wisdom surpassed that of the learned scholars, leaving them astonished and intrigued. This early demonstration of divine wisdom foreshadowed the extraordinary teachings Jesus would later impart. (Luke 2:42-47)
Baptism By John The Baptist: Significance And Transformation
As Jesus stepped into adulthood, He sought out John the Baptist, a prophetic figure preaching repentance and baptizing in the river Jordan. Jesus' decision to undergo baptism marked a significant turning point in His journey. It signalled His public commitment to His divine mission and foreshadowed the transformative power that His ministry would have on the lives of others. (Mark 1:9-11)
The Temptation in the Wilderness: Jesus Overcoming Trials!
Following His baptism, Jesus entered a period of intense spiritual testing in the wilderness. For forty days and nights, He endured hunger, temptation, and solitude. Jesus emerged from this ordeal spiritually fortified, triumphing over the power of the devil and reaffirming His commitment to a higher purpose. (Matthew 4:1-11)
Jesus' Ministry Begins! The Calling Of The Disciples: Assembling A Devoted Group
With the stage now set, Jesus embarked on His public ministry, proclaiming the arrival of the kingdom of God. Central to His mission was the selection of twelve disciples who would become His closest companions and carry forth His teachings. This group included fishermen, tax collectors, and ordinary individuals, demonstrating that Jesus' ministry was open to all, regardless of social standing. (Matthew 4:12-17)
Miracles and Healings: The Power of Jesus' Touch And Words!
Throughout Jesus' ministry, He performed extraordinary miracles and healings, revealing His divine power and compassion. He restored sight to the blind, gave hearing to the deaf, raised the dead and even healed emotional distress. His touch and words possessed an unparalleled authority that defied natural laws, bringing hope to a broken and suffering world. (Matthew 9:6-7)
Parables Of Jesus: Unveiling Profound Truths Through Relatable Stories
Jesus' teachings were often conveyed through parables – captivating stories that illustrated profound spiritual truths in relatable and accessible ways. Whether it was the story of the prodigal son or the parable of the sower, these narratives both engaged and challenged listeners, sparking deep reflection and unveiling the mysteries of God's kingdom. (Matthew 13:1-23)
The Crucifixion: The Agonizing Suffering And Death On The Cross
Crucifixion, a tormenting form of execution, awaited Jesus as He was forced to bear the weight of a wooden cross through the streets of Jerusalem. Nailed to the cross, He endured unimaginable pain and suffering as the weight of humanity's sins was placed upon Him. The crucifixion of Jesus stands as a testament to the depths of His love and His unwavering commitment to fulfilling His divine mission. (Matthew 27:32-56)
The Seven Last Statements: Profound Expressions During Jesus' Crucifixion
The seven last statements which are also called the seven last words of Jesus, not only demonstrate what was most important to our loving Savior but also helped to completely fulfil everything spoken about Him in the old testament.
1) “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they do” (Luke 23:34).
2) "You will be with Me in Paradise” (Luke 23:43).
3) "Woman, behold your son!” (John 19:26-27).
4) "Eli, Eli, lama sabachthani?” that is, “My God, My God, why have You forsaken Me?” (Matthew 27:46).
5) " I thirst!” (John 19:28).
6) "It is finished!” (John 19:30).
7) "Father, ‘into Your hands I commit My spirit” (Luke 23:46).
While enduring the agony of crucifixion, Jesus uttered seven profound statements that have reverberated throughout history. These final words, including expressions of forgiveness, special grace, compassion, and surrender, encapsulate the essence of Jesus' message and provide comfort and hope to those who find themselves in times of suffering and despair.
The Empty Tomb: The Discovery That Changed The Course Of History
Three days after Jesus' crucifixion, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary arrived at His tomb to anoint His body, only to find it empty. The discovery of the empty tomb became the central event that transformed sorrow into joy, doubt into faith, and death into eternal life. The resurrection of Jesus stands as the cornerstone of Christian belief, affirming His divinity and victory over death. (Matthew 28:1-8)
Ascension: Jesus' Return To Heaven, Concluding His Earthly Physical Presence
Forty days after the resurrection, Jesus gathered His disciples and ascended into heaven, returning to His divine realm. This momentous event marked the conclusion of Jesus' earthly physical presence, setting the stage for the disciples to carry forth His teachings and the promise of His return in the future. (Acts 1:9-11)
Impacts On Christianity: The Foundation Of A Worldwide Faith
The journey of Jesus and His subsequent resurrection laid the foundation for the development of Christianity and made us overcomers. Jesus' teachings, His sacrificial death, and His triumph over death became the central tenets of a worldwide faith that has endured for more than two thousand years, shaping the lives of billions of individuals across diverse cultures and continents.
Those who believe in Jesus and accept Him as their personal Lord and Saviour will be redeemed from the power of sin and eternal death. Also, Jesus is the gift and love of God to restore the relationship between man and Himself.
PRAYER OF SALVATION
If you are not yet born again, you must be born again to have a part in the victory of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. If you are ready to be born again say these words;
Almighty God, I believe with all my heart that Jesus is the son of God and He is the Lord of my life. I believe He died for me and God raised Him from the dead. I believe He is alive forever. I have eternal life through Him and His name. I am born again. Thank you, Lord, for saving my soul! I am now a child of God. Amen.
Congratulations! You are now a child of God. Join a Bible-believing church near you and make your commitment to God. Or for more information on how you can grow as a Christian, please, get in touch with us at; opstvictor@gmail.com
God bless you!