Notes From the Pastor's Desk

December 3, 2023

Christ's First Coming

1 Timothy 1:15 says, "This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners; of whom I am chief." The Bible and even history records the existence of a Person called Jesus of Nazareth. He was not just a man, but the was the God man—by that I mean, God tabernacled in a human body. The Bible says in John 1:14 that the Word (Christ)—was made flesh and dwelt among us. Those who deny Christ's first coming are ignorant of the Bible and secular history. Christ came because it was necessary for Him to come into this world of sin and sorrow. What necessitated the coming of Jesus to this earth? We will consider three thoughts.

I. It Was Necessary To Fulfill Prophecy

Many passages prophecy Christ, the coming Messiah. Two of the most outstanding ones, which point to the cross of Christ, are Isaiah 53 and Psalms 22. The prophet Micah told us exactly where Jesus would be born (Micah 5:2). Prophecy must and will be fulfilled. When we read Micah 5:2 three things are evident. First, an insignificant city. Bethlehem was small but it was important in the eyes of God, because Jesus would be born there. Secondly, an important coming. Out of Bethlehem would come the ruler that would rule Israel. Thirdly, there is an infinite person. The goings of Jesus have been from old of everlasting.

II. It Was Necessary To Find Redemption

If Jesus had not come the first time, we could not be ready to meet Him when He comes the second time. Hebrews 9:15 says, "And for this cause he is the mediator of the new testament, that by means of death, for the redemption of the transgressions that were under the first testament, they which are called might receive the promise of eternal inheritance." The price had to be paid for our redemption. To "redeem" is to deliver by the paying of a price. Our redemption is free, full and forever. Man is sold into the slave market of sin from birth and stands in need of redemption.

III. It Was Necessary To Foil Satan

One thing is sure, Jesus came the first time, and gave His life a ransom for many. Genesis 3:15 says that the seed of the woman (Christ) would "bruise" Satan's head. Christ has powerfully, permanently, and personally taken care of the defeat of Satan. Only Jesus could defeat Satan!