THE WAY IN A MANGER...

Luke 2:1-16 & Matt. 2:1-6 (Be sure to read the Scripture passages)…
 
      In the first chapter of the book to the Hebrews, verses 1 and 2, we read that God had spoken in times past by the prophets, but that in these last days, He spoke by His Son, Jesus. The prophets had a special duty that held strict requirements. They were to speak the message that God gave them and to validate the message, the prophecy must come to pass. If it did not, the prophet was subject to death (Deut. 13:1-5; 18:20). So, the proof of the prophet was in the fulfillment of the prophecy.
       Concerning the birth of Jesus, the Christ, the prophets spoke as in  Isaiah 9:2-6. When the wise men came to Herod, seeking the one “born king of the Jews”, the priests sought the Scriptures and found that the prophet Micah has foretold the place of His birth (Micah 5:2).
Further,  the announcement to the shepherds (Luke 2) was confirmed as stated. The acknowledgement by the priests (Matt. 2) was confirmed as written.
       Not only does the proof of the prophet rest in the fulfillment of his prophecy, we also understand that prophecy requires a progression of divine events that lead to fulfillment. For example, since it was prophesied that the Messiah would be born in Bethlehem, and it was announced to Mary that she should be the one to bring forth the Messiah, it must come to pass that Mary be in Bethlehem at the time of Messiah’s birth.  The problem was that she and Joseph were living in Nazareth at the time. However, God saw to it that Caesar Augustus should demand a census requiring registration at one’s place of birth. This required Joseph to take Mary with him to Bethlehem as he was “of the house and lineage of David”. Was it mere coincidence that Mary, being great with child, should deliver her baby while they were in Bethlehem…or was it Divine Providence?
    The proof of the prophecy was placed in a manger, as was spoken by the angels to the shepherds.
     Hundreds of prophecies were made concerning Messiah’s birth, life, death by crucifixion, burial and resurrection. The Bible is God’s divine record concerning Jesus’ fulfillment thereof. Yes, the proof of the prophecy was there in the manger…and on the cross…and at the empty tomb.
       If unbelief has made you skeptical, why not investigate the claims for yourself? Begin with 1John 5:9-11…the Record stands as its own witness.
      Truly, God made THE WAY of salvation and placed Him in a manger, just as He said.
 
The gentle lullaby, Away In A Manger, loved and sung by all, reminds us of the gracious gift from God; Deity in human flesh, salvation wrapped in swaddling clothes and laid in a manger.
Sing it reverently, sing it thankfully, sing it in awe.