The Birth of Jesus: A Marvelous Event
In the Bible, we find the story of a birth that changed the course of human history – the birth of Jesus Christ. This event is recorded in Luke 2:1-7, and it is a testament to God’s wisdom and providence.
A Time of Great Change
The birth of Jesus took place during a time of great change in the world. The Roman Empire, under the rule of Augustus Caesar, had issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world. This meant that people had to return to their hometowns to register, including Joseph and Mary, who traveled from Nazareth to Bethlehem.
God’s Providence at Work
As we read the account of Jesus’ birth, we see God’s providence at work. The Roman Empire’s decree, which seemed like a mere administrative task, was actually a part of God’s plan to bring about the birth of Jesus. The prophet Micah had foretold that the Messiah would be born in Bethlehem, and God used the Roman Empire’s decree to make that happen.
The Humility of Jesus
The birth of Jesus is also a testament to his humility. He was not born in a palace or a grand estate, but in a humble manger. This was not because God could not provide a better place for his son, but because Jesus came to identify with the poor and the lowly.
A Love that Passes Understanding
The birth of Jesus is a demonstration of God’s love for humanity. It is a love that passes understanding, a love that is willing to go to great lengths to save us from our sins. As we reflect on the birth of Jesus, let us remember the depth of God’s love for us and the lengths to which he will go to save us.
Reflections from J.C. Ryle
J.C. Ryle, a prominent writer and preacher, reflects on the birth of Jesus in his commentary on Luke. He notes that the birth of Jesus is a marvelous event that demonstrates God’s wisdom and providence. He also highlights the humility of Jesus, who came to identify with the poor and the lowly.
A Timeless Message
The birth of Jesus is a timeless message that continues to speak to us today. It reminds us of God’s love for humanity and the lengths to which he will go to save us. As we reflect on the birth of Jesus, let us remember the depth of God’s love for us and the hope that we have in him.
Reading the Bible with Dead Guys
This article is part of the “Reading the Bible with Dead Guys” series, which aims to help us read God’s Word alongside some great theologians from church history. By reading the Bible with J.C. Ryle and other theologians, we can gain new insights into the meaning of Scripture and deepen our understanding of God’s love for us.
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