Advent: The Story Behind the Story

December 1 - December 29, 2024

This series will reveal how the birth of Christ was not a random event but the fulfillment of a divine narrative that has spanned centuries by tracing the genealogy of Jesus. We will explore the three key stages of Israel's history—family, nation, and remnant—and culminate with the arrival of Jesus Christ in "the fullness of time."

December 1
“The Genealogy of Jesus as a Story”
Matthew 1:1-17
The genealogy of Jesus is not merely a list of names—it tells the story of God’s unfolding plan for the redemption of the world. This sermon emphasizes the interconnectedness of each generation and how God’s covenantal promises persist through unexpected people and circumstances.

December 8
“Israel as a Family - From Abraham to David”
Genesis 12:1-3; Matthew 1:1-6
The first phase of the genealogy traces Israel’s history when it was a family, starting with Abraham. From the patriarchs to King David, we witness God’s promise to bless all nations through Abraham’s descendants. This period reflects a family growing in faith, covenant, and divine purpose.

December 15
“Israel as a Nation - From David to the Exile”
Samuel 7:12-16; Matthew 1:6-11
The second phase of the genealogy focuses on Israel’s history as a united and divided kingdom. From the glory of David’s reign to the nation’s eventual downfall, we see a people struggling with sin, idolatry, and unfaithfulness. We will explore how the Davidic covenant points forward to Jesus as the eternal King and how Israel’s national struggles mirror our own need for a Savior.

December 22
“Israel as a Remnant - From the Exile to the Birth of Jesus”
Jeremiah 31:31-34; Matthew 1:12-16
In the third phase of the genealogy, Israel was no longer a powerful nation but a remnant through which God continued His faithful work. This sermon will show how the exile was not the end for Israel but a period of purification, hope, and preparation for the coming Messiah.

December 25
“In the Fullness of Time - The Birth of Christ”
Galatians 4:4-5; Matthew 1:16-17
In the final sermon, we will explore how, after generations of waiting, God sent His Son into the world in the "fullness of time." Jesus is the culmination of the story, fulfilling the promises made to Abraham, David, and the people of Israel. This sermon will emphasize the significance of Jesus’ birth and how His arrival changed everything for humanity, bringing salvation and the Kingdom of God to the earth.