How do we know Jesus is God?
Jesus is conceived by the Holy Spirit in the womb of the Virgin Mary.
Miracles are the evidence of that which is beyond natural. They inform us of what is super-natural.
What super-natural evidence does the Holy Spirit conception of Jesus in the Virgin Mary give us?
#1 – Jesus’ life is of God and not the result of human will.
Supporting Scripture: Matthew 1:22-23 (ESV)
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Supporting Scripture: Isaiah 7:14 (ESV)
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Supporting Scripture: John 1:12-13 (ESV)
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#2 – Jesus’ life is within human time but exists outside of and even before human time (eternal).
Is the Holy Spirit eternal or finite?
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Is Jesus conceived by the Holy Spirit?
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If the Holy Spirit is eternal, and Jesus is conceived by the Holy Spirit, is Jesus finite or eternal? The answer is He can only be eternal.
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Supporting Scripture: John 1:1-5 (ESV)
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#3 – Jesus’ life is heaven’s full authority in human form.
How do we know Jesus is God?
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Because Jesus is God, He has the power to save us from our sins.
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Supporting Scripture: John 3:16 (ESV)
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Matthew 1:18-25 tells the story of the birth of Jesus from Joseph’s perspective, including his initial reaction to Mary’s pregnancy and the angel’s message in a dream. Here are some personal reflection questions to help deepen understanding and personal application of this passage:
1. Joseph’s Dilemma and Response (Matthew 1:18-19)
- Joseph was initially troubled and chose to handle the situation quietly, with grace and compassion. How do you respond when faced with difficult or unexpected situations? Do you tend to react quickly, or do you take time to consider how best to respond?
- How can you cultivate a spirit of kindness and discretion when dealing with others’ mistakes or situations you don’t fully understand?
2. Joseph’s Trust in God’s Guidance (Matthew 1:20-21)
- In his dream, Joseph is told not to be afraid to take Mary as his wife because the child conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. When was the last time you had to trust God’s guidance even when the situation seemed confusing or unclear?
- How do you differentiate between God’s guidance and your own thoughts or desires? How can you be more open to hearing from God in times of uncertainty?
3. The Importance of Obedience (Matthew 1:24-25)
- Joseph obeys the angel’s command without hesitation, taking Mary as his wife and naming the child Jesus. Reflect on a time when you had to obey God’s call, even if it was difficult or went against your initial plans. What challenges did you face in that moment, and what did you learn about trust and obedience?
- How does Joseph’s obedience challenge you in your own walk with God? Are there areas where you are hesitating to act on His guidance?
4. Fear vs. Faith (Matthew 1:20)
- The angel reassures Joseph not to fear. Fear often stands in the way of obedience. How do you deal with fear in your life? Are there areas where you need to trust God more fully instead of letting fear take hold?
- Reflect on how faith in God’s promises can replace your fears. How does God’s presence and His calling give you strength in moments of fear or uncertainty?
5. God’s Timing and Plan (Matthew 1:22-23)
- The passage notes that all this happened to fulfill what the Lord had spoken through the prophet, “The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel.” How do you see God’s timing in this passage? How has God’s timing been evident in your life?
- Are there areas in your life where you are waiting for God to fulfill a promise or answer a prayer? How can you trust in His perfect timing as Joseph did, even when things don’t unfold on your timeline?
6. The Name of Jesus (Matthew 1:21)
- The angel tells Joseph that Mary’s son will be named Jesus because He will save His people from their sins. What significance do you place on the name of Jesus? How does this truth impact your life personally, knowing that Jesus came to save you from sin?
- How does the name “Jesus” shape your understanding of His role in your life and your relationship with Him?
7. Trusting God’s Bigger Purpose (Matthew 1:21)
- Joseph might have initially been confused by the situation, but he trusted in God’s bigger purpose for Mary’s pregnancy. How do you maintain a sense of purpose when you face situations that seem confusing or difficult to understand?
- How can you practice trusting God’s bigger picture, especially when things don’t make sense in your current circumstances?
8. Joseph’s Role in God’s Plan (Matthew 1:24-25)
- Joseph plays an important role in the birth of Jesus, though the narrative focuses more on Mary. What does Joseph’s quiet, faithful obedience teach you about the importance of our own roles in God’s plan, even when they seem small or unnoticed by others?
- How do you view your own role in God’s plan? What is one way you can step out in faith to serve Him more fully, even if it means doing something unexpected or outside of your comfort zone?
These questions focus on obedience, trust, and the role of faith in uncertain circumstances, helping you reflect on how Joseph’s example can inspire your own walk with God.