Complementary New Testament Passage:
Matthew 3:13-4:17
Sermon Outline:
- The place from where shame usually comes
- Darkness replaced by light
- Burden turned to joy
- The burden and rod broken on his shoulder
- To us a Son is given
Family Discussion Questions:
- Jesus was born in Bethlehem, but where was the place where he grew up?
- Was being from Galilee something that people were proud of or embarrassed about?
- What two things made Galilee a place which added to its shame?
- How did light and darkness play a role in Gideon’s victory against Midian?
- What two joyful events does God compare the joy of Christ to?
- Name 4 things which verse 7 reveals about the character of Christ’s kingdom.
- How does the birth of Christ secure all the blessings which are mentioned in this text? (Think of Romans 8).
- Why is it that “justice and righteousness” are presented here as good results of the coming Messiah? How does that shape how we look at the government and the world around us?
- What are the burdens and oppressions which Christ came to break for His people?
- Israel experienced the reigns of good successful kings before, but they did not last for long. What would be different about the reign of the Messiah?
- This prophecy tells of several events which will unfold the salvation of the Messiah. One day we look forward to un-mingled joy. Why is it that we have joy even now as we await that coming day?
