< Back

Read: Matthew 1:1
Listen: Matthew 1

This is the genealogy of Jesus the Messiah the son of David, the son of Abraham. Matthew 1:1

Matthew proclaims Jesus as the Messiah. The ancient Jews understood the enormous significance of this title. Messiah means “the anointed one.” At that time, they anointed Kings with oil to signify their royal inheritance. By referring to Jesus as the Messiah, Matthew is declaring his kingship. But Jesus is not only the Messiah. He is also the “Son of David.” This is a key reference for the Jewish people. The Son of David is the King promised to them in the Old Testament. His arrival ushers in a new, long-awaited era. He will deliver them from their enemies and reestablish them as a great nation.

The Jews prepared for the Messiah for generations. Yet, Jesus was not who they expected. He was a helpless baby from Nazareth. It may have seemed like he was nothing particularly special. They misunderstood what God promised. God’s plan for the Messiah was more wonderful than they ever could have expected. We may also have misconceptions about Jesus and his role in our lives. This week, we will explore the different facets of Jesus, the Son of David. He is our promised King who leads and protects us with a shepherd’s care and a warrior’s ferocious spirit. He has conquered death, delivered us from evil and will one day return to restore creation. Our hope is secure because he is our long-awaited, forever King.

TODAY: This year, we have been looking for Jesus in the Old Testament, and we’ve seen how all of Scripture points to Jesus. Jesus longs for us to know his complete character. Take a moment to pray and ask God to reveal any misconceptions you have about Jesus. Open your heart to the full character of Jesus and commit to making him Lord of your life today.

JESUS IN THE OLD TESTAMENT:

Read Micah 1. Highlight anything that points to Jesus. Consider how Jesus also pronounces judgment against sin (Matthew 23:34-39).