The Arkansas Traveler

THE SHADOW OF THE CROSS

Matthew 1:18-25

INTRO:  The shadow of the cross fell over the manger of Bethlehem. This is revealed in Jesus' life in several ways:

HIS NAME (Mt. 1:21)

   Call him Jesus for He will save his people from their sins.

   Hebrews 9:22 says "… without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness." (See Leviticus 17:11)

   Sin brings judgment. The only way justice can be met is that a perfect one dies for the condemned.

PROPHESY

   Acts 2:23: "This man (Jesus) was handed over to you by God's set purpose and foreknowledge. (See also Acts 3:18)

   I Peter 1:18-20: "… you were redeemed … by the precious blood of Christ … chosen before the creation of the world. "

HIS PURPOSE

   John 12:27: Jesus said, "Now my heart is troubled, and what shall I say? 'Father, save me from this hour'? No, it was for this very reason I came to this hour."

HIS COMMITMENT

   John 4:34: "My food," said Jesus "is to do the will of him who sent me and to finish his work."

   John 5:30: Jesus said, "I seek not to please myself but him who sent me." (See also John 6:38 and John 8:28-29)

   Luke 22:42: Jesus said, "Father, if you are willing, take this cup from me; yet not my will, but yours be done."

CONCLUSION: Jesus came to reveal the love of God and to demonstrate it on the cross. Though we cannot go to the cross for anyone, we too have a purpose and hopefully a commitment to live up to our (his) name.

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