Immanuel
Scripture:
Isaiah 7:14; 8:8-10; Matthew 1:22, 23
The virgin will conceive
and give birth to a son,
and will call him Immanuel.
(Isaiah 7:14)
Scripture Reference:
Matthew 28:20;
John 1:14; 14:16;
Ephesians 2:22;
Hebrews 13:5;
Revelation 21:3
Prophet Isaiah once declared the truth of the incarnation with accurate words, even His name was recorded. An unfamiliar name “Immanuel”, Immanuel means, “God is with us” (Isa 7:14; Matt 1:23) and there are two important truths to this name: (1) Christ’s divinity, for He is God. (2) He is the “incarnate”, He came to this world so He could be with us.
Immanuel is not just a name, but also a promise and a blessing. It is the purpose of Christ’s birth. In the Old Testament, God shows his presence among His people by dwelling in the tabernacle. In the New Testament, God came to Earth Himself. And now, His Spirit is with us (Holy Spirit), living in our hearts and never leaves us forever. (John 14:16) The promise of "Immanuel" will be fully fulfilled in the future glory, as John said: “Look! God’s dwelling place is now among the people, and he will dwell with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God” (Rev 21:3). Isn’t the promise of "Immanuel" a re-enactment of the "Garden of Eden"?
How amazing! The Almighty God, the Creator of the universe, promised to be with the insignificant and unworthy people whom He created. What a blessing! How precious indeed! Dear Saints! Let us cherish the promise of "Immanuel".
Meditate
1. "Immanuel"—God is with us. This is the greatest happiness and satisfaction of mankind, and it is also the greatest promise the Lord Jesus brings to us. My friend, no matter what situation you are in now, no matter darkness, difficulty, or depression, don’t doubt, don’t be disappointed, our Lord is the Lord of "Immanuel", through Him, you will find eternal blessings and happiness.
2. The greatest sorrow of mankind is the momentary separation from the Creator because whoever leaves the Lord, he will fall into endless darkness. He may experience fleshly enjoyment in sin, but the final destination is eternal destruction. "Immanuel" is the only hope and gospel for all mankind.
Prayer
Oh God! You are our protection,
our rock of ages,
all of which are included
in the great promise of "Immanuel",
thank you!