The Significance of Scripture in the Advent Season
"For unto us a Child is born, unto us a Son is given; and the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace." (Isaiah 9:6)
The season of Advent is a time of preparation and anticipation as we await the celebration of Jesus Christ's birth. Scripture plays a vital role in this season, providing both the historical context and the spiritual significance of this momentous event.
The Historical Context
The Old Testament prophets foretold the coming of a Messiah who would bring salvation and restoration to God's people. Isaiah prophesied about a "child" who would be born to a virgin and would rule as a "mighty God" and "Everlasting Father" (Isaiah 7:14, 9:6). Micah identified the birthplace of this Messiah as Bethlehem (Micah 5:2).
The Spiritual Significance
The birth of Jesus Christ fulfilled these prophecies and marked the beginning of a new covenant between God and humanity. Through his life, death, and resurrection, Jesus brought redemption from sin, reconciled us to God, and gave us the hope of eternal life.
"But when the fullness of time had come, God sent forth His Son, born of a woman, born under the law, to redeem those who were under the law, that we might receive the adoption as sons." (Galatians 4:4-5)
Scripture as a Guide
During Advent, we can use scripture as a guide to reflect on the true meaning of Christmas. By reading and meditating on the biblical accounts of Jesus' birth, we can:
- Renew our faith: The words of the prophets and the Gospels remind us of the promises of God and the hope that we have in Christ.
- Cultivate joy: The birth of Jesus brought great joy to the shepherds and wise men. We can experience that same joy as we celebrate his coming.
- Prepare our hearts: Advent is a time to prepare our hearts for the coming of Christ. Scripture helps us to repent of our sins and to turn our lives toward him.
- Witness to others: The message of Jesus' birth is one that we can share with others, both through our words and our actions.
Scripture is an essential part of the Advent season. It provides the historical context, the spiritual significance, and a guide for our preparation. By embracing the words of scripture, we can deepen our faith, cultivate joy, prepare our hearts, and witness to the transformative power of Jesus Christ.
Frequently Asked Questions about Scripture about Advent
What is the meaning of Advent?
Advent is a season of preparation and anticipation leading up to the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ. It is a time for reflection, prayer, and waiting.
When is Advent celebrated?
Advent begins on the fourth Sunday before Christmas and ends on Christmas Eve.
What are the traditional symbols of Advent?
The traditional symbols of Advent are the Advent wreath, Advent calendar, and Jesse tree.
What are some ways to celebrate Advent?
Some ways to celebrate Advent include attending church services, reading scripture, praying, and participating in Advent traditions such as the Advent wreath and Advent calendar.
What is the significance of the Advent wreath?
The Advent wreath is a wreath with four candles that are lit one by one each Sunday of Advent. The candles represent hope, peace, joy, and love.
What is the significance of the Advent calendar?
The Advent calendar is a calendar with 24 doors that are opened one by one each day of Advent. Each door contains a small treat or a scripture reading.
What is the significance of the Jesse tree?
The Jesse tree is a decorated tree that tells the story of Jesus' family tree. It is a reminder that Jesus is the fulfillment of God's promise to send a savior.
