1. In our lesson we are concentrating on the fact that "Jesus came in the flesh." 2. As you know, this subject is receiving a great amount of attention today. 3. Let us begin by pointing out . . .
Discussion:
I. 2 REASONS WHY WE NEED TO STUDY THIS SUBJECT
A. First, we need to study this subject because we are taught in 2 Peter 3:18 to grow in the knowledge of Christ. B. Second, we need to study this subject because much that is believed and taught is not true. 1. According to 1 John 4:1-3, this has been a problem for a long time. a. In the first century some denied that Jesus came in the flesh. b. These people were not "of God" -- they had the "spirit of anti-Christ." 2. In dealing with this false doctrine, John declared very plainly that Jesus did indeed come in the flesh (1 John 1:1-3; John 1:14). C. To know what God wants us to know about His Son's physical existence on earth, we must go to the Scriptures (John 5:39). D. As we study our subject by searching the Scriptures, . . .
II. LET US CONSIDER 3 OLD TESTAMENT PROPHECIES THAT STATED JESUS WOULD COME IN THE FLESH
A. Genesis 3:15 1. God was punishing the serpent for his role in the first sin. 2. Prior to this there was no need for Jesus to come in the flesh. 3. Please note that He would come as "the seed of the woman." B. (Isaiah 7:14) When Jesus came in the flesh, His birth would be miraculous. C. (Micah 5:2) When Jesus came in the flesh, He would be born in Bethlehem. D. With these passages on our minds, . . .
III. LET US OBSERVE THAT THE NEW TESTAMENT SHOWS HOW THESE PROPHECIES WERE FULFILLED
A. According to Galatians 4:4-5, Jesus was "made of a woman" ["when the fullness of the time was come"]. B. According to Matthew 1:18-25, Jesus was born of a virgin. C. According to Matthew 2:1-6, Jesus was born in Bethlehem. 1. The location of Jesus' birth was determined from Micah 5:2. 2. We learn from Luke 2:1-7 why Joseph and Mary were in Bethlehem. D. To summarize, the Scriptures teach that Jesus came in the flesh.
IV. THE BIBLE ALSO REVEALS SOME ADDITIONAL INFORMATION THAT WE NEED TO UNDERSTAND
A. The Scriptures teach that Jesus existed before He came in the flesh. 1. John began his Gospel by showing that Jesus is a member of the eternal Godhead (John 1:1-3). 2. The Lord's coming to earth is explained in: a. Philippians 2:5-11 b. Hebrews 2:16-18. B. During His ministry Jesus explained why He came in the flesh. 1. He came to call "sinners to repentance" (Matthew 9:12-13). 2. He came to "give His life a ransom for many" (Matthew 20:28). 3. He came to "seek and to save that which was lost" (Luke 19:10). 4. He came so we may "have life" and "have it more abundantly" (John 10:10).
Conclusion:
1. By coming in the flesh, Jesus made forgiveness and a home in heaven possible. 2. He now is at the Father's right hand where He serves as our Savior, mediator, advocate, High Priest, and the head of His church. 3. He invites us to come to Him to receive the blessings that He provides (Matthew 11:28-30).
