This Christmas, we’re looking at the promises that led up to Jesus’ arrival and the promises He makes to us in his word, which are sure and steadfast.
From the Garden of Eden to the Red Sea crossing, in exile and even captivity – God was setting the stage for his redemptive plan. God was working, despite his people not seeing it at times.
Finally, that silent night in a dirty stable in Bethlehem, the promise began to take shape tangibly. Heaven’s very best was given to Earth. Jesus robed himself in the form of a man while fully retaining his divinity. His mission was twofold: first, to show God’s people how to live in the reality of God’s Kingdom. Second, to sacrificially give his own life to pay the debt of our sins. He died a criminal’s death, having done no wrong himself.
If that’s all there was to the story, we could safely say God’s ultimate promise was broken.
But it isn’t. Jesus descended into hell, defeated and disarmed the power of death, and rose triumphantly on the third day. Jesus bore the wrath of God, so we wouldn’t have to.
“I am He who lives, and was dead, and behold, I am alive forevermore. Amen. And I have the keys of Hades and of Death.” Revelation 1:18 (NKJV).
This is the ultimate promise, made good. No other promise, agreement or guarantee in all of history can come close to what the Triune God accomplished in his redemptive plan for humanity.
If God fulfilled this incredible promise, then we can believe with unshakable confidence that God will fulfill every other promise in His word.
A promise I cling to, that I find so timely is found in John 16:33. Leading up to this moment, Jesus talks to his disciples about his departure. He washes their feet and talks about his betrayal. I can imagine it being such an anxiety-inducing moment for the disciples. He comforts them by talking about why He must leave them and promises the Holy Spirit – who will remind them of everything He’s taught.
The chapter ends with this promise:
“I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.”
While we may never endure the level of suffering and persecution his disciples faced, we have the great assurance that regardless of the trial we face: Jesus has overcome the world. No political system, set of policies, or wicked ruler can undo what Jesus accomplished. We can take heart, knowing Jesus has won. He’s not the next in line, awaiting His coronation.
He is King.
“I saw in the night visions, and behold, with the clouds of heaven there came one like a son of man, and he came to the Ancient of Days and was presented before him. And to him was given dominion and glory and a kingdom, that all peoples, nations, and languages should serve him; his dominion is an everlasting dominion, which shall not pass away, and his kingdom one that shall not be destroyed.” Daniel 7:13-14 (ESV)
As you dive into God’s word, pay special attention to the promises He makes to his people. They’re more than just quotable Instagram graphics or coffee-mug phrases. God’s promises are sure. When we read them, we should feel incredible hope that the God of all creation cares so deeply for us, that regardless of what life looks like for us on Earth – His word is true and sure. It will never return void.
After all, God is not a man that He should lie.