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'Behold, A Virgin Shall Conceive . . .'
'Prophecy Watch' by Richard T. RitenbaughThe virgin birth of Jesus Christ, as detailed in Matthew 1:18-25 and Luke 1:26-38, 2:4-7, marks a profound fulfillment of prophecy from Isaiah 7:14, which declares that a virgin shall bear a Son named Immanuel. Matthew meticulously presents this event, emphasizing Mary's virginity at conception and throughout her pregnancy, as seen in verses such as Matthew 1:18, where it is noted that before she came together with Joseph, she was found with child of the Holy Spirit, and in verse 23, directly quoting Isaiah's prophecy. This account stands as a cornerstone among other messianic prophecies fulfilled by Jesus, showcasing the miraculous nature of His entry into the world without human orchestration. Luke, with precision and dignity, situates the miraculous birth in a real-world context, focusing not on the uniqueness of the virgin birth itself but on the divinity and purpose of the Son it produced. The narrative underscores that this extraordinary event serves as a means to introduce the Son of God in human form, destined to bring salvation and establish the Kingdom of God on earth. The angel's assurance in Luke 1:37, that with God nothing will be impossible, reinforces the divine power behind this event, prompting Mary's faithful submission to God's will. The prophecy in Isaiah 7:14, part of a broader series of messianic predictions, extends beyond a singular historical context, pointing to both a near and later fulfillment. Though the immediate sign for Ahaz remains undocumented in historical records, the ultimate realization in Jesus as Immanuel underscores the enduring significance of this prophecy. The term used in Isaiah, translated as virgin, aligns with the Greek term in Matthew, affirming the literal virginity intended in the prophecy, making the birth of Immanuel a truly remarkable sign. The focus remains on the extraordinary Son born of a virgin, whose life and works affirm His divine mission.
'Unto Us a Son Is Given'
CGG Weekly by Richard T. RitenbaughThe prophecy of Isaiah 7:14, as recalled in Matthew 1:23, declares, 'Behold, the virgin shall be with child, and bear a Son, and they shall call His name Immanuel,' which is translated, 'God with us.' This name signifies something far greater than the mere event of His birth; it reveals that the Son borne by Mary is God Himself among humanity. The emphasis swiftly moves beyond the virginal conception to the profound truth that this Being, called Immanuel, embodies God dwelling with us, taking human form to fulfill His purpose as the Suffering Servant.
Born of a Woman
'Prophecy Watch' by Richard T. RitenbaughThe prophecy of Isaiah 7:14 declares that a virgin shall conceive and bear a Son, and His name shall be called Immanuel. This prophecy was fulfilled precisely, as Mary, betrothed to Joseph, was found with child of the Holy Spirit before they came together. Mary herself confirmed her virginity, questioning how this could be since she had not known a man. This miraculous conception underscores the unique nature of Immanuel, marking Him as worthy to stand as a High Priest and Mediator before the Father, though not of the tribe of Levi, but according to the order of Melchizedek.
Announcing . . . Christ's Birth!
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughThe blending of paganism with inspired Scripture has degraded and obscured the meaning and glory of what happened in the announcement of Jesus Christ's birth.
Christ Coming in the Flesh
Sermon/Bible Study by Richard T. RitenbaughJohn and other biblical authors emphasize that Jesus Christ came in the flesh as a human being. Jesus had to be fully human to die for human sins.
The Father-Son Relationship (Part Two)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughChrist Himself asserted the superiority of the Father. Jesus serves as the revelator of the great God, providing the only means of access to Him.
The Father-Son Relationship (Part Eight)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughJesus Christ and God the Father are one in spirit and purpose, purposing to draw us toward that same kind of unity that currently exists between them.
The Birth of Jesus Christ (Part One): Annunciation
'Prophecy Watch' by Richard T. RitenbaughWe rarely think about the birth of Jesus except during the Christmas season, when it is abused by traditional notions found nowhere in Scripture.
The Father-Son Relationship (Part Five)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughAlthough Christ is not the Absolute Deity, He is nevertheless the complement of the Father. He had a pre-existence as the God of the Old Testament.
Jesus Is God
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughJesus Christ is the Word, by whom the world was created. He has always interfaced between mankind and the Father, having primacy as our Lord, Master, and Ruler.
Was Jesus Dead?
Herbert W. Armstrong BookletCan God die? Was Jesus really dead, or did only His body die? Was Jesus the Divine One alive during the three days and three nights a body was in the tomb?
The High Christology of Colossians
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughHigh Christology as a doctrinal stance was not enough to prevent the eventual apostasy of those in Asia Minor. Doctrine must produce the right conduct.
A Son Is Given
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughThe names of God reveal His character and attributes, and so also with Jesus. The reasons for Jesus Christ's incarnation are revealed in His names.
Matthew (Part One)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughMatthew wrote his account with the Jews in mind, repeatedly saying, 'This was done to fulfill the prophets,' emphasizing the law and the Kingdom of God.