Category: Messiah

The Messiah’s Mark

Carl Pollard

28 ways we can show others the influence that Christ has had in our life (Rom. 12:9ff) 

  1. Have genuine love 
  2. Hate evil 
  3. Hold on to what is good 
  4. Love one another 
  5. Outdo each other in showing honor
  6. Have zeal
  7. Fervent spirit 
  8. Serve the Lord 
  9. Rejoice in hope
  10. Be patient in tribulation 
  11. Pray constantly
  12. Contribute to the Saints 
  13. Be hospitable 
  14. Bless your persecutors 
  15. Do not curse your enemies 
  16. Rejoice with those who rejoice 
  17. Weep with those who weep 
  18. Live in harmony 
  19. Don’t be haughty 
  20. Associate with the lowly 
  21. Don’t think too much of yourself 
  22. Don’t repay evil with evil 
  23. Do what is honorable in the sight of everyone 
  24. Live peaceable 
  25. Don’t take revenge 
  26. Care for your enemies 
  27. Don’t let evil overcome you 
  28. Overcome evil with good

“One Will Go Forth”

Neal Pollard

In Matthew’s account of the birth of Jesus, the writer quotes the prophet Micah. This prophet, whose ministry was to both the northern and southern kingdoms (1:1), writes much to warn these divided kingdoms united in sin and rebellion against God. But, he also extends hope for the future. He speaks of One to come, who would come from the same little village the great king David called home (1 Sam. 16:4ff). This coming king would be characterized in several ways, which Micah writes about in Micah 5:

  • From an unlikely place (2)–This coming one would defy men’s expectations. 
  • From the Lord (2)–This coming one would be given from God. 
  • From the days of eternity (2)–This coming one would be God Himself
  • For the purpose of ruling (2)–This coming one would come with authority.
  • For the shepherding of His flock (4)–This coming one would come to lead men.
  • For our peace (5)–This coming one would come for our good. 
  • For deliverance (5-6)–This coming one would come for our salvation. 

As Jesus conducted His earthly ministry, His works and teaching fulfilled over 300 prophesies written down in every major division of the Old Testament books. But there are prophesies, like Micah 5:1-6, which He fulfilled simply by being born and pursuing His ministry. These aspects of His work had to be hopeful and comforting to those with hearts of faith who lived during that time. But, as we look back over two millennia, it still has relevance to us today.  He still defies our expectations, exceeding them. He still is God’s gift for us. He still bears the same nature. He still must be Lord of our lives. He still must be the leader of our lives. He still gives peace. He still delivers. 

As you count your blessings today, look beyond the earthly and material. If there are things going poorly for you right now, be reminded of the greatest blessing of all. Because God loves and cares for us, He sent One forth for us. He accomplished His work and now has returned to the Father’s right hand. At His appointed time, God will send Him forth to judge. Those who have embraced and followed Him will enjoy eternal deliverance. For that, be thankful!

29342598_10155419194005922_4642581449059336192_o