On the way to Christmas | 2025 #2

December 

The last month of the year has arrived. How do you look back? Sunday, November 30th was the first Sunday of Advent. What does that mean? Advent is a period of about four weeks that precedes Christmas. The word comes from adventus, Latin for “coming”.

In the Bible, the Book of God, much is written about the coming of Jesus to earth. His coming was foretold by prophets. The famous musical piece 'The Messiah' by G.F. Händel is about this. He quotes, among others, the prophet Isaiah, from chapter 9: 

‘For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder; and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.’ (Isaiah 9:6)

‘For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder; and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.’ (Isaiah 9:6)

This prophecy became reality in the birth of Jesus. At Christmas, we remember this. Jesus is the Child who was born. He is the given Son of God. He is the King of the Universe. He was God and lived in heaven and came into the world as a Man in Bethlehem around the beginning of our Western calendar.

What wonderful names He bears. His name is Wonderful, and He truly is. There is no one like Him! His name is Counsellor. He gives counsel through His Word, the Bible. His name is Mighty God. He is the Mighty God who created heaven and earth and still sustains them. He is also the Mighty God because He conquered sin, Satan, and death on the cross. He is the Everlasting Father. He has no beginning and has always existed. He was there before the universe was. He also has no end. Finally, in Isaiah 9:6, He is called the Prince of Peace. He is the King of peace. He makes it possible for people who live in rebellion, war, and enmity with God and others to have peace again with their Creator.

After living on earth for 33 years, Jesus returned to heaven. From there, He prays for and helps all those who need Him and who repeatedly ask Him for forgiveness for their mistakes, shortcomings, and sins. Sins are all deeds, thoughts, and words that are not good. Sins offend God and harm people. Forgiveness brings healing, peace, and rest to the heart. It makes us look forward to the day when Jesus will come to earth for the second time. Then He will come to judge and set all things right. A terrifying day for all God's opponents. A day of wonderful joy for all who belong to God. He will take them to Himself and create a new heaven and a new earth where everything is right and good and peace flourishes. Are you already on His side?

‘The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand; repent, and believe the gospel.’ Mark 1:15

Watch the explanation video about Christmas here! 

Would you like to know more about the Christian faith? Order a free Bible, follow one of our free courses at onlinebijbelcursus.nl or visit one of our locations (during the week, at one of the Sunday gatherings, or an online meeting). You are most welcome!