Advent
A salvation broader than we know (Matt 1:21)
Matt 1:18-25 Matthew’s Gospel focuses from the very beginning on Jesus’s mission to save from sin. But what does this expression mean? Obviously, atonement for sin and forgiveness are central to it. As an OT scholar, however, I cannot help…
The hidden centre of Christmas (Matt 2:19–23)
In this season of Advent, I am reflecting on the prophecies that Matthew cites in telling about Jesus’s birth. Matt 2:19-23 As Christmas approaches, Santa parades, images of Father Christmas, of reindeers and snow abound (rather incongruous in New Zealand…
Hope in tragedy (Jer 31:15; Matt 2:16-18)
In this season of Advent, I am reflecting on the prophecies that Matthew cites in telling about Jesus’s birth. Jer 31:15; Matt 2:16-18 Christmas is meant to be a season of joy, but instead of the most wonderful time of…
God’s true Son (Matt 2:13-15; Hos 11:1)
In this season of Advent, I am reflecting on the prophecies that Matthew cites in telling about Jesus’s birth. Matt 2:13-15; Hos 11:1 One Christmas on returning home after a semester of theological study, I felt particularly vulnerable. I can’t…
A God of surprises (Mic 5:2 and Matt 2:1-6)
In this season of Advent, I am reflecting on the prophecies that Matthew cites in telling about Jesus’s birth. Mic 5:2; Matt 2:1-6 During my time at Bible college (seminary for US readers), a classmate was planning a summer placement…
God with us – part II (Matt 1:18-25 and Isa 7)
In this season of Advent, I am reflecting on the prophecies that Matthew cites in telling about Jesus’s birth. Matt 1:18-25, Isaiah 7:1-25 In my last post, I explored the story of Ahaz and the choice he had between entrusting…
God with us – part I (Isa 7:1-16; Matt 1:22-23)
In this season of Advent, I am reflecting on the prophecies that Matthew cites in telling about Jesus’s birth. Isa 7:1-16; Matt 1:22-23 As Christmas approaches, we often find ourselves torn between wanting to prepare for the season spiritually but…