December 25, 2023 • 10 mins
Episode Title: Emmanuel: God with Us (Matthew 1:23)
Key Points:
- Today's episode celebrates Christmas and explores the profound meaning of "Emmanuel," which means "God with us."
- The name "Emmanuel" was prophesied centuries before Jesus' birth and signifies the breaking down of barriers between God and humanity.
- God's presence in our lives offers comfort, reassurance, empowerment, compassion, clarity, hope, and a deeper connection to him and others.
- We can share the gift of God's presence through prayer, introspection, acts of kindness, support, forgiveness, sharing our stories, living out the Golden Rule, and letting our light shine through our deeds.
Call to Action:
- Embrace the gift of God's presence in your life.
- Share the gift of God's presence with others through your actions and words.
- Connect with the Walking in His Word community online to share your experiences and continue walking in his word with others.
Links:
Join us on this faith-filled journey, and don't forget to follow us on Instagram and visit our website for more inspiration and resources:
🌐 [Website] www.walkinginhisword.com
📷 [Instagram] https://www.instagram.com/walkinginhiswordpodcast
📷 [Facebook] https://www.facebook.com/walkinginhiswordpodcast
Mark as Played
Transcript
Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
(00:02):
Greetings, friends.
Welcome back to Walking In His Word.
I'm your host Jason Gohl, and I'm
so grateful you've joined me.
As we dive into the depths of Scripture,
discovering his timeless wisdom
and applying his teaching
to our daily lives.
Over the next week,
we'll embark on a special journey
leading up to Christmas Day.
Before we begin today's episode,
I'd like to invite you to subscribe
to the podcast
wherever you listen and share
the joy with family and friends.
(00:23):
You can also join our online community
at Walking in his workshop.
So sit back and relax
as we dive into the special
meaning of Christmas.
And let's keep walking in his word
together.
Today, on this blessed Christmas Day,
we gathered to celebrate
the most extraordinary gift
ever bestowed upon humanity,
the gift of God's presence
in the quiet of a Bethlehem major,
(00:44):
a prophecy
whispered for centuries
found its fulfillment.
God in his infinite love,
chose to dwell among us,
not in a distant, ethereal realm,
but within the very fabric
of our human existence.
Today,
we dive into the core
of the Christmas message,
exploring the profound
meaning of Emanuel, which translates God.
(01:07):
Thus, let's look at Matthew 123,
which proclaims,
Behold, the Virgin shall conceive
and bear a son,
and they shall call his name Emmanuel,
which means God with us.
This simple statement
carries immense weight.
It signifies
the breaking down of barriers,
the dissolving of the distance
between divine and human God.
(01:28):
The Creator of all that exists
chose to experience
life in its entirety,
to share in our joys,
our sorrows,
our triumphs, and also in our failures.
So let's begin by unwrapping the true
meaning of Emmanuel,
a word that transcends
just the literal translation of God.
With us first.
First, we look at the historical context.
Centuries before
Jesus's birth,
the Prophet Isaiah
(01:48):
spoke of the coming Messiah,
a divine figure
who would walk with men
and bridge the gap
between heaven and earth.
This promise
resonated deeply with people
yearning for hope and deliverance.
And when Jesus arrived
fulfilling this prophecy,
the name Emmanuel embodied
the culmination of God's
long awaited presence among his people.
(02:09):
Isaiah 714
says,
Therefore, the Lord himself
will give you a sign.
Behold, the Virgin shall conceive
and bear a son,
and shall call this theme.
Emmanuel,
This verse from Isaiah
is is being quoted here
in Matthew 123 centuries before
Jesus's birth.
Isaiah spoke
with the same exact words
and clearly prophesied
(02:30):
the coming of a messiah,
a child born of a virgin
and named Emmanuel,
which means God with us.
This prophecy
set the stage
for the significance of Jesus's arrival
in the fulfillment of God's
promise to dwell among his people.
Micah five two says.
But you old Bethlehem, after two
who are little to be among
the claims of Judah from
(02:51):
you shall come forth for me, one
who is to be ruler in Israel,
whose going forth
from a fold and the days
from the days of eternity.
This verse from Micah further
emphasized the historical context
of Emmanuel
by predicting the Messiah's
birthplace, Bethlehem.
It connects Jesus's arrival
to a lineage of past kings and prophets
(03:12):
and anchors him
within the history of Israel
and solidifies
his role as the long awaited deliverer.
These verses provide a foundation
for understanding
the significance
of Emmanuel
and Jesus's role
in fulfilling the prophecies
of the Old Testament.
They demonstrate that
the concept of God
dwelling with his people
was not a new idea,
(03:33):
but rather the culmination of a long
standing promise and deeply held
hope among the people.
Theologians have explored
not just the historical context,
but the theological implications
of Emmanuel for centuries,
And some emphasized
the mystery of the incarnation,
the Union of God and Man
in the Person of Jesus.
Others
highlight the transformative power
of God's dwelling among us,
(03:53):
bringing about a new creation and renewed
relationship between humanity
and the Divine.
Beyond theological interpretations,
though,
the word Emmanuel
speaks to our individual hearts.
What does it mean to you
that God is with you?
How does this belief
impact your daily life?
Do you experience God's
(04:15):
presence in moments
of joy, peace and wonder?
Do you find him
even in dark times of darkness
or struggle and doubt?
For me,
Emmanuel means that
I am never truly alone,
no matter what challenges they face,
God is always by my side,
offering support, strength and guidance.
This belief is anchored me
through life's storms
(04:36):
and fuels my faith
as I journey through this life.
It reminds me that even
in the darkest moments, his love
shines brightly and illuminates
the path forward.
By exploring the historical context,
some theological interpretations
and personal reflections
associated with Emmanuel,
we can gain a deeper understanding
(04:57):
of this powerful message.
It allows us to move
beyond the literal translation,
embrace the implications
of God's presence in our daily lives.
The gift of God with us
isn't just a theological concept.
It has real, tangible implications
for our everyday lives.
His presence offers
a multitude of blessings
impacting us in profound ways.
(05:18):
First of all, we have unwavering comfort
and reassurance
when life throws us curveballs.
Knowing that God is always by our side
offers comfort when facing struggles,
navigating difficult decisions
are experiencing grief and loss.
We can find solace in the belief
that we are never truly alone.
He is our constant companion,
offering guidance and strength
(05:39):
through the everyday storms.
God's presence
empowers us to overcome challenges
and pursue our dreams.
He instills within us courage
to face
our fears,
persevere through setbacks
and rise above limitations.
Knowing that God believes in us
gives us confidence
to tackle any obstacle
and reach our full potential.
(05:59):
His presence cultivates
compassion and understanding within us.
We become more sensitive
to the needs of others,
fostering empathy and desiring to serve
and support those around us.
This leads to a stronger
relationships, deeper connections,
and a sense of community
built upon shared love and respect.
When we face
difficult choices, God's presence
provides clarity and direction.
(06:20):
He speaks to us
through Scripture, prayer,
and the wisdom of others,
guiding our steps
in, illuminating the path ahead.
We learn to trust his timing and discern
his will for our lives.
Finding peace
and purpose in his guidance,
and even in the face of darkness
and despair.
God's presence
offers an unfailing,
unshakable, unwavering hope.
He reminds us
that his love endures forever
(06:42):
and that nothing can separate us
from his care.
His hope sustains us during trials,
motivates us through challenges
and allows us to face the future
with optimism and faith.
The wonderful promise
from Hebrews 13, verse
five The end of the verse.
He says, I will never leave you.
I will never forsake you.
Romans 831 Another encouraging verse.
(07:03):
What then, shall we say
in response to these things?
If God is for us, who can be against us?
So let's get specific
about how we can share the gift of God's
presence in our everyday lives.
First of all,
take the time for quiet prayer
and introspection.
Ask yourself,
How is God present in my life right now?
Reflecting on your personal experiences,
deepens your connection
(07:25):
and provides insights
you can share with others.
What is my connection to God?
With us right now
is he with me right now?
And how is he with me right now?
Another one Just practice simple
acts of kindness, a kind word,
a helping hand, a listening ear.
These go a long way.
And I've been saying these a lot
throughout the episodes
because they really apply to everything.
(07:46):
A kind word,
a helping hand, be a good human.
Show love and compassion to others.
These are small gestures,
but they have big impacts.
They reflect the love and compassion
of God
and remind others
that they are seen, valued and cared for.
Offer support
and comfort to other people
during their challenges
or during their difficulties.
Be present for them.
(08:07):
Maybe it's a listening ear
or a shoulder to cry on.
Or maybe there's practical experience
or assistance that can be provided.
Your support
and presence
can be a tangible manifestation
of God's love and grace
for that person as well.
Another way
we are mindful of God's presence,
God with us is to embrace forgiveness.
Holding onto anger and resentment
only hurts ourselves,
(08:27):
and others
choose to forgive those who have wronged
you just as God forgive us.
This act of release
brings peace, brings healing
both within ourselves
and in our relationships.
We can also share our story with others.
You don't need to be
a professional preacher
to share the impact of God in your life.
Talk openly and honestly
about your experiences.
Some of the challenges you've overcome
(08:47):
and the joy you found through faith.
Your authentic testimony
can inspire others
and plant seeds of hope in other ways.
Live out the Golden Rule.
This seems obvious,
but treat others with the same respect,
kindness, and compassion
that you desire for your.
So this principle is rooted
in the teachings of Jesus,
is rooted
in our relationship
with others, and embodies
the essence of God's love
(09:08):
and serves as a guiding light
for our daily interactions.
Remember, sharing the gift of God's
presence doesn't require
grand gestures or elaborate plans.
It's about incorporating
small acts of love,
kindness, and compassion
into your daily life,
wherever you are, whoever you encounter,
and whenever you do it.
By doing so,
you become a beacon of God's
presence in the world,
(09:29):
inspiring others to make a difference.
One step at a time.
Matthew 516 says In that same way,
let your light shine before others,
that they may see your good deeds
and glorify your father in heaven.
Let your light shine
that they can see the Father in heaven
through you and your good deeds.
So as we celebrate this Christmas gift,
(09:51):
let the profound truth of Emmanuel
God with us,
resonate in our hearts and minds.
Embrace the gift of God's presence.
Today,
we cherish the gift of His presence,
allowing us
to guide our steps, shape
our actions, and transform our lives,
and let the light of Christ shine
through us, but bring hope.
Let it bring joy and love to the world.
(10:12):
So merry Christmas to you all.
And may God bless you abundantly.
Thank you for joining us
and walking in his word
as we celebrate the holidays together,
we have a lessons learned and stories
shared inspired you
to spread joy, peace
and love throughout this holiday
season and beyond.
Remember, the spirit of giving
doesn't have to end with the holidays.
You can connect with us online
and walking in his word
(10:33):
that com to share your experiences
and to continue to walk in his word
with others.
So until next time,
may God bless you
and fill your holidays
with happiness and love and
keep walking in his word.
Greetings, friends.
Welcome back to Walking In His Word.
I'm your host Jason Gohl, and I'm
so grateful you've joined me.
As we dive into the depths of Scripture,
discovering his timeless wisdom
and applying his teaching
to our daily lives.
Over the next week,
we'll embark on a special journey
leading up to Christmas Day.
Before we begin today's episode,
I'd like to invite you to subscribe
to the podcast
wherever you listen and share
the joy with family and friends.
(00:23):
You can also join our online community
at Walking in his workshop.
So sit back and relax
as we dive into the special
meaning of Christmas.
And let's keep walking in his word
together.
Today, on this blessed Christmas Day,
we gathered to celebrate
the most extraordinary gift
ever bestowed upon humanity,
the gift of God's presence
in the quiet of a Bethlehem major,
(00:44):
a prophecy
whispered for centuries
found its fulfillment.
God in his infinite love,
chose to dwell among us,
not in a distant, ethereal realm,
but within the very fabric
of our human existence.
Today,
we dive into the core
of the Christmas message,
exploring the profound
meaning of Emanuel, which translates God.
(01:07):
Thus, let's look at Matthew 123,
which proclaims,
Behold, the Virgin shall conceive
and bear a son,
and they shall call his name Emmanuel,
which means God with us.
This simple statement
carries immense weight.
It signifies
the breaking down of barriers,
the dissolving of the distance
between divine and human God.
(01:28):
The Creator of all that exists
chose to experience
life in its entirety,
to share in our joys,
our sorrows,
our triumphs, and also in our failures.
So let's begin by unwrapping the true
meaning of Emmanuel,
a word that transcends
just the literal translation of God.
With us first.
First, we look at the historical context.
Centuries before
Jesus's birth,
the Prophet Isaiah
(01:48):
spoke of the coming Messiah,
a divine figure
who would walk with men
and bridge the gap
between heaven and earth.
This promise
resonated deeply with people
yearning for hope and deliverance.
And when Jesus arrived
fulfilling this prophecy,
the name Emmanuel embodied
the culmination of God's
long awaited presence among his people.
(02:09):
Isaiah 714
says,
Therefore, the Lord himself
will give you a sign.
Behold, the Virgin shall conceive
and bear a son,
and shall call this theme.
Emmanuel,
This verse from Isaiah
is is being quoted here
in Matthew 123 centuries before
Jesus's birth.
Isaiah spoke
with the same exact words
and clearly prophesied
(02:30):
the coming of a messiah,
a child born of a virgin
and named Emmanuel,
which means God with us.
This prophecy
set the stage
for the significance of Jesus's arrival
in the fulfillment of God's
promise to dwell among his people.
Micah five two says.
But you old Bethlehem, after two
who are little to be among
the claims of Judah from
(02:51):
you shall come forth for me, one
who is to be ruler in Israel,
whose going forth
from a fold and the days
from the days of eternity.
This verse from Micah further
emphasized the historical context
of Emmanuel
by predicting the Messiah's
birthplace, Bethlehem.
It connects Jesus's arrival
to a lineage of past kings and prophets
(03:12):
and anchors him
within the history of Israel
and solidifies
his role as the long awaited deliverer.
These verses provide a foundation
for understanding
the significance
of Emmanuel
and Jesus's role
in fulfilling the prophecies
of the Old Testament.
They demonstrate that
the concept of God
dwelling with his people
was not a new idea,
(03:33):
but rather the culmination of a long
standing promise and deeply held
hope among the people.
Theologians have explored
not just the historical context,
but the theological implications
of Emmanuel for centuries,
And some emphasized
the mystery of the incarnation,
the Union of God and Man
in the Person of Jesus.
Others
highlight the transformative power
of God's dwelling among us,
(03:53):
bringing about a new creation and renewed
relationship between humanity
and the Divine.
Beyond theological interpretations,
though,
the word Emmanuel
speaks to our individual hearts.
What does it mean to you
that God is with you?
How does this belief
impact your daily life?
Do you experience God's
(04:15):
presence in moments
of joy, peace and wonder?
Do you find him
even in dark times of darkness
or struggle and doubt?
For me,
Emmanuel means that
I am never truly alone,
no matter what challenges they face,
God is always by my side,
offering support, strength and guidance.
This belief is anchored me
through life's storms
(04:36):
and fuels my faith
as I journey through this life.
It reminds me that even
in the darkest moments, his love
shines brightly and illuminates
the path forward.
By exploring the historical context,
some theological interpretations
and personal reflections
associated with Emmanuel,
we can gain a deeper understanding
(04:57):
of this powerful message.
It allows us to move
beyond the literal translation,
embrace the implications
of God's presence in our daily lives.
The gift of God with us
isn't just a theological concept.
It has real, tangible implications
for our everyday lives.
His presence offers
a multitude of blessings
impacting us in profound ways.
(05:18):
First of all, we have unwavering comfort
and reassurance
when life throws us curveballs.
Knowing that God is always by our side
offers comfort when facing struggles,
navigating difficult decisions
are experiencing grief and loss.
We can find solace in the belief
that we are never truly alone.
He is our constant companion,
offering guidance and strength
(05:39):
through the everyday storms.
God's presence
empowers us to overcome challenges
and pursue our dreams.
He instills within us courage
to face
our fears,
persevere through setbacks
and rise above limitations.
Knowing that God believes in us
gives us confidence
to tackle any obstacle
and reach our full potential.
(05:59):
His presence cultivates
compassion and understanding within us.
We become more sensitive
to the needs of others,
fostering empathy and desiring to serve
and support those around us.
This leads to a stronger
relationships, deeper connections,
and a sense of community
built upon shared love and respect.
When we face
difficult choices, God's presence
provides clarity and direction.
(06:20):
He speaks to us
through Scripture, prayer,
and the wisdom of others,
guiding our steps
in, illuminating the path ahead.
We learn to trust his timing and discern
his will for our lives.
Finding peace
and purpose in his guidance,
and even in the face of darkness
and despair.
God's presence
offers an unfailing,
unshakable, unwavering hope.
He reminds us
that his love endures forever
(06:42):
and that nothing can separate us
from his care.
His hope sustains us during trials,
motivates us through challenges
and allows us to face the future
with optimism and faith.
The wonderful promise
from Hebrews 13, verse
five The end of the verse.
He says, I will never leave you.
I will never forsake you.
Romans 831 Another encouraging verse.
(07:03):
What then, shall we say
in response to these things?
If God is for us, who can be against us?
So let's get specific
about how we can share the gift of God's
presence in our everyday lives.
First of all,
take the time for quiet prayer
and introspection.
Ask yourself,
How is God present in my life right now?
Reflecting on your personal experiences,
deepens your connection
(07:25):
and provides insights
you can share with others.
What is my connection to God?
With us right now
is he with me right now?
And how is he with me right now?
Another one Just practice simple
acts of kindness, a kind word,
a helping hand, a listening ear.
These go a long way.
And I've been saying these a lot
throughout the episodes
because they really apply to everything.
(07:46):
A kind word,
a helping hand, be a good human.
Show love and compassion to others.
These are small gestures,
but they have big impacts.
They reflect the love and compassion
of God
and remind others
that they are seen, valued and cared for.
Offer support
and comfort to other people
during their challenges
or during their difficulties.
Be present for them.
(08:07):
Maybe it's a listening ear
or a shoulder to cry on.
Or maybe there's practical experience
or assistance that can be provided.
Your support
and presence
can be a tangible manifestation
of God's love and grace
for that person as well.
Another way
we are mindful of God's presence,
God with us is to embrace forgiveness.
Holding onto anger and resentment
only hurts ourselves,
(08:27):
and others
choose to forgive those who have wronged
you just as God forgive us.
This act of release
brings peace, brings healing
both within ourselves
and in our relationships.
We can also share our story with others.
You don't need to be
a professional preacher
to share the impact of God in your life.
Talk openly and honestly
about your experiences.
Some of the challenges you've overcome
(08:47):
and the joy you found through faith.
Your authentic testimony
can inspire others
and plant seeds of hope in other ways.
Live out the Golden Rule.
This seems obvious,
but treat others with the same respect,
kindness, and compassion
that you desire for your.
So this principle is rooted
in the teachings of Jesus,
is rooted
in our relationship
with others, and embodies
the essence of God's love
(09:08):
and serves as a guiding light
for our daily interactions.
Remember, sharing the gift of God's
presence doesn't require
grand gestures or elaborate plans.
It's about incorporating
small acts of love,
kindness, and compassion
into your daily life,
wherever you are, whoever you encounter,
and whenever you do it.
By doing so,
you become a beacon of God's
presence in the world,
(09:29):
inspiring others to make a difference.
One step at a time.
Matthew 516 says In that same way,
let your light shine before others,
that they may see your good deeds
and glorify your father in heaven.
Let your light shine
that they can see the Father in heaven
through you and your good deeds.
So as we celebrate this Christmas gift,
(09:51):
let the profound truth of Emmanuel
God with us,
resonate in our hearts and minds.
Embrace the gift of God's presence.
Today,
we cherish the gift of His presence,
allowing us
to guide our steps, shape
our actions, and transform our lives,
and let the light of Christ shine
through us, but bring hope.
Let it bring joy and love to the world.
(10:12):
So merry Christmas to you all.
And may God bless you abundantly.
Thank you for joining us
and walking in his word
as we celebrate the holidays together,
we have a lessons learned and stories
shared inspired you
to spread joy, peace
and love throughout this holiday
season and beyond.
Remember, the spirit of giving
doesn't have to end with the holidays.
You can connect with us online
and walking in his word
(10:33):
that com to share your experiences
and to continue to walk in his word
with others.
So until next time,
may God bless you
and fill your holidays
with happiness and love and
keep walking in his word.
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