Unexpected Fulfillment

Luke 1 is marked by two unexpected births. Today, we will consider the unexpected birth of John, who would become known as John the Baptist. Next week, we will consider the unexpected birth that provides the very reason we celebrate Christ, the birth of Christ.

The first advent is aptly described as unexpected. A barren women gives birth to a prophet who would prepare people’s hearts of the coming of the Messiah. God’s sends His Son as the promised Messiah to be miraculously born to a virgin in the little town of Bethlehem. To announce the birth of the Son of God to the world, God sent His angles to lowly shepherds on the hillside, telling them to go and see the baby born in a manger, who would bring joy to the world. Who wrote that script?!

While the first advent was unexpected, it wasn’t that it came out of the blue. God has spoken long ago. It was just that the fulfillment of those promises came about in unexpected ways. As God always does—He works in unexpected ways.

The first advent came about at a time of prolonged waiting and expectation. Israel had returned to the land after the Babylonian exile, but only to languish under the thumb of the Roman Empire.

Luke: An Introduction and Commentary 1. The Infancy Narratives (1:5–2:52)

Prophecy had ceased at the close of the Old Testament period; but now God was sending his Messiah and the prophetic gift was renewed

Luke & Acts Commentary

Thus, John’s task was a significant one in holy history: showing the Jewish people their need for salvation and directing the lost to the forgiveness of sins

How to Trust God In Our Waiting - Luke 1:5-25

In your waiting, don’t allow your circumstances to dictate your walk with God

In your waiting, don’t stop praying

In your waiting, don’t think you’re done growing

What does John have to do with Christmas? - Luke 1:57-80