Where was the pomp and ceremony? Where were the billboards and flashing lights? Where were the parades full of colorfully dressed marchers and floats full of VIPs? Surely, the most anticipated event of the nation would not go unnoticed and uncelebrated.

“And she brought forth her firstborn Son, and wrapped Him in swaddling cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.” Luke 2:7

© Lars Justinen from GoodSalt.com

To humble, unheralded parents, the greatest gift to mankind was entrusted and Luke, with unmatched preciseness, begins to unfold the story of the world’s Redeemer.

“Inasmuch as many have taken in hand to set in order a narrative of those things which have been fulfilled among us, just as those who from the beginning were eyewitnesses and ministers of the word delivered them to us, it seemed good to me also, having had perfect understanding of all things from the very first, to write to you an orderly account, most excellent Theophilus, that you may know the certainty of those things in which you were instructed.” Luke 1:1-4

This quarter we are fortunate to have for our study the Gospel of Luke starting with The Coming of Jesus. From beginning to end it tells the story of Jesus and opens to its readers divine insight and history. Luke, a physician, surely never imagined that he would not only one day write such a history, but that it would endure the test of time and serve as an integral part of the Scriptures.

Each week we will delve more into this sacred history and learn lessons and principles that are applicable today. From the book’s beginnings we see how God is no respecter of persons and how He uses the lowly to accomplish great things.

“For you see your calling, brethren, that not many wise according to the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble, are called. But God has chosen the foolish things of the world to put to shame the wise, and God has chosen the weak things of the world to put to shame the things which are mighty; and the base things of the world and the things which are despised God has chosen, and the things which are not, to bring to nothing the things that are, that no flesh should glory in His presence.” 1 Corinthians 1-26-29

In telling the birth of Jesus, Luke reveals just how misunderstood this oft-talked-about event was. It’s striking that a religious nation, one where all aspects of life were regulated by their faith, could be so oblivious to the fulfillment of the prophecies of their Scriptures.

Over the years their pride and ambition had usurped the high calling they had as a nation. No longer were they looking for a savior to save them from their sins. Instead they were looking for a deliverer to free them from their Roman bondage. How ironic that as they were chafing under another man-made government, they missed the birth of the King of Kings and Lord of Lords.

We often remark about this period of time and wonder how they could be so blind. But if we were honest with ourselves, we might see that we are repeating the same history and are perhaps destined for the same results.

Today, we often seek a savior who can deliver us from the ills and pains of life. Someone whose favor will result in our prosperity. We often see our trials and tribulations as tests to prepare us for bigger blessings and more prosperity.

A Savior from our sins is not usually our primary goal (this may not apply to you). Yes, we would like to live better and be better and to react to life better, but to be delivered from our sins (with all that it entails) does not seem as attractive and desirable. I trust that as we go through this quarter we will have our eyes opened to see more clearly our standing before God through the lens of the Scriptures.

We will investigate the major characters throughout this book – from Zacharias and Elizabeth, Joseph and Mary, to Simeon and Anna. We will gain a sense of the attributes heaven values. And beyond that we have the privilege to study the life of the Saviour of the world. This will be a good quarter!

“Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, goodwill toward men!” Luke 2:14

Here are a few Hit the Mark questions for this week’s lesson discussion:

• Who was the gospel writer Luke?

• What, if anything, does Luke’s selection as a writer of scripture tell us about who God can use in His work?
• Luke 1:6 says that Zacharias and Elizabeth “were both righteous before God.” What does that mean to you?

• Why was the birth of Jesus in such a humble place as opposed to more favorable surroundings?
• Does the fact that Joseph and Mary were of humble means imply that God favors people of lesser means over those with abundance? Explain your answer.
• Is the following statement True, Mostly True, Somewhat True or Not True: Since we have the historical record showing how unprepared the world was to receive the baby Jesus we are less likely to repeat that same failure. Explain your answer.

We close this week with a reminder of why we study the word of God:

“All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.” 2 Timothy 3:16-17

Until next week, let’s all continue to Hit the Mark in Sabbath School!

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