Thoughts from The Bible

Thoughts from the Bible

Tuesday, 09 January 2024 13:38

The Purpose
by Cody Anderson Corinth Baptist Missionary Church

Advent, a sacred season preceding Christmas, beckons believers into a profound journey of anticipation and revelation—a time woven with the threads of ancient promises and divine fulfillment. It stands as a testament to God’s grand design for redemption and liberation, encompassing the purpose of Christ’s arrival—to save the lost, grant sight to the blind, and set the captive free.
The heart of Advent resonates with the prophet Isaiah’s words: “The Spirit of the Lord God is upon me, because the Lord has anointed me to bring good news to the poor; he has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to those who are bound,” (Isaiah 61:1, ESV). These words echo the mission Christ fulfilled—a mission of hope, life, and freedom for all.

At the core of Advent’s theological essence lies Christ’s purpose to save the lost. His declaration, “For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost,” (Luke 19:10, ESV) epitomizes the redemptive love of God, extending salvation to humanity through His Advent.

Moreover, Advent embodies Christ’s mission to grant spiritual sight to the blind. Yes, He did come and heal physically blind people, but those were events to prove His divinity to give spiritual sight. In declaring, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness but will have the light of life,” (John 8:12, ESV), Jesus brings illumination to the path of understanding and spiritual clarity, fulfilling the prophecy of enlightening those in darkness.

Christ’s mission to liberate the captive is central to Advent’s theological significance. Paul’s affirmation, “For freedom Christ has set us free; stand firm therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery” (Galatians 5:1, ESV), echoes the promise of freedom from the bondage of sin and spiritual captivity through Christ’s redemptive work.
Advent invites believers to reflect on the past and the anticipation of Christ’s promised return. Jesus foretold, “And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you to myself, that where I am you may be also,” (John 14:3, ESV). This Advent, we prepare to commemorate His birth and anticipate His second coming, which signifies the ultimate fulfillment of God’s redemptive plan.

As we journey through Advent, contemplate the significance of Christ’s arrival. The purpose is to bring hope, healing, and liberation to a broken world. This season becomes a time of introspection and readiness, aligning our hearts to welcome the embodiment of God’s redemptive love. Has Christ brought hope, peace, joy, and love in you? Have you been found, given sight, and set free from the punishment of your sin? If not, believe in the works of Christ for your salvation. Trust in the Father’s faithfulness to accept the Son’s sacrifice.

May this Advent be a time of deep reflection on the profound purpose of Christ’s coming—to save, enlighten, and liberate. Let us prepare our hearts to welcome the embodiment of God’s redemptive love and eagerly anticipate the fulfillment of His promise—a promise of eternal restoration and liberation through Christ’s return.