Embracing Your Kingdom Role | Advent Day 4
Daily Scripture Reading: Malachi 3:1-4
Malachi’s prophecy launched 400 years of prophetic silence. John, the Baptizer, the last prophet under the Law, broke that silence. He fulfilled Malachi’s word as the messenger preparing the way of the Lord. How does this prophecy relate to us today? Let’s look at four points:
- This prophecy mingles the first and second advents (arrivals) of Jesus. Jesus’ first advent was one of mercy and grace where He bore our sin and made us new creations, righteous before God. But, “…He will appear a second time, apart from sin, for salvation.” (Hebrews 9:28) Hallelujah! In John 3:18, Jesus said, “he who does not believe is condemned already.” God’s will is for ALL to be saved. We have the assignment of being ambassadors of reconciliation.
- “Who can endure the day of His coming? And who can stand when He appears?” (Malachi 3:2) If you have received salvation in Christ, YOU CAN STAND! You have been given the gif of righteousness. Hallelujah again!
- Malachi spoke of cleansing and purifying. Hebrews 1:3 says, ‘He by Himself purged our sins.’ Hebrews 10:14 says, ‘by one offering He has perfected forever those who are being sanctified.’ This is the truth about your reborn spirit. The Christian life is about renewing your mind to your identity in Christ. If we identify as sinners, we will sin. If we identify as the righteousness of God in Christ, we will begin to live out of this glorious truth. We are to identify with Jesus.
- “What is the offering that is pleasing to God” in Malachi 3:4? Abraham BELIEVED God. His faith pleased God. Have you believed in Jesus for salvation? Then you please God!
Finally, are you ready for this truth? In Matthew 11:11-12, Jesus said, “he who is least in the Kingdom of Heaven is greater than he”. He was talking about you. Believe the Good News!
Prayer
Thank you for Your wonderful plan of salvation. Help us believe the truths in Your Word about who we are In Christ. This Christmas season, may we have a fresh revelation of Christ in us, the hope of glory. In the matchless name of Jesus. Amen.