Message Notes

(I) A COMPLEX TEXT

1. Historical reference

a) Sojourn in Egypt in the days of Joseph ( Genesis 47-50 )

b) Slavery in Egypt ( Exodus 1 )

c) Set free from slavery ( Exodus 14-15 )

2. Symbolic significance

a) Prophetic reference ( Hosea 11:1 )

i) Historical significance

ii) Historical ramifications

iii) Failure of Israel after having been so wonderfully redeemed

b) Psalmic reference ( Psalm 68 )

i) Deep appreciation for what God had done in redeeming Israel

ii) Deep gratitude to be felt

iii) Heartfelt worship to be offered to God as a fitting response

c) Gospel reference ( Matthew 2:1-15 )

i) Israel’s history as a mirror of the life of Egypt

ii) Jesus’ escape and sojourn in Egypt reminiscent of Israel’s past

iii) Jesus’ return to the land of Israel as fulfillment of a complex prophecy

(II) CELEBRATING CHRISTMAS WITH AN EVEN DEEPER SENSE OF JOY

1. Amidst turbulence in the world

2. Amidst grave danger

3. Vital lessons to bear in mind

a) God’s relationship to us as His children

b) God’s foreknowledge

c) God’s protection

d) God’s power

e) God’s fulfilment of His word