Advent Prophecies - From the Tribe of Judah

The Bible recounts the greatest story ever told. We are exploring some of the Advent prophecies in the Old Testament that point to the birth of Jesus. Remember that God used these prophecies to give whispers of the coming Messiah. Each prophecy is important. Picture the magic of children on Christmas morning for a moment. There is tremendous anticipation and joy as little ones wake up with expectation for what is sitting under their tree. They know there are treasures inside of each gift and they can’t wait to peel open the wrapping paper to find out what is there. A good earthly father and mother find no greater joy than to watch their children open their gifts. Can you imagine how much our heavenly Father must enjoy watching his children seek out his hidden treasures and piece together prophetic mysteries of the Old Testament, coming to realize Jesus is the Messiah? Today’s Advent prophecy is Jesus coming from the tribe of Judah. As Jacob prophesied over his sons, he said the following of Judah: “The scepter shall not depart from Judah, nor the ruler’s staff from between his feet, until tribute comes to him; and to him shall be the obedience of the peoples (Genesis 49:10)." Jacob prophesied to Judah that from his tribe would come one who would be a lion. One with great strength. One who would rule with a scepter. He would be a king. King Jesus came from the tribe of Judah. When he first arrived, Jesus came as a Lamb, meek and mild, in the form of a baby. He was the Lamb of God who would take away the sins of the world. But when he returns one day, Jesus is coming as a lion. He will rule with a scepter, the sign of a great and powerful King. Forever and ever, he will be King of kings and Lord of lords!