Advent in the Old Testament

The Righteous Branch

December 18, 2022 • Ben Kimmell • Isaiah 11:1–10

In Isaiah 11, the prophet encourages God’s people by declaring that even their oppressors will themselves answer to YHWH. The clock is ticking. Judgment is coming. Assyria itself will be destroyed. So while things look bad for God’s people now, there is coming a deliverer, and a day, when God’s Messiah will set all wrongs to right. In this message, Pastor Ben leads us to reflect on the Christmas fulfillment of Isaiah 11 and encourages God’s church to remain faithful, even in the midst of a world that has turned its back on God. The birth of Jesus meant that the curse would be reversed, and God will, one day, restore us to a new Eden.

The Righteous Reign

December 11, 2022 • Ben Kimmell • Isaiah 9:1–7

In Isaiah 9, the prophet encourages the faithful remnant with a vision of a redeemed future for those who trust in the Lord. That future includes the birth of a King who will fulfill David's mandate and reign over the world with wisdom, power, affection, and justice. At Christmas, the celebration of Jesus' birth is a celebration of the coming of the King envisioned by Isaiah.

The Sign of Salvation

December 4, 2022 • Ben Kimmell • Isaiah 7:1–17

While Is. 7.14 is often read during Advent season, the original context of this beloved verse is centered on Ahaz, King of Judah, in about 733 B.C. and a national emergency that forced him to decide whether he would trust in God or not. In the end, his lack of faith was costly for the entire nation. But embedded in this story is a sign that points forward to the ultimate hope of Immanuel, God with us. In this message, Pastor Ben aims to help us to recognize the urgency of faith in God even in the crises of our own lives, all while resting confidently in the Christmas promise of Immanuel.

The Righteous Seed

November 27, 2022 • Ben Kimmell • Genesis 3:1–21

This sermon is the first in our Advent series titled, "Advent in the Old Testament". In this message, Pastor Ben begins preparing us to celebrate Christmas by highlighting the origins of advent even in the darkness of humanity's rebellion against God in the Garden. In the midst of sin and judgment, God promised a Seed that would strike the ancient serpent's head.

Calvary Baptist Church | Perry, FL