ESOCS Devotional 1 January 2023
TEXT: JEREMIAH 23:1-6
MEMORY VERSE: “When He is King, the people of Judah will be safe, and the people of Israel will live in peace. He will be called ‘The Lord our Salvation” Jeremiah 23:6 GNB
Even in the height of His anger against Israel, God’s last word to His people has always been that of hope, forgiveness and restoration. This shows the extent of His love for His chosen people and children in general (John 3:16). In our text, Jeremiah incorporated this message of hope, as he assured Israel that God would not forget His people, despite their sinfulness that prompted their punishment into captivity. Jeremiah assured the people that God would fulfil His promise to David by raising a righteous Branch at the time of the New Covenant. This righteous Branch will be the light and salvation of mankind.
At the fullness of time (Galatians 4:4), God sent His Son Jesus Christ to reign on the throne of His father David. Although Rome had appointed Herod as king over Israel, he was not a king recognized and sanctioned by God. God the Father would be Israel’s only King ruling from heaven. This would last until the appointed time of the Messiah. Then, He would hand over all authority and power to His Son Jesus Christ, (Matthew 28:18, Daniel 7:13-14). At the present, those who would feed the flock of God on earth (Pastors, Apostles, etc.) would be directed by the authority of the word of Jesus Christ. It is clear, of course, that Jesus is the one now reigning over all things from heaven (John 12:48, Col. 1:18, Phil. 2:10).
In verses 5 and 6 of our text, Jeremiah prophesied that the righteous Branch would reign and prosper. He would execute righteousness and justice on earth (Jer. 33:15). In relation to this prophecy, Zechariah also prophesied the coming of this King of Israel. According to Zechariah, this King would come riding on a donkey, and He will judge with righteousness (Zech. 9:9, Psalms 72:1-4). Yes! Jeremiah prophesied of this King that would reign over all things. Zechariah reaffirmed the reign of this King.
Jesus is indisputably this blessed King who comes in the Name of the Lord (Luke 19:38). He is Christ, our Lord and our King. He is the Redeemer of all the world; the Grand Commander of the entire universe. Oh, come let us adore Him.
- Jesus is the sole authority, and King of kings. Do you agree?
- My Lord, my God, give me the grace to work in obedience to your authority.
FURTHER READING: Isaiah 62:1-12; Philippians 2:3-11; 1 John 1:1-2:6
Read Yesterday’s ESOCS Devotional here
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ESOCS Devotional 1 January 2023
