God starts a family in the midst of a dark, corrupt world and begins to shed light on his marvelous plan of redemption. Through Abraham, Isaac and Jacob (Israel) God would start a family and make three distinct promises to the world concerning His Son, Jesus. Throughout God’s relationship with Israel he raises up prophets who speak of Christ, specifically his work in saving us. Israel’s journey out of Egypt through the wilderness and into the Promised Land also speaks of our journey and redemption back to the Garden.

Scriptures:

• Acts 3:18
• Acts 3:21

Think about this -

1. If Israel was (and still is) God’s family through whom the promises of the Gospel have come to the world, what should our heart posture be towards these people?
2. Think about being in God’s family. What does it mean for us if we have been born into his family? If God is our Father, how should we relate to him?
3. How does your understanding of the Gospel change knowing that God promised Jesus as our Messiah, High Priest and Bridegroom through Israel…and that there are three distinct promises concerning Jesus that make up the Gospel? How will this affect how you share the Gospel?