2 Samuel 7:1-16; Romans 16:25-27; Luke 1:26-38
Introduction
Today, as we draw near to the celebration of Christmas, let us discuss an incredible truth, "The Good News Comes Closer." Generally speaking, good news is about positive, encouraging, uplifting, desirable, etc. In my Children's Service days, we had a slogan, where the teacher would say, "Good News!" and then we responded: "Christ died and rose again for me and you... Asem papa, Yesu wu scre ma me ene wo" This sums up what we mean by "Good News Comes Closer."
God’s redemptive plan unfolds, bringing hope, peace, and salvation nearer to us with each step. In this session, we’ll reflect on how God’s promises, power, and presence draw closer to humanity through the lens of our three scriptural focus.
The Good News of God’s Promises
In 2 Samuel 7:1-16, we hear of God’s covenant with David. David desired to build a house for the Lord, but God’s response revealed a greater plan. God promised to establish David’s throne forever, declaring, "I will raise up your offspring to succeed you, your own flesh and blood, and I will establish his kingdom." (2 Samuel 7:12). This promise pointed not only to Solomon but ultimately to Jesus Christ, the eternal King.
Jesus came with this Good News to build us so that God could duel in us. "He is the one who will build a house for my Name, and I will establish the throne of his kingdom forever." (2 Samuel 7:13). He has established the eternal Kingdom as long as we are His children; "I will be His Father, and he will be my son." (2 Samuel 7:14).
What does 'Good News' teach us? First, it shows us that God’s promises are unwavering, "For no word [promise] from God will ever fail.” (Luke 1:37). The covenant with David reminds us that God is faithful, even when we are not. It also reveals that God’s plans are bigger and more glorious than our own. David wanted to build a physical house, but God was building a spiritual kingdom that would transform the world.
As we reflect on this, let us remember that the Good News begins with God’s promises—promises fulfilled in Jesus, who reigns forever—for instance, John 3:16, eternal life. The promises of God are "The Good News Comes Closer." Are you trusting in the promises of God, especially in seasons of uncertainty? His Word assures us that His plans are for our good and His glory.
The Good News of God’s Power
The Apostle Paul concludes his letter to the Romans with a doxology that celebrates God’s power to establish us according to the Gospel. "Now to Him who is able to establish you in accordance with my gospel, the message [of the Good News] ... to the only wise God be glory forever through Jesus Christ! Amen." (Romans 16:25, 27)
Here, we see the power of God at work in two ways:
1. Revealing the Mystery: For centuries, God’s redemptive plan was hidden, but in Christ, it was unveiled. "...in keeping with the revelation of the mystery hidden for long ages past, but now revealed and made known through the prophetic writings by the command of the eternal God" (Romans 16:25-26). The coming of Jesus brought clarity and light, demonstrating that salvation is for all people—Jews and Gentiles alike.
The "Good News" reveals God's power to save humanity. Jesus invites you to the saving power of God with open arms: "Come all ye that are heavy laden, and I will give you rest." You are invited to rest in Him. One of the promises God gave to David was "I will also give you rest from all your enemies." (2 Samuel 7:11). It is in this power of the Good News Comes Closer that we receive our rest.
2. Establishing Believers: God’s power doesn’t just save us; He sustains and strengthens us. Through the Gospel, we are rooted and grounded in faith, able to stand firm despite trials.
God establishes His children (cf. John 1:12-13) in accordance with the Gospel, the Good News - the message about Christ. The desire of humanity today for a fulfilled life in wealth creation, popularity, spiritual fortification, authority, power, money, etc. all end up destroying the very foundation of life. Life without Jesus Christ is empty and meaningless. Draw near to the Good News.
As the Good News comes closer, it transforms us. It’s not just a distant story or abstract truth; it’s the power of God at work in us and through us. Precious one, you should allow the Good News to shape your life and draw you closer to God’s purposes?
The Good News of God’s Presence
In the Annunciation, we encounter the angel Gabriel visiting Mary with an astonishing announcement: she will conceive and bear a son, and He will be called Jesus. This moment marks the ultimate nearness of the Good News: God Himself coming to dwell among us - "Immanuel."
Mary’s response of faith, despite her fear and uncertainty, is a powerful example for us. She declares, “I am the Lord’s servant. May your word to me be fulfilled.” Through her obedience, the Word became flesh, and God’s presence entered our world in a new and profound way.
This passage reminds us that the Good News is not just about promises or power; it’s about presence, a Person. Jesus is Immanuel, “God with us.” In Him, the presence of God is no longer confined to a temple or a distant heaven but is as close as our own hearts through the Holy Spirit.
The greatest blessing we can crave as humans should be God's infinite presence. That is what gave David the comfort of his life when he said, "Though I walk through the valley of the shadows of death, I fear no evil for YOU ARE WITH ME." His readiness for any situation in this life was on the ticket of God being with him.
God's presence empowered Moses to lead the children of Israel. God said to Moses, “My Presence will go with you, and I will give you rest" (Exodus 33:14). Immanuel: The Good News comes closer and empowers the Christian leader to weather every storm to bring rest (peace / shalom) to those s/he leads.
Let us be like Mary, open to receiving God’s presence in our lives? The same God who came near to her desires to dwell with us, to walk with us, and to transform us - "Your body is the temple of God."
As we meditate on these truths, let us consider how the Good News is drawing closer to us today.
1. Embrace God’s Promises with an open heart. Trust that His Word is true and His plans are good. Whatever challenges you face, know that God’s promises in Christ are unshakable.
2. Rely on God’s Power to establish you. Allow the Gospel to strengthen and sustain you. Share this power with others by proclaiming the Good News in word and deed.
3. Welcome God’s Presence as your dwelling. Make room for Jesus in your life. Spend time in prayer, Scripture, and worship, inviting Him to draw closer to you each day.
Conclusion
Beloved, the Good News has come closer. In the promises of God, we find hope. In the power of God, we find strength. And in the presence of God, we find peace. This Advent season, let us prepare our hearts to receive Jesus anew, rejoicing that the Good News is not far off but near to us—as near as the air we breathe. Amen.
Shalom aleikhem...
