We live in a dark world, but there's hope. There is a light at the end of the tunnel. And it's not just a light at the end of the tunnel, it is a light that enlightens everyone. It is a light that brings light to all mankind.

This passage is a very popular Christmas story which has been portrayed in countless plays, musicals, and films. Yet, we often overlook the dramatic suspense that is portrayed in this story. The visit of the magi would have been viewed as a threat by the leaders in first century Israel because it indicated the birth of a king, in fact, the birth of the King.

Joy, peace, and freedom are the three things people want most. These are the human heart's greatest desires, and our deepest needs. And these are the very things God offers the world in the birth of his son, Jesus Christ.

Most Christians fail to realize the massive implications of Matthew quoting Isaiah 7-14 and connecting it to the birth of Christ because we are unfamiliar with the historical context from which this text is taken. Isaiah 7-14 is part of a larger unit of thought that runs from Isaiah chapter 7-11, and has enormous implications regarding the birth of Christ and for the world.

Isaiah 9-6-7 is one of the best loved and best known Christmas passages, but in order to fully understand and appreciate all that is contained in this prophecy and what its fulfillment really means, we have to delve into the historical background of the text.

As Solomon and the nation of Israel dedicate the newly built Temple, he pronounces a benediction upon the people wherein he praises God and then prays for three things for the people, all of which have strong implications for any local congregation.

As the nation of Israel prepares to cross the Jordan River and enter into the Promised Land, Moses offers them some words of encouragement and warning, words that Tapestry Community Church can benefit from as we prepare to enter into our first church building.

Most people fear death. Often even believers approach the end of life with some anxiety. But if we understand what lies ahead for those who have placed faith in Christ, what lies beyond the grave for those who are in union with Christ, we will understand that death is not the end. In fact, for the believer, life, real life, begins at death.

Just as Roman coins bore the image of their creator and thus rightfully belonged to the emperor, so also humans bear the image of their Creator and thus rightfully belong to God. Yet so often Christians are more willing to render to the government what it deserves, and less willing to render to God what he deserves.

The gospel call goes out to everyone, and it is a genuine invitation. However, most will refuse it. Some will respond half-heartedly, flippantly, with a heart that does not fully render to the king the reverence and glory he is due. But few, because of the transforming power of the Holy Spirit, will love Christ and want to honor Christ as the King of kings and the Lord of lords.