A child will be born to us
and shall be called…
the Prince of Peace! (Isaiah 9:6)
It’s true that Christmas has to do with the linage of King David and God’s promise that his kingdom shall endure forever. However, Christ’s kingdom will be more than any kingdom of this world (Jn 18:36). David’s rule, like all earthly kingdoms, disappoints. It’s not the Kingdom of God.
God himself has David step aside when it comes time to build the temple—the place where God’s presence is experienced and celebrated: “You shall not build a house to my name,” God decides, “because you have shed so much blood in my sight on the earth.” David’s kingdom has been won through violence. There is too much blood on his hands. God decides the son of David will build the temple: “A son shall be born to you; he shall be a man of peace. His name shall be Solomon …and he shall build a house for my name. I will establish his royal throne in Israel forever” (1Chron 22:8-9). Yet this son too, along with his temple, will disappoint. The true temple awaits the Eternal Son.
Jesus will declare himself to be the Eternal Temple (Jn 2:21 cf Jn 1:14)—Emmanuel, “God with us.” Christ's Kingdom is different. It will not be won with the sword; but, with the peace of Christmas morning.
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