One may find it odd that Luke includes a mention of Jesus’ circumcision in the narrative of His childhood, even if in passing. However, modern readers must understand that during the Old Testament period, it was customary for males among God’s people to be circumcised on the eighth day according to the law as a covenant sign (Gen. 17:12).
What does a covenant sign signify? In Genesis 17, God promised that Abraham would become the father of many nations. Circumcision was a sign to remember God’s promise to Abraham and the covenant that God made with Israel. Thus, circumcision was a physical expression of faith in God and a reminder of His promises. Each generation of Israelites would be a testament to the faithfulness of God. Luke seems to have noted this in passing, but it is important because it tells the reader that Jesus was born under the law and therefore identified with God’s people (Gal. 4:4). More importantly, we understand that Jesus fulfilled the law (every bit of it) as the only perfectly faithful descendant of Abraham. Every law was fulfilled. Now we can look to Jesus and say, “God has fulfilled His promise.”*
Tips for Teaching This Week’s Session of The Gospel Project for Adults
Every week for Volume 4: From Captivity to the Wilderness, Ken Braddy, Lifeway’s director of Sunday School, will offer guidance to help leaders prepare to lead and teach each session of The Gospel Project for Adults.
Podcast (adultsleadertraining): Play in new window | Download
Tips for Teaching This Week’s Session of The Gospel Project for Students
Every week, student ministry leaders offer guidance to help leaders prepare to lead and teach each session of The Gospel Project for Students. Listen in as he shares:
- The main point of the session
- Any challenges and opportunities for additional discussion that may arise during this session
- Encouragements for leaders
Podcast (studentsleadertraining): Play in new window | Download
A Final Reminder
Don’t forget, you can find tools to help you prepare and lead the discussion in the Additional Resources for this volume. We hope these are a blessing to you as you walk through this session together.
*This week’s leader devotional is written by Matt Capps. It is adapted from the devotions for Unit 19, Session 4 from The Gospel Project for Adults’ Daily Discipleship Guide.
