In this week’s message, we explore the surprising ways God has been pointing to Jesus from the very beginning of Scripture. Through prophecies, promises, and the story of the road to Emmaus, we’re reminded that Christ is the center of God’s plan and the fulfillment of every breadcrumb laid throughout history. Join us as we rediscover the beautiful story of a God who has always been pursuing His people and inviting us into a kingdom built on love, humility, and hope.

Primary Old Testament Texts

• Genesis 45:5–8 — Joseph explaining that God sent him to Egypt to preserve life during the famine. Used to show God working through nations and rulers for His purposes.
• Jeremiah 25:9 — “I will summon… my servant Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon…” Used to illustrate God using foreign empires to discipline Israel.
• Isaiah 45:1 — God calling Cyrus “his anointed” and using him to subdue nations. Referenced to show God working through rulers outside Israel.
• Isaiah 21:2 — “Elam, attack! Media, lay siege!” Used in the context of empires rising and falling under God’s sovereignty.
• Isaiah 49:6 — “I will also make you a light for the Gentiles…” A key verse explaining Israel’s role in bringing salvation to the nations through the Messiah.
• Daniel 2:44 — God establishing a kingdom that “will never be destroyed.” Central to the sermon’s contrast between earthly empires and God’s eternal kingdom.

New Testament References

• The Gospel According to John 18:36 — Jesus: “My kingdom is not of this world.” Used to explain the radically different nature of Christ’s kingdom.
• The Gospel According to Matthew 28:19–20 — The Great Commission: “Go and make disciples of all nations…” Framed as the mission of God’s new kingdom after Christ’s resurrection.
• Acts of the Apostles 2:1–41 — Pentecost, the coming of the Holy Spirit, speaking in many languages, Peter’s sermon, and the baptism of 3,000 people. This is one of the sermon’s central texts.
• Acts of the Apostles 8:26–39 — Philip and the Ethiopian eunuch, especially the eunuch’s question: “Look, here is water. What can stand in the way of my being baptized?” Used to emphasize the inclusive nature of God’s kingdom.
• Psalms 46:1–7 — “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble…” Used to reinforce the permanence and safety of God’s kingdom.