Ask: How many different roles do you have in your life? Encourage learners to call out some of these roles (such as spouse, parent, grandparent, student, worker, boss). Point out that each role requires something different from us, and is a part of the totality of who we are. Share that God sent His Son to us to fulfill multiple roles. Say: One of these is that God sent His Son Jesus to be Immanuel––to be God with us.
Read Isaiah 7:14-16. Share that the kingdom of Judah was being threatened by outside powers, so the king and the people were desperate for someone to save them. Explain that during these desperate times, God provided reassurance to King Ahaz of His love and provision through Isaiah. Say: God’s assurance included the promise of Immanuel.
Ask: What words and phrases describe the promised Immanuel in verses 14-16? (virgin birth; will eat curds and honey; will reject evil; will choose good) Using information from the biblical commentary, explain the significance of each of these descriptors. Emphasize that when God promised to send Immanuel, He willingly promised what would cost Him the most . . . the one and only Son He had. Say: God’s promise was not an idea that happened in the spur of the moment, but rather, was a part of God’s plan for His created world from the beginning of its creation.
Discuss: How did God’s promise demonstrate His long-term intentions? After responses, emphasize that God’s timing was, and is, perfect.
Read Matthew 21b-23.
Discuss:
Point out that Joseph’s obedience was a crucial part in God fulfilling His plan, birthed before time began, to send Immanuel––“God with us.”