Themes in prophetic books and their relevance to Christmas.

1. Hope and redemption: Many prophetic books speak of a future hope and redemption for God's people. This theme is particularly relevant to Christmas as it is a time when Christians celebrate the birth of Jesus, who is seen as the ultimate fulfillment of these prophetic promises.

2. Justice and righteousness: Prophetic books often call for justice and righteousness in society, particularly for the marginalized and oppressed. This theme is relevant to Christmas as it reminds us of the importance of caring for the poor and vulnerable, just as Jesus did during his time on earth.

3. Messianic prophecies: Many prophetic books contain prophecies about the coming of a Messiah who will bring salvation and deliverance. These prophecies are fulfilled in the birth of Jesus, making them particularly relevant to Christmas.

4. God's faithfulness: Prophetic books often emphasize God's faithfulness to his people, even in the midst of difficult circumstances. This theme is relevant to Christmas as it reminds us of God's faithfulness in sending his Son to save us from sin and death.

5. The coming kingdom of God: Prophetic books frequently speak of a future kingdom of God that will bring peace, justice, and restoration to the world. This theme is relevant to Christmas as it points to the ultimate fulfillment of God's kingdom through the birth, life, death, and resurrection of Jesus.

Prophecy in Isaiah

- Messianic Prophecy: Isaiah foretold the birth of a Messiah who would be a "child born to us" (Isaiah 9:6) and a "branch from the stump of Jesse" (Isaiah 11:1).
- Relevance to Christmas: Jesus Christ's birth in Bethlehem (Matthew 2) fulfills these prophecies, establishing him as the long-awaited Savior.

Prophecy in Jeremiah

- New Covenant: Jeremiah prophesied a "new covenant" between God and his people (Jeremiah 31:31).
- Relevance to Christmas: Jesus Christ's death and resurrection establish the New Covenant, replacing the old law with a covenant of grace and forgiveness.

Prophecy in Ezekiel

- Messianic figure as "shepherd": Ezekiel prophesied about a shepherd who would gather and care for God's scattered people (Ezekiel 34:11-16).
- Relevance to Christmas: Jesus Christ came as the Good Shepherd who lays down his life for his sheep (John 10).

Prophecy in Daniel

- Messianic timing: Daniel predicted the time of the Messiah's coming (Daniel 9:24-27).
- Relevance to Christmas: Jesus Christ was born right around the time predicted by Daniel, showing God's faithfulness in fulfilling his promises.

Prophecy in Zechariah

- Prophecy of the Messiah's triumphal entry: Zechariah prophesied that the Messiah would enter Jerusalem riding on a donkey (Zechariah 9:9).
- Relevance to Christmas: Jesus Christ's triumphal entry into Jerusalem on Palm Sunday (Matthew 21) fulfills this prophecy, signaling his coming as the Messiah.

Themes in Prophetic Books Relevant to Christmas

- Hope and Salvation: The prophetic books offer hope and salvation through the coming of the Messiah. Christ's birth brings redemption and reconciliation from sin.
- Fulfillment of Prophecy: The fulfillment of these prophecies in the birth of Jesus Christ validates his identity as the Son of God and the Savior of the world.
- God's Faithfulness: The prophetic books demonstrate God's unwavering faithfulness in keeping his promises, even through generations.
- Christ's Mission and Identity: The prophecies provide insight into Christ's mission as Messiah, Good Shepherd, and triumphant King.
- Preparation for Christ's Coming: These prophecies helped prepare the way for Christ's coming by creating anticipation and a sense of longing for the Savior.