The essence of Christmas, according to biblical scholar Jeremiah J. Johnston, lies not in elaborate rituals but in the profound obedience of Jesus Christ to God’s will. Johnston highlights Hebrews 10:5-7, which he identifies as Jesus’ first recorded words, as the crux of this understanding. These verses, quoting Psalm 40:6-8, depict a conversation between Jesus and God at the time of the Incarnation, revealing Jesus’ pre-existence and his unwavering commitment to fulfilling God’s divine plan. The words, “Behold, I come to do your will, O God,” encapsulate the core of Jesus’ mission and the true meaning of Christmas. This message underscores the importance of genuine devotion over empty religious practices, a message particularly relevant in a world often preoccupied with outward appearances and superficial traditions.
The historical context of Jesus’ birth further emphasizes the significance of his mission. Johnston paints a picture of a world burdened by the complexities of Late Second Temple Judaism, where God’s commandments had expanded into a cumbersome 613 laws. This legalistic approach to faith, he argues, had transformed religious practice into a mechanical exercise devoid of heartfelt connection with God. Furthermore, the socio-political landscape of the Roman Empire was bleak. A short life expectancy, widespread disease, and rampant slavery were the harsh realities for many, exposing the limitations of the Pax Romana and its failure to deliver true peace. Into this world of spiritual and physical suffering, Jesus entered, offering not another set of rules but a transformative path of obedience to God’s will, a path leading to genuine peace and redemption.
The phrase “in the scroll,” used in Hebrews 10:7, signifies Jesus’ deep reverence for scripture and his unwavering dedication to fulfilling its prophecies. Johnston emphasizes the consistency with which Jesus upheld God’s word, from his first recorded words to his final moments. This unwavering commitment contrasts sharply with the Old Testament sacrifices mentioned in Hebrews, which often lacked genuine faith and heartfelt devotion. Jesus’ sacrifice, unlike the animal sacrifices of the old covenant, was voluntary and wholehearted, a testament to his complete surrender to God’s plan. This distinction underscores the essence of true worship, which lies not in outward performance but in inward faithfulness and sincere devotion.
God, according to Johnston, repeatedly rejects hollow religious acts devoid of genuine devotion. He contrasts the animal sacrifices of the Old Testament with Jesus’ willing self-sacrifice, highlighting the difference between empty ritual and genuine obedience. Jesus’ sacrifice, planned before the foundation of the world, was a fulfillment of God’s eternal will, demonstrating that true worship stems from inward faithfulness rather than outward displays of piety. This profound act of obedience serves as a model for how we should approach our relationship with God, emphasizing the importance of a heart filled with sincere devotion rather than adherence to empty traditions.
As we approach Christmas, Johnston encourages us to reflect on the deeper meaning of Jesus’ words and actions, recognizing that the incarnation, death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus were essential for the atonement of sin and the fulfillment of God’s will. Jesus’ life exemplifies true worship, which involves heartfelt obedience rather than adherence to hollow traditions. He reminds us that this level of devotion is unattainable without God’s grace and the atoning power of Christ’s sacrifice. This message challenges us to move beyond the superficial aspects of Christmas and embrace the core message of Jesus’ life, a message centered on sincere devotion and obedience to God.
During this final week of Advent and as we celebrate Christmas, Johnston urges us to emulate Jesus’ example by offering our lives in sincere devotion to God, expressing His love and peace through our actions, and relying on His strength and guidance. This call to action emphasizes the importance of embodying the spirit of Christmas throughout the year, transforming our lives into a continuous expression of genuine worship and faithful obedience. By focusing on inward transformation and sincere devotion, we can truly celebrate the profound meaning of Christmas and live out the message of love and redemption that Jesus brought to the world.
