Between Advents Pt 1 "Darkness and Light"

The first lesson in our three-part Advent series, "Between Advents." Before we can truly appreciate the miracle of Christmas, we need to understand the depth of darkness that covered the world after the Fall. In this teaching, we journey from the Garden of Eden through thousands of years of anticipation, exploring how sin brought spiritual blindness, moral confusion, and death to humanity—but also how God immediately promised a Redeemer who would crush the serpent and bring light to those dwelling in darkness. We'll examine the stunning prophecies of Isaiah, Micah, and other prophets who painted an increasingly detailed picture of the coming Messiah, and we'll meet the faithful remnant like Simeon and Anna who refused to give up hope during 400 years of prophetic silence.

This lesson will help you enter into the Advent season with renewed appreciation for what Christ's birth truly means. We'll explore Genesis 3:15 (the first gospel promise), Isaiah's prophecies about the child who would be called "Mighty God" and "Prince of Peace," and the specific details God revealed about the Messiah's birthplace, lineage, suffering, and ultimate victory. Join us as we cultivate the same desperate longing for the Light that God's people felt for generations—because when we truly understand the darkness, the Light becomes infinitely more precious.