Many Jewish people are surprised to learn that Hanukkah is mentioned in the New Testament, specifically in John chapter 10. While Jewish tradition does not typically view the New Testament as Scripture, it was through reading it that I came to understand that Jesus was Jewish, celebrated Jewish holidays, and fulfilled the promises found in the Hebrew Scriptures. The Gospels felt like “part two” of God’s story—revealing how His ancient promises to Israel and the nations are fulfilled in the Messiah.
The Bible tells one seamless, magnificent account of redemption. The apostle John writes, “And the Word became flesh, and dwelt among us . . . full of grace and truth” (John 1:14). The prophets foresaw this miracle centuries earlier. Isaiah declared that a child would be born who would be called Immanuel—God with us—and later described the Messiah as Mighty God and Prince of Peace (Isaiah 7:14, 9:6–7).
I came to believe, and still proclaim with joy, that Jesus is God wrapped in human flesh—the promised Son of David and Savior of the world. His incarnation reveals God’s immense love and the great cost He paid to rescue us from sin and death. Just as the prophecies of His first coming were fulfilled, Scripture assures us that He will come again in glory.
My prayer this Christmas is for both Jewish and Gentile hearts to come to know Jesus the Messiah, and for believers everywhere to boldly and lovingly make His truth known.
May your love for the Messiah grow as you reflect on the miracle of the incarnation. From all of us at Chosen People Ministries, have a very Merry Christmas and a blessed New Year.
Shalom in Messiah,
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