i. to illuminate Christians on the significance of January 1 in Christendom and
ii. to study the conceptual importance of circumcision in Christendom..
In Christian tradition, the eighth day after Christ's birth is mostly observed on January 1 as the feast of circumcision. According to Luke 2:21, the circumcision of Jesus was an event for the naming of our Lord Jesus Christ. This is in keeping with the Jewish law which holds that males should be circumcised eight days after birth (Gen 17:12) during a Brit-Milah (Brit means convenant and Milah means cutting of the foreskin) ceremony, at which they are also given their name. (Gen 21:3-4). Even though our Lord Jesus was not born in sin, and did not need that mortification of a corrupt nature, or that renewal unto holiness, which were signified by circumcision; however, this ordinance reveals his future perfect obedience to the whole law, in the midst of sufferings and temptations, even unto death for us. In our text today (Col 2:4-12), Paul admonished Christians to circumcise their hearts so as to purify it from old teachings concerning outward cleansing and profane philosophies that can corrupt their hearts against sanctification.
1. From your experience, what is the general concept of January 1? In addition, what should be the Christian concept according to our study today?
2. According to Lev 12:1-3, explain the term circumcision and in the context of our study today, why was Jesus circumcised?
3. According to Jer 4:4; Col 2:10-11 and Jam 4:8, how can you contextualise circumcision in Christendom?
4. January 1 begins the year; what do you do as christians to make this day a sanctified one for the journey of the year? Discuss.
As we start the New Year today, let us ponder on our possible sinful lives of yester-years and come before the Lord for total sanctification of our hearts. This is very important for God's guidance through our journeys of life. May God be with us, continuously sanctify us throughout our race this year in Jesus' name, amen. Happy New Year!
Do you observe January 1 as a Holy day for the Lord or a holyday for merriment?
Jam 4:8 "Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you. Clean your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded."