Matthew 1: Empowering Children and Teens Today

Matthew 1 

The multi-millionaire comedian, Chris Rock (in an interview with New York Magazine) pointed out that poor people would be particularly shocked if they knew all the perks rich people get for being rich.  Imagine how shocked many Christians would be if they knew all the perks believers get for being a child of God.

Our true self-understanding comes with the knowledge of our identity in Christ.  Matthew 1:1-17 is more than the genealogy of Christ, it is our own family history.  The very core of who we are is wrapped up in the revelation of Jesus Christ.

We have read stories of men and women who died living a poor and difficult life, only to find out they were rich.  These men and women did not live the life they were intended to live with all the perks, the benefits, of who they were. 

Excerpt from click here.

When you identify with Christ, God gives you a new identity.

Instead of “sinner,” you are now called “Christian.”
Instead of “lost,” you are called “found.”
Instead of “enemy,” you are called “friend.”
Instead of “unrighteous,” you are called “righteous.”
Instead of “sick,” you are called “healed.”
Instead of “poor,” you are called “rich.”

When you understand your new identity in Christ, you’ll be a stronger and more stable Christian. Your faith will work for you better, your prayer life will be enhanced, and you’ll walk in a new level of authority.

As you read Matthew chapter 1 today, take note of those who are in your family ancestry.  Who were they?  What do they have in common?  What did they establish as the forefathers of Jesus Christ, and ourselves?  How important is this ancestry to you?