Christmas in The Desert

The study of the desert wilderness wanderings of Israel is a study which includes a study of types of Christ. Jesus is seen in the Old Testament in various types. The Manna provision reminds us of Bethlehem and the birth of Christ. The Smitten Rock speaks of Calvary where God’s Lamb was smitten on account of our sins. The Water flowing from the Rock reminds us of the refreshing Holy Spirit and the account of Pentecost.

The Manna that God gave to Israel out of Heaven reminds us of the Incarnation of Christ, the Bread of God. “For the bread of God is he which cometh down from heaven, and giveth life unto the world.” – John 6:33 He came down from heaven and the place of the Nativity event was at Bethlehem.

Any serious Bible student see’s Christ in all the Bible and, in fact, is reminded of the wondrous “Christmas Story” in Exodus 16. The sustaining manna that God provided for the undeserving Israelites, typified the coming Saviour who provides eternal life to any undeserving sinner who will eat! “I am the living bread which came down from heaven: if any man eat of this bread, he shall live for ever: and the bread that I will give is my flesh, which I will give for the life of the world.” – John 6:51 Israel celebrated in type, Christmas in the wilderness! For them it would have been, “Joy to the world, the Lord is coming”!

This world is a wilderness desert of sin and the best “Christmas celebration” is to accept and partake of the One who is the “Living Manna.” We are privileged to also celebrate Christmas in the desert!

Chuck Peters – 11/29/2023