In the Bible readings for January we see a number of beginnings. In Genesis we read of God’s creation of the world, a record which Jesus quoted in his teaching, emphasising its veracity and reliability; the introduction of sin, and man’s consequent condemnation to mortality; the new beginning after the world was cleansed by the flood in Noah’s days, also quoted by Jesus; God’s selection of a man, Abraham, and his descendants, to be the focus of His plan for the earth; and God’s long-term promises to the serpent, Eve, Noah, Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. As we begin reading Exodus, we learn of the birth of God’s chosen nation.
We begin reading the Psalms, the Jews’ inspired hymn book, with elements of Israel’s history, prophecies of Jesus, praise of the Almighty, examples of prayer and guidance for living. The historic and prophetic psalms especially are quoted and explained in the New Testament as an essential component of Scripture for Christians.
The New Testament begins with Matthew’s gospel record, opening with a statement that Jesus is the son (descendant) of David and Abraham, to whom God made great promises. The following genealogy from Abraham to Jesus is punctuated by reference to Abraham and David. The account of Jesus’ birth, time in Egypt and ministry has frequent references to words, actions and situations fulfilling Old Testament prophecies, emphasising the links between Old and New Testaments. Paul’s letter to the Romans expounds the importance of faith in God’s plan of salvation.