Higher Name: Anticipating Advent Series, by Todd Smith, Guest Contributor
This Advent, dive deeper into the name that surpasses all others – Jesus. Todd Smith of SELAH's new 7-day devotional, 'Higher Name,' unpacks the profound significance of Christ's birth and the hope it ignites. Explore how Old Testament prophecies foretold His coming, while the Messianic miracles of the Gospels proved His identity. Discover anew why we eagerly anticipate the return of our Savior, whose name is exalted above all.
The Jewish rabbis taught that certain miracles were so extraordinary, only the Messiah could
perform them. In his work "The Three Messianic Miracles," Messianic Rabbi Dr. Arnold
Fruchtenbaum documents these remarkable signs—specific proofs designed to leave no doubt about the Messiah's identity. And Jesus performed all three.
The Healing of the Leper
Not a single Jewish person had been healed of leprosy since the completion of Mosaic Law. While Moses' sister Miriam was healed before the Law's completion, and Naaman the Syrian was healed as a Gentile, Jewish leprosy remained uncured. When Jesus healed a Jewish leper, the Sanhedrin took notice. They sent observers to watch Him—and Jesus boldly responded. Before their eyes, He not only healed a paralyzed man but claimed authority to forgive his sins. The message to the Jewish leadership was clear: investigate me, for I am the Messiah.
The Casting Out of a Mute Demon
Jewish exorcisms required communication with the demon
to learn its name. But with a mute person, this was impossible. The rabbis taught that only the Messiah would have authority to perform such an exorcism. When Jesus encountered a man both mute and blind, He expelled the demon instantly. The crowd's response was electric: "Could this be the Son of David, the Messiah?"—a question that echoed what they had been taught since childhood: only the Messiah could perform such a miracle.
Healing a Man Born Blind
Throughout history, no one born blind had ever regained their sight. When Jesus encountered such a man, He spat on the ground, made clay, and applied it to the man's eyes. His next instruction was masterfully timed: walk to the Pool of Siloam—a deliberate choice during the Feast of Tabernacles. As the blind man made his difficult journey, priests were descending from the Temple to this same pool for "The Outpouring of Water” ritual. When he arrived and washed his eyes, scores of religious leaders and pilgrims witnessed this unprecedented miracle.
As we reflect on these three miraculous signs, we see how deliberately Jesus revealed His
identity. Each miracle fulfilled exactly what the rabbis taught about the Messiah, pointing to the One whose name would be higher than all names. What stunning proof we have of His divine authority!
Questions for Discussion
1. If you had been taught all your life the messianic miracles how would you have reacted to
Jesus?
2. Look at your own life. When has God used hardship in your life to bring glory to His name
Scripture References:
Matthew 8:2-4, Mark 1:40-45, Luke 5:12-25
Matthew 12:22-37 and Mark 3:19-30.
John 9:1-41
About the Author
Todd Smith is a founding member of the multi-platinum selling Gospel group Selah, which has garnered over 4 million album sales, 1 billion streams, 12 Dove Awards, and 8 number-one singles. Growing up as a missionary kid in Congo, Africa from ages 5-13 shaped his global perspective before he returned to the States, where he went on to play Division 1 soccer at Belmont University while earning a business degree. He later completed his Religious Education degree at William Tyndale College. Beyond his work with Selah, Todd is an accomplished songwriter who co-wrote 9 of the 11 songs on the group's latest album "Higher Name." He has released two solo albums and his latest EP "Leave It To Love." Currently based in Nashville with his wife Angie and four daughters, Todd is expanding his creative reach through writing and speaking.
Copyright 2024, Todd Smith All rights reserved
No portion of this content can be copied, electronically stored, or reproduced without the express written permission of the author.
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