Welcome to Breakpoint.

For the Colson Center, I'm John Stone Street.

Today's commentary is a look at how the Old Testament and New Testament are inherently

connected as one story.

But before we talk about that, please consider supporting the ongoing ministry of Breakpoint

in the Colson Center to help Christians think like Christians about the challenges of

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Here's today's Breakpoint.

In this time of Advent, as we look back at Christ's first coming and await his second, we should

recall the prophecies that pointed to his forerunner, John the Baptist.

By the time that Zachariah had entered the holy place to offer incense upon the altar,

the number of priests had grown so large that most were never be granted that same opportunity.

So to be chosen, which was done by casting lots, was to be considered highly blessed.

In Zachariah's case, the blessing was quite more than he had bargained for.

An angel appeared, and as usual, in the Bible, his very first words were, don't be afraid.

Zachariah's prayers, the angel said, had been answered.

He'd have a son who would be named John.

John would be filled with the Holy Spirit while still in his mother's womb, set apart

by God from the day of his birth.

It's natural to assume that the prayer that angel was referring to here was Zachariah's

...