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  • Writer's picturePastor Jim

Divi Filius

READY // SILENCIO

Take a moment to quiet your mind and prepare your heart for your time with the Lord.


READ // LECTIO

Read the passage above up to threw times aloud. Allow yourself to feel the words as they are read.


REFLECT // MEDITATIO

Now direct your focus on the words, phrases concepts or sentences that got your attention. What is God speaking to you today through His word?

Luke 2:1 (NKJV) And it came to pass in those days [that] a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be registered.

Caesar Augustus succeeded Julius Caesar as Roman Emperor. He is a historical, verifiable person. The nativity story is not a fairy tale. It takes place in the real world.


Caesar Augustus was the most powerful person alive at that time. He controlled the entire Roman world which spanned many nations, including Israel. He was responsible for what is known as the Pax Romana, the Roman Peace.


What he said was followed. He could direct huge populations to do whatever he commanded. When he decided a census would be taken everyone was affected. There were no exceptions. No one could defy him.


That’s why I like his part in this Christmas story so much. This all-powerful governmental being who thought he was imposing his will upon the populace was actually being used by God to bring about His perfect plan.


No one ever changes or redirects God’s purpose. No one. No one takes His place or takes Him by surprise. Especially governmental officials.


It’s ironic. Caesar Augustus was ruling at the time Jesus was born. Years before Jesus came Augustus gave himself a new title: divi filius. He was known as Caesar divi filius Augustus. Divi filius means, “son of the divine”, or “son of god.”

While Augustus was calling himself ‘son of god’ the real Son of God was being born within his territory, aided by his own decree. God has a way of using imposters and exposing them with the truth.


No government policy or person will redirect God’s plan. When they think they are exercising complete control they are, in fact, being controlled by Him.


RESPOND // ORATIO

Pray in response to what the Lord has spoken to you.


Father, Once again I take comfort and strength in Your sovereignty. Expose imposters. Reveal Your truth. Amen.

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