The Messiah

Prophets prophesied about him. Angels and shepherds rejoiced at his birth. Friends cried for joy at his resurrection. And we still celebrate him today. He is Jesus, the Messiah.

Perfect for Advent or Lent, this eight-session LifeGuide® Bible Study guide explores some of the key passages in the Old Testament about the Messiah and their completion in the life and saving work of Jesus. These passages have had a profound effect on the imagination and worship of Christians for two thousand years, leading George Frederic Handel to write one of the greatest expressions of worship and adoration—his oratorio, the Messiah.

We hear parts of it sung every year during the Christmas season, but what many listeners fail to realize is that the entire text of Handel's Messiah is drawn from Scripture—and many of the Old Testament passages that shaped Israel's hope for their Redeemer are included in that text. This guide leads you through Scripture passages used in Handel's work that highlight who Jesus is and what he came to do. It might change the way you listen to the Messiah. Even more, it might change the way you live.

For over three decades LifeGuide Bible Studies have provided solid biblical content and raised thought-provoking questions—making for a one-of-a-kind Bible study experience for individuals and groups. This series has more than 130 titles on Old and New Testament books, character studies, and topical studies.



Douglas Connelly (MDiv and MTh, Grace Theological Seminary) is senior pastor at Davison Missionary Church near Flint, Michigan, after serving twelve years as senior pastor at Parkside Community Church in Sterling Heights, Michigan. A writer and speaker, he has written seventeen LifeGuide Bible Studies as well as several books, including The Bible for Blockheads and Angels Around Us. He and his wife Karen have three adult children and six grandchildren.

Getting the Most Out of The Messiah


1. His Name Is Wonderful
Messiah's Character Isaiah 9:6-7


2. The Virgin Will Be with Child
Messiah's Birth Isaiah 7:1-16; Matthew 1:18-25


3. The Lame Will Walk
Messiah's Miracles Isaiah 35:3-6; Matthew 11:1-6


4. Why Have You Forsaken Me?
Messiah's Death Psalm 22:1-21


5. Pierced for Our Transgressions
Messiah's Sacrifice Isaiah 53:1-10


6. The Path of Life
Messiah's Resurrection Psalm 16:7-11; Acts 2:22-32


7. Lift Up Your Heads
Messiah's Exaltation Psalm 24


8. The Clouds of Heaven
Messiah's Return Daniel 7:9-14; Revelation 19:1-16


Leader's Notes