In the time period leading up the birth of Jesus Christ, the nation of Israel is marked by rebellion. But in the midst of war, betrayal, and political unrest, there was hopeful expectation that God would send a deliverer, Nathan Pearl details the prophecies about the birth of the Messiah.

The angel Gabriel visits the priest Zechariah to announce that at long last, he and his wife will have a son. This son will be John the Baptist, the forerunner of the Messiah.

The lineage of Christ detailed in the scriptures shows God's sovereignty (a term misused by the Calvinists) in his promises to Abraham and David and their fulfillment. Nathan Pearl teaches through the lineage of Christ through Abraham and David.

The virgin Mary, espoused to Joseph, receives word from the angel Gabriel that she will bear a son. This announcement came after Gabriel had announced the birth of John the Baptist to her cousin Elisabeth. Nathan Pearl teaches through the life of Christ.