InstaStudy

The Old Testament Points to Jesus

An exploration of how the Old Testament foreshadows and reveals Jesus Christ.

1. Prophecies Concerning the Messiah

1.1 The Virgin Birth

Verses: Isaiah 7:14; Matthew 1:23
  • The virgin birth was prophesied centuries before Jesus' arrival.
  • This miraculous conception highlights Jesus' unique divine nature.

1.2 Birthplace in Bethlehem

Verses: Micah 5:2; Matthew 2:1-6
  • The specific location of Jesus' birth in Bethlehem was foretold.
  • This fulfills prophecy and confirms Jesus' Messianic identity.

1.3 Suffering and Atonement

Verses: Isaiah 53:5; 1 Peter 2:24
  • Isaiah prophesied about the Messiah being wounded for our transgressions.
  • Jesus' suffering and death atone for the sins of humanity.

1.4 Crucifixion Details

Verses: Psalm 22:16-18; John 19:31-37
  • David prophesied about the piercing of hands and feet, and the casting of lots for his garments.
  • These details were fulfilled during Jesus' crucifixion.

2. Types and Shadows of Christ

2.1 The Sacrifice of Isaac

Verses: Genesis 22:1-14; John 3:16
  • Abraham's willingness to sacrifice Isaac prefigures God's sacrifice of Jesus.
  • Isaac carrying the wood for the sacrifice symbolizes Jesus carrying His cross.

2.2 The Passover Lamb

Verses: Exodus 12:1-14; 1 Corinthians 5:7
  • The Passover lamb's blood protects from death, symbolizing Jesus' blood protecting from spiritual death.
  • The lamb had to be without blemish, representing Jesus' sinless perfection.

2.3 The Bronze Serpent

Verses: Numbers 21:4-9; John 3:14-15
  • The bronze serpent lifted up heals those who look at it, foreshadowing Jesus being lifted up on the cross for our healing.
  • Looking to the serpent brought physical healing, believing in Jesus brings spiritual healing.

2.4 The Day of Atonement

Verses: Leviticus 16; Hebrews 9:11-14
  • The High Priest entering the Holy of Holies once a year prefigures Jesus' once-for-all sacrifice.
  • The blood sacrifice atoned for sins, symbolizing Jesus' blood cleansing us from all unrighteousness.

3. Old Testament Encounters with God

3.1 The Creator

Verses: Genesis 1:1; John 1:1-3
  • In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth.
  • All things were made by Him; and without him was not any thing made that was made.

3.2 "I AM"

Verses: Exodus 3:14; John 8:58
  • God reveals Himself as 'I AM' to Moses.
  • Jesus declares 'Before Abraham was, I AM', claiming the same divine identity.

3.3 Mighty God

Verses: Isaiah 9:6; Matthew 1:23
  • Isaiah prophesies that the Messiah will be called 'Mighty God'.
  • Jesus is Emmanuel, God with us.