InstaStudy

What "The Day" Meant to the LORD in Hebrew and Greek Jewish Thought

An in-depth Bible study exploring the theological transition of 'The Day of the LORD' (Yom Yahweh) from Hebrew prophecy to its New Testament fulfillment in the person of Jesus Christ. This study highlights the absolute oneness of God, the revelation of His singular name, and the experiential reality of His Spirit in the last days.

1. Yom Yahweh: The Hebrew Concept of the Day of the LORD

1.1 The Singular Revelation of Yahweh's Glory

Verses: Isaiah 2:11-12; Zechariah 14:9
  • In the Hebrew scriptures, 'Yom Yahweh' represents the absolute exaltation of the one true God alone.
  • On this day, all idols are utterly abolished, proving there is no other deity besides Yahweh.
  • Zechariah prophesies that on that day 'the LORD shall be one, and his name one.'

1.2 A Day of Judgment and Salvation

Verses: Joel 2:1-2; Obadiah 1:15
  • It is a day of darkness and gloominess for the rebellious, representing divine justice.
  • It simultaneously brings deliverance for those who call upon the singular name of the LORD.

2. The Day of Jesus Christ: The Greek NT Fulfillment

2.1 The Identity of Yahweh Revealed in Jesus

Verses: Philippians 1:6; 1 Corinthians 1:8; 2 Thessalonians 2:1-2
  • The Greek writers of the New Testament seamlessly translate 'Yom Yahweh' into 'the Day of Jesus Christ'.
  • This linguistic and theological shift identifies Jesus as the very Yahweh of the Old Testament.
  • The hope of the believer is centered entirely on the appearing of this one great God and Savior.

2.2 The Manifestation of the One True God

Verses: Titus 2:13; 1 Timothy 6:14-15
  • The 'blessed hope' is the glorious appearing of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ.
  • He is revealed as the only Potentate, the King of kings and Lord of lords, leaving no room for a plurality of divine persons.

3. The Day of Pentecost: The Outpouring of the Spirit in the Last Days

3.1 The Commencement of the Last Days

Verses: Joel 2:28-32; Acts 2:16-21
  • Peter declares that the outpouring of the Spirit on Pentecost is the fulfillment of Joel's prophecy concerning the Last Days.
  • The 'Day of the Lord' is inaugurated through the giving of the Holy Spirit, which is the Spirit of Jesus.
  • Salvation on this day is accessed by calling on the name of the Lord.

3.2 The Name Revealed for Salvation

Verses: Acts 2:38; Acts 4:12
  • To call on the name of the Lord for salvation is explicitly defined by Peter as being baptized in the name of Jesus Christ.
  • There is no other name under heaven given among men whereby we must be saved, linking the name of Jesus directly to the saving power of Yahweh's Day.

4. Preparation for the Great and Notable Day

4.1 Walking in Holiness and Light

Verses: 1 Thessalonians 5:2-5; 2 Peter 3:10-12
  • Believers are called 'children of the day,' expected to walk in absolute holiness and sobriety.
  • Since the Day of the Lord comes as a thief in the night, the church must remain spotless and separated from the world.

4.2 The Final Gathering of the Saints

Verses: 2 Thessalonians 2:1; Revelation 1:10
  • The gathering of the saints unto Him is the ultimate climax of 'the Day'.
  • John was 'in the Spirit on the Lord's day,' witnessing the final triumph of the Almighty who is, was, and is to come.