This blog post will explore the ways in which Jesus is revealed throughout the Old Testament. In other words, this post will show you how to find Jesus in your Bible! Besides finding Jesus in the Old Testament we'll talk about what it means when his person appears and some other places where the Lord has been found. If you're looking for more information on how to read and study your Bible, this is a great place to start!
Jesus, the Son of God - central figure in the history
Jesus is the central figure not only in our faith but in mankind history. He's mentioned all over the Bible and we can find him throughout history, even before he was born.
One way in which he's revealed is through his name. There are over 800 instances where it appears and each time tells about His character or identity as a son of God. This helps us understand who He really is and what makes Him so different and unique. Another way is when we look throughout the Old Testament. Here we'll find all sorts of things that point us to Jesus, but in an encrypted way.
The Bible
The Bible is a Christian book and is split into two parts: the Old and New Testaments. Christians often overlook the Old Testament and its importance to their faith. The Old Testament, even though it is less popular than the New Testament, can give Christians a better understanding of Jesus. As well as other religions such as Judaism. Christians should be aware that there are more words about Christ in the Old Testament than they might think. And that these verses will help them grow spiritually and learn more about their faith.
Parallels between Jesus and Moses
There are many similarities between Jesus' life and that of Moses. Moses was born to a Jewish mother and an Egyptian father, just as Jesus. One of the lessons Christians can learn from Moses is to have faith when the odds seem insurmountable. Also how God never leaves them and always provides a way out of their difficulties. Also an important lesson about patience: whereas most people would have given up after 40 years in slavery and in the desert, Moses did not give up and made it to the Promised Land.
"And I have a work for thee, Moses, my son; and thou art in the similitude of mine Only Begotten, and mine Only Begotten is and shall be the Savior” (Moses 1:6 ).
In addition, Moses taught the children of Israel that the Messiah would be like him. Moses pointed him out himself: "The Lord your God will raise up for you a prophet like me from among you, from your fellow Israelites. You must listen to him.” (Deuteronomy 18:15).
The burning bush incident with Moses is also very similar to when Jesus was baptized by John in Matthew chapter three. Both sets of words were heard from God on high: "I am who I am" (Exodus) versus "This is my Son, my Beloved" (Matthew).
Moses is a type of Christ: "Whoever wants to be first must become last of all and servant of all." (MK 9:33). Both were born into non-privileged households. Both led their people out from under the bondage of slavery.
Jesus in the Old Testament
Jesus is a historical figure who existed before New Testament began to be written. The old testament is full of references to Jesus Christ. There are many ways that you can find Jesus in the Old Testament, including references to his birth, death, and resurrection. But some people might be surprised at all the other things that they can find when they look for him.
We feel we ought to view the Old Testament as Christian Scripture. We’d be helped by a simple framework for how Christ is at the heart of the Bible: He is patterned, promised, and present from Genesis onward. Perhaps we’re helping to identify Christ as the inspiration for Scripture.
We must remember that the Old Testament is God's word, and He has been at work in human history to bring it about. In reading Christ into Scripture we are not superimposing a false meaning onto an old book but rather giving voice to what was meant all along by its author. And when you read this old story with new eyes, it’s as though Jesus Himself directed your attention once again through His Spirit to see Him there in the shadows of old Israel.
Bible verses on Jesus Christ in Old Testament
Many texts in the Bible specifically tell or prophesy Jesus’ ministry. Here are some examples of the Old Testament's references to Christ:
- Isaiah's prophecy about God's servant being "a man who would save others from their sins" (Isaiah 53).
- Prediction and Prophesies over 700 years before Jesus' birth that he will be born in Bethlehem (Micah 5:2)
- "The Servant who would give his life for others" (Isaiah 53:11)
And then there are all those prophecies about His crucifixion and resurrection.
Isaiah 53:12 "He will be buried with an honor due to a King".
Future King and Royalty with Righteousness
It can be argued that the Old Testament prophecies about Jesus can be found mainly in Isaiah 49-52. However, the Old Testament is filled with references to Jesus and has plenty of Jesus in it.
“This is the king our world needs. Our world cries out for justice, but because of sin, even our best leaders are dangerous if we give them too much power. A truly righteous kingdom awaits God's righteous king.” (Psalm 72:1–4). This passage of the Old Testament clearly refers to Jesus Christ, who will rule in righteousness and justice.
The old testament also predicts that Jesus will die and be resurrected and then come to reign in power. “Rejoice greatly, Daughter Zion! Shout aloud, Israel! Behold your king is coming; he has been born to you today” (Zechariah 12:11).
"One who rules over all that God has given him (Genesis 49:10, Isaiah 32:1, 2 Samuel 7:12-16).
Jesus, the mediator between God and people
This role of Jesus is it is obviously illustrated in the Old Testament.
"One who represents God to the people" (Deuteronomy 18:15-18).
"One who represents the people to God" (Leviticus 16).
Noah is a Foretaste of judgment and salvation through Christ
If Jesus is the last Adam, Noah was meant as a new Adam. Noah's flood offers a foretaste of what humanity deserves for sin. Noah’s flood becomes a reminder to us of a greater judgment to come. Jesus compares his return and future judgment to the flood in the Old Testament.
Jesus said, “As it was in the days of Noah, so it will be at the coming of the Son of Man” (Matthew 24:37). Yet the final judgment will be far worse.
Jesus in the New Testament
Before God made his plans clear to Moses, he first tested the people of Israel. But He did not change them at all. The God and the Plan of the Old Testament are the same as the God and the Plan of the New Testament. Jesus is revealed in both the Old and New Testaments.
“You search the Scriptures, for in them you think you have eternal life. And these are they which testify of Me.” (John 5:39). Note that Jesus was speaking to the Pharisees!
Conclusion
The Old Testament points to Jesus Christ and His role as the Messiah. This is not a new idea, but it’s one that many people have overlooked. In our search for truth, we often neglect what has been plainly revealed in God’s word because of preconceived notions or traditions. But there are many passages in scripture that point us towards Jesus Christ and give insights into who He is and why He came. To save sinners from their sins (1 Timothy 1:15).
Jesus really is the true sanctuary, sacrifice, high priest, sovereign king, and faithful prophet. We hope these Bible verses on Jesus Christ in the Old Testament will encourage you to believe!
If you're interested in learning more about Jesus Christ, please contact us for further information on how to live a life that pleases God. You'll be glad you did!