Understanding the Word of God

READ | 1 Peter 1:10-12

Prophecies about Jesus Christ abound in the Old Testament. However, the men who wrote down God’s message didn’t always understand its full meaning. Events needed to unfold and further knowledge had to be provided before more complete significance could be grasped. In fact, Jesus Himself said that there was more to be known but the disciples were not ready for it (John 16:12).

Let’s look at some Old Testament truths about the Messiah that were understood more clearly later on—namely, that He was . . .

• Preexistent. Micah 5:2 prophesied that One coming from Bethlehem would have origins in eternity past. John 7:42 says that Jesus came “from Bethlehem . . . where David was,” while Colossians 1:16 names Him as Creator.

• Divine. When speaking to Moses, God identified Himself as “I am” (Ex. 3:14). Jesus declared that He Himself was the one spoken of as “I am” (John 8:58).

• Our Suffering Servant. Hundreds of years before the birth of Jesus, Isaiah described the Messiah’s agony and death (53:3-8). But the nation of Israel wasn’t anticipating the Anointed One to be a substitute who would pay their sin-debt. They were looking instead for the promised king of Isaiah 9:6. The purpose of Jesus’ first coming wasn’t to lead the government, but to serve and give His life as a ransom for many (Matt. 20:28).

He suffered and died to do just that.

The Holy Spirit illuminates divine truth for believers who rely on His help as they study the Word. Ask for His insights whenever you read the Bible.