How to Find Jesus In the Old Testament (3 Ways)

Have you ever wondered how Jesus is revealed in the Old Testament? As Christians, we often focus on the New Testament to understand the life and teachings of Jesus Christ. However, the Old Testament is rich with foreshadowing, prophecies, and prefigurations that point directly to Him. By exploring these profound connections, we can deepen our understanding of God's redemptive plan, enrich our Bible study, and strengthen our faith.

Divine Encounters: Seeing Jesus Face-to-Face

The Old Testament contains several instances where figures had direct encounters with a divine presence, often referred to as the Angel of the Lord. These appearances are widely regarded by theologians as Christophanies—pre-incarnate appearances of Christ. Let's consider a few key examples:

  • Jacob: In Genesis 32, Jacob wrestles with a mysterious man who later blesses him and renames him Israel. Jacob realizes he has wrestled with God Himself, saying, "I have seen God face to face, and yet my life has been delivered" (Genesis 32:30).

  • Moses: In Exodus 3, Moses encounters the burning bush, where God reveals Himself as "I AM WHO I AM." This self-revelation is echoed in Jesus' own declarations in the New Testament, particularly in John 8:58, where Jesus says, "Before Abraham was, I am."

  • Joshua: In Joshua 5, Joshua meets the commander of the Lord's army, who instructs him to remove his sandals, for the place where he stands is holy. This encounter mirrors Moses' experience at the burning bush, signifying a divine presence.

  • Gideon: In Judges 6, Gideon is visited by the Angel of the Lord, who commissions him to save Israel from the Midianites. Gideon realizes he has seen the Angel of the Lord face-to-face and fears for his life, but is reassured by God's peace.

Prophetic Phrases: The Mysterious Phrase Pointing to Jesus

One of the most intriguing aspects of the prophetic literature is the recurring phrase "the Son of Man." This title, used extensively by Jesus in the New Testament, has its roots in the Old Testament, particularly in the book of Daniel.

  • Daniel's Vision: In Daniel 7:13-14, the prophet sees "one like a son of man" coming with the clouds of heaven. He is given dominion, glory, and a kingdom that all peoples, nations, and languages should serve him. This vision directly connects to Jesus' self-description in the Gospels, where He frequently refers to Himself as the Son of Man, emphasizing His divine authority and messianic role.

Why This Matters: Strengthening Faith and Equipping for Evangelism

Understanding how Jesus is revealed in the Old Testament is crucial for several reasons:

  • Strengthen Your Faith: Seeing Jesus in the Old Testament can deepen your understanding and appreciation of God's redemptive plan. It shows the continuity and unity of Scripture, reinforcing that the entire Bible points to Jesus Christ.

  • Enhance Your Bible Study: Gaining new insights into the Old Testament enriches your study of both the Old and New Testaments. Recognizing the foreshadowing and prophecies about Jesus enhances your comprehension of the Scriptures.

  • Equip for Evangelism: Being able to explain how the entire Bible points to Jesus prepares you to share your faith more effectively. It provides a comprehensive narrative of God's salvation plan, making your witness more compelling.

Conclusion: The Continuity of God's Redemptive Plan

Finding Jesus in the Old Testament is not just an academic exercise; it's a faith-building journey that shows the consistency of God's plan of salvation and His unwavering love for humanity. By recognizing Jesus throughout Scripture, we see the coherence of God's Word and His divine purpose in history.

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This article was written by A.I. based on a summary of the episode (which was also A.I.-assisted.

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