The Great Themes of Scripture 2. The Messiah. Unto Us a Child is Born Sunday, October 10, 2010 10 to 10:50 am, in the Parlor Presenter: David Monyak.

The Great Themes of The Great Themes of ScriptureScripture

2. The Messiah. Unto Us a Child is Born2. The Messiah. Unto Us a Child is Born

Sunday, October 10, 201010 to 10:50 am, in the Parlor

Presenter: David Monyak

Primary Primary ReferenceReference

Making Sense of Making Sense of the Bible. A Study the Bible. A Study of 10 Key Themes of 10 Key Themes Traced Through Traced Through the Scriptures.the Scriptures. H.H. H.H. Drake Williams III, Drake Williams III, 2006. Chapter 4. 2006. Chapter 4. “The Messiah: Unto “The Messiah: Unto Us a Child is Born”Us a Child is Born”

Secondary Secondary ReferenceReference

Great Themes of Great Themes of the Bible, Volume the Bible, Volume 11,, W. Eugene March, W. Eugene March, 2007. Chapter 6 2007. Chapter 6 “Messiah”“Messiah”

Great Themes of ScriptureGreat Themes of Scripture

October 3: October 3: Covenant. God's Promises are Covenant. God's Promises are ForeverForever

October 10: October 10: The Messiah. Unto The Messiah. Unto Us a Child is BornUs a Child is Born

October 17: October 17: Law. Regulating the Good LifeLaw. Regulating the Good Life October 24: October 24: Salvation. Amazing Grace!Salvation. Amazing Grace! October 31: October 31: The People of God. A Kingdom The People of God. A Kingdom

of Priests and a Holy Nationof Priests and a Holy Nation

Almighty Father, who inspired Saint Almighty Father, who inspired Saint Peter, first among the apostles, to Peter, first among the apostles, to confess Jesus as Messiah and Son of confess Jesus as Messiah and Son of the living God: Keep your Church the living God: Keep your Church steadfast upon the rock of this faith, steadfast upon the rock of this faith, so that in unity and peace we may so that in unity and peace we may proclaim the one truth and follow the proclaim the one truth and follow the one Lord, our Savior Jesus Christ; one Lord, our Savior Jesus Christ; who lives and reigns with you and the who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever.ever.

Collect for Feast of the Confession of Saint Peter, Book of Common Prayer, p. 238Collect for Feast of the Confession of Saint Peter, Book of Common Prayer, p. 238

This Week:This Week:2: The Messiah. Unto Us 2: The Messiah. Unto Us

a Child is Borna Child is Born

The MessiahThe Messiah

This is he whom seers in old timeThis is he whom seers in old timeChanted of with one accord, Chanted of with one accord,

Whom the voices of the prophets Whom the voices of the prophets Promised in their faithful word; Promised in their faithful word;

Now he shines, the long-expected; Now he shines, the long-expected; Let creation praise its Lord, Let creation praise its Lord,

Evermore and evermore.Evermore and evermore.

——Aurelius Prudentius Clemens (348 to 405+ AD), Aurelius Prudentius Clemens (348 to 405+ AD), Roman poet and a Christian in the Roman province of Roman poet and a Christian in the Roman province of

Tarraconensis (now Northern Spain)Tarraconensis (now Northern Spain)

The Meaning of The Meaning of MessiahMessiah

Meaning of MessiahMeaning of MessiahHebrew Hebrew mashachmashach

English English “Messiah” “Messiah” derived from Hebrew word derived from Hebrew word mashachmashach, means to smear , means to smear

or to pour oil or ointment on something or someone.or to pour oil or ointment on something or someone. Greek for Greek for maschachmaschach = = chriochrio (to smear, to rub) (to smear, to rub)

Action being described could be:Action being described could be: Formal: Formal: pouring oil on the head of someone for the pouring oil on the head of someone for the

purpose of ritually anointing, or purpose of ritually anointing, or Informal: Informal: simply applying ointment to the body after simply applying ointment to the body after

bathingbathing The Messiah The Messiah = the one anointed = the one anointed

In Greek In Greek ChristosChristos = the Christ = the Messiah = the one = the Christ = the Messiah = the one anointedanointed

Meaning of MessiahMeaning of MessiahEvolution of the Meaning of MessiahEvolution of the Meaning of Messiah

In Old Testament times, formal use of the term In Old Testament times, formal use of the term mashachmashach described the: described the: Setting apart of space or equipment for the Setting apart of space or equipment for the

worship of God, orworship of God, or The “ordaining,” of human personnel for special The “ordaining,” of human personnel for special

service as priests or kingsservice as priests or kings


Aaron and his sons were set aside for special Aaron and his sons were set aside for special service before God at the sanctuary (Exodus service before God at the sanctuary (Exodus 28:40—29:9)28:40—29:9) Special oil was poured on Aaron's head as an act of Special oil was poured on Aaron's head as an act of

consecration (Exodus 30:30; Psalm 133:2)consecration (Exodus 30:30; Psalm 133:2) Later, the “high priest” was set apart in a special Later, the “high priest” was set apart in a special

ceremony much like Aaron’s.ceremony much like Aaron’s. Leviticus 21:10-15 describes special instructions for Leviticus 21:10-15 describes special instructions for

“the high priest, the one among his brothers “the high priest, the one among his brothers who has had the anointing oil poured on his who has had the anointing oil poured on his head and who has been ordained …” head and who has been ordained …” (NIV)(NIV)


Later, in the books of Judges, 1 and 2 Samuel, Later, in the books of Judges, 1 and 2 Samuel, 1 and 2 Kings, and Psalms, the main formal 1 and 2 Kings, and Psalms, the main formal use of use of mashach mashach was in reference to a king. was in reference to a king. The person selected to be king was “anointed” The person selected to be king was “anointed”

with oil, usually by a prophet.with oil, usually by a prophet. The king – whose authority was completely The king – whose authority was completely

dependent upon God – was called “the Lord's dependent upon God – was called “the Lord's anointed,” “his anointed,” and “my anointed” (e.g., anointed,” “his anointed,” and “my anointed” (e.g., 1 Samuel 2:10, 2:35; 12:3, 12:5; 24:6, 24:10; 1 Samuel 2:10, 2:35; 12:3, 12:5; 24:6, 24:10; Psalm 2:2; 18:50; 132:17).Psalm 2:2; 18:50; 132:17).


~1000 B.C. God made a covenant with King ~1000 B.C. God made a covenant with King David and promised that one of his offspring David and promised that one of his offspring would occupy the throne “forever” (2 Samuel 7:8-would occupy the throne “forever” (2 Samuel 7:8-16). 16).

Each “son of David,” each new king of Judah, Each “son of David,” each new king of Judah, was was anointedanointed ( (not crowned!not crowned!) as king (1 Kings ) as king (1 Kings 1:39). 1:39).

Each “son of David” was “adopted” ritually as Each “son of David” was “adopted” ritually as God's “son” (2 Samuel 7:14; Psalms 2:7; 89:26-God's “son” (2 Samuel 7:14; Psalms 2:7; 89:26-27). 27). In this sense, each king in David’s line was understood In this sense, each king in David’s line was understood

to be to be God’s anointed God’s anointed or a or a messiahmessiah..


MessiahMessiah during this time meant being chosen during this time meant being chosen and installed in obedience to God for the and installed in obedience to God for the service of God. service of God. Even a Even a foreignforeign king, the great King Cyrus of king, the great King Cyrus of

Persia, could be said to be God’s messiah (see Persia, could be said to be God’s messiah (see Isaiah 45:1) because Cyrus responded to God's Isaiah 45:1) because Cyrus responded to God's bidding to come to Israel’s relief and break the bidding to come to Israel’s relief and break the bondage of Babylon.bondage of Babylon.


Over the next few centuries, the monarchy of Over the next few centuries, the monarchy of Judah declined, occupied by kings who Judah declined, occupied by kings who behavior did not seem worthy of God’s behavior did not seem worthy of God’s anointed.anointed.

Then in Then in 597 B.C597 B.C. and again in . and again in 587 B.C.587 B.C., , Babylonian armies ravaged the Babylonian armies ravaged the Southern Southern Kingdom of JudahKingdom of Judah, seeming to end the , seeming to end the dynasty of King David.dynasty of King David.

Meaning of MessiahMeaning of MessiahThe Ultimate Hope of God’s PeopleThe Ultimate Hope of God’s People

Some people began to view the promise of Some people began to view the promise of God to David that his dynasty would last God to David that his dynasty would last forever as a promise for a future, ideal king, an forever as a promise for a future, ideal king, an obedient obedient MessiahMessiah who would establish a more who would establish a more Godlike kingdom.Godlike kingdom.

They found in the scriptures evidence for the They found in the scriptures evidence for the promise of a promise of a Messiah Messiah who would be the who would be the ultimate hope of God’s people.ultimate hope of God’s people.

Meaning of MessiahMeaning of MessiahThe Mother Prophecy Genesis 3:15The Mother Prophecy Genesis 3:15

Genesis 3:15: the “Mother Prophecy”, the “the germ of Genesis 3:15: the “Mother Prophecy”, the “the germ of promise which unfolds in the history of redemption”promise which unfolds in the history of redemption” Genesis 3:14-15 (NIV) Genesis 3:14-15 (NIV) 1414 So the LORD God said to So the LORD God said to

the serpent, "Because you have done this, the serpent, "Because you have done this, "Cursed are you above all the livestock and all the "Cursed are you above all the livestock and all the wild animals! You will crawl on your belly and you wild animals! You will crawl on your belly and you will eat dust all the days of your life. will eat dust all the days of your life. 1515 And I will And I will put enmity between you and the woman, and put enmity between you and the woman, and between your offspring and hers; between your offspring and hers; hehe [the offspring [the offspring of Eve] of Eve] will crush your head, and you will strike will crush your head, and you will strike his heelhis heel.“.“

God’s promise that the crushing of the enemy will take God’s promise that the crushing of the enemy will take place through the offspring of Eve was taken as a place through the offspring of Eve was taken as a reference to the coming reference to the coming MessiahMessiah..

Meaning of MessiahMeaning of MessiahFrom the House of DavidFrom the House of David

In 2 Samuel 7:12-16, God’s promise to David In 2 Samuel 7:12-16, God’s promise to David that his dynasty would last forever was taken that his dynasty would last forever was taken as a promise the as a promise the Messiah, Messiah, the ultimate hope of the ultimate hope of God’s people, would come from the house of God’s people, would come from the house of David, a David, a “throne established forever.”“throne established forever.”

Meaning of MessiahMeaning of MessiahFrom the House of DavidFrom the House of David

2 Samuel 7:12-16 12 When your days are over and you rest with your fathers, I will raise up your offspring to succeed you, who will come from your own body, and I will establish his kingdom. 13 He is the one who will build a house for my Name, and I will establish the throne of his kingdom forever. 14 I will be his father, and he will be my son. When he does wrong, I will punish him with the rod of men, with floggings inflicted by men. 15 But my love will never be taken away from him, as I took it away from Saul, whom I removed from before you. 16 Your house and your kingdom will endure forever before me; your throne will be established forever.’ (NIV)

Meaning of MessiahMeaning of MessiahWonderful Counselor … Prince of PeaceWonderful Counselor … Prince of Peace

That the ultimate hope of God’s people will be That the ultimate hope of God’s people will be through a through a Messiah Messiah was prophesied by many of the was prophesied by many of the Prophets, most explicitly by Isaiah:Prophets, most explicitly by Isaiah: Isaiah 9:6-7 Isaiah 9:6-7 6 For to us a child is born, to us a son

is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. 7 Of the increase of his government and peace there will be no end. He will reign on David's throne and over his kingdom, establishing and upholding it with justice and righteousness from that time on and forever. The zeal of the LORD Almighty will accomplish this. (NIV)

The Roles of the The Roles of the Messiah Seen in the Messiah Seen in the

Old TestamentOld Testament

Roles of the MessiahRoles of the MessiahThree RolesThree Roles

The The MessiahMessiah, the ultimate hope of God’s , the ultimate hope of God’s people, was seen in Old Testament Scripture to people, was seen in Old Testament Scripture to have three roles:have three roles:

ProphetProphetKingKingPriestPriest

Roles of the MessiahRoles of the MessiahMessiah as ProphetMessiah as Prophet

The promised The promised prophetprophet in Deuteronomy 18:15, 18 was in Deuteronomy 18:15, 18 was taken as a reference to the coming Messiah.taken as a reference to the coming Messiah. Setting: the Israelites have wandered in the desert for 40 years, Setting: the Israelites have wandered in the desert for 40 years,

and now the time of Moses’ leadership is passing. and now the time of Moses’ leadership is passing. Deuteronomy 18:18 Deuteronomy 18:18 [The LORD to Moses:] [The LORD to Moses:] I will raise up I will raise up

for them a for them a prophetprophet like you from among their like you from among their brothers; I will put my words in his mouth, and he brothers; I will put my words in his mouth, and he will tell them everything I command him. will tell them everything I command him. (NIV)(NIV)

The Messiah would be a The Messiah would be a prophetprophet like Moses: like Moses: His communication would be directly with God, His communication would be directly with God, he would lead and deliver his people, he would lead and deliver his people, he would speak God’s word authoritativelyhe would speak God’s word authoritatively

Roles of the MessiahRoles of the MessiahMessiah as KingMessiah as King

Two psalms, Two psalms, Psalm 2Psalm 2 and and Psalm 110Psalm 110, most clearly , most clearly speak of the Messiah’s reign as a speak of the Messiah’s reign as a kingking:: Psalm 2: Psalm 2: 77 … He said to me, "You are my Son; … He said to me, "You are my Son;

today I have become your Father. today I have become your Father. 88 Ask of me, Ask of me, and I will make the nations your inheritance, the and I will make the nations your inheritance, the ends of the earth your possession. ends of the earth your possession. 99 You will rule You will rule them with an iron scepter; you will dash them to them with an iron scepter; you will dash them to pieces like pottery." pieces like pottery." (NIV)(NIV)

Psalm 110:1-2: Psalm 110:1-2: The LORD says to my Lord: "Sit at The LORD says to my Lord: "Sit at my right hand until I make your enemies a my right hand until I make your enemies a footstool for your feet." footstool for your feet." 22 The LORD will extend The LORD will extend your mighty scepter from Zion; you will rule in the your mighty scepter from Zion; you will rule in the midst of your enemies midst of your enemies (NIV)(NIV)


The Messiah as The Messiah as kingking can also be seen in the can also be seen in the writings of the prophets. writings of the prophets.

Isaiah 11 is representative:Isaiah 11 is representative: In Isaiah 11:1-5, Isaiah prophesies a spirit of justice, In Isaiah 11:1-5, Isaiah prophesies a spirit of justice,

counsel, and knowledge will rest upon the Messiah as he counsel, and knowledge will rest upon the Messiah as he

rules as rules as kingking: : Isaiah 11:1-5Isaiah 11:1-5


Isaiah 11:1-5 A shoot will come up from the stump of Jesse; from his roots a Branch will bear fruit. 2 The Spirit of the LORD will rest on him-- the Spirit of wisdom and of understanding, the Spirit of counsel and of power, the Spirit of knowledge and of the fear of the LORD— 3 and he will delight in the fear of the LORD. He will not judge by what he sees with his eyes, or decide by what he hears with his ears; 4 but with righteousness he will judge the needy, with justice he will give decisions for the poor of the earth. He will strike the earth with the rod of his mouth; with the breath of his lips he will slay the wicked. 5 Righteousness will be his belt and faithfulness the sash around his waist. (NIV)


Isaiah 11 is representative:Isaiah 11 is representative: The Messiah’s rule as The Messiah’s rule as kingking will be powerful and peaceful. will be powerful and peaceful. Isaiah 11:6-9 The wolf will live with the lamb, the

leopard will lie down with the goat, the calf and the lion and the yearling together; and a little child will lead them. 7 The cow will feed with the bear, their young will lie down together, and the lion will eat straw like the ox. 8 The infant will play near the hole of the cobra, and the young child put his hand into the viper’s nest. 9 They will neither harm nor destroy on all my holy mountain, for the earth will be full of the knowledge of the LORD as the waters cover the sea. (NIV)

Roles of the MessiahRoles of the MessiahMessiah as PriestMessiah as Priest

In the book of Zechariah, the Messiah is presented In the book of Zechariah, the Messiah is presented

as the ideal as the ideal priestpriest:: He will build the temple of the Lord. He will build the temple of the Lord. He will sit and rule as not only priest, but as prophet He will sit and rule as not only priest, but as prophet

and kingand king Zechariah 6:13: Zechariah 6:13: It is he who will build the It is he who will build the

temple of the LORD, and he will be temple of the LORD, and he will be clothed with majesty and will sit and rule clothed with majesty and will sit and rule on his throne. And he will be a on his throne. And he will be a priestpriest on on his throne. And there will be harmony his throne. And there will be harmony between the two. between the two. (NIV)(NIV)

Descriptions of the Descriptions of the Messiah Seen in the Messiah Seen in the

Old TestamentOld Testament

Descriptions of the MessiahDescriptions of the MessiahThree DescriptionsThree Descriptions

Other descriptions of the Messiah, the ultimate Other descriptions of the Messiah, the ultimate hope of God’s people, that were seen in the hope of God’s people, that were seen in the Old Testament Scriptures include:Old Testament Scriptures include:

ServantServantSon of ManSon of Mana a Stone Stone oror Cornerstone Cornerstone

Descriptions of the MessiahDescriptions of the MessiahMessiah as ServantMessiah as Servant

The lengthiest description of the Messiah as The lengthiest description of the Messiah as servantservant is in Isaiah, most clearly drawn in four is in Isaiah, most clearly drawn in four passages called the passages called the Servant SongsServant Songs:: Isaiah 42:1-4Isaiah 42:1-4 Isaiah 49:1-6Isaiah 49:1-6 Isaiah 50:4-9Isaiah 50:4-9 Isaiah 52:13 – 53:12Isaiah 52:13 – 53:12

called by Polycarp [69-115 A.D., Bishop of the ancient called by Polycarp [69-115 A.D., Bishop of the ancient Greek city of Smyrna, martyred by Rome] the “Greek city of Smyrna, martyred by Rome] the “golden golden passionalpassional of the Old Testament evangelist, of the Old Testament evangelist,” a prophecy of ” a prophecy of Jesus’ passionJesus’ passion


The Messiah as The Messiah as servantservant will be: will be: Gentle Gentle

Isaiah 42:3: Isaiah 42:3: A bruised reed he will not break, and A bruised reed he will not break, and a smoldering wick he will not snuff out a smoldering wick he will not snuff out (NIV)(NIV)

The great unifier of Israel and of all the nations: The great unifier of Israel and of all the nations: Isaiah 49:6: Isaiah 49:6: It is too small a thing for you to be It is too small a thing for you to be

my servant to restore the tribes of Jacob and my servant to restore the tribes of Jacob and bring back those of Israel I have kept. I will also bring back those of Israel I have kept. I will also make you a light for the Gentiles, that you may make you a light for the Gentiles, that you may bring my salvation to the ends of the earth. bring my salvation to the ends of the earth. (NIV)(NIV)


The Messiah as The Messiah as servantservant will: will: Suffer and die for our transgressions:Suffer and die for our transgressions:

Isaiah 53:3: Isaiah 53:3: He was despised and rejected by men, a He was despised and rejected by men, a man of sorrows, and familiar with suffering.man of sorrows, and familiar with suffering. (NIV) (NIV)

Isaiah 53:5: Isaiah 53:5: … he was pierced for our … he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was upon the punishment that brought us peace was upon him, and by his wounds we are healedhim, and by his wounds we are healed. (NIV). (NIV)

Isaiah 53:7-9: Isaiah 53:7-9: He was oppressed and afflicted, yet he He was oppressed and afflicted, yet he did not open his mouth; he was led like a lamb to did not open his mouth; he was led like a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep before her shearers the slaughter, and as a sheep before her shearers is silent, so he did not open his mouth. is silent, so he did not open his mouth. (NIV)(NIV)


The Messiah as The Messiah as servantservant will: will: Triumph in the end:Triumph in the end:

Isaiah 52:13: Isaiah 52:13: See, my servant will act wisely; he See, my servant will act wisely; he will be raised and lifted up and highly exaltedwill be raised and lifted up and highly exalted. . (NIV)(NIV)


Summary of the Summary of the ServantServant Songs Songs:: The The MessiahMessiah will: will:

be unassuming, humble and gentle,be unassuming, humble and gentle, suffer on behalf of his people and go to great extremes suffer on behalf of his people and go to great extremes

for them.for them. but also:but also:

The The MessiahMessiah will triumph. will triumph. God will exalt him and lift up his name, God will exalt him and lift up his name, He will unify the Jewish nation and draw Gentiles from He will unify the Jewish nation and draw Gentiles from

the ends of the earth to know him.the ends of the earth to know him.

Descriptions of the MessiahDescriptions of the MessiahMessiah as Son of ManMessiah as Son of Man

The term The term “son of man” “son of man” comes from Daniel 7.comes from Daniel 7. In Daniel 7, the prophet In Daniel 7, the prophet DanielDaniel experiences a vision. He is experiences a vision. He is

terrified by four great beasts: a lion, a bear, a leopard, and a terrified by four great beasts: a lion, a bear, a leopard, and a ten-horned beast, each representing a different kingdom ten-horned beast, each representing a different kingdom (Daniel 7:1-8).(Daniel 7:1-8).

Fear dominates in the vision until theFear dominates in the vision until the Ancient of Days Ancient of Days, the , the LordLord himself, comes and takes his seat (Daniel 7:9-12): himself, comes and takes his seat (Daniel 7:9-12): His appearance is awe inspiring — His appearance is awe inspiring — clothing white as snow, clothing white as snow, his throne aflame, fire pouring forth like a river, the wheels of his throne aflame, fire pouring forth like a river, the wheels of

the throne ablazethe throne ablaze thousands upon thousands attend him as he opens a set of books, thousands upon thousands attend him as he opens a set of books,

the Lord of the universe rendering worldwide judgment.the Lord of the universe rendering worldwide judgment.

Descriptions of the MessiahDescriptions of the MessiahMessiah as Son of ManMessiah as Son of Man

Daniel 7:13-14 13 “In my vision at night I looked, and there before me was one like a son of man, coming with the clouds of heaven. He approached the Ancient of Days and was led into his presence. 14 He was given authority, glory and sovereign power; all peoples, nations and men of every language worshiped him. His dominion is an everlasting dominion that will not pass away, and his kingdom is one that will never be destroyed.”

People of every language worship this “one like a People of every language worship this “one like a son of son of manman,” and his dominion is proclaimed to be everlasting.,” and his dominion is proclaimed to be everlasting. The extent of his rule expresses his divinity,The extent of his rule expresses his divinity, Yet his depiction as a “Yet his depiction as a “son of manson of man” suggests his humility as ” suggests his humility as

well.well.

Descriptions of the MessiahDescriptions of the MessiahMessiah as a Stone or CornerstoneMessiah as a Stone or Cornerstone

A number of passages in the Old Testament, though A number of passages in the Old Testament, though relatively few, describe the Messiah as a relatively few, describe the Messiah as a stonestone or or

cornerstonecornerstone.. The Messiah as a The Messiah as a cornerstonecornerstone is a sure foundation: is a sure foundation:

Isaiah 28:16 Isaiah 28:16 So this is what the Sovereign LORD says: So this is what the Sovereign LORD says: "See, I lay a stone in Zion, a tested stone, a precious "See, I lay a stone in Zion, a tested stone, a precious cornerstone for a sure foundation; the one who trusts cornerstone for a sure foundation; the one who trusts will never be dismayed. will never be dismayed. (NIV)(NIV)

The Messiah is the The Messiah is the capstonecapstone of the true temple: of the true temple: Psalm 118:22-23 Psalm 118:22-23 The stone the builders rejected has The stone the builders rejected has

become the capstone; the LORD has done this, and it become the capstone; the LORD has done this, and it is marvelous in our eyes. is marvelous in our eyes. (NIV)(NIV)

Jesus as the Ultimate Jesus as the Ultimate Hope of God’s PeopleHope of God’s People

Jesus as Ultimate HopeJesus as Ultimate HopeJesus, the Promised MessiahJesus, the Promised Messiah

We saw how late in Old Testament times, the We saw how late in Old Testament times, the Jews, God’s chosen people, found evidence in Jews, God’s chosen people, found evidence in the scriptures of a promise of a the scriptures of a promise of a MessiahMessiah who who would be the would be the ultimate hope of God’s peopleultimate hope of God’s people..

The New Testament repeatedly presents The New Testament repeatedly presents Jesus Jesus ChristChrist as the as the fulfillment of that ultimate hopefulfillment of that ultimate hope..

Jesus as Ultimate HopeJesus as Ultimate HopeIn the GospelsIn the Gospels

The opening chapters of some of the Gospels, The opening chapters of some of the Gospels, particularly Luke and John, portray Jesus’ birth as particularly Luke and John, portray Jesus’ birth as the long anticipated event for God's people.the long anticipated event for God's people.

For example, in Luke:For example, in Luke: Luke 1:32-33 [Gabriel to Mary]: Luke 1:32-33 [Gabriel to Mary]: He will be great He will be great

and will be called the Son of the Most High. and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of his The Lord God will give him the throne of his father David, and he will reign over the house father David, and he will reign over the house of Jacob forever; his kingdom will never end.of Jacob forever; his kingdom will never end. (NIV)(NIV)

Jesus as Ultimate HopeJesus as Ultimate HopeIn the GospelsIn the Gospels

For example, in Luke:For example, in Luke: Luke 2:29-32 [Simeon, the righteous priest, on seeing the Luke 2:29-32 [Simeon, the righteous priest, on seeing the

infant Jesus brought to the temple:]: infant Jesus brought to the temple:]: “Sovereign Lord, “Sovereign Lord, as you have promised, you now dismiss your as you have promised, you now dismiss your servant in peace. For my eyes have seen your servant in peace. For my eyes have seen your salvation, which you have prepared in the sight of salvation, which you have prepared in the sight of all people, a light for revelation to the Gentiles all people, a light for revelation to the Gentiles and for glory to your people Israel.” and for glory to your people Israel.” (NIV)(NIV)

For example, in John:For example, in John: John 1:14: John 1:14: “The Word became flesh and made his “The Word became flesh and made his

dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the One and Only who came from the glory of the One and Only who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.” Father, full of grace and truth.” (NIV)(NIV)

Jesus as Ultimate HopeJesus as Ultimate HopeIn the Letters of PaulIn the Letters of Paul

Paul also presents Jesus as the fulfillment of the Paul also presents Jesus as the fulfillment of the longings of God’s people in multiple places.longings of God’s people in multiple places.

For example:For example: Philippians 3:8: Philippians 3:8: “I consider everything a loss “I consider everything a loss

compared to the surpassing greatness of compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Christ Jesus, my Lord, for whose knowing Christ Jesus, my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them sake I have lost all things. I consider them rubbish rubbish [[skubalonskubalon], ], that I may gain Christ.” that I may gain Christ.” (NIV)(NIV)

Skubalon: rubbish, dung, garbageSkubalon: rubbish, dung, garbage Colossians 1:15-20:Colossians 1:15-20:

Jesus as Ultimate HopeJesus as Ultimate HopeIn the Letters of PaulIn the Letters of Paul

Colossians 1:15-20 15 He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation. 16 For by him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things were created by him and for him. 17 He is before all things, and in him all things hold together. 18 And he is the head of the body, the church; he is the beginning and the firstborn from among the dead, so that in everything he might have the supremacy. 19 For God was pleased to have all his fullness dwell in him, 20 and through him to reconcile to himself all things, whether things on earth or things in heaven, by making peace through his blood, shed on the cross. (NIV)

Jesus Fulfills the Jesus Fulfills the Prophesied Roles of Prophesied Roles of

the Messiahthe Messiah

The Roles of the MessiahThe Roles of the MessiahJesus, the Promised MessiahJesus, the Promised Messiah

In the New Testament, Jesus fulfills the In the New Testament, Jesus fulfills the rolesroles expected of the promised expected of the promised MessiahMessiah::

ProphetProphetPriestPriestKingKing

The Roles of the MessiahThe Roles of the MessiahJesus as ProphetJesus as Prophet

The Gospels portray Jesus as a The Gospels portray Jesus as a prophetprophet by by describing:describing: his supernatural insighthis supernatural insight his pronouncements of doom on somehis pronouncements of doom on some his ability to speak directly the voice of Godhis ability to speak directly the voice of God

Examples include:Examples include: Matthew 11:21-24Matthew 11:21-24 Matthew 23:13-19Matthew 23:13-19 Mark 2:5, 8Mark 2:5, 8 Mark 3:10-11Mark 3:10-11 Luke 9:47Luke 9:47 John 2:24-25John 2:24-25


Some of the people who saw Jesus’s miracles Some of the people who saw Jesus’s miracles or who were healed by him, and some or who were healed by him, and some disciples called him a disciples called him a prophetprophet::

Examples: Examples: Luke 24:19Luke 24:19 John 4:19John 4:19 John 6:14John 6:14 John 9:17John 9:17


John 6:11-15: 11 Jesus then took the loaves, gave thanks, and distributed to those who were seated as much as they wanted. He did the same with the fish. 12 When they had all had enough to eat, he said to his disciples, “Gather the pieces that are left over. Let nothing be wasted.” 13 So they gathered them and filled twelve baskets with the pieces of the five barley loaves left over by those who had eaten. 14 After the people saw the miraculous sign that Jesus did, they began to say, “Surely this is the Prophet who is to come into the world.” 15 Jesus, knowing that they intended to come and make him king by force, withdrew again to a mountain by himself. (NIV)


Jesus presents himself as a Jesus presents himself as a prophetprophet:: The clearest example is at the outset of his The clearest example is at the outset of his

ministry in Nazareth, when Jesus went to the ministry in Nazareth, when Jesus went to the synagogue and was given the scroll of the prophet synagogue and was given the scroll of the prophet Isaiah to read: Isaiah to read: Luke 4:18-21


Luke 4:18-21: 18 “The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to release the oppressed, 19 to proclaim the year of the Lord's favor.” 20 Then he rolled up the scroll, gave it back to the attendant and sat down. The eyes of everyone in the synagogue were fastened on him, 21 and he began by saying to them, “Today this scripture is fulfilled in your hearing.” (NIV)

The Roles of the MessiahThe Roles of the MessiahJesus as PriestJesus as Priest

Jesus in his role as Jesus in his role as priestpriest is seen most clearly is seen most clearly in the book of Hebrews. in the book of Hebrews. Hebrews was written to Jewish believers who were Hebrews was written to Jewish believers who were

wondering whether to hold on to their Christian wondering whether to hold on to their Christian faith or revert to Judaismfaith or revert to Judaism

In several places the writer portrays Jesus as a In several places the writer portrays Jesus as a high priesthigh priest..


For example:For example: Jesus is a merciful and faithful Jesus is a merciful and faithful high priest high priest

(Hebrews 2:17)(Hebrews 2:17) Jesus is a Jesus is a high priest high priest who can who can “sympathize “sympathize

with our weaknesses”with our weaknesses”:: Hebrews 4:14-15 14 Therefore, since we have a

great high priest who has gone through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to the faith we profess. 15 For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are— yet was without sin. (NIV)


For example:For example: Jesus is a an eternal Jesus is a an eternal high priesthigh priest, his office given , his office given

not by natural descent, but by God himself not by natural descent, but by God himself (Hebrews 6:20 and 7:3)(Hebrews 6:20 and 7:3)

Jesus is superior to any Jesus is superior to any priestpriest who has come who has come before (Hebrews 8:6; Hebrews 9:11, 25-27; before (Hebrews 8:6; Hebrews 9:11, 25-27; Hebrews 10:11-14)Hebrews 10:11-14)

The Roles of the MessiahThe Roles of the MessiahJesus as KingJesus as King

Jesus as Jesus as kingking is foreshadowed in the Gospels is foreshadowed in the Gospels through the many accounts of his miracles, through the many accounts of his miracles, revealing his power over sickness, blindness, revealing his power over sickness, blindness, demons, and death.demons, and death.

The The TransfigurationTransfiguration reveals his glory as superior reveals his glory as superior even to that of Moses and Elijah. even to that of Moses and Elijah.

His ride into Jerusalem on Palm Sunday His ride into Jerusalem on Palm Sunday — — which followed the practice of previous kings of which followed the practice of previous kings of having palms laid before them as they entered the having palms laid before them as they entered the city — also points to Jesus as a city — also points to Jesus as a kingking..


Paul tells us Jesus is the one to whom every Paul tells us Jesus is the one to whom every knee will bow:knee will bow: Philippians 2:9-11 Philippians 2:9-11 Therefore God exalted him Therefore God exalted him

to the highest place and gave him the to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, that at the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. Father. (NIV) (NIV)


In Ephesians 1:21-22, Paul describes Jesus as In Ephesians 1:21-22, Paul describes Jesus as ““far above all rule and authority, power far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every title that can and dominion, and every title that can be given, not only in the present age be given, not only in the present age but also in the one to come. And God but also in the one to come. And God placed all things under his feet and placed all things under his feet and appointed him to be head over appointed him to be head over everything for the church, …” everything for the church, …” (NIV)(NIV)


Jesus is “Jesus is “Lord of lordsLord of lords and and King of kingsKing of kings”” Revelation 17:14 Revelation 17:14 They will make war against They will make war against

the Lamb, but the Lamb will overcome the Lamb, but the Lamb will overcome them because he is them because he is Lord of lords Lord of lords and and King King of kingsof kings – and with him will be his called, – and with him will be his called, chosen and faithful followers. chosen and faithful followers. (NIV)(NIV)

Jesus Fits Old Jesus Fits Old Testament Testament

Descriptions of the Descriptions of the MessiahMessiah

Descriptions of the MessiahDescriptions of the MessiahJesus as the Promised MessiahJesus as the Promised Messiah

Jesus clearly associated himself with the Old Jesus clearly associated himself with the Old Testament messianic pictures of:Testament messianic pictures of: the the ServantServant the the CornerstoneCornerstone, ,

The The Son of ManSon of Man. .

New Testament writers also refer to Jesus in New Testament writers also refer to Jesus in these ways.these ways.

Descriptions of the MessiahDescriptions of the MessiahJesus as ServantJesus as Servant

The book of Acts refers to Jesus as a The book of Acts refers to Jesus as a servantservant four times (Acts 3:13, Acts 3:26, Acts 4:27, Acts four times (Acts 3:13, Acts 3:26, Acts 4:27, Acts 4:30)4:30)

Many New Testament passages associate Jesus Many New Testament passages associate Jesus with the with the Servant Songs Servant Songs of Isaiah:of Isaiah: In Matthew 8:17, Jesus’ healing ministry is explained In Matthew 8:17, Jesus’ healing ministry is explained

as fulfilling Isaiah 53:4: as fulfilling Isaiah 53:4: This was to fulfill what This was to fulfill what was spoken through the prophet Isaiah: “He was spoken through the prophet Isaiah: “He took up our infirmities and carried our took up our infirmities and carried our diseases.” diseases.” (NIV)(NIV)

Isaiah 53:4a: Isaiah 53:4a: Surely he took up our infirmities and Surely he took up our infirmities and carried our sorrows … carried our sorrows … (NIV)(NIV)


Many New Testament passages associate Jesus Many New Testament passages associate Jesus with the with the Servant Songs Servant Songs of Isaiah:of Isaiah: In Matthew 12:15-21, His withdrawal from the In Matthew 12:15-21, His withdrawal from the

light of public attention is understood in the light light of public attention is understood in the light of Isaiah 42:1—4, quoted in full:of Isaiah 42:1—4, quoted in full:


Matthew 12:15-21 15 Aware of this, Jesus withdrew from that place. Many followed him, and he healed all their sick, 16 warning them not to tell who he was. 17 This was to fulfill what was spoken through the prophet Isaiah: 18 “Here is my servant whom I have chosen, the one I love, in whom I delight; I will put my Spirit on him, and he will proclaim justice to the nations. 19 He will not quarrel or cry out; no one will hear his voice in the streets. 20 A bruised reed he will not break, and a smoldering wick he will not snuff out, till he leads justice to victory. 21 In his name the nations will put their hope.” (NIV)


Many New Testament passages associate Jesus Many New Testament passages associate Jesus with the with the Servant Songs Servant Songs of Isaiah:of Isaiah: In Luke 22:37, His death among the lawless is In Luke 22:37, His death among the lawless is

understood in reference to Isaiah 53:12, which is understood in reference to Isaiah 53:12, which is quoted: quoted: [Jesus speaking:] [Jesus speaking:] It is written: “And he It is written: “And he was numbered with the transgressors”; was numbered with the transgressors”; and I tell you that this must be fulfilled in and I tell you that this must be fulfilled in me. Yes, what is written about me is me. Yes, what is written about me is reaching its fulfillment. reaching its fulfillment. (NIV)(NIV)


Just before this passage, in Luke 22:25-Just before this passage, in Luke 22:25-27, Jesus teaches his disciples that they 27, Jesus teaches his disciples that they must be like must be like one who servesone who serves:: … … the greatest among you should be like the greatest among you should be like

the youngest, and the one who rules like the youngest, and the one who rules like the the one who servesone who serves. … But I am among . … But I am among you as you as one who servesone who serves. . (NIV Luke 26b, 27b)(NIV Luke 26b, 27b)

Descriptions of the MessiahDescriptions of the MessiahJesus as CornerstoneJesus as Cornerstone

Speaking to the chief priests and the Pharisees in Speaking to the chief priests and the Pharisees in the temple, Jesus quotes the temple, Jesus quotes Psalm 118:22-23 Psalm 118:22-23 in in describing himself as the precious describing himself as the precious cornerstonecornerstone that was rejected by humanity that was rejected by humanity (Matthew 21:42; also Mark 12:10-11; Luke (Matthew 21:42; also Mark 12:10-11; Luke 20:17-18):20:17-18): Matthew 21:42 Matthew 21:42 Jesus said to them, “Have you Jesus said to them, “Have you

never read in the Scriptures: ‘The never read in the Scriptures: ‘The stonestone the the builders rejected has become the builders rejected has become the capstonecapstone; the ; the Lord has done this, and it is marvelous in our Lord has done this, and it is marvelous in our eyes’”?eyes’”?

Psalm 118:22-24 Psalm 118:22-24 The The stonestone the builders rejected the builders rejected has become the has become the capstonecapstone; the LORD has done ; the LORD has done this, and it is marvelous in our eyes. this, and it is marvelous in our eyes.


In Acts 4:11, Peter and John witness about Jesus In Acts 4:11, Peter and John witness about Jesus before the Jewish officials of the Sanhedrin: before the Jewish officials of the Sanhedrin: “He “He is ‘the is ‘the stonestone you builders rejected, which you builders rejected, which has become the has become the capstonecapstone’” ’” (NIV)(NIV)


In their letters, Paul (Romans 9:33) and Peter In their letters, Paul (Romans 9:33) and Peter (1 Peter 2:6-8) both cite (1 Peter 2:6-8) both cite Isaiah 28:16Isaiah 28:16, , referring to Jesus as the precious referring to Jesus as the precious cornerstonecornerstone:: Isaiah 28:16 Isaiah 28:16 So this is what the Sovereign So this is what the Sovereign

LORD says: “See, I lay a LORD says: “See, I lay a stonestone in Zion, a in Zion, a tested tested stonestone, a precious , a precious cornerstonecornerstone for a for a sure foundation; the one who trusts will sure foundation; the one who trusts will never be dismayed.” never be dismayed.” (NIV)(NIV)

1 Peter 2:6-8 1 Peter 2:6-8


1 Peter 2:6-8: 6 For in Scripture it says: “See, I lay a stone in Zion, a chosen and precious cornerstone, and the one who trusts in him will never be put to shame.” 7 Now to you who believe, this stone is precious. But to those who do not believe, “The stone the builders rejected has become the capstone,” 8 and, “A stone that causes men to stumble and a rock that makes them fall.” They stumble because they disobey the message— which is also what they were destined for. (NIV)

Descriptions of the MessiahDescriptions of the MessiahJesus as Son of ManJesus as Son of Man

The New Testament refers to Jesus as the The New Testament refers to Jesus as the Son Son of Manof Man more than eighty times. more than eighty times. The title most often used in the Gospels to refer to The title most often used in the Gospels to refer to

JesusJesus Jesus uses Jesus uses “Son of Man” “Son of Man” in reference to his in reference to his

authority to forgive sins:authority to forgive sins: Mark 2:10 Mark 2:10 But that you may know that the But that you may know that the

Son of Man Son of Man has authority on earth to has authority on earth to forgive sins...." He said to the paralytic, ... forgive sins...." He said to the paralytic, ... (NIV)(NIV)


Jesus uses Jesus uses “Son of Man” “Son of Man” in reference to his in reference to his lordship of the Sabbath:lordship of the Sabbath: Mark 2:27-28 Mark 2:27-28 Then he said to them, “The Then he said to them, “The

Sabbath was made for man, not man for Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath. So the the Sabbath. So the Son of Man Son of Man is Lord is Lord even of the Sabbath.”even of the Sabbath.” (NIV) (NIV)


Jesus uses Jesus uses “Son of Man” “Son of Man” in reference to his in reference to his impending suffering, death, and resurrection:impending suffering, death, and resurrection: Mark 8:31: Mark 8:31: He then began to teach them that He then began to teach them that

the the Son of Man Son of Man must suffer many things and must suffer many things and be rejected by the elders, chief priests and be rejected by the elders, chief priests and teachers of the law, and that he must be killed teachers of the law, and that he must be killed and after three days rise again. and after three days rise again. (NIV)(NIV)

Mark 9:9Mark 9:9 Mark 9:12Mark 9:12 Mark 9:31Mark 9:31 Mark 10:33Mark 10:33 Mark 10:45Mark 10:45


Jesus uses Jesus uses “Son of Man” “Son of Man” in reference to in reference to future coming in glory, clearly reminiscent of future coming in glory, clearly reminiscent of the prophet Daniel’s vision of the prophet Daniel’s vision of “one like a “one like a son of manson of man, coming with the clouds of , coming with the clouds of heaven” heaven” (NIV Daniel 7:13):(NIV Daniel 7:13): Mark 8:38*Mark 8:38* Mark 13:26*Mark 13:26* Mark 14:62*Mark 14:62* John 3:14John 3:14 John 8:28John 8:28 John 12:34John 12:34

*similar passages in Matthew, Luke


Mark 14:61-64: 61 But Jesus remained silent and gave no answer. Again the high priest asked him, “Are you the Christ, the Son of the Blessed One?” 62 “I am,” said Jesus. “And you will see the Son of Man sitting at the right hand of the Mighty One and coming on the clouds of heaven.” 63 The high priest tore his clothes. “Why do we need any more witnesses?” he asked. 64 “You have heard the blasphemy. What do you think?” They all condemned him as worthy of death. (NIV)


Luke in Acts 7 records Stephen, the first Luke in Acts 7 records Stephen, the first Christian martyr, declaring that Jesus is the Christian martyr, declaring that Jesus is the Son of ManSon of Man. . Immediately before his stoning, Stephen Immediately before his stoning, Stephen

looks into heaven and sees the glory of God, looks into heaven and sees the glory of God, and and “the “the Son of ManSon of Man standing at the standing at the right hand of God”right hand of God” (v. 56). (v. 56).

In Revelation, the apostle John sees In Revelation, the apostle John sees someone “like a someone “like a son of manson of man”:”: Revelation 1:12-18Revelation 1:12-18


Revelation 1:12-18 12 I turned around to see the voice that was speaking to me. And when I turned I saw seven golden lampstands, 13 and among the lampstands was someone “like a son of man,” dressed in a robe reaching down to his feet and with a golden sash around his chest. 14 His head and hair were white like wool, as white as snow, and his eyes were like blazing fire. 15 His feet were like bronze glowing in a furnace, and his voice was like the sound of rushing waters. 16 In his right hand he held seven stars, and out of his mouth came a sharp double-edged sword. His face was like the sun shining in all its brilliance. 17 When I saw him, I fell at his feet as though dead. Then he placed his right hand on me and said: “Do not be afraid. I am the First and the Last. 18 I am the Living One; I was dead, and behold I am alive for ever and ever! And I hold the keys of death and Hades. (NIV)

SummarySummary

SummarySummary Initially the word “Initially the word “messiahmessiah” = “” = “anointed oneanointed one” ”

referred to anyone chosen and installed in referred to anyone chosen and installed in obedience to God for the service of God, typically obedience to God for the service of God, typically priests, later kings.priests, later kings.

Late in the Old Testament Period, when the Late in the Old Testament Period, when the dynasty of King David seemed to have ended, dynasty of King David seemed to have ended, people viewed the promise of God to David that people viewed the promise of God to David that his dynasty would last forever as a promise for a his dynasty would last forever as a promise for a future, ideal king, an obedient future, ideal king, an obedient MessiahMessiah who who would establish a more Godlike kingdom.would establish a more Godlike kingdom.

SummarySummary They found evidence in the scriptures that this They found evidence in the scriptures that this

MessiahMessiah: : Was promised as the Was promised as the ultimate hope for God’s peopleultimate hope for God’s people,, Would fulfill three roles:Would fulfill three roles:

ProphetProphet KingKing PriestPriest

Could be described as:Could be described as: ServantServant Son of ManSon of Man a a CornerstoneCornerstone

SummarySummary The New Testament reveals Jesus is this The New Testament reveals Jesus is this

Promised MessiahPromised Messiah:: Jesus is the Jesus is the ultimate hope for God’s peopleultimate hope for God’s people,, Jesus fulfills the three roles of the Messiah:Jesus fulfills the three roles of the Messiah:

ProphetProphet KingKing PriestPriest

Jesus is described as:Jesus is described as: ServantServant Son of ManSon of Man a a CornerstoneCornerstone

Jesus is the Messiah Jesus is the Messiah = = Jesus is the Christ Jesus is the Christ is is what we proclaim when we say: “Jesus Christ”what we proclaim when we say: “Jesus Christ”

Next Time (October 17):Next Time (October 17):3: Law. Regulating the 3: Law. Regulating the

Good LifeGood Life

The Great Themes of Scripture 2. The Messiah. Unto Us a Child is Born Sunday, October 10, 2010 10 to 10:50 am, in the Parlor Presenter: David Monyak.

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