How do we understand Jesus Christ in relationship to the Old Testament?
Two points to remember about Jesus:
- We properly understand Jesus of Nazareth as the author of the Old Testament. He is the primary agent of writing and giving the scriptures of Israel. John 1:1 tells us, “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.” Jesus is the author.
- Not only is Christ revealed in the Old Testament, Jesus Christ is the revealer of the Old Testament. Luke 24:27 tells us, “And beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, He (Jesus) explained to them what was said in all the Scriptures concerning Himself.”
Jesus is describing Himself in the law, the prophets and the writings of the Old Testament, and He's inviting you into that act of discovery yourself.
Jesus doesn't tell us exactly where to go—He simply lets us know that He is everywhere. He is the reason for life. He is tell us, “Pursue me and follow me there.” >>Watch on YouTube
Dr. Mark Gignilliat is professor of divinity at Beeson Divinity School, where he teaches courses in Old Testament and Hebrew. Mark also serves as theologian in residence at St. Peter's Anglican Church in Birmingham. Dr. Gignilliat is married to Naomi, and they have four children.