“They serve at a sanctuary that is a copy and shadow of what is in heaven. This is why Moses was warned when he was about to build the tabernacle: “See to it that you make everything according to the pattern shown you on the mountain.” But in fact the ministry Jesus has received is as superior to theirs as the covenant of which he is mediator is superior to the old one, since the new covenant is established on better promises.”
— Hebrews 8:5-7 (NIV)
Parallelism of Subjects: Covenant Transformation
The transition from the Old Testament to the New Testament is marked by a shift in the subjects of God's covenant. Initially bound to the physical Israelites with an emphasis on obedience and commitment (Exodus 19:5-6), the covenant transforms in the New Testament, pivoting towards Christians. This transformation centers around Jesus and establishes a new covenant, echoing the words spoken during the Last Supper (Luke 22:20).
“In the same way, after the supper he took the cup, saying, “This cup is the new covenant in my blood, which is poured out for you.”
— Luke 22:20 (NIV)
Promises Fulfilled: From Moses to Jesus
The promises made during the time of Moses, highlighting obedience and blessings (Exodus 19:5-6), reach their fulfillment in the first coming of Jesus (Luke 22:20). Far from being forgotten, these promises undergo a profound transformation, finding their ultimate realization in the life, teachings, and sacrifice of Jesus. The Old Testament lays the groundwork, and the New Testament provides the path to salvation.
From Physical to Spiritual: From Animal Sacrifice to the Blood of Jesus
The Old Testament's practice of animal blood sacrifice (Exodus 24:6-8) transitions into the sacrifice of Jesus’ blood in the New Testament. This transformation signifies more than a mere ritualistic shift; it marks the transition from ritual practices at the time of the Mosiac Law to the ultimate sacrifice of the son of God, providing redemption and forgiveness of sins through Jesus' blood.
“Before the coming of this faith, we were held in custody under the law, locked up until the faith that was to come would be revealed. So the law was our guardian until Christ came that we might be justified by faith. Now that this faith has come, we are no longer under a guardian.”
— Galatians 3:23-25
Preparation: The Old Testament's Role in Jesus' Arrival
The Old Testament prepares the way for Jesus (Luke 24:44, Galatians 3:23-25). Understanding the context and prophecies in the Old Testament becomes crucial in comprehending the significance of Jesus' ministry and the fulfillment of God's will. The Old Testament acts as a roadmap, guiding believers through the events leading to the fulfillment of God’s promises through Jesus at the time of the first coming.
“The LORD Almighty has sworn, ‘Surely, as I have planned, so it will be, and as I have purposed, so it will happen.”
— Isaiah 14:24 (NIV)
God's Plan Unveiled
Prophecies in Isaiah 14:24 and 46:10 show God's grand plan and purpose, showcasing Him as the Creator who declares the end from the beginning. This insight reinforces the divine connection between the Old and New Testaments, as numerous prophecies find fulfillment in the latter. From the virgin birth to Jesus' journey to Egypt, ministry in Galilee, death on the cross, and the spread of the gospel, the interconnected web of prophecy affirms the meticulous orchestration of God’s work to reconnect with mankind. It is a powerful testimony to how God shows us his divine power, proving that the spoken words of the prophets find their fulfillment in the New Testament, completing the divine design unveiled through the ages.
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