In the Scriptures, Moses prophesied about the coming of the Messiah and spoke of a profound biblical connection between himself and Jesus. The words of Moses in the Bible offer insight into the Messianic prophecies and serve as confirmation of Jesus’ identity as the fulfillment of these promises. By exploring Moses’ writings, we can deepen our understanding of Jesus’ mission and the significance of his role in God’s plan for salvation.
Key Takeaways:
- Moses prophesied about the coming of the Messiah in the Scriptures.
- Jesus himself acknowledged and confirmed the connection between his ministry and the prophecies of Moses.
- The Jews of Jesus’ time understood Moses’ prophecy in Deuteronomy 18:15-22 as a Messianic reference.
- The Torah contains several messianic promises, including those in Genesis and Jacob’s prophecy.
- Reading and studying Moses’ words in the Scriptures can help us know Jesus better and deepen our faith in him.
Moses’ Prophecy in Deuteronomy 18:15-22
In Deuteronomy 18:15-22, Moses delivers a powerful prophecy about the coming Messiah. He foretells the rise of a Prophet from among the Israelites, similar to himself. This Prophet will be endowed with divine authority and speak the very words of God. Moses emphasizes the importance of heeding the Prophet’s message, stating that anyone who refuses to listen will be held accountable. This passage holds significant Messianic implications, pointing to the arrival of Jesus as the fulfillment of Moses’ prophecy.
The prophecy in Deuteronomy 18:15-22 serves as a testament to the divine plan for redemption and salvation. Through these words, Moses sets the stage for the fulfillment of God’s promise to send a Messiah who will bring the ultimate revelation and guidance to humanity.
“The Lord your God will raise up for you a Prophet like me from among your fellow Israelites. You must listen to him. For this is what you yourselves requested of the Lord your God when you were assembled at Mount Sinai. You said, ‘Don’t let us hear the voice of the Lord our God anymore or see this blazing fire, for we will die.’
Then the Lord said to me, ‘What they have said is right. I will raise up a Prophet like you from among their fellow Israelites. I will put my words in his mouth, and he will tell the people everything I command him. I will personally deal with anyone who will not listen to the messages the Prophet proclaims on my behalf.” (Deuteronomy 18:15-19)
Implications of Moses’ Prophecy
- Divine Authority: The prophecy establishes the Prophet’s divine authority, as the words spoken will be directly from God Himself.
- Fulfillment of God’s Plan: The prophecy highlights God’s deliberate intention to send a Prophet to guide His people and fulfill His promises.
- Accountability: Moses emphasizes that those who reject the words of the Prophet will be held accountable by God.
- Messianic Significance: The prophecy foreshadows the coming of Jesus as the ultimate fulfillment of God’s promise and the embodiment of the Prophet described by Moses.
Through Moses’ prophecy, we gain a deeper understanding of the Messianic narrative and the divine connection between the words of the Old Testament and the life and ministry of Jesus. This passage serves as a beacon of hope, pointing to the arrival of the long-awaited Messiah who would bring salvation and eternal life to all who believe.
Jesus’ Confirmation of Moses’ Prophecy
During his ministry, Jesus confirmed the validity of Moses’ prophecy. In Luke 24:27, Jesus explained to his disciples how the Scriptures, including the words of Moses, spoke about him. He emphasized that Moses had written about him, underscoring the connection between his ministry and the prophecies of Moses. Moreover, in John 5:46, Jesus asserted that if the people had believed in Moses, they would have believed in him as well, as Moses had written about him. Jesus’ recognition of and affirmation for Moses’ prophecy serve as a powerful confirmation of his role as the fulfillment of the Messianic promises.
The Jews’ Understanding of Moses’ Prophecy
The Jews of Jesus’ day possessed a deep understanding of Moses’ prophecy found in Deuteronomy 18:15-22. This pivotal passage served as a reference to the arrival of the long-awaited Messiah. According to the Gospel of John (1:45), Philip, a devoted disciple of Jesus, exclaims to Nathanael, “We have found him of whom Moses in the Law and also the prophets wrote!” This recognition highlights the Jews’ awareness of Moses’ prophecy and their anticipation of its fulfillment in Jesus.
In Acts 3:22-23, the apostle Peter further reinforces this understanding when he addresses the people, stating, “Moses said, ‘The Lord God will raise up for you a prophet like me from your brothers. You shall listen to him in whatever he tells you. And it shall be that every soul who does not listen to that prophet shall be destroyed from the people.'” Peter’s words affirm the Jews’ comprehension of Moses’ prophecy and their acknowledgment of Jesus as the Prophet who fulfills it.
In summary, the Jews of Jesus’ time grasped the significance of Moses’ prophecy as a clear indication of the coming Messiah. Their understanding is evidenced by the disciples’ proclamation and Peter’s reference to the prophecy, further solidifying the profound connection between Moses’ words and the anticipation of the long-awaited Savior.
The Significance of Moses’ Words
The significance of Moses’ words lies in their fulfillment through Jesus. Moses’ prophecy serves as a confirmation of Jesus’ identity as the Messiah. The acknowledgement and understanding of Moses’ words during Jesus’ time demonstrate the belief in the connection between Moses’ prophecy and the coming of the anticipated Messiah.
Moses, a prominent figure in the Old Testament, played a crucial role in the history and spiritual journey of the Israelites. His words, recorded in the Scriptures, hold immense value and continue to impact believers today. One of the remarkable aspects of Moses’ words is their fulfillment through Jesus.
Within the biblical narrative, Moses prophesied about the coming of the Messiah. His prophecy, documented in Deuteronomy 18:15-22, speaks of a Prophet who will be raised up from among the Israelites, resembling Moses himself. This prophecy carries significant weight as it points directly to Jesus Christ.
“The Lord your God will raise up for you a Prophet like me from among your fellow Israelites. You must listen to Him.” – Deuteronomy 18:15
- Confirmation of Jesus’ identity
- Pointing to Messianic prophecies
Moses’ words serve as an essential confirmation of Jesus’ identity as the long-awaited Messiah. According to Jesus’ own acknowledgment, Moses wrote about him in the Scriptures, emphasizing this connection between his ministry and the prophecies of Moses.
“If you believed Moses, you would believe me, for he wrote about me.” – John 5:46
Moses’ words highlight the Messianic prophecies in the Old Testament and their fulfillment in Jesus. This recognition and understanding of Moses’ words during Jesus’ time demonstrate the belief in the connection between his ministry and the anticipated Messiah.
By acknowledging the significance of Moses’ words, believers gain a deeper understanding of the biblical narrative and strengthen their faith in Jesus as the Messiah. It is through these prophecies that the connection between the Old and New Testaments becomes evident, providing a cohesive and unified message of God’s plan for salvation.
In the next section, we will explore the Messianic promises found in the Torah and how they contribute to the overall biblical narrative.
The Messianic Promises in the Torah
The Torah, specifically the book of Genesis, contains several messianic promises that provide profound insights into the coming of the Messiah. These promises, found in the earliest books of the Bible, establish a foundation of hope and anticipation for the fulfillment of God’s redemptive plan.
Genesis 3:15 presents one of the most significant messianic promises in the Torah. God declares that the offspring of the woman will crush the head of the serpent, signifying the ultimate victory over sin and evil. This promise reveals the role of Jesus as the triumphant Savior who delivers humanity from the bondage of sin and restores harmony with God.
The Abrahamic Covenant, outlined in Genesis 12:1-3, further demonstrates the messianic promises embedded in the Torah. Through Abraham’s descendant, all the families of the earth will be blessed. This covenant encompasses a universal blessing, pointing directly to the Messiah who brings salvation not only to the Israelites but also to all nations.
These messianic promises imprinted in the Torah establish the framework for understanding the profound significance of Jesus’ arrival as the long-awaited Messiah. They showcase the divine plan of redemption and offer hope to humanity by foreshadowing the transformative work of Jesus in bringing salvation and blessing to all who believe.
| Messianic Promise | Torah Reference |
|---|---|
| Crushing the head of the serpent | Genesis 3:15 |
| Universal blessing through Abraham’s descendant | Genesis 12:1-3 |
The Messianic Promise in Jacob’s Prophecy
In his prophecy, Jacob speaks of the tribe of Judah and makes a messianic promise. He foretells that a ruler, to whom the gathering of the people will be, will come from Judah. This prophecy points to Jesus, who represents the ultimate fulfillment of this promise as the Lion of the tribe of Judah. The mention of the scepter and Shiloh further strengthens the connection to the Messiah.
Genesis 49:8-12
“Judah, your brothers shall praise you; your hand shall be on the neck of your enemies; your father’s sons shall bow down before you. Judah is a lion’s cub; from the prey, my son, you have gone up. He stooped down; he crouched as a lion and as a lioness; who dares rouse him? The scepter shall not depart from Judah, nor the ruler’s staff from between his feet, until tribute comes to him; and to him shall be the obedience of the peoples. Binding his foal to the vine and his donkey’s colt to the choice vine, he has washed his garments in wine and his vesture in the blood of grapes. His eyes are darker than wine, and his teeth whiter than milk.
Key Points:
- Jacob’s prophecy in Genesis 49:8-12 speaks of the tribe of Judah and a ruler who will come from Judah.
- This ruler is referred to as a lion, symbolizing strength and authority.
- The mention of the scepter and the gathering of the people point to the Messiah.
- Jesus fulfills this messianic promise as the Lion of the tribe of Judah, demonstrating his authority and kingship.
The Messianic Promise in Numbers 24:17-19
Numbers 24:17-19 contains a messianic promise that speaks of a ruler who will arise from Israel and have universal dominion. This prophecy describes a star coming forth from Jacob and a scepter rising from Israel, symbolizing the kingly authority of the Messiah.
“I see him, but not now; I behold him, but not near. A star will come forth from Jacob, a scepter will rise from Israel.” – Numbers 24:17
The fulfillment of this promise is found in Jesus, who reigns as the ruler over all nations. He embodies the qualities of the promised ruler, bringing forth light and righteousness, establishing his dominion and kingship.
Jesus: The Fulfillment of the Messianic Promise
Jesus, as the long-awaited Messiah, perfectly embodies the ruler foretold in Numbers 24:17-19. He possesses the divine authority to govern and guide His people, shining as a beacon of hope and salvation for all.
Through His birth, life, death, and resurrection, Jesus establishes His reign as the ruler from Israel, fulfilling the messianic promise from Numbers. His kingly authority transcends borders and nations, offering eternal salvation and peace to all who believe in Him.
Reading the Words of Moses to Know Jesus Better
Jesus himself emphasized the importance of reading the words of Moses to better understand him. He rebuked the religious leaders of his time for their failure to recognize him, despite their diligent study of the Scriptures. The purpose of reading the Bible, including Moses’ writings, should be to know Jesus better and learn how to live for him. The love of God should be central in our hearts as we engage with the Scriptures.
When we delve into the Bible, particularly Moses’ writings, we unearth valuable insights that deepen our understanding of Jesus. Through Moses’ words, we gain a clearer perspective of who Jesus is and what he came to accomplish. Moses, as a prophet, foreshadowed the coming of the Messiah, and as followers of Christ, it is crucial for us to grasp the significance of Moses’ prophecies.
The words of Moses direct us to Jesus as the fulfillment of God’s plan for salvation. In reading Moses’ writings, we encounter Messianic prophecies that point to Jesus as the long-awaited Savior. By studying these prophecies, we are able to discern how Jesus perfectly embodies the characteristics and purposes foretold by Moses.
“Do not think that I will accuse you to the Father. There is one who accuses you: Moses, in whom you trust. For if you believed Moses, you would believe me; for he wrote about me.” – John 5:45-46
Jesus himself affirmed the connection between Moses’ writings and his own identity. He reminded the people that believing in Moses meant believing in him because Moses wrote about him. Therefore, a deeper understanding of Moses’ words enables us to recognize Jesus as the promised Messiah.
As followers of Christ, our engagement with the Scriptures, including Moses’ writings, is not merely an intellectual exercise. It is an opportunity to have a personal encounter with Jesus and to learn how to live in alignment with his teachings. The purpose of reading the Bible is not just to gain knowledge but to develop an intimate relationship with Jesus and to align our lives with his will.
The love of God should be at the center of our hearts and minds as we engage with the Scriptures. By immersing ourselves in Moses’ writings, we are led to a deeper love and appreciation for Jesus. We begin to grasp the depth of his sacrifice, the magnitude of his grace, and the transformative power of his love.
By knowing Jesus through Moses’ writings, we discover a profound connection between the Old and New Testaments. The Bible becomes a cohesive narrative that reveals God’s redemptive plan and his unwavering love for humanity. As we read Moses’ words, we gain a clearer understanding of Jesus’ identity, his purpose, and the depth of his love for us.
Let us approach the words of Moses in the Bible with reverence and humility, seeking to know Jesus better. Through the guidance of the Holy Spirit, may we discern the profound truths hidden within Moses’ writings and allow them to shape our lives, transforming us into faithful followers of Christ.
Conclusion
The words of Moses in the Bible provide valuable insights into the identity and mission of Jesus as the Messiah. Moses, a renowned prophet, spoke of the coming of a Prophet who would be raised up from among the Israelites, similar to himself. Jesus acknowledged this prophecy and affirmed that he was the fulfillment of Moses’ words. The people of Jesus’ time understood this connection and regarded Moses’ prophecy as a Messianic reference.
Throughout the Scriptures, Moses’s prophecies and promises serve as signposts pointing to the coming of Jesus and the fulfillment of God’s plan for salvation. By studying Moses’ words, we gain a deeper appreciation for the biblical narrative and a stronger faith in the Messiah. It is crucial to read the Scriptures with the intention of knowing Jesus better and allowing his love to transform our lives.
As we delve into the writings of Moses, we discover profound insights into the identity and mission of Jesus. The Messianic prophecies and promises found in Moses’ words highlight the divine plan of redemption and provide us with a greater understanding of Jesus’ role as the long-awaited Messiah. Let us embrace the wisdom and knowledge that Moses imparts, drawing us closer to the Savior and guiding our paths towards eternal salvation.
FAQ
What did Moses say about Jesus?
According to the Scriptures, Moses prophesied about the coming of the Messiah. In Deuteronomy 18:15-22, Moses speaks of a Prophet who will be raised up from among the Israelites, similar to himself. Jesus acknowledged this prophecy and claimed to be the fulfillment of Moses’ words.
What is Moses’ prophecy in Deuteronomy 18:15-22?
In Deuteronomy 18:15-22, Moses speaks of a Prophet who will be raised up from among the Israelites, like himself. This Prophet will speak God’s words and everyone must listen to him. Moses emphasizes that anyone who does not listen to this Prophet will be held accountable. This passage is considered a Messianic prophecy pointing to the coming of Jesus.
How did Jesus confirm Moses’ prophecy?
Jesus, during his ministry, confirmed that Moses wrote about him. In Luke 24:27, Jesus explains to his disciples how the Scriptures, including Moses’ words, speak about him. He also states in John 5:46 that if the people had believed Moses, they would have believed in him because Moses wrote about him. Jesus recognized and affirmed the connection between his ministry and the prophecies of Moses.
Did the Jews of Jesus’ day understand Moses’ prophecy?
Yes, the Jews of Jesus’ day understood that Moses’ prophecy in Deuteronomy 18:15-22 referred to the coming of the Messiah. Philip, a disciple of Jesus, tells Nathanael that they have found the one Moses and the prophets wrote about, referring to Jesus (John 1:45). Peter also references this passage in Acts 3:22-23, stating that Moses spoke of a Prophet who would be like him and that anyone who does not listen to this Prophet will be destroyed.
What is the significance of Moses’ words?
The significance of Moses’ words lies in their fulfillment through Jesus. Moses’ prophecy serves as a confirmation of Jesus’ identity as the Messiah. The acknowledgement and understanding of Moses’ words during Jesus’ time demonstrate the belief in the connection between Moses’ prophecy and the coming of the anticipated Messiah.
Does the Torah contain messianic promises?
Yes, the Torah, specifically the book of Genesis, contains several messianic promises. In Genesis 3:15, God promises that the offspring of the woman will crush the head of the serpent, referring to Jesus as the ultimate victor over sin and evil. The Abrahamic Covenant in Genesis 12:1-3 also includes a promise that through Abraham’s descendant, all the families of the earth will be blessed, pointing to the Messiah who brings salvation to all nations.
What messianic promise did Jacob make?
In his prophecy, Jacob speaks of the tribe of Judah and makes a messianic promise. He foretells that a ruler, to whom the gathering of the people will be, will come from Judah. This prophecy points to Jesus, who represents the ultimate fulfillment of this promise as the Lion of the tribe of Judah. The mention of the scepter and Shiloh further strengthens the connection to the Messiah.
What is the messianic promise in Numbers 24:17-19?
Numbers 24:17-19 contains a messianic promise of a ruler who will arise from Israel and have universal dominion. This prophecy speaks of a star coming forth from Jacob and a scepter rising from Israel, symbolizing the kingly authority of the Messiah. The fulfillment of this promise is found in Jesus, who reigns as the ruler over all nations.
Why is it important to read the words of Moses?
Jesus emphasized the importance of reading the words of Moses to better understand him. He rebuked the religious leaders of his time for their failure to recognize him, despite their diligent study of the Scriptures. The purpose of reading the Bible, including Moses’ writings, should be to know Jesus better and learn how to live for him. The love of God should be central in our hearts as we engage with the Scriptures.
What do Moses’ words reveal about Jesus as the Messiah?
The words of Moses in the Bible provide valuable insights into the identity and mission of Jesus as the Messiah. Through prophecies and promises, Moses points to the coming of Jesus and the fulfillment of God’s plan for salvation. Understanding Moses’ words and their connection to Jesus deepens our appreciation for the biblical narrative and strengthens our faith in the Messiah. Let us read the Scriptures with the intention of knowing Jesus better and allowing his love to transform our lives.
Source Links
- http://www.bibletrack.org/notes/resource/misc/Moses-Messiah.html
- https://www.cjfm.org/blog/2018/06/11/did-moses-really-write-about-jesus-look-messianic-prophecy-torah/
- https://livingchurch.org.au/moses-wrote-about-jesus/
I’m Benjamin, a passionate spiritual seeker and creator of Verses and Prayers. Alongside my girlfriend Emma and our pet lizard Mulle, I cherish family life, enjoy exploring new places, and am deeply involved in my church community. My love for reading and singing biblical verses inspires every aspect of my journey.