The Old Testament is filled with prophecy about the coming Messiah, whom we now know to be Jesus. Many types or examples are also in the Old Testament with none more significant than those that represent the three-pronged ministry of Jesus the Messiah. His predominate work as a prophet has been done, his priestly service is happening now, and his kingship will be fulfilled in the future after he returns.
Both “Messiah” and “Christ” mean anointed one. “Anointed” means chosen by divine election, consecrated. Jesus, the Son of God, was anointed as a prophet, priest, and king.
Jesus the Prophet
Deuteronomy 18:15-22 Moses foretold that there would be a prophet like him. All of the true prophets were like Moses in that they spoke to the people on behalf of Yahweh. Moses is the mediator of the old covenant, and Jesus is the mediator of the new covenant.
Acts 3:17-26 Jesus is the prophet like Moses.
Galatians 1:6-12 The revelation of the Old Testament came from God through the prophets; the revelation of the New Testament again comes from God through Jesus, the prophet like Moses. Jesus was the last great prophet regarding the new covenant and that which is recorded in the Bible.
Jesus the Priest
Leviticus 16:15-19 – The most important duty of the high priest was to conduct the service on the Day of Atonement.
Hebrews 9:1-28; 10:10, 12 Jesus, our high priest, offered himself as the sacrifice for our sins. Through Christ’s sacrifice for us, we are sanctified and set apart for God.
1 Timothy 2:5 Jesus is the mediator between God and men.
Jesus the King
2 Samuel 7:12; Isaiah 9:7; Jeremiah 23:5 God promised David that a descendant of his would rein on the throne of Israel forever. To the Jew, the son of God, messiah, and king are all equivalent
Luke 1:27-33
Jesus is the prophet like Moses, the priest like Melchizedek, and king like David.
What does all of this mean to us today? As our prophet, his words written in the New Testament are God’s words specifically to us. As our priest, he provides remission of sins and forgiveness as we ask. As our king, he reigns in our hearts now.
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