Christ-Atonement, 6of6

~ The Atonement of Christ Foreshadowed  ~

Jesus Christ—The Messiah—is clearly seen throughout the Old Testament (i.e., see the Messiah series of ALN posts which are currently occurring each Saturday).  

For your personal studies are some examples to consider in your own personal studies:

Examples of prophecies of Christ (Isaiah 53: 4-12; Daniel 9:26; Zechariah 13:7)  

Examples of foreshadowings of Christ (Genesis 22:8-10; Exodus 27:1; Leviticus 1:3-5) 

Examples of types of Christ of Christ (Genesis 3:21; 4:4; 8:20; Numbers 21:9)

Examples of types of Christ’s atoning death (Genesis 6:14; Exodus 12:6; 30:16; Leviticus 16:19) 

Jesus Christ—The Messiah—is the fulfillment—the completion—of what was predicted in the Old Testament through prophecies, foreshadowings, and types.  For this closing post of this series we will consider some aspects of the foreshadowing in Leviticus 16 and compare them with what we find in Hebrews 10 where the reality is presented. 

In Leviticus one of the first things we see is that the High Priest could not enter the holy place at any time—at the time of his choosing (16:2).  Every year the priest would have to again enter the holy place to provide blood sacrifices for the atonement of sin.  Also, he was given very specific instructions about his personal preparation before We read about his personal preparation before entering the holy place (16:4). 

We must also note that there were four sacrifices (16:3, 6-7).  As you read the chapter it is clear that everything must be atoned for.  The bull was a sin offering to be sacrificed for the priest and his family, and there was a ram to be sacrificed, as well as two goats.  One of the goats was for the Lord and the other goat was the “scapegoat” (16:8).  This scapegoat is led out into the wilderness (16:10). 

This scapegoat will never be seen again—a beautiful picture of what God does with our sin.   “You will cast all our sins into the depths of the sea” (Micah 7:19b).  “I, even I, am He who blots out your transgressions for My own sake; and I will not remember your sins” (Isaiah 43:25).  “You have cast all my sins behind Your back” (Isaiah 38:17b).  “As far as the east is from the west, so far has He removed our transgressions from us” (Psalm 103:12).  Aren’t you glad He didn’t say “as far as the north is from the south”!  “Blessed are they whose transgressions are forgiven, whose sins are covered [atoned for].  Blessed is the man whose sin the Lord will never count against him” (Romans 4:7-8).

When your sin has been atoned for it is gone forever—you don’t need to bring them up  to Him again.  Your sin was put on the ultimate scapegoat—Jesus Christ—who went outside the city wall to be crucified for you and for me.  Your atoned for sin is under the blood of Christ.  It’s been forgiven.  It’s been atoned for.  God cancels, cleanses, pardons and forgets our sins.  That’s atonement.  That’s reconciliation.

Now consider Hebrews 10.  The opening verses summarize it all:  “For the law, having a shadow of the good things to come, and not the very image of the things, can never with these same sacrifices, which they offer continually year by year, make those who approach perfect.  For then would they not have ceased to be offered?  For the worshipers, once purified, would have had no more consciousness of sins.  But in those sacrifices there is a reminder of sins every year.  For it is not possible that the blood of bulls and goats could take away sins” (Hebrews 10:1-4). 

Consider this rendition:  “The old plan was only a hint of the good things in the new plan.  Since that old ‘law plan’ wasn’t complete in itself, it couldn’t complete those who followed it.  No matter how many sacrifices were offered year after year, they never added up to a complete solution.  If they had, the worshipers would have gone merrily on their way, no longer dragged down by their sins.  But instead of removing awareness of sin, when those animal sacrifices were repeated over and over they actually heightened awareness and guilt.  The plain fact is that bull and goat blood can’t get rid of sin.  That is what is meant by this prophecy, put in the mouth of Christ: ‘You don't want sacrifices and offerings year after year; you’ve prepared a body for Me for a sacrifice.  It’s not fragrance and smoke from the altar that whet Your appetite.  So I said, ‘I’m here to do it Your way, O God, the way it’s described in Your Book.’ When He said, ‘You don't want sacrifices and offerings,’ He was referring to practices according to the old plan.  When He added, ‘I’m here to do it Your way,’ He set aside the first in order to enact the new plan—God’s way—by which we are made fit for God by the once-for-all sacrifice of Jesus” (Hebrews 10:1-10, The Message). 

summary:  The human race could not be saved by the sacrifices of the Old Testament, but only by The Messiah’s sacrifice.  “And all that dwell upon the earth shall worship Him, whose names are not written in the book of life of the Lamb of God slain from the foundation of the world.  If any man have an ear, let him hear” (Revelation 13:8-9).  God does not operate in time like we do—He is eternal—He has always known that His Son would be the ultimate atonement for sin.  The Old Testament gives hints, shadows, types, and prophecies about the coming of the Son of God, as Messiah, to earth. 

But God demonstrated His own love on our behalf, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died as a substitute for us.  Much more then, having now been justified by His blood, we shall be saved from wrath through Him (Romans 5:8-9). 

note  ~  This series about atonement includes:  

1.  The Concept of the Atonement of Christ for Your Sin

2.  The Basics of the Atonement of Christ for Your Sin

3.  The Facts of the Atonement of Christ for Your Sin

4.  The Results of the Atonement of Christ for Your Sin

5.  7 Benefits of Christ’s Atonement for Your Sin 

6.  The Atonement of Christ Foreshadowed 

the key question: “Who do you say that I am?” (Matthew 16:15). This is the most important question you will ever answer. If you do not answer it, or answer it incorrectly, you have made the biggest mistake anyone can make!

~ Robert Lloyd Russell, ABUNDANT LIFE NOW

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Joshua

~ A Picture of Jesus Christ ~

Joshua is one of the most striking men in the Bible and is a “type” of our Lord Jesus Christ. A type in the Bible is a picture of something else. While much of what we learn about Joshua is found in the book of Joshua, we also learn about him in many other places in Scripture. Here are some examples of how Joshua is a type of our Lord Jesus Christ.

His Name ~ It was Moses who renamed Hosea as Joshua. In Hebrew Joshua (Yehoshua or Yeshua) means “the Lord saves” or “Jehovah is Salvation.” In Greek his name is translated “Jesus” and the message of the book of Joshua is that “Jesus saves.” Note, however, that Joshua was a temporary savior and Christ is the only true Savior who saves eternally. 

The Succession ~ Moses was “a friend of God” who gave the Law and Joshua is his replacement. The Bible teaches that the Gospel of Jesus Christ succeeds the Law. But first Joshua was a servant to Moses, and we find that Christ came to earth under the law and was obedient to it in every way. Joshua replaced Moses—Christ fulfilled the requirements of the Law (Romans 8:2-4; Galatians 3:23-25). Joshua led the people into God’s promised covenant blessing—Christ gives us the blessing of salvation.  

His Destiny ~ Joshua was born a slave in Egypt and knew he was an ordinary man. The Exodus occurred when he was about 40 years old. For the next 40 years he wandered in the desert with the Israelites. Joshua’s life was remarkable as he received direct encouragement from God. “Be strong and of good courage” occurs multiple times in the opening chapter of Joshua (verses 6, 7, 9, 18). He witnessed the miraculous crossing of the Red Sea (Joshua 4) and saw the incarnate Christ (Joshua 5:13). While Jesus was no ordinary man, He too spent time in the wilderness. He relied on and gained His strength from God His Father. While on earth He performed many miracles.

His Life ~ Scripture declares that only One man was sinless, but Joshua is one of very few Biblical personalities with little sin recorded in Scripture. His recorded life was nearly unblemished. Jesus was the One who actually lived a sinless life. 

His Character ~ Joshua was clearly a servant-leader, which is the essence of true spiritual leadership. In so many of his virtues (trustworthy, diligent, courageous, wise, a man of integrity, etc.) he was a foreshadowing of Jesus who was to come. Perhaps most importantly, Joshua carried out the will of his master—Christ was devoted to the will of His Father (John 6:38). Consider just a few of Joshua’s character traits:  

Humility ~ There is no record of Joshua ever promoting his self-interests or seeking honor—he knew he was God’s servant and relied on God for his strength. He wanted victory for the Lord—Jesus said, “Father, glorify Thy name” (John 12:28). 

Obedience ~ Joshua’s diligence to follow the law of Moses was a key factor in his personality and success. The concept of blessing following obedience is a common theme throughout the Old Testament. Jesus displayed ultimate obedience during His life, culminating in obedience even unto death (Philippians 2:8). 

Consistency ~ As Joshua followed the will of God for him, he was willing to take an unpopular position. For example, it was only Joshua and Caleb of the twelve spies who recommended obedience to God (Numbers 13:17-14:10). Joshua’s consistent acknowledgement of truth even when it was unpopular is another parallel with Jesus Christ (Isaiah 53:3; Mark 14:50). 

Faith ~ During the time of the wilderness wanderings Joshua was a faithful aide to Moses as he observed faith in action. Later faced with overwhelming odds, Joshua by faith led the Israelite army in its conquest of the promised land. Joshua’s great accomplishments were largely due to his unwavering faith and commitment to his God. Jesus Christ maintained complete faith in His Father and acted on that faith.  

His Strength ~ Knowing God’s will provides great confidence and strength for whatever task God has given. Joshua knew what God desired of him (Joshua 1:9) and obeyed God’s will. Jesus Christ and the Father are one, but it is clear that Jesus always obeyed the Father’s will (Hebrews 10:7-9; Luke 22:42). 

His Fellowship ~ Joshua was intimate with God—he thrived on fellowship with God. He sought opportunities to be in God’s presence (for example Exodus 24:13). In the Gospels we find that Jesus often left the crowds in order to find solitude in prayer and communion with His Father. As Joshua led the Israelites in the Old Testament, Jesus leads God’s people in the New Testament.

His Ministry ~ Joshua and Jesus were both servants. Both were willing to do whatever it took to accomplish God’s purposes on earth. Both were givers rather than takers. Both were channels of blessing from God. 

His Task ~ Joshua was told, “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and of good courage; do not be afraid, nor be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go” (Joshua 1:9). Jesus tells us today, “and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age” (Matthew 28:20b). We can have confidence in the Great Commission because of the example of Jesus on earth being empowered by the Father. 

His Leadership ~ Joshua governed Israel as their commander-in-chief with God-given wisdom, courage, and integrity. Jesus, our commander-in-chief, displayed the ultimate in all virtues and is  the Captain of our Salvation.

His Power ~ Joshua led the people through the power of the Holy Spirit operating in his life. Jesus Christ as a member of the Trinity was empowered by yielding to the Spirit as He went about doing the will of His Father.

His Deeds ~ Joshua’s accomplishments were due to his trust in God for all aspects of his life. Joshua led the Israelites through the river Jordan—Jesus leads us through the difficult places in our lives. Joshua saved the prostitute Rahab—Jesus saves the worst of sinners. Joshua accepted the Gibeonites—Jesus receives all who come to Him. Joshua conquered the kings of the Canaanites—Jesus conquers sin, our flesh, and the world’s influence in our lives (Romans 8:37). 

The Final Result ~ The biggest accomplishment of Joshua and perhaps the place where he is the clearest type of our Lord Jesus is that he brought the people into the land of Canaan—a place of rest! Jesus brings us into the place of true rest both in this life and for eternity. Joshua brought a temporal rest (Hebrews 4:8)—Jesus brings an eternal rest. Canaan is a type of the kingdom of God which ultimately will be the New Jerusalem (Revelation 21). We have a spiritual rest while on earth—our permanent and complete rest will be in the New Jerusalem.  Our rest was accomplished and finalized by Jesus on the Cross when He declared “It is finished!” (John 19:30.)

 

Key Observation ~ During Joshua’s day many Israelites died during the wilderness wanderings because they refused to listen to and obey the commands of God. Even though they saw His mighty works on their behalf, they did not yield to His authority. They failed to enter into the promised land and rest from the journey. There is a parallel situation today. Many refuse to listen to the Gospel message and accept Jesus Christ as their only source of salvation. Unless their hearts are softened, they cannot enter into spiritual rest and eternal salvation (Hebrews 4:6-12). Salvation comes by faith in Christ—not by our own good deeds. The result of faith in Christ is rest both now and eternally. This is the most important lesson to be learned from Joshua as a type of Jesus Christ. 

Summary ~ Joshua is the key person in the Biblical book of Joshua. But the narrative is more about Jesus Christ and His great salvation than it is about Joshua and his obedience. The book is about victorious living on earth. While Joshua was a role model of victorious living on earth, Jesus was the ultimate supreme example of a life pleasing to God the Father. We can live on earth in the power of the Holy Spirit today. The first twelve chapters of the book of Joshua present great truths and the reality that life on earth is a battle. The rest of the book illustrates how to deal with life’s difficulties after we have received divine truth. God has given us everything we need for victorious living now (2 Peter 1:3-4). 

ADDITIONAL COMMENT: Joshua was a human who had his flaws, but because of his overall desire and pursuit of God, Scripture records little of his failures. He was a true servant-leader who was a picture of the ultimate servant-leader, Jesus, who was yet to come. While Joshua was a single individual, he represents many “of whom the world was not worthy” (Hebrews 11:38).  

PERSONAL COMMENT:  My grandson—Joshua—becomes a teenager today. Josh, this posting is dedicated to you! 

~ Robert Lloyd Russell, ABUNDANT LIFE NOW

Abigail

~ A Picture of the Church ~  

 

Abigail is one of the most beautiful women in the Bible and is a “type” of the universal Church. A type in the Bible is a picture of something else. The primary Biblical account of Abigail is found in 1 Samuel 25:2-42. Here are some examples of how Abigail pictures the Church:

Her Name ~ Abigail means “gift of the father.” The Church is a gift from the Father to Jesus Christ (John 17:6-8, 18:9). Abigail’s overall life displays how God hides from the proud and mighty but reveals Himself to those who humble themselves before Him (James 4:6). 

Her Beauty ~ Abigail possessed a “beautiful countenance” (25:3). The Church will be presented to Christ as His bride “without spot or wrinkle” (Ephesians 5:27). Abigail understood David’s true nature and value before it was widely recognized—long before the wedding. 

Her Background ~ Abigail was from Nabal’s house of great abundance (a type of the world). The Church is from the world with all its abundance and treasures. Abigail left behind the riches of Nabal’s household as she joined David in the wilderness (25:18-20). The Church is to forsake earthly treasures (Luke 14:33) and instead to lay up treasures in heaven (Matthew 6:20). The Church is still in the world but no longer of the world (John 17:14-16). 

Her Vision ~ Abigail saw David’s worth and glory when those around her did not, and she acted on faith (Psalm 25:14). She saw David as being the Anointed One and she acted in faith and believed in David. Today entrance into the Church is on the basis of faith in Jesus Christ.  

Her Insight ~ Abigail knew that after David suffered there would be glory. We are told that Abigail was a woman of “good understanding”—she had been given divine knowledge! Similarly the Church has spiritual insight and the “mind of Christ” (1 Corinthians 2:16) and looks forward to future glory.

Her Response ~ Abigail responded to David with “my lord” (25:24-31). David at the time was a fugitive and outcast from society. Abigail understood David even though the masses did not! Individuals become members of the Church as they respond “my Lord” (i.e., John 20:28) while Jesus Christ is not recognized by the majority (1 Corinthians 1:26).  

Her Request ~ Abigail said to David “remember your handmaid” (25:31). The thief on the cross is a good representative of each one who becomes a part of the Church when he said "Lord, remember me when You come into Your kingdom" (Luke 23:42).  

His Response ~ David saw Abigail’s ministry and gave her peace and ministered blessings to her in return (25:32-35). Christ is in the business of providing great blessings including peace in the middle of turmoil (Philippians 4:7) and abundant life now to those who serve Him (John 10:10b).  

The Initiator ~ David was the initiator of this relationship (25:39). It is Christ who seeks us (Luke 19:10).

Her Blessings ~ Abigail was favored and blessed—the Church is greatly favored and eternally set apart (1 Thessalonians 4:17).  

The Process ~ Abigail appeared to suffer loss by leaving her wealthy place. In reality it was nothing compared to her ultimate gain. But note the important parallel—she joined with David while he was still rejected and an outcast. Individuals become members of the Church while He is still widely rejected and scorned (Luke 21:12).  

The Bride ~ Abigail was David’s bride and the Church is the Greater David’s bride. 

The Bridegroom ~ David (a type of Christ) was despised and rejected prior to the wedding. David spent time in the wilderness (25:14), as did Christ (Luke 4:1-13). David was without a home in the wilderness. The Son of Man had “nowhere to lay His head” (Matthew 8:20). Both were kings yet at the time of courting were without a kingdom.

The Final Results ~ Judgment was slow in coming, but eventually it came: “the Lord smote Nabal and he died” (25:38). After Nabal’s death Abigail is united with David. As the world, the flesh, and the devil are slain, we are united with Christ (1 John 2:16-17). When complete victory arrives, we will be wedded to Christ.

The Wedding ~ Note the sequence. First Abigail was a partner in David’s sorrow after which she became his bride (25:42), and finally she was on the throne with David. The Church is a partner with Christ and His sufferings (Philippians 3:10) but will later become His bride (Ephesians 5:27) and rule with Him—the greater David (Revelation 20:4-6). 

Additional Thoughts ~ Abigail’s deepest thoughts were not concerning herself or her personal comforts but towards David. Everything we do should be for His glory not for our own benefit (1 Corinthians 10:31). In summary, while Abigail is a single individual, she is also a representative of many of whom the Bible says “of whom the world was not worthy” (Hebrews 11:38).   

ADDITIONAL COMMENT: The book One Precious Pearl (see the OPP tab at the top of the page) presents the Church from another Biblical perspective.

PERSONAL COMMENT:  My granddaughter—Abigail—becomes a teenager within a week. Honey, this week’s blog is dedicated to you!