The Kingdom of Christ in the Old Testament by Ward Fenley The following is hopefully an exhaustive list of all the passages that deal with the time when Messiah would come to save His people from their sins and bring in the everlasting kingdom. The reason I say “hopefully an exhaustive list” is primarily because the list continues to change as I grow in my understanding of Old Testament prophetic texts concerning the Messianic kingdom. Usually, what happens is that I have to add to the list. But this is the list according to my present understanding, but count on it being updated as I learn more. So, In order to properly study these passages it is necessary to understand their fulfillment within a first century context. This is easy to do when the various elements of the different contexts are considered compared. For example, one passage like Zechariah 13:1 will mention the fountain opened for sin and uncleanness, which most will concur refers to the time of the cross. However, within the same context judgment is said to be in that day cf. Chapter 12 and the rest of chapters 13, 14. You might not entirely agree that the passages I have selected refer to the Messianic period. Some you might believe these passages refer to a yet future period, in which case I would simply ask you to consider the context and other related passages. Others of you might find fulfillment in or near the time of the Assyrian or Babylonian captivities. Yet others may find passages that I have not considered. Please feel free to show me those passages. This list does not focus on types of Christ such as the sacrifices, the high priest and other shadows of the substance. It only cites those passages which speak of specific predictions of the Messianic kingdom. Whatever the case, I hope you would be enriched as you find the eternal riches that the Christian has because of life with Christ. So as you embark on this study, may God grant you a very special and real appreciation for those passages of prophecy that find their fulfillment in the finished work of Jesus Christ. Click the link below to access this resource:
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Ward Fenley Ward Fenley resides in Westcliffe, Colorado with his two boys, Austin and Trumann. He teaches for an online virtual academy and also teaches private music lessons. Ward enjoys hiking, composing, and of course, writing about and discussing theology. He has written two books and many articles dealing with the kingdom and grace of God. Ward's current focus is on the subjects of the conscience and mercy in Scripture and how those elements relate to our everyday lives and those around us. He believes that love shown through mercy is the captivating element which not only proves the existence of the kingdom of God, but is also that which draws unbelievers to inquire into our faith in Jesus Christ.
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