Moses paved the way centuries before Jesus graced the earth. This shepherd-turned-prophet isn’t just a precursor in time but also in spiritual legacy, leading a narrative arc that foreshadows the transformative teachings of Jesus. Moses, with stone tablets in hand, set the stage for the New Testament’s cornerstone.
Moses’s journey through parted seas and desert sands over 1300 years before Jesus’s birth laid down the law, quite literally, for a fledgling society. Without his Ten Commandments, the moral compass guiding Jesus’s sermons atop the mount might have pointed to a very different north.
You Will Learn Today:
- Moses and Jesus appear in different time periods in history.
- According to the Old Testament, a special prophet like Moses was predicted to come in the future.
- Jesus is recognized as the long-awaited Prophet who fulfilled the prophecy of Moses.
- Moses’ role in the Old Testament foreshadows Jesus’ role in the New Testament.
- Both Moses and Jesus have had a profound impact on the biblical narrative and the faith of many.
The Predicted Prophet in the Old Testament
The Old Testament contains prophecies about the coming of a special prophet who would be similar to Moses. In the book of Deuteronomy, Moses himself wrote about this future prophet who would be raised up by God among the Israelites.
This predicted prophet would have characteristics similar to Moses and would speak everything that God commanded him. However, at the time of Moses’ death, this particular prophet had not yet appeared. The Old Testament does not record the fulfilment of this prophecy before the time of Jesus.
In Deuteronomy 18:15 – 19, Moses states, “The Lord your God will raise up for you a prophet like me from among you, from your fellow Israelites. You must listen to him.” This prophetic declaration indicates that God would send a prophet similar to Moses, who would carry out God’s instructions and guide the people of Israel.
This anticipated prophet would be a significant figure, just as Moses was during his time as the leader of the Israelites.
“The Lord your God will raise up for you a prophet like me from among you, from your fellow Israelites. You must listen to him.” – Deuteronomy 18:15
Although the specific identity of the predicted prophet is not revealed in the Old Testament, the arrival of Jesus in the New Testament fulfills this prophecy. Jesus, as the long-awaited Prophet, demonstrated the characteristics foretold by Moses.
He came from among the Israelites, and like Moses, Jesus spoke the words of God, faithfully communicating the Father’s will to the people. The New Testament portrays Jesus as the fulfillment of the prophecy, confirming his role as the predicted prophet in the Old Testament.
| Comparison | Old Testament Predicted Prophet | Jesus |
|---|---|---|
| Birth | Unknown | 4 BC |
| Ethnicity | Israelite | Israelite |
| Characteristics | Similar to Moses | Fulfilled the prophecy |
| Message | Spoke everything God commanded | Spoke the words of the Father |
| Recognition | Not specifically mentioned | Recognized as the long-awaited Prophet |
Jesus as the Prophet
When Jesus walked the earth and performed numerous miracles, it became evident to many that he was the long-awaited Prophet predicted by Moses. In the Gospel of John, we see the response of the people, who believed that Jesus was indeed the Prophet who was to come into the world. They recognized in him the characteristics and teachings that aligned with the prophecy given by Moses.
“I have not come on my own; but he sent me.” (John 8:42)
Jesus himself testified to his role as a Prophet, declaring that he was sent by God and spoke the words of the Father. He emphasized that his doctrine was not his own, but rather the message entrusted to him by God. Jesus made it clear that he came from the Father and spoke what the Father instructed him to reveal. His words and actions confirmed his identity as the Prophet that Moses predicted.
“The words I say to you I do not speak on my own authority. Rather, it is the Father, living in me, who is doing his work.” (John 14:10)
The recognition of the people and Jesus’ own testimony align to confirm his role as the Prophet foretold in the Old Testament. Jesus fulfilled the prophecy and brought a new understanding of God’s will and purpose to humanity.
| Key Points: | Relevance: |
|---|---|
| Jesus recognized as the Prophet | Confirms the fulfillment of the prophecy |
| Jesus testifies as the Prophet | Provides direct evidence of his role |
Jesus Greater Than Moses
While Moses played a significant role in the Old Testament as a prophet, leader, and author, Jesus is considered greater than Moses in the Christian faith. Jesus, as the Son of God, holds a unique position in relation to the Father, being with Him for all eternity.
Unlike Moses, who was chosen by God to fulfill a specific role in history, Jesus is not just a man raised up by God, but He is God Himself in human form. This fundamental difference sets Jesus apart as the ultimate revelation of God to humanity.
In considering the comparison between Jesus and Moses, it is important to note that Jesus’ ministry surpasses that of Moses in its scope and impact. While Moses led the Israelites out of captivity in Egypt, Jesus came to redeem all of humanity from the bondage of sin.
Moses delivered the Law, but Jesus fulfilled the Law and brought a new covenant of grace and salvation. The miracles performed by Moses were signs of God’s power, but the miracles performed by Jesus demonstrated His authority over nature, sickness, and even death.
“For Moses was faithful as a servant in all God’s house,” but Jesus is worthy of greater honor “as the Son over God’s house. And we are his house, if indeed we hold firmly to our confidence and the hope in which we glory.” (Hebrews 3:5-6)
Jesus’ teachings and actions revealed the depth of His authority and the magnitude of His mission. He claimed to be the fulfillment of the prophecies and promises made throughout the Old Testament, including those regarding the predicted prophet like Moses.
The ultimate confirmation of Jesus’ superiority over Moses is seen in His resurrection from the dead, establishing His victory over sin and death. This triumph highlights Jesus’ unparalleled role in the redemption of humanity and solidifies His position as the greatest figure in the biblical narrative.
| Comparison | Moses | Jesus |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | Chosen by God to fulfill a specific role | God Himself in human form |
| Role | Delivered the Law and led the Israelites | Redeemed all of humanity and brought a new covenant |
| Miracles | Demonstrated God’s power | Displayed authority over nature, sickness, and death |
| Teachings | Conveyed God’s instructions and commandments | Unveiled the depth of God’s love and the way of salvation |
| Resurrection | Did not experience resurrection | Rose from the dead, victorious over sin and death |
The Timeline of Moses and Jesus
Understanding the timeline of Moses and Jesus is important in tracing their historical order and their significance in the biblical narrative. Moses, the prominent figure in the Old Testament, lived approximately around 1491 BC and played a pivotal role in leading the Israelites out of captivity during the Exodus.
On the other hand, Jesus, the long-awaited Prophet predicted by Moses, was born around 4 BC in the first century AD. Therefore, Moses, in terms of historical order, predates Jesus.
To better comprehend the importance of their chronological relationship, it is essential to consider the fulfillment of the prophecy regarding the coming of the Prophet like Moses mentioned in the Old Testament. This prophecy found its fulfillment with the arrival of Jesus, who was recognized by many as the long-awaited Prophet.
Jesus not only fulfilled the prediction, but he also testified that he was sent by God and spoke the words of the Father. His testimony, along with the recognition of the people, solidifies his identity as the Prophet that Moses foretold.As the Son of God, Jesus has a unique relationship with the Father and has been with Him for all eternity. Jesus, being the eternal God, brought a new covenant and revealed the Father to mankind. His teachings surpassed the Old Covenant, transforming the course of human history.
| Moses | Jesus |
|---|---|
| Time: Approximately 1491 BC | Time: Around 4 BC |
| Moses led the Israelites out of Egypt during the Exodus | Jesus fulfilled the prophecy of the long-awaited Prophet |
| Author of the Pentateuch (first five books of the Bible) | Revealed the Father and brought a new covenant |
| Mediator of the Old Covenant and giver of the Law | Emphasized the importance of love, grace, and forgiveness |
Moses’ Role in the Old Testament
Moses is an integral figure in the Old Testament, playing multiple significant roles in the biblical narrative. Chosen by God, Moses led the Israelites out of captivity in Egypt and guided them on their journey to the Promised Land. His leadership was essential in delivering the people from bondage and establishing their identity as God’s chosen nation.
As the mediator of the Old Covenant, Moses delivered the Law to the Israelites, providing them with guidance on how to live according to God’s commandments.
Moreover, Moses holds the distinction of being the principal author of the Pentateuch, which consists of the first five books of the Bible: Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy.
These books contain foundational teachings, historical accounts, and the laws that shaped the Israelite community. Moses’ writings serve as a crucial source of historical and theological information, providing insights into the origins and development of the Israelite nation.
“The law of the Lord is perfect, refreshing the soul. The statutes of the Lord are trustworthy, making wise the simple.” – Psalm 19:7
Additionally, Moses’ role in the Old Testament can be seen as a foreshadowing of Jesus’ role in the New Testament. Just as Moses led the Israelites to freedom and delivered the Law, Jesus came to liberate humanity from sin and establish a new covenant. Moses’ actions and teachings set the stage for the ultimate redemption brought by Jesus Christ.
| Role | Significance |
|---|---|
| Leader and Deliverer | Guided the Israelites out of Egypt and led them to the Promised Land. |
| Mediator of the Old Covenant | Delivered the Law to the Israelites, establishing their relationship with God. |
| Author of the Pentateuch | Wrote the first five books of the Bible, providing foundational teachings and historical accounts. |
| Foreshadowing Jesus’ Role | Moses’ actions and teachings anticipated the redemption and new covenant brought by Jesus. |
Moses’ Life and Call
Moses’ life can be divided into different periods. He was born during a time of oppression in Egypt and was rescued by Pharaoh’s daughter when his life was threatened.
He grew up in the palace of Pharaoh but later fled to the land of Midian after killing an Egyptian. It was during his time in Midian that Moses encountered God at the burning bush, where he received his call to be the savior of the Israelites. Despite his initial resistance, Moses eventually accepted God’s call and became the leader of his people.
As described in Exodus 3, Moses was tending to his father-in-law’s flock when he came across a burning bush that was not consumed by the fire. Curious, Moses approached the bush, and God spoke to him from within it.
God revealed His plan for Moses to deliver the Israelites from their bondage in Egypt and lead them to the Promised Land. At first, Moses questioned his abilities and expressed doubts, but God assured him that He would be with him every step of the way.
Moses’ Leadership and Miracles
His leadership, coupled with divine intervention, resulted in one of the most significant events in biblical history: the Exodus. Through Moses, God executed ten plagues upon Egypt, showcasing His supremacy over the gods of Egypt and compelling Pharaoh to release the Israelites.
These plagues included turning the Nile River into blood, the infestation of frogs, the plague of gnats, and the death of the firstborn.
“Thus says the Lord, ‘By this you shall know that I am the Lord: behold, I will strike the water that is in the Nile with the staff that is in my hand, and it shall be turned into blood.'” (Exodus 7:17)
Moses also demonstrated remarkable leadership during the Israelites’ journey through the wilderness. When the Israelites encountered the seemingly impassable Red Sea, Moses, through God’s command, stretched out his staff and the waters were parted, allowing the Israelites to cross on dry ground.
This miraculous event symbolized liberation and highlighted Moses’ role as a mediator between God and His people.
Additionally, God provided sustenance for the Israelites during their desert wanderings. Manna, a supernatural bread-like substance, appeared each morning, providing nourishment for the entire community. This provision demonstrated God’s faithfulness and Moses’ leadership in ensuring the well-being of the Israelites.
| Miracle | Scripture Reference |
|---|---|
| Turning the Nile into blood | Exodus 7:14 – 25 |
| Infestation of frogs | Exodus 8:1 – 15 |
| Plague of gnats | Exodus 8:16 – 19 |
| Death of the firstborn | Exodus 12:29 – 30 |
| Parting of the Red Sea | Exodus 14:21 – 22 |
| Provision of manna | Exodus 16:13 – 36 |
Moses’ Legacy and Influence
Moses’ impact on history and religion cannot be overstated. As the author of the first five books of the Bible, also known as the Pentateuch or the Torah, his writings have been foundational teachings for both Jews and Christians.
These books contain the laws, commandments, and historical accounts that have shaped the beliefs and practices of millions of people for centuries.
Table: Moses’ Books in the Pentateuch
| Book | Contents |
|---|---|
| Genesis | Creation, Adam and Eve, Noah’s Ark, Abraham, Isaac, Jacob |
| Exodus | Israelites’ slavery in Egypt, Moses’ leadership, Ten Commandments |
| Leviticus | Laws and rituals for priests, regulations for sacrifices and offerings |
| Numbers | Israelites’ journey in the desert, census, spies’ report |
| Deuteronomy | Moses’ farewell address, review of the law, blessings and curses |
Conclusion
Moses, a central figure in the Old Testament, played a significant role as a prophet, leader, and author. However, Jesus, recognized as the long-awaited Prophet foretold by Moses, surpassed Moses in greatness if we may say that.
Jesus testified that he was sent by God to speak His words and fulfilled the prophecy of the Prophet like Moses.
While Moses brought the Old Covenant and led the Israelites out of Egypt, Jesus ushered in a new covenant and brought salvation to all humanity. His teachings and miracles demonstrated his divine authority and unique relationship with the Father.
Through Jesus, the prophecy of the Prophet like Moses was fulfilled, solidifying his position as the ultimate fulfillment of Old Testament predictions.
