January 25, 2018

Jesus Fulfills All of Scripture

Zechariah 11:7-13; Matthew 27:3-10

Everything must be fulfilled that is written about me in the Law of Moses, the Prophets, and the Psalms.

—  Luke 24:44

For 21st-century people today the fulfillment of Old Testament texts in the New Testament may seem a bit farfetched. Yes, there are some similarities in the refer­ences to 30 pieces of silver in Zechariah 11 and Matthew 27. But there are also many differences. In the New Testament it is Judas and not the shepherd who throws thirty pieces of silver into the temple. So, does Zechariah really point to Jesus in this passage?

As we read these passages today, we certainly can note the similarities in them. And we know that the entire Bible has been inspired by God (see 2 Timothy 3:16-17) and written for us to learn, to be blessed, and to believe.

What is unique about Jesus is that he fulfills every type of literature in the Old Testament. Jesus is greater than Moses, Joshua, David, and Elijah in the historical literature. Jesus fulfils the predictions of the prophets. Jesus is clearly visible in both the messianic kingly psalms as well as the suffering-servant songs.

Wherever we are reading in the Old Testament, we can see that it points forward to the One who has provided salvation for us. The whole of Scripture is one story. Jesus is all we need. So let that be our confession today: “Jesus is all we need.”

Father, we confess that from time to time we question your Word, and we wonder about your promises. Reassure us today that Jesus is Lord of lords and King of kings, the promised Messiah. And may we confess, “Jesus is all we need.” Amen.

About the author — Dean Deppe

Dean Deppe has been a pastor in inner-city, suburban, and rural ­churches. Currently he teaches New Testament theology at Calvin Theological Seminary. His courses include one on the parables of Jesus. He and his wife have four grown children.

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