“Old Testament examples are New Testament instructions.”
John Owen
In the garden of Gethsemane, Jesus displayed his great majesty. This was seen in the soldiers falling back in his presence. He also demonstrated his great mercy. He healed Malchus’ ear. Did the assaulting party grant him a reprieve? No, instead, “the band of soldiers and their captain and the officers of the Jews arrested Jesus and bound him. First they led him to Annas, for he was the father-in-law of Caiaphas, who was high priest that year. It was Caiaphas who had advised the Jews that it would be expedient that one man should die for the people.” (John 18:12-14)
Jesus was arrested and bound. In the Old Testament, Abraham’s son, Isaac, is considered a type (or prefigure) of Christ, especially in the episode where Abraham is called on to sacrifice his son and both make their way to Mt. Moriah. Here is a portion of the account:
And Isaac said to his father Abraham, “My father!” And he said, “Here I am, my son.” He said, “Behold, the fire and the wood, but where is the lamb for a burnt offering?” Abraham said, “God will provide for himself the lamb for a burnt offering, my son.” So they went both of them together. When they came to the place of which God had told him, Abraham built the altar there and laid the wood in order and bound Isaac his son and laid him on the altar, on top of the wood. (Genesis 22:7-9)
Please note the following:
- The father’s presence with Isaac is assured. (verse 7)
- Abraham’s faith in God is made explicit—“God will provide for himself the lamb…” (verse 8)
- Both father and son proceed together with no disagreement.
- Abraham builds the altar in full view of the son!
- Isaac is bound willingly without struggle and placed on the altar.
Can you think of other ways that this whole episode with Abraham and Isaac were fulfilled in Christ? How wonderful that our Savior, in complete submission, to his Father, gave his life so fully and like a sheep before the shearers was silent. And remember such a large portion of the gospels is devoted to Passion Week (at least thirty percent)! He suffered for us. He was arrested that we might be acquitted. He was bound that we might be free.
Let’s close with a quote from the 19th century pastor, J. C. Ryle:
To suffer for those who are in some sense worthy of our affection, is suffering that we can understand. To submit to ill-treatment quietly, when we have no power to resist, is submission that is both graceful and wise. But to suffer voluntarily, when we have the power to prevent it, and to suffer for a world of unbelieving and ungodly sinners, unasked and unthanked—this is a line of conduct which passes man’s understanding. (J. C. Ryle)
Have a blessed week and we will see many of you on Sunday.
Unto Him be glory,
Pastor Dale
