Typology is the study of the New Testament in light of the Old. One of the biggest Biblical studies in typology is the book of Hebrews in which the author constantly points out how important figures, concepts and events point towards Jesus as the Messiah.

Looking at the Old Testament we can think of a few obvious ones, for example, the Brazen Serpent, symbolic of Jesus coming in the likeness of sin and hanging on the cross so that all who look unto Him could be saved, and the Rod of Aaron, typical of Christ’s priesthood and resurrection.

Essentially, ‘Types’ are a kind of prophetic foreshadowing. The idea is that all that was points towards what is and what will be – that God has hidden these prophetic lines in the tapestry of creation and history, like a secret scarlet thread for us to find, understand and marvel at.

God has been writing His love letter to mankind from before it all began.

And these ‘Types’ are like breadcrumbs leading us towards a more compelling, fuller view of the will and heart of God.

Beyond being food for thought, as we meditate on and enjoy the deeper things of God’s Word, there is also the potential of using it in conversation to explain who Christ is and what He did for us.

There is therefore the potential of employing it, like the author of Hebrews, for Jewish evangelism specifically as well – at the very least, the study of these types present the opportunity of using the Old Testament, the Hebrew scriptures, to open the door for conversation about Jesus.

The names and concepts from the Old Testament will be familiar to a Jewish audience, and with a little bit of cultural awareness the knowledge of the Old can be used to point our brothers and sisters towards the New and Living Way.

Nonetheless, whatever our reasons for pursuing a study of the Old Testament and its types – whether for personal growth and understanding, purely academic or intellectual reasons, or more practical pursuits – it is a fascinating subject worthy of our attention and careful, diligent study.

Here are a few places to start:

• Numbers 21 – the Brazen Serpent (See John 3)
• Exodus 11-13 – The Paschal Lamb (See 1 Corinthians 5:7)
• Genesis 22-24 – Isaac as a ‘type’ of Jesus (See Hebrews 11)
• The Book of Joshua – Joshua as a ‘type’ of Jesus (See Hebrews 4)

The prophets often saw in simile and metaphor, Jesus spoke in parables – and through the Holy Spirit we can gain a deeper understanding of the recurring themes, ideas and concepts in the Bible towards a more satisfying view of history.

As you look at these examples, ask God to show you that hidden scarlet thread – the scarlet thread of His mercy, grace, love and faithfulness – the scarlet thread that is Jesus.

Reflect:

1. Prayerfully look at one of the examples above, all typifying Jesus. How do these people, places and events point to Jesus?

2. Can you think of any other examples in the Old Testament that might be a kind of prophetic foreshadowing of the coming Kingdom?

Prayer:

Lord, all knowledge and wisdom is in Your hand. I ask today that as I read, as I study – as I approach Your Word with reverence and awe – that You will open up the Scriptures and grant me understanding. Help me see Jesus in the Old Testament. Enlarge the joy of my salvation as I consider the things of Old – knowing that from the foundation of creation You had me in mind. Since before time began You loved me. From the very beginning of it all, Your plan for me was Jesus. Amen.