A Biblical Vision, Part I: Mastering the Old Testament Witness to Christ

Ses s i on 7: Gent i l e I nc l us i on i n Ol d Tes tament Mes s i an i c Prophecy 127

“Come, let us go up to the mountain of the Lord, to the house of the God of Jacob, that he may teach us his ways and that we may walk in his paths.” For out of Zion shall go the law, and the word of the Lord from Jerusalem.

7. In that day [the day of God’s vindication and glory] Messiah would be a Signal for the peoples of the world , Isa. 11.10 – In that day the root of Jesse, who shall stand as a signal for the peoples—of him shall the nations inquire, and his resting place shall be glorious.

C. Implications of this strand of prophecy concerning Gentiles and the promise

1. Though clues were present, the promise of Messiah was interpreted as a Jewish hope (with Gentile inclusion by proselytization).

2. Even the apostles were hesitant to include Gentiles in their proclamation of the Good News and welcome into the people of God (e.g., Peter and Cornelius, Acts 10-11).

3. The time of Jesus and the apostles was a kronos moment (i.e., a time of critical importance).

a. The display of the Messiah in fulfillment of the promise, Gal. 4.4-5 – But when the fullness of time had come, God sent forth his Son, born of woman, born under the law, [5] to redeem those who were under the law, so that we might receive adoption as sons. ( cf. Mark 1.15 – and saying, “The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand; repent and believe in the gospel.” )