The Unfolding Mystery

As we discuss and work through the book together, you will gain a new depth of appreciation for the Old Testament and learn:

• To understand that the Bible tells one overarching story, the story of Jesus. The book emphasize that the Bible should not be understood as a collection of disparate stories, but as a unified narrative that points to Jesus. This story begins with creation and continues through the Old Testament, culminating in the coming of Jesus. The events and characters of the Old Testament prefigure and anticipate Christ. 

• To recognize that the story of Jesus begins with the story of mankind. The book connects the story of Jesus to the story of humanity from its very beginning. The genealogy of Jesus, traced back to Adam, highlights this connection. Adam, as the first image-bearer of God, foreshadows Christ, the true and ultimate image of God. Understanding Adam's role in creation and his fall into sin is crucial for understanding the significance of Christ's work of redemption. 

• To realize that God has a plan of salvation for all people, not just Israel. The book describes God's plan to bless all nations through Abraham and his descendants. This plan extends to the Gentiles and will ultimately include all people. 

• To appreciate that God always takes the initiative in His rescue operation. Dr. Clowney emphasizes that God's plan of salvation is not a response to human effort but a result of His own sovereign will and grace. He actively seeks out His people and initiates their redemption.

• To learn that the faith of God’s people is tried and tested as they wait for God to fulfill His promises. The book portrays the lives of Old Testament figures, such as Abraham, Moses, and David, as examples of faith in the midst of trials. Their stories demonstrate that true faith perseveres even when God's promises seem distant or impossible.

• To understand that the Old Testament uses types that foreshadow the New Testament fulfillment. The book explain how the Old Testament employs types, which are prefigurative symbols or patterns, to point forward to Christ. These types can be found in events, characters, and institutions, such as the Passover lamb, the role of the judge, and the Davidic kingship. 

• To recognize that the failures and sins of Old Testament figures are part of the story because they show that one greater than those figures had to come if God’s promises were to be realized. Our text does not shy away from portraying the flaws and shortcomings of Old Testament figures. These failings highlight the need for a perfect Savior and emphasize the surpassing greatness of Christ's obedience and sacrifice. 

• To recognize the importance of God's covenant with His people and how it is ultimately fulfilled in Christ. The book highlights God's covenant with Israel as a central theme of the biblical narrative. They explain how the law given at Sinai reveals God's holiness and our need for a Savior. The ceremonial laws, including the Passover, foreshadow Christ's sacrifice. The covenant with Israel finds its ultimate fulfillment in the new covenant established by Christ.