The Unfolding Mystery
This Sunday:
Seminar Overview
For anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of the Christian faith, "The Unfolding Mystery: Discovering Christ in the Old Testament" by Edmund Clowney offers a compelling and enriching journey. Let's read together and allow this book to serve as a guide to uncovering the intricate tapestry of God's redemptive plan woven throughout the Old Testament, revealing Jesus Christ as the central figure. By exploring the typological connections between events and characters, such as Adam and Jesus, Eve and the Church, or the serpent and Satan, together we will gain a deeper appreciation for the unity and coherence of Scripture. Clowney's insightful analysis illuminates how seemingly disparate stories, laws, and prophecies in the Old Testament anticipate and point to the person and work of Christ. Through careful examination of key passages and themes, the book highlights the overarching narrative of God's love and faithfulness, culminating in the ultimate fulfillment of His promises in Christ. "The Unfolding Mystery" invites readers to embark on an illuminating exploration of Scripture, deepening their faith and enriching their understanding of God's plan of salvation. Study at Fremont. Study with us!
Have you ever wondered what Christ said to his disciples on the Emmaus road—making their hearts burn? Together, let's study along with Dr. Ed Clowney through the Old Testament as he shows how all the Scriptures point to Christ.
As we explore Old Testament characters and events, we will be inspired by the many specific insights they give us into Jesus’ character and lordship.
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.
About Dr. Clowney
Pastor, professor, and theologian. After successfully pastoring, Clowney dedicated 30-years of his life to training ministers at Westminster Seminary in matters of interpretation and practical theology.
About Your Facilitator
Brooks Erickson is a long-time member of Fremont church. Faith became real to him at age 15 and appreciating our Reformed faith has been a growing process. He is completing a master's in Theology at Westminster.
