As John baptized repentant Israel in the Jordan River warning them of the judgement that was at hand, he raised his eyes and saw his cousin Jesus approaching. He stopped his fire and brimstone preaching, pointed to Jesus and declared, "Behold the lamb of God that takes away the sin of the world." For, John perceived in Jesus, the long awaited fulfillment of all the Old Testament images of redemption and reconciliation with God. As John partially understood, Jesus did not begin his ministry in a vacuum, but as one intentionally bringing to final climax the shadowy promises of the law and the prophets. Therefore, if we are to understand and appreciate the richness of the ministry of Jesus Christ, we must understand it within that context. In this class we will explore the Old Testament images and themes that prepare the way for Christ and that find their intended resolution in Him. We will consider images and themes such as:
* The initial promise of the gospel in Genesis 3
* The ark and the work of Noah
* Moses and The Exodus
* The theme of substitutionary sacrifice
* The anointed roles of prophet, priest, and king
* The themes of exile and sabbath rest
This 8-week class, taught by Bill Spanjer Jr., will be held at Chapel Field Elementary School Friday evenings from 7:00pm to 9:00pm.
Cost: Single ticket $30.00 / Package of 2 tickets $50.00
It is our desire that no one be kept from attending our classes due to cost. Therefore if you are unable to pay the listed price, please feel free to attend the class and make a donation of any amount at the door.
The Isenheim Alterpiece, painted by Matthias Grünewald c.1516 depicting the crucifixion of Christ with John the Baptist appearing to console the grieving women and the apostle, with the Scriptures open, pointing to the cross as if to declare, "Behold, the Lamb of God, that takes away the sin of the world." And with a self conscious and humble recognition the inscription in front of John has him saying, "He must increase and I must decrease."