CHAPTER 6:
FULFILLMENT of prophetic REFERENCES to CHRIST (commentary)
That the compilation of prophetic references to Christ presented in the previous chapter defies accurate interpretation, even meaningful interpretation, without the benefit of the New Testament, is, I think, apparent, and by itself constitutes proof of sorts, that prophecies are not given to lead one to the Christ. (35:1)

However, there is additional proof available to us: their fulfillment. Having looked at these references by themselves, we will now take our investigation one step further by looking at their fulfillment, and the light that it throws on the purpose of prophecy (35:2)

It is beyond the scope of this book to discuss the fulfillment of all of the prophecies presented in the previous chapter. Rather, to achieve the purpose of demonstrating the nature of prophecy, while at the same time attempting to be brief, I have chosen to present all of the references cited in the first book of the New Testament - the nineteen occurrences in the Book of Matthew where it is specifically stated that a prophecy has been fulfilled. Although only a partial set of prophecies, yet because it encompasses those of an apostle's description of the life of Christ, there is a kind of completeness to the list that Matthew presents. Of course, these nineteen occurrences are not the only references that find fulfillment in the life of Christ as described by Matthew. A reference Bible will cite hundreds of verses in the Old Testament. These nineteen are only the ones specifically mentioned by Matthew as having been fulfilled (35:3)

The same principles which these occurrences will uncover can be seen throughout the rest of the New Testament. I don't believe that the actual spiritual principles, which influenced the peoples of Christ's time, are hidden beneath layers of information that can only be uncovered by scholarly research. If this were the case, how could God's Word be available to the common man? Does one need to be a scholar to understand why the Beloved Christ was rejected, or that He laid down His life for the salvation of the world, or what Christ desires for those who follow him? Does one need years of study to understand the pride of the Pharisees, or the humility of the disciples? No. So, why would another fundamental message of the Bible, one that implies that God, alone, knows the meaning of prophecy before its fulfillment, require anything more than to read the Bible with the sincere intention of understanding? (35:4)

The prophecies presented here will be generally in this form: I have numbered the prophecies as they appear in the order Matthew has presented them. For each of these, after having given the Old Testament reference, under the heading "Predictions", I explore briefly what these words could have meant to someone seeking the Christ at His First Coming. That is, we will attempt to look at the words through the eyes of the seeker. After this, the verses from the book of Matthew, indicating fulfillment of these words, are given. Finally I conclude with commentary on the possible significance of the whole process (35:5)

As with the previous chapter, you may not want to read the presentation of all nineteen prophecies at this time. By reading the first few of these, you will get a feel for the relationship between prophecy and fulfillment. The rest can be revisited at a later time if you choose (36:1)

I think you will agree, that it is evident from the very first prophecy examined, how difficult a task it would have been to recognize the Christ through scripture (36:2)

1. The VIRGIN BIRTH and IMMANUEL-
Verse from Old Testament:-
Therefore the Lord himself shall give you a sign; behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel. Isaiah 7:14 (36:3)

Predictions:-
This verse clearly states that "the Lord himself" will give a sign: A virgin will bear a son and will call Him "Immanuel". The fact that "the Lord himself" would be the one giving the sign would certainly seem to indicate that there would be no doubt as to its impact. For, of anyone who could give a sign, certainly the Maker of the heavens has power to make great signs. Who but the Lord could cause such a thing to happen? (36:4)

For a virgin to have a child is certainly miraculous, and one acquainted with this verse might think that when the birth occurred - whenever that might be (for there was no time given) - it would be the cause of wonder and excitement in the community, possibly in all of Israel. Such a strange and wonderful thing would surely cause people to contemplate God and His power. (36:5)

And this child would have its life, in large part no doubt, determined by this birth - growing up as the child born of a virgin - the child from God, the divine child. We can imagine what his childhood would bring, how he would be loved by all, and would become the hope of His people. And what a joy for the mother to bear such a child (36:6)

Isaiah's words also clearly state that this child would be called "Immanuel" (36:7)

From this verse, it seems clear, at sometime in the future, that a child called Immanuel would be born of a virgin. It also seems, when this miraculous event was to occur, that the people would immediately recall these words of Isaiah. The words would not be forgotten, for not only was his birth to be miraculous, but the name of the child embodied a wonderful promise: for "Immanuel" means "God with us" (36:8)

Fulfillment:-
Now the birth of Jesus was on this wise: When as his mother Mary was espoused to Joseph, before they came together, she was found with child of the Holy Ghost. Then Joseph her husband, being a just man, and not willing to make her a public example , was minded to put her away privily. But while he thought on these things, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared unto him in a dream, saying, Joseph, thou son of David, fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife: for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost. And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins. Now all this was done, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken of the Lord by the Prophet, saying, . Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel , which being interpreted is, God with us. Matthew 1:18-23 (37:1)

Commentary:-
Right away we see that this prophecy was not fulfilled in a way that could be predicted (37:2)

The scriptures promised that "a virgin shall conceive" and this is what happened, but the New Testament's reference to Joseph not being willing to disgrace her publicly seems to indicate that there was no great sign associated with this miraculous conception, no way for people to know that it was happening, or that it had occurred. The Bible doesn't indicate that the news of the virgin birth was spread to anyone. A crier did not go out through the city, and give the glad tidings of the virgin birth. No. The New Testament clearly indicates that the initial reaction to Mary's becoming pregnant would be the assumption that she certainly was not a virgin. Her own husband needed the reassurance of an angel that she had conceived of the Holy Ghost. In fact, there is no mention that anyone in the community at large was told or believed in the virgin birth, except Mary's cousin, Elisabeth. After the description of Christ's birth in the Gospels, that is the last we hear of the virgin birth. Not only do we find that knowledge of the virgin birth had not reached the ears of the people, there are clear references that during Christ's ministry, the people assumed that He was the son of Joseph (37:3)

Did Isaiah mention anywhere that although it would be a sign from "the Lord himself" generally, the virgin birth would be unknown to the people? That during the child's life, he would not have been known as the child of the virgin birth? Did he say that this virgin would have a husband? Could this situation have been inferred from Isaiah's prophecy? Did Isaiah say anywhere that even the man who would take this virgin as his wife, would want to divorce her because of the child? Did he give any hint as to the details that would surround the virgin birth? No. Isaiah simply referred to her conception as a sign from "the Lord himself" (37:4)

And what about being called Immanuel? There is no mention in the New Testament of anyone referring to Christ as Emmanuel. No mention of anyone even using the word "Emmanuel". Is there any indication in the words of Isaiah that we should look to any name but "Immanuel" for the fulfillment of his prophecy? Any indication that Isaiah's words have a purely symbolic, rather than a literal meaning? Did Isaiah anywhere say "his name might not be Immanuel, and no one during His time will call Him by that"? Did he give any clue that He may be called by another name? That a new interpretation in the future would have Him called by a name that means not "God with us", but "Saviour"? (38:1)

Isaiah mentions nothing about other names; he mentions only what he was to be called. What recourse would anyone have had but to assume that this would be the name given this child, or at least that He would have been called this, if given another name? Could we have predicted by Isaiah's words that Christ's name would be Jesus and that no one would call Him "Emmanuel"? No (38:2)

Isaiah's words are silent regarding many things. He didn't explain the circumstances surrounding the fulfillment of this prophecy. He didn't even hint at them. He simply stated the truth (38:3)

As we will see with the other prophecies pointing to Christ's appearance, there is no way that this prophecy could have been understood before its fulfillment. If we had clung to the thinking that the sign from "the Lord himself" was to be great, that news of the virgin birth was to be heard, or that someone named or called "Immanuel" was to appear, we would have missed the Christ (38:4)

Reflect how disastrous holding stubbornly to particular interpretations and clinging to assumed details, or even a mere name can be (38:5)

Yet, for those who believe, how beautiful and timeless are the words of Isaiah. Cherished by multitudes as the great and holy promise of the Lord, these simple words became clothed with majesty through their fulfillment. Though not fulfilled as one could have foreseen, to those who believed, it mattered not, for the words were true (38:6)

2. RULER From BETHLEHEM-
Verse from Old Testament:-
But thou, Bethlehem Ephratah, though thou be little among the thousands of Judah, yet out of thee shall he come forth unto me that is to be ruler in Israel; whose goings forth have been from of old, from everlasting. Micah 5:2 (38:7)

Predictions:-
Well, it seems that Micah has given the precise place where he "that is to be ruler in Israel" is to come from. From this verse, the seeker would no doubt understand that a ruler - a great ruler, for he is described as one "whose goings forth have been from of old, from everlasting" - would come from Bethlehem. It is not stated whether this will be the birth place or the dwelling place of this great one. It also is not explained what is meant by the term "shall he come forth unto me" (39:1)

As with all prophecies of the Bible, the prophet - in this case Micah - says nothing to indicate that some of his words should be taken literally, and others symbolically. One acquainted with this verse would look for that "ruler in Israel' who would come from "Bethlehem" (39:2)

Fulfillment:-
And When he had gathered all the chief priests and scribes of the people together, he demanded of them where Christ should be born. And they said unto him, In Bethlehem of Judaea: for thus it is written by the prophet, . And thou Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, art not the least among the princes of Judah: for out of thee shall come a Governor, that shall rule my people Israel. Matthew 2:4-6 (39:3)

Commentary:-
Once again we see that the seeker would have great difficulty being led to Christ through this prophecy. The name Bethlehem was to be taken literally in Micah's prophecy, but "ruler in Israel" was to be taken symbolically. How was the seeker to know? Is the seeker to assume a meaning and then judge the Promised One by his assumptions? Is the seeker to guess the meaning, when what is at stake is the salvation of His soul? (39:4)

Did Micah explain that by "ruler" was meant a purely heavenly ruler or that He would rule the souls of men? Did he indicate that he would have divine authority rather than earthly sovereignty? To help the seeker find the Christ, is there any indication that "Bethlehem Ephratah" should be taken literally, but "ruler" should be taken symbolically? (39:5)

No. Micah is silent as to the meaning of his prophecy, and it was left up to time and the coming of Jesus to reveal what his words meant. There was no way for anyone to know with certainty the meaning of Micah's words before they were fulfilled (39:6)

This great prophecy, predicting the Sovereignty of the Savior, and His place of birth, was revealed in heavenly words, not earthly. Its meaning is correctly understood only in the light of the words revealed by the One who fulfilled it; He Whose kingdom was not of this world (39:7)

3. OUT of EGYPT-
Verse from Old Testament:-
When Israel was a child, then I loved him, and called my son out of Egypt. Hosea 11:1 (40:1)

Predictions:-
Predictions? This prophecy speaks in the past tense - "was", "called", "loved". How could anyone know that this was even a prophecy? How could we assume that this was speaking about the future? (40:2)

Personally, it is beyond me how anyone could know that this was a prophecy! As far as I can see, there is no help to the seeker, here, before fulfillment (40:3)

Fulfillment:-
And when they were departed, behold, the angel of the Lord appeareth to Joseph in a dream, saying, Arise, and take the young child and his mother, and flee into Egypt, and be thou there until I bring thee word: for Herod will seek the young child to destroy him. When He arose, he took the young child and his mother by night, and departed into Egypt:. And was there until the death of Herod: that it might be fulfilled which was spoken of the Lord by the prophet, saying, Out of Egypt have I called my son. Matthew 2:13-15 (40:4)

Commentary:-
Once again, in this prophecy, we see that in the same sentence, the word of God as revealed through Hosea, goes from speaking symbolically: referring to Israel as a child, to using literal language: referring to His Son coming out of Egypt. However, the words of the Old Testament, give no clue to the reader that would have helped him know which parts to take symbolically, and which literally (40:5)

This clearly shows that prophetic language follows no rules of past, present, or future tense. The word of God, while seemingly referring to the past, can be referring to a future time. What clearer demonstration could there be of the difficulty in understanding prophetic language before fulfillment? These words would, no doubt, have been overlooked by someone looking forward to the future Christ (40:6)

After their fulfillment, however, these words of Hosea stand out above his other words as a jewel that God had set in the scriptures, awaiting the time for their beauty to be revealed. With the coming of Christ, the hidden meaning of these words were revealed. From the actual fulfillment of this prophecy, we get a picture of the omnipotent, benevolent Father watching over His Son. We can see from these words that at no time was Christ in danger, for His Father had known, even from the beginning of time, that there would be those who would seek to take His life, and He had made a plan for His protection (40:7)

In these simple words of Hosea, great meaning is contained. But who could have known? (40:8)

4. LAMENTATION and BITTER WEEPING-
Verse from Old Testament:-
Thus saith the Lord; a voice was heard in Ramah, lamentation, and bitter weeping; Rachel weeping for her children refused to be comforted for her children, because they were not. Jeremiah 31:15 (41:1)

Predictions:-
As with some other prophecies, in considering what one may have been able to predict from Jeremiah's words, the first question we have to ask is "How could someone have known that this verse could have been used to see into the future?" (41:2)

However, for those who may have thought that these words referred to the future (outwardly they speak in the past) it seems to refer to the suffering of a mother - specifically Rachel - for her children, who may have perished following some kind of tragedy. (41:3)

Fulfillment:-
Then Herod, when he saw that he was mocked of the wise men, was exceeding wroth, and sent forth, and slew all the children that were in Bethlehem, and in all the coasts thereof, from two years old and under, according to the time which he had diligently inquired of the wise men. Then was fulfilled that which was spoken by Jeremy the prophet, saying, . In Rama was there a voice heard, lamentation, and weeping, and great mourning, Rachel weeping for her children, and would not be comforted, because they are not. Matthew 2:16-18 (41:4)

Commentary:-
This prophecy refers not to Christ Himself, but rather refers to circumstances associated with His Coming. For Matthew it is a divine testimony to events in the life of his Lord (41:5)

The mysterious nature of prophecy is again demonstrated in this verse from Jeremiah. One wonders whether Jeremiah himself knew the significance of the words he had written, or whether it was left to Matthew to unfold their meaning. Whatever the case, the heart is moved at his description of the suffering which the slaying of the children of Bethlehem and the surrounding area must have caused (41:6)

Although both meaningful, and highly significant, this could not have led one to the Christ (41:7)

5. NAZARENE-
The next occurrence of mention of fulfillment of scripture in the Book of Matthew presents us with an interesting question. The verse from Matthew is the following: (42:1)

And he came and dwelt in a city called Nazareth: that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophets, He shall be called a Nazarene. Matthew 2:23 (42:2)

The question is "What prophet, and what prophecy is Matthew referring to?" The word "Nazarene" is not mentioned in the Old Testament, neither is the city of Nazareth (42:3)

In any case, not knowing the prophecy that this verse refers to, we cannot discuss how it may have been interpreted by the seeker (42:4)

6. PREPARE Ye the WAY of the LORD-
Verse from Old Testament:-
The voice of him that crieth in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make straight in the desert a highway for our God . Isaiah 40:3 (42:5)

Predictions:-
This seems to be an exhortation from "him that crieth". And the exhortation seems to encompass two things: prepare "the way of the Lord", and "make straight" "a highway for our God" (42:6)

Since this verse gives no details regarding how to effect the exhortations given, or who was exhorting us, we would have as many different pictures of "him", "wilderness", and "Highway in the desert" as we would people interpreting it (42:7)

Fulfillment:-
In those days came John the Baptist, preaching in the wilderness of Judaea, . And saying, Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand. For this is he that was spoken of by the prophet Esaias, saying, The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his paths straight. Matthew 3:1-3 (42:8)

Commentary:-
The symbolism of these mystical words of Isaiah could only have been understood through recognition of Christ. This prophecy refers to both John the Baptist and Christ: John the Baptist is "him that crieth in the wilderness" calling people to prepare for the Coming of Christ (43:1)

In these words of Isaiah, both Christ and John the Baptist are exalted. That John the Baptist is referred to in the Old Testament, is an indication of his greatness. Christ Himself also refers to the greatness of John (43:2)

As much as Jesus and John are exalted, however, there was little or no help to the seeker in these words. Isaiah's words are far too mystical to have been decoded before fulfillment (43:3)

7. A GREAT LIGHT-
Verse from Old Testament:-
The people that walked in darkness have seen a great light: they that dwell in the land of the shadow of death, upon them hath the light shined. Isaiah 9:2 (43:4)

Predictions:-
Again, Isaiah's words seem to refer to an event in the past: the shining of a great light. Therefore, as with many other verses from the Old Testament, it is hard to imagine that someone would have regarded this verse as foretelling a future event or circumstance (43:5)

As with all prophecies, a seeker might have assumed that the "light" spoken of above, may have been either a physical light, or a symbol of God's blessings, and Isaiah's words don't explain whether a literal or symbolic meaning (or both) was intended. (43:6)

It would certainly seem that at the time the light shined, the people would be astonished, maybe even overjoyed. They were a people who walked in darkness, who dwelt in the land of the shadow of death. Whether literal or figurative, the light would surely be a welcome change from the darkness (43:7)

Fulfillment:-
Now when Jesus had heard that John was cast into prison, he departed in Galilee;. And leaving Nazareth, he came and dwelt in Capernaum, which is upon the sea coast, in the borders of Zabulon and Nephthalim:. That it might be fulfilled which was spoken by Esaias the prophet, saying, . The land of Zabulon, and the land of Nephthalim, by the way of the sea, beyond Jordan, Galilee of the Gentiles;. The people which sat in darkness saw great light; and to them which sat in the region and shadow of death light is sprung up. Matthew 4:12-16 (43:8)

Commentary:-
We see from the fulfillment of this prophecy, the great meaning intended by Isaiah. Christ was the Light of the world, and the people to whom He appeared were living in darkness (44:1)

That the "light", which was intended by Isaiah, was to be the Messiah is something that could hardly have been guessed. Seeing Jesus of Nazareth as that light required recognition of Him as the Son of God (44:2)

8. HE Hath BORNE our GRIEFS-
Verse from Old Testament:-
Surely he hath borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows: yet we did esteem him stricken, smitten of God, and afflicted. Isaiah 53:4 (44:3)

Predictions:-
This verse appears to be simply a statement, not a prophecy. This would clearly seem to refer to someone who had suffered, but gives no details as to his suffering. It also seems to refer to either rejection by the people or simply disregard or ungratefulness for one who had suffered for their sakes (44:4)

It seems to imply that the station or qualities of the person spoken of had not been recognized or appreciated. The words "yet we did esteem him .. " seem to indicate some sort of error in judgement on the part of the observer (44:5)

Fulfillment:-
When the even was come, they brought unto him many that were possessed with devils: and he cast out the spirits with his word, and healed all that were sick: (44:6)

That it might be fulfilled which was spoken by Esaias the prophet, saying, Himself took our infirmities, and bare our sicknesses. Matthew 8:16-17 (44:7)

Commentary:-
Although it remained hidden until after the coming of Christ, Isaiah here foretells both the suffering of Christ and His healing ministry - both recognized now as signs of His glory (44:8)

Speaking in the past tense, once again, it offered no help in predicting how the Christ would come. It could not have been recognized as a prophecy pointing to the Messiah, nor could it have led one to recognize Him (44:9)

9. The LORD, WHOM Ye SEEK-
Verse from Old Testament:-
Behold I will send my messenger, and he shall prepare the way before me: and the Lord, whom ye seek, shall suddenly come to his temple, even the messenger of the covenant, whom ye delight in: behold, he shall come, saith the Lord of hosts. Malachi 3:1 (45:1)

Predictions:-
This verse clearly seems to be a prophecy. What is not clear, however, is what it means. Malachi's words refer to "I" (later referred to as "the Lord of hosts"), "my messenger", "the Lord whom ye seek" who "shall suddenly come to his temple", "the messenger of the covenant". (45:2)

Anyone considering this verse would no doubt get a sense of some momentous happening to be looked forward to (45:3)

Fulfillment:-
And as they departed, Jesus began to say unto the multitudes concerning John, What went ye out into the wilderness to see? A reed shaken with the wind? (45:4)

But what went ye out for to see? A man clothed in soft raiment? behold, they that wear soft clothing are in kings' houses (45:5)

But what went ye out for to see? A prophet? yea, I say unto you, and more than a prophet (45:6)

For this is he, of whom it is written, Behold I send my messenger before thy face, which shall prepare thy way before thee. Matthew 11:7-10 (45:7)

Commentary:-
This prophecy, just as the one presented earlier from Isaiah (40:3), refers to both John the Baptist and Christ. We get a sense from these prophecies of the oneness of their ministries and the love they bore for each other. It is Christ, Himself, who quoted this prophecy of Malachi. (45:8)

The symbolism of these words, however, is far too mysterious for anyone but God, and perhaps a prophet to have understood before fulfillment. The passage itself from Matthew indicates that no one, in fact, did understand the Old Testament saying until Christ Himself revealed its meaning (45:9)

10. HE Shall bring forth JUDGMENT to the GENTILES-
Verses from Old Testament:-
Behold my servant, whom I uphold; mine elect, in whom my soul delighteth; I have put my spirit upon him: he shall bring forth judgment to the Gentiles (46:1)

He shall not cry, nor lift up, nor cause his voice to be heard in the street (46:2)

A bruised reed shall he not break, and the smoking flax shall he not quench: he shall bring forth judgment unto truth (46:3)

He shall not fail nor be discouraged, till he have set judgment in the earth: and the isles shall wait for his law. Isaiah 42:1-4 (46:4)

Predictions:-
Any reader of these words would have to be struck by Isaiah's reference to the "servant" who would not only "bring forth judgment to the Gentiles" but who would "set judgment in the earth". The "servant"'s greatness is also shown by references to His holding "truth", and the "law", and having divine determination. And that this great One is the servant of the speaker, would seem to indicate that the speaker would have to be none other than God Himself (46:5)

While some of these verses present the greatness and authority of the "servant", the remaining verses speak of other qualities. The images they give are not easily understood, and would no doubt have led to many different interpretations. They may either have been taken by the seeker at their literal meaning, or as symbols of the personality or doings of the servant. I don't feel it is necessary to go into possible interpretations of these images. However, to me it seems clear that to anyone trying to understand them, they would be puzzling to say the least (46:6)

Fulfillment:-
Then the Pharisees went out, and held a council against him, how they might destroy him (46:7)

But when Jesus knew it, he withdrew himself from thence: and great multitudes followed him, and he healed them all; (46:8)

And charged them that they should not make him known: (46:9)

That it might be fulfilled which was spoken by Esaias the prophet, saying, (46:10)

Behold my servant, whom I have chosen; my beloved, in whom my soul is well pleased: I will put my spirit upon him and he shall shew judgment to the Gentiles (46:11)

He shall not strive, nor cry; neither shall any man hear his voice in the streets (46:12)

A bruised reed shall he not break, and smoking flax shall he not quench, till he send forth judgment unto victory (46:13)

And in his name shall the Gentiles trust. Matthew 12:14-22 (46:14)

Commentary:-
Though a prophecy, it is clear that it was not intended to lead one to Christ. It offers no clues that the seeker might have used to find the Christ in his search. There are some details given in the prophecy; some of which have literal, and some symbolic meanings. Understanding the meaning of this prophecy would have been an insurmountable task before its fulfillment. Even after fulfillment, the meaning is subject to varying interpretation (47:1)

Intuitively, from our knowledge of the Savior given us in the New Testament, we understand the meaning of the first verse of Isaiah's prophecy. From the second verse on, however, our intuition fails us (47:2)

What does it mean by "He shall not cry, nor lift up, nor cause his voice to be heard in the street."? And what about the reed and the flax? The word "reed" is used with various meanings in the New Testament: sometimes literal, sometimes symbolic. There is no use in the New Testament of the word "flax", besides the above mention in Matthew. And which "isles" and which "law" are meant? (47:3)

Of course, it is possible that there are several different interpretations to each verse in this prophecy, which are all correct. But certainly, it is only after fulfillment that they could have been understood (47:4)

11. UNDERSTAND NOT-
Verse from Old Testament:-
And he said, Go, and tell this people, Hear ye indeed, but understand not; and see ye indeed, but perceive not. Isaiah 6:9 (47:5)

Predictions:-
None, as far as I can see. This just appears to be a statement (47:6)

Fulfillment:-
He answered and said unto them, Because it is given unto you to know the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven, but to them it is not given (47:7)

For whosoever hath, to him shall be given, and he shall have more abundance: but whosoever hath not, from him shall be taken away even that he hath (47:8)

Therefore speak I to them in parables: because they seeing see not; and hearing they hear not, neither do they understand (47:9)

And in them is fulfilled the prophecy of Esaias, which saith, By hearing ye shall hear and shall not understand; and seeing ye shall see, and shall not perceive: Matthew 13:11-14 (47:10)

Commentary:-
This prophecy refers not to Christ directly, but to "them", the people of Christ's time. It is a reference to their having attained the presence of the Holy One, having heard His words and witnessed His person, yet not having realized the significance of the privilege they were given, or having benefited from it (48:1)

Once again, I see no help here for the seeker (48:2)

12. I WILL OPEN MY MOUTH in a PARABLE-
Verse from Old Testament:-
I will open my mouth in a parable: I will utter dark sayings of old: Psalm 78:2 (48:3)

Predictions:-
The speaker of these words seems to be saying that he will speak in parables and reveal hidden things of old (48:4)

What a seeker reading this verse might predict is that, God willing, the author of these words would at some time proceed to fulfill his promise and speak in parables of hidden things of old (48:5)

Besides this, I cannot see or understand anything more from this verse (48:6)

Fulfillment:-
All these things spake Jesus unto the multitude in parables; and without a parable spake he not unto them: (48:7)

That it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophet, saying, I will open my mouth in parables; I will utter things which have been kept secret from the foundation of the world. Matthew 13:34-35 (48:8)

Commentary:-
Matthew here explains that this verse from the Psalms was not merely meant as the voice of the writer, but referred to the Messiah Himself (48:9)

Who could have known? (48:10)

13. WITH THEIR LIPS-
Verses from Old Testament:-
(note: although only the first of the following verses is referred to in the New Testament, the one following it is included for the sake of completeness). Wherefore the Lord said, Forasmuch as this people draw near me with their mouth, and with their lips do honour me, but have removed their heart far from me, and their fear toward me is taught by the precept of men: (49:1)

Therefore, behold, I will proceed to do a marvelous work among this people, even a marvelous work and a wonder: for the wisdom of their wise men shall perish, and the understanding of their prudent men shall be hid. Isaiah 29:13-14 (49:2)

Predictions:-
These words of Isaiah speak in general about three things. The first verse seems to be a condemnation of the people by the Lord God. This is followed by the Lord's promise that he will perform marvelous things. There is then a reference to the utter feebleness of the wisdom and understanding of men (49:3)

One pondering these verses may have expected marvelous things to be performed by the Lord. And why would the Lord perform these things? Well it seems that they would be performed in response to the low state of the people. Would the wondrous work be to awaken them? To guide them? To bless them? To punish them? Isaiah doesn't say. But surely, the people would be astonished (49:4)

Or would they? (49:5)

Regarding where or when or of what nature the things were to be, Isaiah, once again is silent. However, the first verse's reference to "this people" may have led one to believe that the people of Isaiah's time would witness what the Lord would perform (49:6)

Fulfillment:-
But he answered and said unto them, Why do ye also transgress the commandment of God by your tradition? (49:7)

For God commanded, saying, Honour thy father and mother: and, He that curseth father or mother, let him die the death (49:8)

But ye say, Whosoever shall say to his father or his mother, It is a gift, by whatsoever thou mightest be profited by me; (49:9)

And honour not his father or his mother, he shall be free. Thus have ye made the commandment of God of none effect by your tradition (49:10)

Ye hypocrites, well did Esaias prophesy of you saying, (49:11)

This people draweth nigh unto me with their mouth, and honoureth me with their lips; but their heart is far from me. Matthew 15:3-8 (49:12)

Commentary:-
Isaiah recorded the words which the Lord spoke through him "Wherefore the Lord said, Forasmuch as this people draw near me with their mouth". Seven hundred years later someone claims that the words refer to himself. Who could have predicted this? Isaiah's words say nothing of the Messiah. Who could have guessed that this would be the case? (50:1)

Yes, it is abundantly clear from the New testament that Christ certainly did marvelous things. It is also abundantly clear, however, from the story of Christ, that He regarded those who "seeketh after a sign" as "evil and adulterous" (50:2)

So, was the prophecy meant for one to find Christ by looking for a "wondrous work?, or seeking after a sign? Or was it meant that one could find the Christ by looking for someone whom the people would draw unto with their lips, but from whom their hearts were far? Wouldn't a myriad of government and religious leaders have fulfilled this criteria? (50:3)

Isaiah's words were simply not meant to help in the recognition of the Christ. We can now understand the meaning of his words only because Christ Himself has revealed them to us. Before fulfillment, Isaiah's words would have provided no help for the seeker (50:4)

14. Thy KING COMETH unto Thee-
Verse from Old Testament:-
Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion; shout, O daughter of Jerusalem: behold, thy King cometh unto thee: he is just, and having salvation; lowly, and riding upon an ass, and upon a colt the foal of an ass. Zechariah 9:9 (50:5)

Predictions:-
This verse seems to describe a joyous happening for Israel, and Jerusalem in particular: the arrival of their King. The King described in this verse possesses several wonderful qualities: he is just, holy - "having salvation", and humble. Possessing these qualities would surely be the cause of His being loved by the people, which would be the source of the great rejoicing referred to by Zechariah (50:6)

The verse gives what seems to be a straight forward prediction of a future event, one that anyone would seem eager to attend (50:7)

Fulfillment:-
And when they drew nigh unto Jerusalem, and were come to Bethphage, unto the mount of Olives, then sent Jesus two disciples, (51:1)

Saying unto them, Go into the village over against you, and straightway ye shall find an ass tied, and a colt with her: loose them, and bring them unto me (51:2)

And if any man say aught unto you, ye shall say, The Lord hath need of them and straightway he will send them (51:3)

All this was done, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophet, saying, (51:4)

Tell ye the daughter of Sion, Behold, thy King cometh unto thee, meek and sitting upon an ass, and a colt the foal of an ass. Matthew 21:1-5 (51:5)

Commentary:-
Once again, we can see that the tongue of the prophet moves from symbolic to literal language in the same sentence, as if it matters not what style is used, and giving no hint that he is doing this. Might not the significance of the prophet's speaking in this way be that it really doesn't matter whether the words are to be taken literally or symbolically? That prophecy is not intended as a signpost pointing the way to the Christ? That it is enough simply to glorify Christ, to tell of His wonderful qualities, or events in His life? (51:6)

The prophet was simply speaking the holy words that were revealed to him. Eventually the meaning of these words would become clear to those who believed in Christ. Isn't this all that really mattered? (51:7)

Speaking of the use of literal and symbolic language, we can see now that both His Kingship and riding upon a donkey can have both literal or both symbolic meanings. In a sense Christ was, and is, King in a symbolic way. In another sense, he is King in a more real and literal sense than any king whose kingdom was of this earth. At the same time, it can be said that His riding upon a donkey was a symbol of His meekness before men, a meekness, which despite His great power, no man can ever hope to attain. At the same time, the manner of His entrance into Jerusalem fulfilled in a literal sense the words spoken by Zechariah, some five hundred years previous (51:8)

15. SON of MAN GOETH-
The next mention in the book of Matthew of the fulfillment of prophecy is this:. And as they did eat, he said, Verily I say unto you, that one of you shall betray me. And they were exceeding sorrowful, and began every one of them to say unto him, Lord, is it I?. And he answered and said, He that dippeth his hand with me in the dish, the same shall betray me. The Son of man goeth as it is written of him: but woe unto that man by whom the Son of man is betrayed! it had been good for that man if he had not been born. Matthew 26:21-24 (51:9)

Here, Christ confirms the fact that the manner of His departing from this world is foretold in the Old Testament. He does not, however, cite specific verses or the name of the prophet to whom He is referring. It is left, therefore, to the believer in Christ to discover what verses are "written" of Him (51:10)

There is a wide range of verses that Christ may have intended when He spoke these words. We cannot know for sure exactly which He meant, since He did not tell us. Many verses of Psalm 22 are regarded by scholars as relevant to Christ's words here, as is the entire chapter five of the Book of Isaiah. Also, Daniel, verse 9:26 is often cited. Furthermore, there are many other verses which scholars cite in this connection (52:1)

Since there are so many verses regarded as applicable to Christ's words above, I will not comment on them individually. They contain many symbolic and some literal references to Christ, all of whose meanings are, of course, very great. For the most part, the Psalm 22 and Isaiah 53 speak about Christ's suffering and humiliation. Daniel gives the prophecy, well known for its astounding accuracy, of the time that the Messiah will be "cut off" - 490 years after the command to rebuild the Temple at Jerusalem (52:2)

As with all other prophecies, it seems clear to me, that these verses could only have been rightly understood after fulfillment (52:3)

16. SMITE the SHEPHERD-
Verse from Old Testament:-
Awake, O sword, against my shepherd, and against the man that is my fellow, saith the Lord of hosts: smite the shepherd, and the sheep shall be scattered: and I will turn mine hand upon the little ones. Zechariah 13:7 (52:4)

Predictions:-
This verse seems to foretell punishment and/or death, at the will of the Lord of hosts. The objects of this justice will be the "shepherd", also referred to as "the man that is my fellow", and "the little ones". No explanation is given regarding why these people should deserve this treatment, nor what the purpose of the scattering of the sheep should be (52:5)

One who pondered this verse would wonder who are the shepherd and the little ones, and why they would receive this action from the hand of God (52:6)

Fulfillment:-
And when they had sung an hymn, they went out into the mount of Olives. Then saith Jesus unto them, All ye shall be offended because of me this night: for it is written, I will smite the shepherd, and the sheep of the flock shall be scattered abroad. Matthew 26:30-31 (52:7)

Commentary:-
Before the coming of Christ, one could hardly have imagined that the shepherd would be the Messiah Himself. In fact, it seems that the premise that this verse referred to the coming Messiah and His followers would have been most strenuously objected to, or at the least, ridiculed. For, was the Messiah to herd sheep? Was He to be punished by God? (52:8)

These divine words of Zechariah held a meaning that only the Christ Himself was to know and reveal. They were revealed to none before His Coming, and after His Coming they hold meaning for only those who believe in Him (53:9)

17. SCRIPTURES FULFILLED-
The next mention in the book of Matthew of the fulfillment of prophecy is this:. Then said Jesus unto him, Put up again thy sword into his place: for all they that take the sword shall perish with the sword. Thinkest thou that I cannot now pray to my Father, and he shall presently give me more than twelve legions of angels?. But how then shall the scriptures be fulfilled, that thus it must be?. In that same hour said Jesus to the multitudes, Are ye come out as against a thief with swords and staves for to take me? I sat daily with you teaching in the temple, and ye laid no hold on me. But all this was done that the scriptures of the prophets might be fulfilled. Then all the disciples forsook him and fled. Matthew 26:52-56 (53:10)

Here, again, Christ Himself confirms that the events associated with His ministry have been foretold in the sacred scriptures. He also indicates that having been foretold by the word of God, these events are irrevocable, and not subject to the will of man. Thus He assured His followers that no matter what was to happen, and whether or not they understood the significance of the coming events or not, they should have faith that the Father was the mover of events in this world (53:11)

Christ's words here seem to be an extension and reiteration of His earlier statement in Matthew 26:24, that the prophets of old have testified of Him. Once again Christ gives no specific reference to help us discern to which verses of the Old Testament He is referring. As with Matthew 26:21-24 commented above, given the many verses that Christ may have intended, commentary on them would be lengthy, and I don't feel this is necessary. And once again, the reader is referred to chapter five or, of course, the Old Testament, to determine the meaning of the Lord's words given here (53:12)

Although these occurrences in Matthew of the fulfillment of prophecy offer no specific references to those prophecies for us to consider, they do offer us something of considerable significance: By not focusing on particular words of the Old Testament, while at the same time indicating that events were unfolding according to the plan of God revealed to His chosen people, Christ has opened the door for His believers to search the scriptures for all that was written of Him. By this statement, we are freed from a narrow view that only verses specifically referred to by Christ or His disciples are prophecies (53:13)

The search for these prophetic references to Christ, which has continued up to this day, has been undertaken in the following manner: Using the words Christ spoke, and the events of His life as a searchlight, people looked back at the scriptures revealed before His Coming, and discovered verses whose meanings were previously unknown but which refer to Him. The vast majority of prophetic references to Christ have been found in this way - an indication of the validity of the necessity of fulfillment and acceptance of Christ to an understanding of the meaning of these prophetic references (54:1)

18. 30 PIECES of SILVER-
The next occurrence in Matthew of a stated prophecy fulfilled is the following:. Then Judas, which had betrayed him, when he saw that he was condemned, repented himself, and brought again the thirty pieces of silver to the chief priests and elders, . Saying, I have sinned in that I have betrayed the innocent blood. And they said, What is that to us? see thou to that. And he cast down the pieces of silver in the temple, and departed, and went and hanged himself. . And the chief priests took the silver pieces, and said, It is not lawful for to put them into the treasury, because it is the price of blood (54:2)

And they took counsel, and bought with them the potter's field, to bury strangers in (54:3)

Wherefore that field was called, The field of blood, unto this day (54:4)

Then was fulfilled that which was spoken by Jeremy the prophet, saying, And they took the thirty pieces of silver, the price of him that was valued, whom they of the children of Israel did value; (54:5)

And gave them for the potter's field, as the Lord appointed me. Matthew 27:3-10 (54:6)

Although Matthew here states that "Jeremy the prophet" has given a prophecy regarding the thirty pieces of silver, no such prophecy can be found in the book of Jeremiah. What is the reason for this discrepancy? Many questions may arise, and there may be a definitive explanation, but I am not aware of one. In any case, as in the prophecy regarding "Nazarene" (Matthew 2:23) above, we cannot comment on the prophetic reference referred to by Matthew, because we are not sure what it is. (54:7)

There is however a prophecy in the book of Zechariah which we can consider. Although not the one referred to by Matthew, it refers to the thirty pieces of silver. One thing to note regarding this prophecy and its fulfillment, is that whereas Matthew states that the Old Testament prophetic reference (Jeremiah's words) refers to the purchase of a field with the silver coins, the words of Zechariah say nothing of this. Verses from Old Testament:. And I said unto them, If ye think good, give me my price; and if not, forbear . So they weighed for my price thirty pieces of silver. (54:8)

And the Lord said unto me, Cast it unto the potter: a goodly price that I was prised at of them. And I took the thirty pieces or silver, and cast them to the potter in the house of the Lord. Zechariah 11:12-13 (55:1)

Commentary:-
The incident of Judas' betrayal of Christ for the price of thirty pieces of silver could not have been either predicted or led one to the Christ. Consider the words of Zechariah above. These verses present nothing that could have been taken as reference to a future event. I personally do not see what one could have predicted from this (55:2)

19. PARTED MY GARMENTS-
Verses from Old Testament-
They part my garments among them, and cast lots upon my vesture. Psalm 22:18 (55:3)

Predictions:-
These words appear to be the voice of the writer of the Psalm, in this case, David. I cannot see any predictions coming from these words (55:4)

Fulfillment:-
And they crucified him, and parted his garments, casting lots: that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophet, They parted my garments among them and upon my vesture did they cast lots. Matthew 27:35 (55:5)

Commentary:-
Matthew here has revealed that the words spoken by David were actually spoken as if they were the words of his holy Descendant, Jesus. This sheds light on the bond between the two - a bond that was much more than that of mere blood relationship (55:6)

Although speaking in the voice of his Lord, and predicting with divine accuracy the details of His utter humiliation centuries before it was to occur, his words still offered the seeker after the Christ no help in finding Him. There was no hint of the great meaning of David's words, no signal that would have directed the seeker to Christ (55:7)

Once again, as with all other prophetic references to Christ, the holy meaning of the words of the prophet remain hidden to those who have not accepted Him, while at the same time they are a source of awe and wonder to those who have (55:8)

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