As we prepare for Easter, we are starting a new series called On the Third Day. The Bible isn’t just a list of rules; it’s one grand narrative of creation, fall, redemption, and restoration pointing directly to Jesus. In 1 Corinthians 15:3-4, Paul declares Jesus rose “according to the scriptures”. This means God meticulously planned it, using Old Testament “typology”—patterns and shadows—to perfectly foreshadow what Jesus came to do. Today, we see this powerful picture in the story of Abraham and Isaac.
When God asked Abraham to sacrifice Isaac, it painted a vivid picture of the ultimate sacrifice:
- Prophesied & Miraculous: Both of their births were prophesied, preset, and medically impossible miracles (Sarah’s old age; Mary’s virginity).
- The Only Begotten Son: Abraham was told to sacrifice his “only son,” mirroring God giving His “one and only begotten Son” in John 3:16.
- The Wood Carrier: Isaac carried the wood meant for his own sacrifice up the mountain, just as Jesus carried His cross to Golgotha.
- The Father ‘s Sacrifice: Abraham prepared the altar and walked step-by-step with his son. Similarly, God the Father walked in synchronized action with Jesus. But while God provided a ram to spare Isaac, God did not spare Jesus—He was our substitute ram.
- Alive on the Third Day: Abraham practically received Isaac back from the dead on the third day, beautifully predicting that Jesus would literally rise from the dead on the third day.
Looking at how perfectly God wove this story together centuries in advance, we can trust who our God is today:
- Our God is Intentional: He has a divine purpose for whatever hard situation you are facing.
- Our God is A Planner: If He planned our redemption so perfectly, He has a specific, loving plan for your life.
- Our God Fulfills His Promises: Every promise in His Word is “yes and amen”.
- Our God is A Miracle Worker: Just as Sarah laughed at the impossible, remember that nothing is too hard for the Lord.
- Our God is A Redeemer: He did not spare His Son so that you could be completely liberated from sin and restored into a relationship with Him.
