In this message on Messianic prophecy, we trace how Old Testament promises about a forerunner, the Messiah’s anointing, and the opening phase of His ministry are fulfilled in the Gospels. We begin with prophecies concerning John the Baptist that prepare the way for the Messiah, then follow Jesus’ baptism and anointing by the Holy Spirit, and conclude with the prophesied location where His ministry begins. Along the way, we note how many prophecies flow directly from the Messiah’s first coming into Kingdom promises still future—explaining why many in Israel expected the Kingdom immediately.
Key Themes
John the Baptist as the Forerunner:
Isaiah 40:3 and Malachi 3:1 foretold a voice in the wilderness preparing the Lord’s way, fulfilled in John’s ministry (Matthew 3:1–6; John 1:19–23).“Elijah” Question Explained:
John denies being Elijah (John 1:21), yet he comes “in the spirit and power of Elijah” (Luke 1:17). Jesus clarifies: Elijah “is coming” (future) and also “has come” (John as a contingent fulfillment if the nation were willing), Matthew 11:7–15; 17:10–13; cf. Malachi 4:5–6.The Messiah’s Anointing by the Spirit:
Anticipated in Psalm 45:6–7; Isaiah 11:1–3; 61:1–2 and fulfilled at Jesus’ baptism as the Spirit descends upon Him (Matthew 3:13–17). Peter later summarizes this as God anointing Jesus with the Holy Spirit and power (Acts 10:37–41).Reading Isaiah 61 and the “Gap” Insight:
In Luke 4:16–21 Jesus reads Isaiah 61:1–2a and stops before “the day of vengeance,” highlighting that the prophecy’s second half awaits future fulfillment.Where the Ministry Begins—By Prophecy:
Isaiah 9:1–2 foretells light dawning in Galilee (Zebulun and Naphtali). Matthew 4:12–17 records Jesus’ move to Capernaum and the launch of His preaching and healing throughout Galilee (Matthew 4:23–25).
Scripture References
Isaiah 40:3; Malachi 3:1; Malachi 4:5–6; Isaiah 11:1–3; Isaiah 61:1–2; Isaiah 9:1–2;
Luke 1:11–17; Luke 4:16–21; John 1:6–8, 19–23;
Matthew 3:1–6, 13–17; Matthew 4:12–17, 23–25; Matthew 11:7–15; Matthew 17:10–13;
Acts 10:37–41; Psalm 45:6–7.
