Scripture Reading: Hebrews 10:1–4

Introduction

A. Even as far back as the recently forbidden gates of Eden, we find shadows of redemption cast by the cross of Jesus.

B. While the precise details of God’s plan for redeeming man were not yet apparent, these shadows made it clear that God had a plan.

Discussion

I. We see shadows of redemption in numerous OT events.

A. God promised that the Seed of woman would ultimately defeat the seed of Satan (Genesis 3:15; cf. John 8:44).

B. We see a shadow in the offering of Isaac (Genesis 22:1–10).

C. We find another in Israel’s exodus from Egyptian captivity (Exodus 12:12–13; Isaiah 43:1–4).

II. We see these shadows in various aspects of Jewish worship.

A. We see them in the burnt offerings and sacrifices (Exodus 12).

B. We find shadows of redemption everywhere on the Day of Atonement (Leviticus 16:1–16).

III. We see shadows of redemption in God’s forbearance.

A. God chose not to destroy David for his sin (2 Samuel 12:13).

B. Abel was probably the first person escorted into paradise, and yet he too had sinned (Romans 3:23).

C. Moses was not allowed to enter Canaan because of sin, and yet he entered the great Promised Land (Deuteronomy 32:48–52).

D. While the details of God’s redemptive plan were not yet apparent, it was clear that God Himself would provide a remedy for man’s sin problem (Romans 4:1–6; cf. Genesis 22:8)!

Conclusion

As we survey the shadows of redemption cast by the cross of Jesus, we cannot doubt the love of God or question His wisdom or power.