Christ in the Old Testament: A 5-Day Advent Reading PlanSample

Messianic Prophecies in the Minor Prophets

As we wrap up our search for Jesus in the Old Testament, we find the minor prophets (not minor because they are unimportant, but because they are smaller books!). These prophets were full of messianic prophecies. Let’s look at a few from Zechariah and Malachi.

Triumphal entry

Zechariah foresees the coming of Christ to Jerusalem on a donkey, something we see fulfilled in Mark 11:7-11.

Betrayed for 30 pieces of silver

Later in Zechariah, he mentions the price that Judas asked for to betray Jesus, as seen in Matthew 26:15.

Side pierced

Lastly, Zechariah sees the side wound of Jesus, noting the grace that comes from His wounds. This is fulfilled in John 19:34.

Preceded by forerunner

Malachi begins by foreshadowing the ministry of John the Baptist, making it clear that he is a herald for the one who is coming to save. Luke 7:24-27 confirms this.

Preceded by Elijah

Lastly, Malachi informs the Jews of the coming Elijah, greater than the one who came before. This is seen in Matthew 11:13-14.

We have seen, from the first book of the Old Testament to the last, that Jesus’s coming birth, ministry, and sacrifice were foreordained. As we linger in the Christmas season, reflect on what it means that our Savior’s life was known from before time. How does that deepen our love of Christ and ourselves?

Was this Plan helpful? We adapted this Plan from the CSB Old Testament Handbook.