Session #13

The Prophets

We will briefly consider the prophets in the verses that foretell a significant change in the relationship between God and His people. These prophecies speak of a saving act, a sacrifice, or a restoration that will heal the "wound of the virgin daughter of my people." It is something truly transformative—always longed for but never fully attained. The climax of mankind's journey lies ahead, and what has been needed "from the beginning" is something unforeseen, yet always desired, like a moment in the desert that would change the world—some aspects for worse, but largely for better.

Moreover, we will see a growing understanding and softening of hearts, preparing to welcome the love of God, a theme we will explore further in the coming sessions.

Genesis 3:14-19

We see the motion of God foretelling the beginning and end of His salvific plan immediately after man falls "enmity between you and the woman"

Daniel 9:24–27

1. 24: This passage speaks to God's plan of salvation, but it can be dense, especially when read out of context. Daniel prayed to God, asking for the deliverance of His people, and in response, God gave him a vision through Gabriel, starting with this verse. The vision outlines five key achievements that will unfold in God's redemptive plan.

   1. "Finish transgression"

   2. "to put an end to sins"

   3. "Atone for Wickedness"

   4. "bring everlasting righteousness"

   5. Fulfillment of the prophets and vision

   6. "the anointing of the holiest place" - 

   7. While the "Most Holy Place" and the previous achievements in the passage may seem to point to the temple, we also understand that Christ's body is the true temple. His anointing marks the beginning of a journey leading to the sacrificial, atoning, forgiving, and sanctifying act that brings grace to all. In this way, the ultimate fulfillment of these prophecies is found in Christ, who is the source of salvation and grace.

2. 25 thru 27: All of this speaks to the turmoil the Messiah will bring, alongside the warring of nations and the destruction of the Temple. The phrase "The Christ (meaning 'anointed one') will be 'cut off and have nothing'" (also translated as "no one") points to the brutal end of Christ's life. This also reflects the destruction of the sanctuary, symbolizing both the end of Christ's earthly life and the eventual destruction of the Temple in 70 AD. These events are deeply interconnected, showing the profound suffering of the Messiah and the upheaval that follows.

   1. Verse 27 ends up being almost purely historical, foretelling the prohibition of religious practice which the Expositors commentary suggests means for 3.5 years. Continue reading and discussing the following verses

Wisdom 2:12–20

Ezekiel 37:24, 25–27

Hosea 11:1

Isaiah 7:14,11:1, 53:1-12

CCC 64 Through the prophets, God forms his people in the hope of salvation, in the expectation of a new and everlasting Covenant intended for all, to be written on their hearts.22 The prophets proclaim a radical redemption of the People of God, purification from all their infidelities, a salvation which will include all the nations.23 Above all, the poor and humble of the Lord will bear this hope. Such holy women as Sarah, Rebecca, Rachel, Miriam, Deborah, Hannah, Judith and Esther kept alive the hope of Israel's salvation. The purest figure among them is Mary.