Section 2–Class 3: Messianic Prophecy Part 2

Section 2–A Jewish Perspective on the Scriptures

Class 3: Messianic Prophecy Part II

Teacher: Dr. Dominick Hernández

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Class Notes

The Identity of the Messiah

• The Hebrew Scriptures provide:
  • Genealogical background
  • Place of birth
  • Timeframe of arrival
  • Other identifying characteristics of the Messiah
• These “credentials” help identify the true Messiah and recognize imposters.
• Early Jewish sages recognized these key passages as referring to the Messiah:
  • He would be from the tribe of Judah (Genesis 49:10).
  • He would be a descendant of King David (2 Samuel 7:12–16).
  • He was to be born in Bethlehem (Micah 5:2).
  • He would arrive before the destruction of the Second Temple (Daniel 9:24–27).
  • He would present himself by riding on a donkey (Zechariah 9:9).
  • He would be tortured to death (Psalm 22).

Isaiah 53—A Key Messianic Passage

• It is one of the most well-known Messianic prophecies.
• It describes specific characteristics of the Messiah’s life:
  • Suffering Servant
  • Silence at his arrest and trial
  • Death, burial in a rich man’s tomb, and resurrection (Isaiah 52:13–53:12)

Common Questions About the Messiah

• If these “credentials” in the Hebrew Scriptures are so clear, why didn’t people recognize Jesus as the Messiah?
• Did Jesus claim to be the Messiah?
• What makes Jesus different from others who have claimed to be the Messiah?
  • He fulfilled the prophecies.
  • He rose from the dead.
  • Faith in Him has stood the test of time.
  • He transforms people’s lives.

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