Pattern - fulfillment

Old Testament Expression: The ark of Noah (Genesis 6-9) and the ark of Moses (Exodus 2:1-10) serve as vessels of salvation and preservation. The Ark of the Covenant housed God’s presence.
Clarification in Christ: Mary as the ark carrying the presence of God in Jesus (Luke 1:35). Jesus Himself is the true Ark that carries us through the flood of judgment.
Meaning for Us: The Holy Spirit dwells within us (1 Corinthians 6:19), making our bodies arks that carry the presence of God.

Old Testament Expression: Sarah, Hannah, and others were barren but later bore children through divine intervention, symbolizing a reversal of desolation.
Clarification in Christ: Mary, though a virgin, bore Christ through divine power (Luke 1:34-38).
Meaning for Us: The church, once desolate, bears spiritual children through the Gospel (Galatians 4:27, Isaiah 54:1).

Old Testament Expression: The rock struck by Moses brought forth water (Exodus 17:6).
Clarification in Christ: Jesus is the Rock struck for us, giving us the living water of the Spirit (1 Corinthians 10:4, John 7:37-39).
Meaning for Us: Believers become spiritual rocks, bringing forth the water of life to others through the Holy Spirit (John 4:14).

Old Testament Expression: The tabernacle and Solomon’s temple housed God's presence.
Clarification in Christ: Jesus is the true temple, the dwelling of God in flesh (John 2:19-21).
Meaning for Us: Believers are now the temple where God dwells (1 Corinthians 3:16, Ephesians 2:19-22).

Old Testament Expression: Manna in the wilderness provided sustenance for Israel (Exodus 16:4).
Clarification in Christ: Jesus is the true Bread from heaven, giving eternal life (John 6:32-35).
Meaning for Us: We are to consume the Word of God and share it with others, becoming "bread" to the world (Matthew 4:4, 2 Corinthians 9:10).

Old Testament Expression: Israel was called a vine but failed to bear fruit (Isaiah 5:1-7).
Clarification in Christ: Jesus is the true Vine, and those in Him bear fruit (John 15:1-5).
Meaning for Us: We must remain in Christ to produce spiritual fruit and be effective in the kingdom (Galatians 5:22-23).

Old Testament Expression: Israel is described as God's bride but was unfaithful (Hosea 2:19-20).
Clarification in Christ: The church is the bride of Christ, prepared for the final wedding feast (Ephesians 5:25-32, Revelation 19:7-9).
Meaning for Us: Believers are to live in faithful communion with Christ, preparing for the ultimate union in eternity.

Old Testament Expression: The serpent in the Garden brought death (Genesis 3). The bronze serpent lifted by Moses brought healing (Numbers 21:9).
Clarification in Christ: Jesus was lifted up like the serpent to bring healing from sin (John 3:14-15).
Meaning for Us: We look to Christ for salvation and, in turn, proclaim His healing to others (2 Corinthians 5:21).

Old Testament Expression: The pillar of fire guided Israel (Exodus 13:21). The menorah in the temple represented God's presence (Exodus 25:31-40).
Clarification in Christ: Jesus is the Light of the World, illuminating the truth (John 8:12).
Meaning for Us: Believers are called to reflect Christ’s light in the world (Matthew 5:14-16).

Old Testament Expression: The Passover lamb’s blood protected Israel from judgment (Exodus 12:7).
Clarification in Christ: Jesus is the true Passover Lamb, whose blood brings salvation (John 1:29, 1 Corinthians 5:7).
Meaning for Us: We are covered by Christ’s blood and called to share the message of redemption (Revelation 12:11).

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