Absolutely, and it’s not only possible—it’s profound. The Old Testament serves as the foundational narrative of the Gospel, setting the stage for Christ’s redemptive work. This is how the early church shared the Good News, especially with Jewish audiences, before the New Testament writings were even completed. Let’s take a journey through the Old Testament to see how it points unmistakably to the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
1. Creation and the Fall: The Gospel’s Foundation
Key Passage: Genesis 1–3
The Gospel begins with God as Creator. Humanity was made in His image for fellowship with Him, but sin shattered that relationship. In Genesis 3:15, often called the protoevangelium (first Gospel), God promises a Redeemer: “He shall bruise your head, and you shall bruise His heel.” This prophecy introduces the hope of Christ, the seed of the woman, who would defeat Satan and restore what sin destroyed.
2. God’s Covenant with Abraham: The Blessing for All Nations
Key Passages: Genesis 12:1-3; 22:13-18
God’s promise to Abraham reveals His plan to bless all nations through Abraham’s offspring—a direct reference to Christ (Galatians 3:16). In Genesis 22, God’s provision of a ram to replace Isaac on the altar foreshadows Jesus as the ultimate substitute for sinners. Just as Isaac was spared, so we are spared because Christ took our place.
3. The Sacrificial System: Atonement Through Blood
Key Passage: Leviticus 17:11
“For the life of the flesh is in the blood, and I have given it for you on the altar to make atonement for your souls.” The entire sacrificial system points to the necessity of atonement through the shedding of blood. Every sacrifice, from the Passover lamb to the Day of Atonement, foreshadows Christ, the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world (John 1:29).
4. The Suffering Servant: Salvation Through Suffering
Key Passage: Isaiah 53
This chapter is one of the clearest Old Testament prophecies about Jesus. It speaks of a servant who is “pierced for our transgressions” and “crushed for our iniquities.” The punishment that brings us peace is placed on Him. This prophetic description aligns perfectly with Christ’s sacrificial death, showcasing God’s plan for redemption through the suffering of His Son.
5. The New Covenant: Forgiveness and Transformation
Key Passages: Jeremiah 31:31-34; Ezekiel 36:25-27
Both Jeremiah and Ezekiel foretell a time when God will establish a new covenant, forgiving sins and transforming hearts. Jeremiah 31 speaks of God writing His law on the hearts of His people, while Ezekiel 36 describes a spiritual renewal through the Holy Spirit. These promises find their fulfillment in Christ, who inaugurated the New Covenant through His blood (Luke 22:20).
6. The Promised Messiah: The Eternal King
Key Passages: Micah 5:2; Daniel 7:13-14
The Old Testament clearly identifies the coming Messiah. Micah 5:2 predicts His birthplace in Bethlehem, while Daniel 7 describes the Son of Man receiving an everlasting dominion. These prophecies converge in Jesus, whose birth, life, and resurrection affirm His identity as the Messiah and King.
7. God’s Invitation: Salvation for All Who Call
Key Passages: Joel 2:32; Zechariah 12:10
“Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved” (Joel 2:32). God’s invitation extends to all people. Zechariah 12:10 foretells a day when people will mourn for “the One they have pierced,” leading to repentance and restoration. These verses emphasize the universal offer of salvation, fulfilled in Jesus.
The Gospel Woven Throughout the Old Testament
The Old Testament isn’t just background information—it’s the Gospel in shadow form, anticipating Christ’s coming. Each covenant, prophecy, and ritual points to Jesus as the fulfillment of God’s redemptive plan. The apostles used these Scriptures to proclaim the Good News, as seen in Peter’s sermon at Pentecost (Acts 2) and Paul’s reasoning in the synagogues (Acts 17:2-3).
When sharing the Gospel, especially with those familiar with the Old Testament, these passages provide a rich and compelling narrative of God’s grace, sovereignty, and love. They remind us that salvation through Christ was God’s plan from the very beginning.