How does Matthew 13:35 reveal Jesus' role in fulfilling Old Testament prophecy? Text of Matthew 13:35 “So was fulfilled what was spoken through the prophet: ‘I will open My mouth in parables; I will utter things hidden since the foundation of the world.’” Link to the Old Testament Source • Quotation draws directly from Psalm 78:2: “I will open my mouth in parables; I will utter things hidden from of old.” • Psalm 78 is attributed to Asaph, who functioned as a prophetic psalmist (1 Chronicles 25:1–2). • By citing Asaph’s words, Matthew declares them prophetic—words that awaited a literal, climactic fulfillment in Messiah. Why the Quotation Matters • Matthew’s phrase “So was fulfilled” signals a completed, historical fulfillment, not merely a symbolic echo. • Jesus is portrayed as the embodiment of the prophetic voice—He doesn’t just teach Scripture; He is the one Scripture anticipated (cf. John 5:39). • The verse ties Jesus’ method (parables) to a prophetic expectation, revealing that even His teaching style was foretold. Jesus’ Parables as Prophetic Ministry • Revelation of hidden truths—“things hidden since the foundation of the world.” Compare 1 Corinthians 2:7 and Colossians 1:26. • Simultaneous concealment and disclosure—parables veil truth from the hard-hearted while unveiling to disciples (Matthew 13:10–17; Isaiah 6:9–10). • Continuity with Israel’s history—Asaph recounted Israel’s past through story; Jesus recounts the kingdom’s mysteries through story. Fulfilling the Role of the Messiah-Teacher 1. Teacher greater than Solomon (Matthew 12:42), sharing wisdom of the ages. 2. Prophet like Moses (Deuteronomy 18:15), speaking God’s words in a new covenant context. 3. Herald of the kingdom (Isaiah 42:1-4), using parables to announce a reign marked by justice and mercy. Additional Prophetic Threads Jesus Ties Together • Hidden wisdom unveiled—Proverbs 1:6; Daniel 2:22. • Shepherd recounting Israel’s story—Ezekiel 34:11-15. • Righteous One misunderstood—Psalm 78 chronicles Israel’s rebellion; Jesus’ parables expose similar unbelief among His listeners. Implications for Believers • Confidence in Scripture’s precision: even teaching style came under prophetic preview. • Assurance of Christ’s identity: He fulfills prophecy down to the smallest detail. • Invitation to seek revealed mysteries: those who draw near in faith receive understanding (Matthew 13:11; Hebrews 11:6). |
    |