How does 1 Peter 1:10-12 explain the role of Old Testament prophets?

The role of Old Testament prophets is a subject of significant interest and importance within Christian theology, and 1 Peter 1:10-12 provides a profound insight into their function and purpose, especially in relation to the revelation of Jesus Christ. In these verses, the Apostle Peter elucidates how the prophets of old were divinely inspired to speak of the grace that was to come, and how their messages were ultimately fulfilled in the person and work of Jesus Christ. Let's delve into these verses to unpack their meaning and implications.

1 Peter 1:10-12 (ESV): "Concerning this salvation, the prophets who prophesied about the grace that was to be yours searched and inquired carefully, inquiring what person or time the Spirit of Christ in them was indicating when he predicted the sufferings of Christ and the subsequent glories. It was revealed to them that they were serving not themselves but you, in the things that have now been announced to you through those who preached the good news to you by the Holy Spirit sent from heaven, things into which angels long to look."

The Prophets and Their Prophecies

Peter begins by acknowledging the role of the prophets in prophesying about "this salvation"—the salvation that believers in Christ now experience. The prophets of the Old Testament were given glimpses of the grace that would be revealed through Jesus Christ. They were not merely foretelling events but were deeply engaged in seeking to understand the full implications of their own prophecies. This diligent search and inquiry indicate their profound dedication and the seriousness with which they approached their divine calling.

The phrase "the Spirit of Christ in them" is particularly noteworthy. It suggests that the same Spirit who inspired the New Testament apostles and believers was at work in the Old Testament prophets. This continuity emphasizes the unity of God's redemptive plan throughout the Scriptures. The Spirit of Christ was revealing to the prophets the sufferings that the Messiah would endure and the glories that would follow. This revelation was not fully comprehensible to them at the time, but they faithfully recorded what was revealed.

The Sufferings and Glories of Christ

The prophets were given insight into two key aspects of the Messiah's mission: His sufferings and His subsequent glories. These two themes are central to the gospel message. The sufferings of Christ refer to His atoning death on the cross, where He bore the sins of humanity. Isaiah 53 is a profound example of this prophetic insight, where the prophet Isaiah describes the suffering servant who would be "pierced for our transgressions" and "crushed for our iniquities" (Isaiah 53:5).

The subsequent glories refer to the resurrection, ascension, and exaltation of Christ. The resurrection is the vindication of Jesus' sacrificial death, demonstrating His victory over sin and death. The ascension and exaltation signify His enthronement at the right hand of the Father, where He reigns as Lord and King. The prophets, though they did not fully grasp the timing or the person of the Messiah, were given glimpses of this grand narrative of redemption.

Serving Future Generations

One of the most humbling aspects of this passage is the realization that the prophets were serving not themselves but future generations. Peter reveals that it was made known to the prophets that their prophecies were for the benefit of those who would come after them—specifically, the believers in Christ. This forward-looking aspect of their ministry highlights the selflessness and obedience of the prophets. They faithfully proclaimed the messages given to them, even though they did not see their fulfillment in their own lifetimes.

The fulfillment of these prophecies is now announced through the preaching of the gospel, empowered by the Holy Spirit sent from heaven. The good news of Jesus Christ, His death, and resurrection, is the culmination of the prophetic messages. The apostles and early Christian preachers, guided by the Holy Spirit, proclaimed this message, bringing to light what the prophets had longed to understand.

Angels and the Mystery of Salvation

Peter concludes this section with a fascinating remark: "things into which angels long to look." This statement underscores the profound mystery and magnificence of God's redemptive plan. Even the angels, who are heavenly beings with a unique perspective on God's workings, are captivated by the unfolding of salvation history. They long to look into these things, indicating their deep interest and amazement at God's grace and wisdom.

Theological Implications

The role of the Old Testament prophets, as explained in 1 Peter 1:10-12, has several important theological implications:

1. Continuity of Scripture: There is a clear continuity between the Old and New Testaments. The same Spirit who inspired the prophets also inspired the apostles and early Christian preachers. This continuity underscores the unity of God's redemptive plan throughout history.

2. Christ-Centered Prophecy: The central focus of the prophetic messages was the coming Messiah—His sufferings and subsequent glories. The prophecies were ultimately about Jesus Christ, pointing to His redemptive work.

3. Faithful Witness: The prophets were faithful witnesses, obediently proclaiming the messages given to them, even though they did not fully understand their fulfillment. Their faithfulness serves as an example for all believers.

4. Serving Future Generations: The prophets' ministry was forward-looking, serving future generations of believers. This highlights the communal and historical nature of God's revelation, which unfolds over time and benefits the entire body of Christ.

5. Divine Mystery and Wonder: The interest of angels in the mystery of salvation emphasizes the depth and wonder of God's redemptive plan. It invites believers to approach the gospel with a sense of awe and reverence.

Conclusion

In summary, 1 Peter 1:10-12 provides a rich and profound explanation of the role of Old Testament prophets. They were divinely inspired to speak of the grace that would come through Jesus Christ, focusing on His sufferings and subsequent glories. Their diligent search and inquiry, their service to future generations, and the interest of angels in these matters all highlight the magnificence of God's redemptive plan. As believers, we are invited to marvel at the continuity and unity of Scripture, the faithfulness of the prophets, and the wondrous mystery of salvation revealed in Jesus Christ.