Abraham Saw My Day: Prophetic Insights into the Ministry of Jesus
Abraham was perhaps the most paramount figure of the Old Testament, whose impact is still felt today. Jesus said, “Your father Abraham rejoiced to see My day, and he saw it and was glad.” (John 8:56). This statement presents a puzzling truth: Jesus indicates that Abraham already received some 1900 years ahead of time a prophetic glimpse into the life and ministry of Jesus and that it caused him great excitement.
The King-Priest of Jerusalem
There indeed are several events that gave Abraham insights into various facets of Jesus’ ministry. We find the first one in Genesis 14, which contains what historians say is the oldest report of an armed conflict. In this account, four invading kings (Amraphel, Arioch, Chedorlaomer and Tidal) conquered the Land of Canaan, placing their rulers under tributary submission.
Abraham undertook the impossible; he summoned his personal militia of 318 soldiers, chased after these conquering armies, surprised and defeated the four kings, and liberated the captives. Then as Abraham returned in victory, he approached Jerusalem (the King’s valley) and “… Melchizedek king of Salem brought out bread and wine; he was priest of God Most High.” (Genesis 14:18).
This mysterious figure Melchizedek was ruler of Jerusalem, as well as the King of Righteousness (which translates Melchizedek) and King of Peace (Salem). He also served as priest of El Elyon, the Most High God, and he blessed Abraham. Much can be said about this amazing person, yet the Bible is silent about Melchizedek until King David arises as another King-Priest of Jerusalem.
Parallels Between Melchizedek and Jesus
The Book of Hebrews connects the dots regarding this relationship. The writer clearly presents Melchizedek as a prophetic shadow of Jesus the Messiah, who passed through the heavens to the right hand of the Father. The following table illustrates the parallels found in the scripture:
| Attribute | Melchizedek | Jesus the Messiah |
|---|---|---|
| Title | King of Righteousness and King of Peace | High Priest forever |
| Role | Priest of God Most High | Seated at the right hand of the throne of the Majesty |
| Location | King’s valley (Jerusalem) | The heavens |
The Day of the Lord and Divine Judgment
There is another occasion when Abraham saw Jesus’ day. Genesis 18 records that three men appeared to Abraham (many theologians say they represent the triune nature of God), and one informed him that in a year’s time he would hold the son of promise in his hands. As the three departed from Abraham, the same one hesitated, saying: “Shall I hide from Abraham what I am about to do.” (Genesis 18:16ff). What unfolded next was God’s righteous judgement on the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah.
Even today, Jesus stands before God interceding on behalf of every believer. So, just as Jesus said, we can see how “Abraham saw My day, and was glad” when he returned from battle and encountered Melchizedek in the Kings valley.