Question 332: Was The Atonement An Old Testament Belief?

Answer:

The expectation of the coming Moshiach, who should redeem His people and should suffer for their sakes, is as old as the beginnings of Hebrew nationality. See Isaiah 53; Zechariah 11:13. The idea of propitiation, reconciliation and expiation was associated with His coming and although substitution is not mentioned it is implied. In connection with the sacrificial offerings similar terms are sometimes used, but the broader view of vicarious sacrifice, with special reference to the Messianic atonement, is most fully set forth in Isaiah 53. The Messianic mission was the salvation of the race (Isaiah 11). This expectation was not wholly confined to the Jewish people. The Samaritans held it; the Magi knew of it; even in the days of Melchizedek and Job it was understood by inquiring souls (Job 19:25). The very first recorded Scriptural allusion to it is in Genesis 49:10. See also Isaiah 9:1-7; Isaiah 40; Micah 5:2. There were periods in Jewish history during which the Messianic predictions and expectations temporarily ceased, but they were never wholly extinguished. It should be admitted however, that while some of the Jewish Targumistic writings refer to a suffering Moshiach, the greater number deal with a powerful and conquering Moshiach. Faith in YHVH, belief in His Word and a willing obedience were accounted for righteousness in the old dispensation. See Genesis 15:8 and Romans 4:3-6, 20, 25 and other passages. Incidentally it may be mentioned that Job is supposed to have lived about the time of Isaac, some 1800 B.C, Daniel 600 B.C, Micah 950 B.C, Isaiah 750 B.C, Zechariah, 520 B.C.