“Concerning this salvation, the prophets who prophesied about the grace that would come to you searched and carefully investigated. They inquired into what time or what circumstances the Spirit of Christ within them was indicating when He testified in advance to the messianic sufferings and the glories that would follow. It was revealed to them that they were not serving themselves but you concerning things that have now been announced to you through those who preached the gospel to you by the Holy Spirit sent from heaven. Angels desire to look into these things. 1 Peter 1:10-12 HCSB
(Precious Readers, I am choosing to go back to Scripture instead of trying to summarize the Elim Conference. There was so much poured out and I need time to process it. You may find some of it in a post occasionally, but let’s go back to the main thing for our time right now. Bless you for reading).
Many do not understand that Peter had much the same revelation on grace and its Messiah as Paul. He does not write nearly as much (evidently was not appointed to do so), yet I think his writings reveal a much deeper thinker and “seer” than is commonly thought. In this passage he begins to explain that the Old Testament prophets knew they saw only “pieces-parts” and they searched to see what we now have plainly before us when we read the Scriptures. They wanted to know “when” and “how” as “the Spirit of Christ within them” was indicating as they talked about the coming Messiah.
Well, that will rock some of our theology. Peter plainly says that “the Spirit of Christ” was within the prophets of old, well so much for believing the “within” was only in the New Covenant. Back to the drawing board on that one. Isn’t it beautiful how the Lord has a way of giving us truth that far exceeds our own understanding? Indeed! So as we study, much of our divisions, and understanding of dispensations etc… finds challenge. I knew John the Baptist had the Spirit within, for he had the Spirit from conception. (See Luke 1:39-45). But now we see that all the Old Testament prophets who prophesied of the birth of Christ, were inhabited by the Spirit of Christ.
They were not told “when” nor “how.” But revelation came and let them know their prophecies were serving those who would live in the future. Their ministry was a service to us. How awesome! We have such purpose living in the strength and revelation of grace. They longed to see and understand. But were given simply the knowledge of their service.
Can’t you see, in your mind, a crusty old Isaiah, writing out words. Then stopping and inquiring of the Lord about them, searching deeply all avenues of study and Torah to try to find answers. In the Spirit, Isaiah washed our feet – served us who would come later. Now we, in this age are the recipients of this service and grace.
“Remember what happened long ago, for I am God, and there is no other; I am God and no one is like Me. I declare the end from the beginning and from long ago what is not yet done, saying: ‘My plan will take place, and I will do all My will.'” Isaiah 46:10 HCSB
Mannaword 