Substituting “Land” with “Christ” in Old Testament Promises
The Old Testament is a treasure trove of divine promises, many of which revolve around the concept of a promised “land.” However, when we approach these scriptures from the perspective of a believer in Christ, the replacement of “land” with “Christ” unveils profound and transformative insights. In Christ, we discover not only our safe dwelling place but the very essence of God’s covenant promises, as illuminated by two pivotal Bible verses: Colossians 1:19-20 and Acts 17:28.
**Colossians 1:19-20 (KJV):**
*”For it pleased the Father that in him should all fulness dwell; And, having made peace through the blood of his cross, by him to reconcile all things unto himself; by him, I say, whether they be things in earth, or things in heaven.”*
In these verses, the Apostle Paul emphasizes the concept of the fullness of God dwelling in Christ. Instead of interpreting “land” solely as a geographical territory, we come to understand that Christ embodies the fulfillment of God’s promises. Through His redemptive work on the cross, Christ reconciles all things to Himself, both on earth and in heaven. The promises of the Old Testament transcend physical boundaries, finding their ultimate realization in Christ.
**Acts 17:28 (KJV):**
*”For in him we live, and move, and have our being; as certain also of your own poets have said, For we are also his offspring.”*
Paul’s words to the Athenians underscore the profound connection between humanity and Christ. By stating that “in Him we live, and move, and have our being,” Paul reinforces the idea that our very existence is inseparably linked to Christ. Just as the “land” was a promise in the Old Testament, our true inheritance and existence derive their meaning from Christ.
By substituting “Christ” for “land” in Old Testament promises, we gain a deeper understanding of the spiritual depth and significance of these promises. The “land” promised in the Old Testament served as a foreshadowing of the ultimate reality found in Christ. In Him, we discover our true dwelling place, our peace, and the fulfillment of God’s covenant promises.
In conclusion, as we delve into the Old Testament promises, let us remember to replace “land” with “Christ.” This shift in perspective unveils the profound nature of God’s promises, which find their ultimate fulfillment in the person of Christ. As believers in Christ, we can confidently embrace these promises and walk in the light of His Word, recognizing that all things are reconciled and realized in Him. In Christ is where we safely dwell, and in His promises, we find our true home.
**Genesis 17:8 (KJV):**
*”And I will give unto thee, and to thy seed after thee, the land wherein thou art a stranger, all the land of Canaan, for an everlasting possession; and I will be their God.”*
Genesis 17:8 stands as a cornerstone verse in understanding the relationship between the promised “land” and Christ. Traditionally, this promise made to Abraham is seen as the covenant of the land, assuring him that his descendants would inherit the land of Canaan as an everlasting possession. Yet, from a Full Preterist New Covenant Creation perspective, we discern a profound connection between this promise and Christ.
The key to unlocking this connection lies in the interpretation of the term “seed.” In conventional readings, this term refers to the physical descendants of Abraham. However, when we substitute “Christ” for “land” and understand “seed” as referring to Jesus Christ, the promise takes on a fresh dimension.
In Christ, who is the ultimate fulfillment of the promise, we discover the everlasting possession of Canaan. In this context, Canaan symbolizes the spiritual inheritance we have in Christ. Just as Abraham was a stranger in the physical land of Canaan, believers are strangers in this world, seeking their eternal home in Christ.
This verse underscores the profound spiritual reality that the promised “land” finds its ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ. He is the everlasting possession, and God’s promise to be our God is fulfilled in Him. The Old Testament promises aren’t restricted to a physical piece of land; they are spiritual realities fully realized in Christ.
Therefore, as we contemplate Genesis 17:8, we grasp that the promise of Canaan is ultimately a promise in Christ. In Him, we find our everlasting possession; One God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all. This shift in perspective empowers us to fathom the deeper, spiritual truths of the Old Testament promises and fortifies our faith as believers in Christ.