There was an ancient Jewish teaching technique called “stringing pearls” that linked well known passages of the Old Testament together by making reference to one word or phrase. When we recognize that this technique is used frequently in the New Testament, our understanding is clarified and enriched.
For example, the Father spoke from heaven at Jesus’ baptism: “You are my Son, whom I love; with you I am well pleased” (Mark 1:11). This familiar verse actually alludes to three passages that come from the three different sections of the Old Testament:
- “You are my Son” is from Psalm 2:7: “He said to me, ‘You are my Son; today I have become your Father.’”
- “whom I love” is from Genesis 22:2: “Take your son, your only son, Isaac, whom you love, and go to the region of Moriah.”
- “with you I am well pleased” is from Isaiah 42:1: “Here is my servant, whom I uphold; my chosen one in whom I delight; I will put my Spirit on him and he will bring justice to the nations.”
When you're reading the New Testament, try to notice any Old Testament references in the footnotes. There may be a goldmine waiting to be discovered.
