Topical Encyclopedia IntroductionIn the rich tapestry of biblical typology, manna stands as a profound symbol of the Saviour, Jesus Christ. The miraculous provision of manna to the Israelites during their wilderness journey is not only a testament to God's providence but also a foreshadowing of the spiritual sustenance provided through Christ. This entry explores the typological significance of manna as it relates to the Saviour, drawing from scriptural references and theological insights. Biblical Account of Manna The account of manna is found primarily in the Book of Exodus. After the Israelites' exodus from Egypt, they found themselves in the wilderness, facing the dire need for sustenance. In response to their plight, God provided manna, a miraculous bread from heaven. Exodus 16:4 records God's promise: "Then the LORD said to Moses, 'Behold, I will rain down bread from heaven for you. Each day the people are to go out and gather enough for that day.'" Manna appeared each morning, resembling coriander seed and tasting like wafers made with honey (Exodus 16:31). It was a daily provision, except on the Sabbath, when a double portion was gathered the day before to honor the day of rest. Manna as a Type of Christ 1. Bread from Heaven: Just as manna was a divine provision from heaven to sustain the Israelites physically, Jesus Christ is the true "bread from heaven" who sustains believers spiritually. In John 6:32-33 , Jesus declares, "Truly, truly, I tell you, it was not Moses who gave you the bread from heaven, but it is My Father who gives you the true bread from heaven. For the bread of God is He who comes down from heaven and gives life to the world." 2. Daily Sustenance: Manna was provided daily, teaching the Israelites to rely on God's provision each day. Similarly, believers are called to depend on Christ daily for spiritual nourishment. In the Lord's Prayer, Jesus instructs His followers to pray, "Give us this day our daily bread" (Matthew 6:11), emphasizing the continual need for His sustaining presence. 3. Satisfaction and Sufficiency: Manna was sufficient to meet the needs of the Israelites, just as Christ is sufficient to meet the spiritual needs of humanity. In John 6:35 , Jesus proclaims, "I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to Me will never hunger, and whoever believes in Me will never thirst." 4. Rejection and Acceptance: Despite its miraculous nature, some Israelites grew weary of manna and longed for the food of Egypt (Numbers 11:4-6). This foreshadows the rejection of Christ by many, despite His offer of eternal life. Yet, for those who accept Him, He becomes the source of eternal satisfaction. 5. Preservation and Memorial: A portion of manna was preserved in a golden jar and placed in the Ark of the Covenant as a testimony to future generations (Exodus 16:32-34). This act symbolizes the eternal nature of Christ's provision and the enduring testimony of His redemptive work. Conclusion The typology of manna as a representation of the Saviour is a profound illustration of God's provision and the sufficiency of Christ. Through manna, believers are reminded of the necessity of daily reliance on Jesus, the true bread from heaven, who offers eternal life and spiritual fulfillment. Nave's Topical Index John 6:32-35Then Jesus said to them, Truly, truly, I say to you, Moses gave you not that bread from heaven; but my Father gives you the true bread from heaven. Nave's Topical Index 1 Corinthians 10:3 Library Objection that Some were Baptized unto Moses and Believed in Him ... Scriptural Types. Faustus Denies that the Prophets Predicted Christ. Augustin Proves ... The Typical Significance of the Scriptures Declare their Divine ... No Sorrow Like Messiah's Sorrow Typology The Gospel Feast The Exodus "The Fullness of the Time" The Ark of his Covenant Resources What are the different types of fasting? | GotQuestions.orgHow should Christians view the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI)? | GotQuestions.org Does the Enneagram of Personality contradict the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Types of Christ: Ark of the Covenant Types of Christ: Atonement, Sacrifices offered on the Day of Types of Christ: Brazen Serpent Types of Christ: Burnt offering Types of Christ: Cities of Refuge Types of Christ: Golden Candlestick Types of Christ: Jacob's Ladder Types of Christ: Laver of Brass Types of Christ: Leper's offering Types of Christ: Morning and Evening Sacrifices Types of Christ: Peace offerings Types of Christ: Rock of Horeb Types of Christ: Table and Show Bread Types of Christ: Trespass offering Types of Christ: Vail of the Tabernacle and Temple Types of the Saviour: High Priest, Typical of the Mediatorship Types of the Saviour: Melchizedek Types of the Saviour: The Bronze Altar Types of the Saviour: The Bronze Laver Types of the Saviour: The Bronze Serpent Types of the Saviour: The Cities of Refuge Types of the Saviour: The Curtain Types of the Saviour: The Institutions Ordained by Moses Types of the Saviour: The Mercy-Seat Types of the Saviour: The Morning and Evening Sacrifice Types of the Saviour: The Paschal Lamb Types of the Saviour: The Red Heifer Types of the Saviour: The Sacrifices Types of the Saviour: The Tree of Life Types: Miscellaneous: Bride, a Type of the Body of Christ Types: Miscellaneous: The Sanctuary a Type of the Heavenly Sanctuary Types: Miscellaneous: The Saving of Noah and his Family, of the Salvation Through the Gospel Related Terms |
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