Why the Fulfillment of Old Testament Prophecy Still Matters
An Overlooked Argument for Christianity Why the Fulfillment of Old Testament Prophecy Still Matters August 27, 2026 — Gavin Ortlund © iStock.com/EvanTravels J esus is a compelling historical figure. This is the case because of his own life and influence, but it also comes into view in the context of the larger biblical story. The Bible does not start with Jesus. He comes toward the end—like a long-awaited hero after much darkness and anguish. Specifically, Jesus arrives in history as the fulfillment of the hopes of a nation in the ancient world (the people of Israel). We’re familiar with this concept of a “messiah” outside the Bible. We know what it’s like to long for a deliverer. We understand how Morpheus feels toward Neo in The Matrix, or how people can develop such high hopes for an incoming political leader. What if this is what Jesus is for humanity? What if he’s the One we’ve all been waiting for—the hero in the long and troubled story of human history? Me...