THE TIMELESSNESS OF THE ATONEMENT
Since the atoning Cross of Christ holds a discreet place in human history, we are challenged to think through its implications for time past as well as for time future. As we study the Old Testament saints, we see a striking focus on the concept of trusting in God for salvation, and also in many cases, the specific trusting of Christ. We know Abraham believed the Lord, and that this was credited to him as righteousness (Gen. 15:6). We also know that the pre-incarnate Christ made several OT appearances as the angel of the Lord, and possibly as the priest Melchizedek.

These appearances may have given these saints specific revelation which they may have shared with their disciples. Certainly Moses knew specifically about Christ, according to the writer of the Letter to the Hebrews (Heb. 11:26). We can surmise that Daniel knew Christ in the furnace, and also that David in writing Psalm 110 was made aware of the prophecy of Christ.

Morris expands on this with a more general conclusion:

“It is just as clear in the Old Testament as it is in the New that people are accepted by God because of His forgiving grace and mercy. They are exhorted to Godly living, but it is God’s mercy that is decisive. (Reference to Isaiah 55:1, 6-7) ……..such a passage makes it very plain that a sinner may look to God for mercy and salvation. Salvation comes by God’s grace.” (The Atonement page 188).

He goes on to say:

“While the actual expression ‘justification by faith’ does not occur in the Old Testament, the essential doctrine is there. God saves people. They do not save themselves. And the attitude they should bring is faith (or trust). They did not know the terminology of the New Testament, but did know that trustful reliance on God is the essence of the matter. “ (Page 190).