OT in NT 38: Lifted Son

The statement "The lifted serpent helps explain the lifted Son" reveals a profound connection between a specific event in Israel's wilderness journey and the crucifixion of Jesus. Just as a serpent was "lifted up" in the Old Testament, the "Son of Man" was also destined to be "lifted up," with both events serving as a means for life to those who look to them in faith.
The book of Numbers describes a scene of judgment in the wilderness where the Israelites were bitten by fiery serpents. God commanded Moses, "Make a fiery serpent and set it on a pole, and everyone who is bitten, when he sees it, shall live" (Numbers 21:8-9). This act provided life through looking at the lifted sign. The Gospel of John draws a direct parallel, stating, "As Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, so must the Son of Man be lifted up..." (John 3:14-15). Furthermore, John clarifies this lifting, explaining, "And I, when I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all people to myself. He said this to show by what kind of death he was going to die" (John 12:32-33). Thus, John makes it clear that the "lifting up" of the Son of Man refers to Jesus' crucifixion, through which he would gather all people to himself.
This intricate connection shows us that Jesus' crucifixion is not merely a historical event but is deeply rooted in the story of God's interaction with Israel. The elements of judgment, a lifted sign, faith, and the promise of life, which were present in the wilderness narrative, all converge in Jesus. Reflect on this rich tapestry of salvation history, seeing how God prepared a way for your life and salvation through the "lifting up" of his Son, making a way for you to be drawn to him.