The Prophet: Who Is He?

by David Gibson

Who was Moses pointing toward when he said, “The Lord your God will raise up for you a prophet like me . . . you shall listen to him” (Deuteronomy 18:15 NASB)? The Jews of the first century were expecting this Prophet (John 1:19-21; 6:14; 7:40). Whoever it is would be remarkable indeed, considering how great Moses was (Numbers 12:6-8).

Muslims claim that Muhammad is the Prophet of whom Moses spoke. But Peter, speaking by inspiration, affirmed that the Prophet is Jesus (Acts 3:22-23; see Acts 7:37).

A Prophet like Moses

No prophet is more like Moses than Jesus. Both were protected by God in infancy from destruction by a ruler; both inaugurated major covenants with God’s people; both interceded between God and His people; both did mighty miracles. Moses is the greatest person in the Old Testament. Jesus is the greatest in the New Testament.

A Prophet Greater than Moses

As great as Moses was (Deuteronomy 34:10-12), Jesus is far greater (Hebrews 3:1-6). Jesus said of Moses, “he wrote about Me” (John 5:46; see Luke 24:27). God said of the Prophet like Moses, “whosoever will not listen to My words which he shall speak in my name, I Myself will require it of him” (Deuteronomy 18:19). At the Transfiguration, Peter wanted to honor Moses, Elijah, and Jesus equally. But God said of Jesus, “Listen to Him!” (Matthew 17:5).