Yesterday we examined 16 Old Testament prophecies about the birth and life of Jesus. Today we look at 16 more regarding his death and resurrection. Died a humiliating death (Psalm 22; Isaiah 53) involving being betrayed by a friend (Psalm 41:9; Luke 22:3-4; John 13:18) for 30 pieces of silver (Zechariah 11:12; Matthew 26:14-15). That he would be silent before his accusers (Isaiah 53:7; Matthew 27:12-14) despite being mocked by them (Psalm 22: 7-8; Matthew 27:31).

It was foretold that the Messiah would be beaten (Isaiah 52:14; Matthew 27:26) and spit upon (Isaiah 50:6; Matthew 27:30). That his hands, feet (Psalm 22:16; Matthew 27:31) and side (Zechariah 12:10; John 19:34) would be pierced. Isaiah predicted he would be crucified with thieves (Isaiah 53:12; Matthew 27:38). Though all of this horror there would be no cry of vengeance or promise of retribution, instead he would pray for His persecutors (Isaiah 53:12; Luke 23:34).

If these prophecies are not detailed enough, how about the fact that Messiah would be given gall and vinegar to drink (Psalm 69:21, Matthew 27:34, Luke 23:36), that none of his bones would be broken (Psalm 34:20; John 19:32-36) – a miracle considering the forms of execution used in the day and from the massive beatings given to the Messiah before his crucifixion – that lots would be cast for his garments (Psalm 22:18; John 19:23-24) and that he would be buried in a rich man's tomb (Isaiah 53:9; Matthew 27:57-60)?

For centuries the Church has used these prophecies and their fulfillment to prove that Jesus is the Messiah, but they could just as easily be used to prove the Bible is the word of God. There are no ambiguities in any of these prophecies. Compare these to a horoscope:

Your creative impulse should be high today. You might decide to try some writing. You may have a particular subject in mind to write about. You could also take a class in a subject that interests you, or do a little research on your own. You might consider some long-distance travel for pleasure as much as for learning.

On the surface it seems detailed enough, but notice the key words: should, might, may, could, and consider. The psychic is hedging and it’s obvious if one looks close enough. Reexamine the prophecies above. There is no hedging or blurring of details. That’s the difference between God and everyone else. And Elohim isn’t finished.

Also predicted was that the Messiah would rise from the dead (Psalm 16:10; Mark 16:6; Acts 2:31) and ascend into Heaven (Psalm 68:18; Acts 1:9) to sit down at the right hand of God (Psalm 110:1; Hebrews 1:3).

Prophets of all other kingdoms besides Israel had a degree of latitude. Their prophecies were gauged on a scale of correctness. As long as they were right more than 50 percent of the time they were considered a good prophet. Notice how much lower the bar is than for prophets of the true God. Only the Lord of lords can get it right 100 percent of the time, even in the details. If God has been so accurate about prophecies that have already been fulfilled, how much can we trust him regarding events yet to come?