Friends, Moses is, without a doubt, the greatest figure in the Old Testament. He heard the voice of God from the burning bush; he was chosen to lead the people Israel to freedom; he was given the Ten Commandments; he was permitted to speak with God as a friend. Every teacher within ancient Judaism derived his authority finally from Moses. Therefore, when Moses speaks of a prophet who is to come, who is “like himself,” and who should be listened to—apparently of even greater authority than Moses—Israel took heed.

Jesus is the prophet whom Moses predicted would come. But who, finally, could have the authority to speak the divine Word and bring healing to creation? It could only be God himself.