Jesus + Christ 70×7 in Gospels to Gentiles

Summary

In Mark, Luke and John:

Jesus = 447x
Christ = 43x

Total = 490x = 70×7 mentions of Jesus + Christ in the Gospels directed toward Gentiles.

In the Scriptures

The equation of 70×7 is only detailed in the gospel of Matthew, which was primarily written for a Jewish audience. The remaining gospels (Mark, Luke, and John) were written to Gentile audiences.

That’s what makes this pattern of particular interest.

“Lord, how oft shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? till seven times?” To this, Jesus responds, “I say not unto thee, Until seven times: but, Until seventy times seven.”

Peter, the recipient of this equation of total forgiveness of sins, is later chosen by God to be the first to preach the gospel to the Gentiles, as seen in Acts 10 and later described in Acts 15:7, “And when there had been much disputing, Peter rose up, and said unto them, Men and brethren, ye know how that a good while ago God made choice among us, that the Gentiles by my mouth should hear the word of the gospel, and believe.” Acts 15:7

Could there be a connection between Peter’s role in reaching the Gentiles and the specific equation of “seventy times seven“? how do we know for sure? As we examine more closely, it becomes apparent that a broader significance exists than initially perceived.

The passage in Matthew 18:21-22, which appears to be initiated by Peter, is actually rooted in Christ’s instructions for the church (Matthew 18:15-20). Reading this entire passage ties you back to Matthew 16:18-19, the only other instance in all four gospels to mention the word “church.” This video from timestamp 34:16-42:26 expounds this fully in context in case you don’t see the connection between Matthew 18 and Matthew 16.

An intriguing question arises: when Peter refers to “my brother,” (Mat 18:21) is he solely addressing his Jewish brethren? At that point of time, Peter’s family, friends and entire life are wholly grounded in his Jewish roots. However, a nuanced examination of the unfolding events in the Gospel of Matthew reveals a subtle transition from an exclusive Jewish focus to a broader perspective.

In Matthew 14-15, Jesus starts to shift his attention from Jews to Gentiles, exemplified by the feeding of the 5,000 in Israel, and the subsequent feeding of the 4,000 in Gentile territory.

The 12 baskets left over from the first multitude represents the Jews who would be gathered together as 12 tribes (As revealed in John 6:12,39). Take note that this feeding of the Jews occurred before the passover (John 6:4).

The second feeding of the multitude occurred after passover; 7 loaves with 7 baskets left over, representing the 7 churches that will be gathered together (or, possibly, the 7 Gentile nations of Deuteronomy 7).

While Peter considers only Jews as brethren, Christ’s perspective and the scripture itself transcends, encompassing the broader concept of the church.

For Jews, the numerical reference of 70×7 carries a connection to Daniel’s 70th week. However, for Gentile believers and the church, this numeric symbolism has little connection to Daniel’s 70th week- rather taking on a more immediate application in the context of Jesus’ own words– complete forgiveness of sins.

When we look at the 3 gospels written to a Gentile audience and find “Jesus” + “Christ” mentioned exactly 490 = 70×7 times, we see Christ’s hand reaching out- not only to his own who received him not, but to as many as receive him. And in him only do we find total forgiveness of sins. Thank you Lord for your love to both Jew and Gentile. Thank you for forgiving my sins 70×7 times on the cross with your precious blood. Thank you for revealing these things to us nearly 2000 years after. There is none like thee! Amen.

References

Visual Chart: 70×7 Jesus – The Son of God / Search ID: [P17]