Topical Bible: Types of the Saviour: Eliakim

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Topical Encyclopedia

Eliakim, son of Hilkiah, emerges as a significant figure in the Old Testament, particularly in the context of typology, where he is seen as a foreshadowing of the Messiah, Jesus Christ. His account is primarily found in the book of Isaiah and 2 Kings, where he serves as a faithful steward in the house of King Hezekiah.

Biblical Account and Role

Eliakim is introduced in 2 Kings 18:18 and Isaiah 22:20-24. He is appointed as the steward over the royal household, succeeding Shebna, who had been unfaithful. This transition is significant, as it highlights Eliakim's reliability and integrity. Isaiah 22:20-21 states, "On that day I will summon My servant, Eliakim son of Hilkiah. I will clothe him with your robe and tie your sash around him. I will hand your authority over to him, and he will be a father to the dwellers of Jerusalem and to the house of Judah."

Typological Significance

Eliakim's role as a steward and his attributes serve as a type of Christ, prefiguring the Messiah's mission and authority. Several aspects of Eliakim's life and responsibilities parallel those of Jesus:

1. Servant Leadership: Eliakim is referred to as "My servant" by God, indicating his role as a faithful and obedient leader. This mirrors the servanthood of Christ, who came not to be served but to serve (Mark 10:45).

2. Authority and Governance: Eliakim is given authority over the house of David, symbolized by the key of the house of David. Isaiah 22:22 declares, "I will place on his shoulder the key to the house of David; what he opens no one can shut, and what he shuts no one can open." This imagery is echoed in Revelation 3:7, where Christ holds the key of David, signifying His ultimate authority and sovereignty.

3. Fatherly Role: Eliakim is described as a "father to the dwellers of Jerusalem and to the house of Judah" (Isaiah 22:21). This paternal role reflects Christ's relationship with His followers, as He cares for and guides them as a shepherd does his flock.

4. Stability and Security: In Isaiah 22:23 , God promises to "drive him like a peg into a firm place," indicating stability and reliability. This foreshadows Christ as the cornerstone, the foundation upon which the Church is built (Ephesians 2:20).

5. Bearer of Glory: Eliakim is to bear the glory of his father's house (Isaiah 22:24), a role that prefigures Christ, who bears the glory of God and reveals it to humanity (John 1:14).

Historical Context

Eliakim's appointment occurs during a tumultuous period in Judah's history, marked by Assyrian threats and internal corruption. His elevation to a position of authority signifies a divine intervention to restore order and righteousness, much like the coming of Christ brings spiritual restoration and redemption.

Conclusion

Eliakim, as a type of the Saviour, provides a rich tapestry of symbolism and prophecy that points to the coming of Jesus Christ. His life and role in the biblical narrative serve as a precursor to the ultimate fulfillment of God's redemptive plan through His Son.

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Isaiah 22:20-22
And it shall come to pass in that day, that I will call my servant Eliakim the son of Hilkiah:
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Revelation 3:7
And to the angel of the church in Philadelphia write; These things said he that is holy, he that is true, he that has the key of David, he that opens, and no man shuts; and shuts, and no man opens;
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