Is the Old Testament still relevant for Christians today PDF

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1. Is the Old Testament still relevant for Christians today? Explain. The Old Testament is very relevant for Christians today. The relevance of the Old Testament is found in numerous places throughout the New Testament. Understand the Big Picture of the Bible states: When the Bible says that "he opened their minds to understand the Scriptures" (Luke 24:45), it cannot mean just a few scattered predictions about the Messiah. It means the Old Testament as a whole, encompassing all three of the major divisions of the Old Testament that the Jews traditionally recognized.1 The wholeness of the Old Testament provides us with the ability to recognize what happens when we intentionally sin against the Lord our GOD. Although we are living in grace, this does not suggest nor insinuate that how we live no longer matters. How we live is dictated by what we consider morally right or wrong. This is evident in the Old Testament when we read, in 1 Samuel, the Children of Israel sinned against God by wanting a King to replace their judge. They wanted to do what they thought was best instead of listening to what the prophet Samuel told them was best. 2. What did Jesus mean when he said that there were things written about him in the Law, the Prophets, and the Psalms (Luke 24:44)? Explain. There are many “types, figures, and shadows” within the bible. The Apostle Paul makes innuendoes about Adam being a type of Christ in Romans 5:14. Jesus, when speaking with His disciples, was expounding Scripture to them in order for them to see His preeminence throughout the whole Old Testament. The Law demonstrates our need for His direction, our tutor (Gal. 3:24). The prophets speaking of a coming Messiah (Christ) that would not only take away our sins but also give us a hope to trust in. Even within the Psalms, David writes, “The Lord said to my Lord…” illustrating Jesus Christ is our Salvation (110:1). 3. How does an understanding of the “big picture” of the Bible help us to understand smaller sections of the Bible (individual verses, paragraphs, stories, books)? Explain. When we understand the Bible, even within judgement, is written for the purpose of reconciliation I believe we can take this premise and understand the object lesson of forgiveness. For many years, centuries, and millennia we view God through the lens of humanity. We believe that we should reconcile with others when the other person has made all attempts required to make things right first. This is incorrect theology! Grace requires forgiveness even when the other person doesn’t ask nor desire to be reconciled. We need to understand that we love others because Jesus first love us.

1 Grudem, Wayne A., C. John Collins, and Thomas R. Schreiner. Understanding the big picture of the Bible: a guide to reading the Bible well. Wheaton, IL: Crossway, 2012....