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There's Great Value In Old Testament Study

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Categories: Church of Christ Bulletin Articles

A querist asks, “From my study of the Old Testament, I know the Law of Moses was given to the Jews and the Jews only (Exodus 34:29-35; Exodus 35:1). It was “nailed to the cross” (Colossians 2:14 KJV); “abolished” (2 Corinthians 3:13 KJV); “cast out” (Galatians 4:22-31 KJV) and “disannulled” (Hebrews 7:18 KJV). My question is, “As we study the Old Testament, do the above biblical facts minimize it’s profitableness to us today?” (Romans 15:4).

No, not at all. In fact there are many ways in which a study of the Old Testament is of great value to us as Christians today. Let’s list a few below:

  • The Old Testament reveals sin (Romans 7:7; 1 Timothy 1:9). We can know of those actions that are in rebellion against God, and offend His holy nature by a better understanding of the Old Testament.
  • The Old Testament warns of the consequences of disobedience (1 Corinthians 10:6-11; cf. Numbers 25:1-9).
  • The Old Testament points us to Jesus Christ (John 5:39; Galatians 3:24; cf. 1 Peter 3:18).
  • The Old Testament instructs us in salvation (2 Timothy 3:15).
  • The Old Testament provides us with many examples of righteousness (Hebrews 11:1-40).
  • The Old Testament give us hope (Romans 15:4; cf. 1 Corinthians 10:1-11).
  • The Old Testament reveals the nature of God (Exodus 34:6-7; cf. Numbers 14:18; James 5:11).
  • The Old Testament reveals the unfolding purpose of God (1 Peter 1:10-12). One of the most interesting studies is a study of the unfolding of God’s scheme of redemption. It is clearly visible in the unfolding of the Old Testament.

The next time anyone thinks a study of the Old Testament is a “waste of time,” I would remind the individual of the above biblical points. The Old Testament is Spirit-given Scripture (2 Samuel 23:1-2; cf. Matthew 22:41-45 ASV; Mark 12:36; Luke 16:31; Luke 24:44; John 5:46; Acts 26:22; Hebrews 3:7-8; 2 Peter 1:20-21) and should be respected as such by all Christians.

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