The Old Testament (OT) is an interesting set of books. I can safely assume most Christians have not read the OT entirely, and I can definitely assume most Christians know and understand the New Testament (NT) better than the OT. I am among the latter group. And finally, some Christians likely only find benefit from it by it adds weight to the hardcover book, gaining arm strength lugging it around.
However, there is amazing depth in the OT when it is read understanding its purpose. I hope to explain that purpose, and in each further post in this series, explain an OT story, showing how that story meets the purpose.
What is the OT?
Before delving into the purpose, let us briefly discuss what the OT is. The OT is a series of books outlining the history of the Jewish nation and God's interactions with them. There are several different series that were written in similar ways with a similar mindset. The series are as follows:
- Books of the Law - Tells the story of creation, shows God choosing the Israelites, details them reaching the land He promises them (modern day Israel), and lists out the laws God gives them to follow, such as the Ten Commandments.
- Books of History - Tells the story of the Israelites taking over the Promised Land and their ups and downs in following the laws of God up to around 400 B.C.
- Books of Wisdom - Explains life proverbs, discusses the meaning of life, and contains prayers and songs of individuals to God.
- Major Prophets - Contains the words of God spoken through men to Israel, rebuking, foretelling judgement, and promising restoration after repentance.
- Minor Prophets - Contains the same as above, but in (typically) shorter books.
What did the Jewish Nation Believe of the OT?
Knowing what the OT contains, lets talk about why it was written. Paul says that all Scripture is God-breathed and useful (1 Tim. 3:16-17). In Jesus' time, the Jews held the OT in high esteem. They strictly followed the laws and sacrifices listed in the books of the Law. They sang the Psalms and searched out the meanings of the prophets. They believed their salvation into eternal life rested within the scriptures.
Jesus' Explanation of OT's Purpose
And they were correct! But many did not understand how the OT led to eternal life. Jesus Himself calls them out, explaing that they have completely missed the OT's purpose.
In John 5, the Pharisees -- the Jew's religious leaders -- ask Jesus who testifies with Him that He is the Christ. Jesus tells them that John the Baptist testifies (Jn 1:29), His works testify (...all 4 gospels), and finally that the entire OT testifies:
You search the Scriptures because you think that in them you have eternal life; and it is they that bear witness about me, yet you refuse to come to me that you may have life... Do not think that I will accuse you to the Father. There is one who accuses you: Moses, on whom you have set your hope. For if you believed Moses, you would believe Me; for He wrote of me. (Jn 5:38-46)
The Pharisees knew entire OT in and out, but when Jesus came, they rejected Him! Jesus tells them that if they truly believed what they were reading, they would not be rejecting Jesus; they would be worshipping Him!
So we see, the OT does point to eternal life because in its entirety -- every single letter -- it points to Jesus. It details how we fall short of the glory of God, fail in our role as His image bearers, and desperately need a Savior. It explains that from our failures we have earned the wrath of God, and that just as a murderer has to pay the penalty for breaking the law, we also must pay the penalty for rebelling against our Creator. And finally, it points to the One who will come to save us; He will come, bear the wrath of God in our place, give us the chance to have His right standing before God, and reign as Lord over all. For a fuller picture of this, please read this explanation of the Gospel from Romans 5.
Conclusion
I hope this post has excited you to see all the ways the OT points to Jesus. Understanding this concept has deepened my love for the OT, and it always excites me when I find in it another picture of what Christ has done for us. God always comes up with the best symbolism and parables.
I would enjoy hearing about your love for the OT! Comment below or on Facebook to give your feedback!