Uncommonಮಾದರಿ

“Do not think that I have come to abolish Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them.” Matthew 5:17

Before the blood of Jesus, the Israelites achieved moments of holiness both morally and ritually in some very bizarre ways. In the Old Testament, God used specific principles, decrees, laws, and a justice system to bring about the highest status quo level that would reflect His intent and character. He wanted the Israelites to be uncommon and not like the other nations. Even so far as to command circumcision. He wanted them to look, act, talk, and smell differently. This can confuse the Christ follower because what should we do with these Old Testament laws now? Why do they matter at all?

Are we supposed to follow all the rules of the Old Testament? Who decides what is relevant for today? Let’s try to gain insight these next few days.

Some of the Old Testament laws were put in place to provide social justice. Picture the scene for a moment. God deals with a group of people who worship pagan gods in the Old Testament. Practices like child sacrifice were standard. God had to clear up these corrupt practices by establishing a distinction from the practices of the pagan gods. The goal was for people to be able to tell the difference between God and other spiritual beings and idols.

God wanted His people to be a stark contrast to the culture around them. I believe God still wants this. However, what sets it apart is not circumcision and animal sacrifices; it’s the blood of Jesus.

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:

1. Why does the perspective of the Old Testament laws change when we get to the New Testament?
2. Why doesn’t Jesus abolish the law? See Matthew 5:17.
3. Is the law morally good? Why would it be necessary for Christians today to read the Old Testament since Jesus has already come?