Transform Your Inner World: Episode 11: What Parts of the Old Testament Are Still Relevant Today?
Transform Your Inner World:
Episode 11: What Parts of the Old Testament Are Still Relevant Today?
Welcome to Episode 11 of the "Transform Your Inner World" series. What parts of the Old Testament are still relevant today?
As we delve into Bible concepts that influence our life in God's Kingdom, it is critical to address the topic of the applicability of Old Testament principles in our current time. The ambiguity surrounding this topic necessitates elucidation since it serves as the foundation for our consideration of Kingdom revelation.
Misconceptions abound, with some Christians assuming that because we live in the New Testament era, the Old Testament regulations are no longer applicable. Some people even refuse to study the Old Testament because they believe it no longer relates to them. Let us clear up this mistake and obtain a better grasp of the Old and New Testaments.
Jesus' Point of View:
People wondered whether Jesus' presence represented the end of the Law and the formation of a new moral framework. His response in Matthew 5:17-20 sheds light on the subject:
Jesus did not come to abolish the Law and the Prophets, but rather to fulfil them.
The Law endures till heaven and earth perish.
Even breaking and teaching the smallest of the commandments has ramifications in the Kingdom.
The Kingdom values those who observe and teach the commandments.
A Closer Look:
In raising moral standards, Jesus emphasised not only deeds but also words and intentions. He addressed the interior state of the heart, establishing a higher standard for His disciples. The distinction between the Old and New Testaments is one of metamorphosis rather than obsolescence.
The New Testament Standard:
Unlike the Old Testament, which focused on outward behaviours, the New Testament focuses on the state and motives of the heart. This shift depicts the transition that believers go through as a result of redemption. The Holy Spirit empowers us to live righteously by instilling in us a new nature that is aligned with God's Kingdom.
Dietary Laws and the Sacrifice System:
The Old Testament sacrificial system was rendered obsolete by Christ's final sacrifice. Animal sacrifices were no longer required as a result of Jesus' atonement, ushering in a new way of relating to God. Dietary laws have also changed. The dietary restrictions enforced by the Council of Jerusalem in Acts 15, only included prohibition against eating food offered to idols, blood and strangled animals.
The Moral Rules:
Moral precepts, especially the Ten Commandments, remain relevant. However, Jesus enhanced their significance, including not just acts but also thoughts and words. Jesus emphasised the significance of living out the transformed heart, which is rooted in love for God and others, in His teachings.
Compassion and Social Law:
While some social laws have changed as a result of changing circumstances, the core idea of compassion has not. Caring for the weak and disadvantaged remains at the heart of these rules, guiding our actions.
Prophecy and Feasts:
The Old Testament feasts have spiritual importance. Passover signifies Christ's sacrifice, Pentecost depicts the Holy Spirit's outpouring and the birth of the Church, and the Feast of Tabernacles foreshadows Christ's Second Coming and the establishing of the Kingdom.
Anticipating Fulfillment:
Many Old Testament prophesies were fulfilled at Christ's first coming, while others will be fulfilled at His second coming. The Old Testament foreshadows a vast story that will climax in the ultimate fulfilment of God's promises.
Conclusion:
The New Testament does not render the Old Testament outdated. Instead, the two are inextricably intertwined, demonstrating the progression of God's redemptive plan. The New Testament raises moral standards, deepens understanding, and reveals the transformational power of Christ's sacrifice.
As we progress, we'll look at Kingdom principles that rule our lives, bringing us closer to God and the abundant life He provides. Thank you for joining us, and may God's blessings pour in your life till the next episode.
Remember to SHARE, LIKE, and SUBSCRIBE to my YouTube channel @3JON2 if you have found this message helpful. Join us again for another life-changing episode. God's blessings on you.
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