The Value Of The Old Testament
H. Randall Baker

Jesus called the Old Testament "Scripture" (John 5:28, 7:38).

However, some folks today seem to think that the Old Testament should be ignored in our studies. Should we ignore that which Jesus said was Scripture?

I am very well aware that we today are not bound by the Old Testament Scriptures, i.e. the Law. The Law was given to the Jews and the Jews only (Exodus 20:1,12). It was "nailed to the cross" (Colossians 2:14); "abolished" (2 Corinthians 3:13); "cast out" (Galatians 4:22-31) and "disannulled" (Hebrews 7:18). However, that does not minimize it’s profitableness to us today (Romans 15:1).

The New Testament perspective is that God had a plan of salvation throughout history leading up to the coming of Christ, a plan to be consummated at his return. It is absolutely essential in order to grasp the full drama, to read the whole story. The New Testament writers make frequent, almost constant, use of the Old Testament and repeatedly affirm its value for Christians (Everett Ferguson, The Church of Christ: A Biblical Ecclesiology for Today, p. 15).

Notice the ways in which the Old Testament is of value today:

• 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).
• The Old Testament scriptures point to Jesus Christ (John 5:39; Galatians 3:24).
• The Old Testament scriptures instruct in salvation; however this comes when they are enjoined with faith in Jesus Christ (1 Timothy 3:15).
• The Old Testament provides examples of righteousness (Hebrews 11:1 ff).
• The Old Testament gives hope (Romans 15:4).
• The Old Testament reveals the nature of God (Exodus 34:6-7).
• The Old Testament reveals the unfolding purpose of God (1 Peter 1:10-12). One of the most interesting studies that one can involve himself in 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 studying the Old Testament is a "waste of time," I would remind him of the above. The Old Testament is Scripture, and should be respected as such.

How to Tell When You Are Slipping!

• When you dislike religious conversation, or Christian company.
• When you are more afraid of being called over-strict than right.
• When you stay away from worship by your own choice.
• When you condemn in others what you tolerate in yourself.
• When you take the attitude "Let them do it; I've done my part. "
• When you become disgruntled with Bible study and worship services.