Why study the old testament?

“Why study what we are not under?” We are not under the Old Testament It was a covenant made with the Israelites (Deuteronomy 5:1-2) It was done away with on the cross (Colossians 2:14) The Law’s purpose was to lead the Jews to Christ (Galatians 3:23-25) Why study the Old Testament?

It was written for our admonition Paul reminds the brethren of Israel’s fall (1 Corinthians 10:1-10) These things may have happened to them, but they were written for us (1 Corinthians 10:11) New Testament writers often draw on the Old Testament: Remaining steadfast (Hebrews 3:12-19) Patience in suffering (James 5:7-11) Warning of false prophets and teachers (2 Peter 2-3)

It was written for our learning Paul appeals to a Messianic prophecy (Romans 15:3) The Old Testament is written for our instruction (Romans 15:4) Gives us endurance and encouragement By which we have hope The Old Testament provides a record of God’s faithfulness and shows that he keeps his word: To Abraham and Israel To judge the wicked and avenge the righteous To forgive the penitent and protect the humble We rightfully believe that God keeps his word

It makes one wise regarding salvation 2 Timothy 3:14-15 Timothy had been acquainted with the “sacred writings” since his youth The sacred writings are the Old Testament They are able to make one wise to salvation in Christ Jesus How is this possible? The OT provides: The fall of man and the rise of sin The background and development of God's scheme of redemption Messianic prophecies which describe what to expect when He comes

It is profitable for teaching, reproof… 2 Timothy 3:16-17 “All Scripture” is inclusive of the Old Testament In this context, Paul likely had the Old Testament in mind “Profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness” The Old Testament is often drawn on for conduct: Romans 12:19 (Deuteronomy 32:35) James 2:20-26 1 Peter 3:8-12

The old testament in the new testament 1 in every 22.5 verses in the New Testament is a quotation 10% of the New Testament is made of citations or direct allusions to the Old Testament (“New Testament Use of the Old Testament,” Roger Nicole) “The New Testament lies hidden in the Old; the Old Testament lies open in the New” –Randall Terry

Why study the old testament? It was for our admonition It makes one wise regarding salvation It is profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness The first century disciples used it; why wouldn’t we?