DIFFERENCE BETWEEN OLD AND NEW TESTAMENT- PASTOR GREG ELKAN.

_...rightly dividing the word of truth._ – 2Tim 2:15

The books of our Bible are divided into two sections: “Old Testament” (Genesis to Malachi), and New Testament (Matthew to Revelation). There’re are practical and historical reasons why this division was made; and it actually helps in Bible Study, similar to the subdivision of the books into chapters and verses.

Two problems arise from this, however. Firstly, many Christians aren’t aware that – just like chapters and verses – the division is a manmade innovation. The inspired authors, and early Believers had no distinction between “Old” and “New” Testament books (e.g. 2Pe 3:15-16).

Secondly, and probably more importantly, the term “testament” as used in the Bible itself is _not_ a reference to any collection of books but to specific covenants God made with Man. Our Lord’s _“New Testament”_ in Mk 4:24 couldn’t possibly be referring to Matthew to Revelation not least because they weren’t even in existence then; and Paul’s _“Old Testament”_ in 2Co 3:14 couldn’t possibly be referring to Genesis to Malachi, considering those very books are what he taught his “New Testament” Gospel from. 

Therefore, when we say the Believer is no longer bound by the “Old Testament”, it is in reference to the now obsolete covenant Yahweh made with the Jews through Moses in the Wilderness (Ex 24:6-8). This distinction is important, because the “New Testament” gospel of grace was revealed, _not_ to the apostles, but to the “Old Testament” prophets like Moses, Isaiah, Micah, etc.

What the New Testament authors had (a gift which our Lord gave them after His resurrection, Lk 24:45) was a revelation or _understanding_  of what those “Old Testament” prophets were talking about, (see also Eph 3:1-7).

The  inspired authors of the “Old Testament” books had a peculiar style of communication which, if not read in faith, will lead – indeed has led – to carnal unbelief. But when read correctly, the words of the Law, and of the prophets in the so-called “Old Testament” are a beautiful narration of God’s eternal Gospel of righteousness by faith in the Christ. 

AMEN...

PASTOR GREG ELKAN.

More Blessings await you today; you’ll not miss them in Jesus’ Name.