Expert: Brian Thompson - 1/29/2003

Question
I have been asked many times, if the new testament replaces the old testament, and other such questions. I know that the old testament prepares for the new and the new is the old revieled, but it doesn't explain how the "old law" is supposed to apply. Could you please try to explain this to me. Thanks

Answer
Hi Doug

Let's try this from New Testament principles. The work of Jesus is a finished work, there is nothing we can do to improve on it.

Therefore as Paul says, the work of Jesus abolished the written code and the reproach of the Law for those who believe in Jesus and place their faith in Him "There is now no condemnation in Christ Jesus for those who believe".

What has happened is that the covenant in Jesus blood has replaced the Abrahamic covenant with a Covenant of grace, where the old covenant was a covenant of Law. The Abrahamic Covenant and the Law did not guarantee salvation, only a covering of sin.

The reality is that the Old Law doesn't apply now to the believer, however because we are God's Children we would wish to please him by not transgressing against His wishes for the way we should live, and so we look to the Old Testament as pattern revealing God's thoughts on the issues of life. Paul has told us that if you seek to be justified by the Law you must keep all of it and we know that no man excepting for Jesus succeeded in keeping the whole of the Law. Because He has done it, we no longer need to strive to do it.

What's important here is forming a personal relationship with God and so allowing Him to speak personally into our lives and to guide us. If you are led by the Spirit you will not sin, and if you make a mistake you will quickly repent and seek foregiveness. "Those who join themeselves to God are one with Him in Spirit", for the  New Testament believer it is coming to this oneness with God which is important. Seek the gifts and the Spirit.

I hope this helps.