The Simple Gospel

Some say that since we live under the New Covenant, the Old Testament no longer applies. But the Bible shows us that every part of Scripture holds purpose, value, and enduring truth. Paul reminds us, “For whatever was written in earlier times was written for our instruction, so that through perseverance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope” (Romans 15:4, NASB). The Old Testament isn’t irrelevant or outdated. It’s filled with lessons, prophecies, and examples that point directly to the New Testament and reveal the heart of God.

Let’s explore why the Old Testament remains essential for understanding the whole counsel of God and how its stories and commands continue to provide insight and guidance for our lives.

1. The Old Testament Reveals God’s Faithfulness

Throughout the Old Testament, we see God’s promises unfold, laying the foundation for the coming of Christ. Naaman, a respected military leader, found healing only when he obeyed the simple command to wash in the Jordan seven times (2 Kings 5:10-14, NASB). At first, Naaman resisted this act of faith, yet his eventual obedience led to complete healing. His story reminds us that God’s ways may not always align with human logic, but they are always purposeful.

Jesus referred to Naaman’s healing as a demonstration of faith, saying, “And there were many lepers in Israel in the time of Elisha the prophet; and none of them was cleansed, but only Naaman the Syrian” (Luke 4:27, NASB). The Old Testament teaches us about the necessity of obedient faith, an enduring principle that continues into the New Testament.

2. Jesus Affirmed the Old Testament’s Authority

Jesus didn’t dismiss the stories or commands of the Old Testament; He affirmed them. He referenced Noah and the flood, saying, “For the coming of the Son of Man will be just like the days of Noah” (Matthew 24:37, NASB). By tying His return to an Old Testament event, Jesus emphasized that these ancient accounts hold prophetic significance.

Similarly, Jesus spoke of Jonah’s experience, stating, “For just as Jonah was three days and three nights in the belly of the sea monster, so will the Son of Man be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth” (Matthew 12:40, NASB). If Jesus validated these accounts, shouldn’t we take them seriously as well? By doing so, we recognize that the Old Testament points directly to Jesus and prepares us for the truths revealed in the New.

3. The Old Testament Illustrates the Nature of Faith and Obedience

The stories in the Old Testament are filled with examples of faith put into action. The obedience of Noah, the trust of Abraham, and the courage of Esther all display a fundamental truth: “Faith without works is dead” (James 2:26, NASB). These figures didn’t just believe—they acted on their faith, demonstrating that obedience is inseparable from genuine belief.

Naaman’s story also exemplifies the link between faith and obedience. Initially reluctant, Naaman was frustrated by the simplicity of Elisha’s command. But in the end, his willingness to submit led to his healing. “So he went down and dipped himself seven times in the Jordan… and his flesh was restored like the flesh of a little child and he was clean” (2 Kings 5:14, NASB). True faith moves us to action, and the Old Testament is filled with examples that challenge us to act on what we believe.

4. The Old Testament Shows the Consequences of Partial Obedience

Many of the laws and commandments in the Old Testament are specific and non-negotiable. God demanded complete obedience, not selective adherence. When Saul spared King Agag against God’s command, Samuel rebuked him, saying, “To obey is better than sacrifice, and to heed than the fat of rams” (1 Samuel 15:22, NASB). The lesson is clear: we cannot pick and choose which parts of God’s word to follow.

Likewise, Jesus said, “If you love Me, you will keep My commandments” (John 14:15, NASB). The call for obedience carries into the New Testament, but we first see its significance in the Old. God’s standards haven’t changed; He still desires complete faithfulness from His people.

5. The Old Testament Provides Wisdom and Instruction for Living

The Old Testament is more than a historical record; it’s a guide for how we are to live as followers of God. Proverbs, for example, is filled with timeless wisdom: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and do not lean on your own understanding” (Proverbs 3:5, NASB). These words are as relevant today as they were when first written.

Even Paul reminded Timothy, “All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness” (2 Timothy 3:16, NASB). At the time Paul wrote this, the New Testament was not yet complete. He was referring to the Old Testament, affirming its ongoing value for shaping our understanding and guiding our lives.

Conclusion

Rather than viewing the Old Testament as irrelevant or outdated, we should embrace it as part of God’s unfolding story. It lays the groundwork for the New Testament and shows us that God’s principles remain constant. As Jesus Himself said, “Do not think that I came to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I did not come to abolish but to fulfill” (Matthew 5:17, NASB).

The Old Testament contains treasures of wisdom, examples of faith, and a powerful testimony to God’s love and justice. Let’s not set it aside, but study it earnestly, knowing that it deepens our understanding of God’s character and points us to the hope we have in Christ.