The Old Testament: Foundations of Faith and the Foreshadowing of Christ

The foundation of God's redemptive story — from creation to covenant.

For many Christians today, the Old Testament feels like a mysterious and ancient document — filled with difficult names, laws, battles, and prophecies that seem far removed from modern life. Some may even wonder: “If I believe in Jesus and read the New Testament, do I really need the Old?”

The answer is a resounding yes.

The Old Testament is not just the first part of the Bible — it is the divine foundation of the entire story of salvation. It shows us who God is, who we are, and why we need redemption. Without it, the cross of Christ cannot be fully understood. The Old Testament is God’s unfolding story of creation, covenant, justice, mercy, and hope — all pointing toward Jesus.

This article will help you understand what the Old Testament is, why it matters, and how it still speaks life to us today.

What Is the Old Testament?

The Old Testament is the first and foundational part of the Christian Bible. Spanning 39 books in most Protestant Bibles (and more in Catholic and Orthodox canons), it contains the sacred writings of ancient Israel, inspired by God and recorded over more than a thousand years. It tells the story of how God created the world, chose a people for Himself, revealed His laws, made covenants, and foretold the coming of a Savior.

For Christians, the Old Testament is not simply a collection of ancient religious texts — it is the beginning of God’s redemptive story. It helps us understand the holiness of God, the sinfulness of man, and the need for grace. It lays the groundwork for everything we encounter in the New Testament and reveals the continuity of God’s plan across time.

The Meaning of “Testament”

The word “testament” comes from the Latin testamentum, meaning covenant. In biblical terms, a covenant is a sacred agreement between God and His people. So the “Old Testament” is essentially the record of the Old Covenant — the covenant God made with Israel through patriarchs like Abraham, prophets like Moses, and kings like David.

This “old” does not mean irrelevant or obsolete. It simply refers to the first phase of God’s relationship with humanity before the arrival of the “new covenant” through Jesus Christ. The New Testament builds upon, fulfills, and brings to completion what was begun in the Old.

Scope and Content

The Old Testament covers a vast range of material — from the creation of the world to the rise and fall of kingdoms, from divine laws to poetic hymns, from genealogies to prophecies of the future. It contains:

Narratives of real people and real events
Laws that shaped ancient Israel’s moral and civic life
Poetry and wisdom that explore the depths of human emotion and experience
Prophecies that speak of both judgment and redemption

These writings were composed in ancient Hebrew, with portions (especially in Daniel and Ezra) written in Aramaic — the common language of later Jews.

Despite being written by many authors over many centuries, the Old Testament possesses a unified message: God is holy, humans are fallen, and redemption is coming.

Organization and Literary Structure

The books of the Old Testament are traditionally divided into several major sections:

1. The Law (Torah or Pentateuch) — Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, Deuteronomy

Also called “the Five Books of Moses,” this section lays the foundation of the biblical story. It includes the creation account, the patriarchs (Abraham, Isaac, Jacob), the Exodus from Egypt, the giving of the Ten Commandments, and the establishment of Israel’s religious system. It answers fundamental questions: Where did we come from? Who is God? What does He require of us?

2. The Historical Books — Joshua to Esther

These books trace the history of Israel from the conquest of Canaan to the Babylonian exile. They tell of judges, kings, battles, reforms, and exiles — showing how obedience to God brings blessing, and disobedience brings judgment. Key figures include Joshua, Samuel, David, Solomon, and many others.

3. The Wisdom and Poetic Books — Job, Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, Song of Songs

These books are deeply personal, reflective, and lyrical. They wrestle with profound questions: Why do the righteous suffer? How do we live wisely? How do we worship God in joy and sorrow? Psalms, in particular, is a spiritual songbook for every season of life.

4. The Prophets — Isaiah to Malachi

Divided into Major Prophets (Isaiah, Jeremiah, Lamentations, Ezekiel, Daniel) and Minor Prophets (Hosea to Malachi), these books contain God’s messages delivered through chosen spokesmen. The prophets rebuke sin, call for justice, reveal God’s heart for the oppressed, and most importantly, foretell the coming Messiah.

Theological Importance

The Old Testament reveals the character of God — His power, purity, justice, patience, mercy, and covenant faithfulness. It demonstrates that God is not silent or distant, but speaks, acts, and intervenes in history. Through its pages, we meet a God who is both just and gracious, who punishes evil but never forgets His promises.

It also helps us understand our own condition. The stories of Adam, Cain, the Israelites, and even great heroes like David reveal human weakness, pride, and need for salvation. The Law exposes sin. The sacrifices point to atonement. The prophets cry out for a Redeemer.

All of this prepares the way for Jesus Christ. As the Apostle Paul wrote:

“For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through the endurance taught in the Scriptures and the encouragement they provide we might have hope.”
(Romans 15:4)

A Sacred Library — Yet One Unified Story

While the Old Testament includes many genres and styles, it is not a disconnected collection. It is one unfolding story — from creation to covenant, from exile to restoration, from promise to hope. Its unity is found in its divine Author, and its climax is found in Jesus.

Jesus Himself affirmed its authority and unity, saying:

“These are the very Scriptures that testify about me.”
(John 5:39)

Key Themes of the Old Testament

The Old Testament is not merely a historical record or moral instruction manual. It is a rich tapestry of divine themes that run like golden threads from Genesis to Malachi — each revealing who God is, who we are, and what God is doing in history. These themes are not isolated; they build upon one another, forming a cohesive and prophetic vision that culminates in Jesus Christ.

Here are the most significant theological and narrative themes of the Old Testament:

Creation and the Fall (Genesis 1–3)

The story of the Bible begins not with humanity, but with God — eternal, sovereign, and good. In Genesis 1 and 2, we see God as the Creator who brings all things into existence by His word. The creation is orderly, beautiful, and purposeful. Humanity — made in God’s image — is the crown of creation, created male and female to reflect God’s nature, rule over the earth, and enjoy perfect relationship with their Maker.

But everything changes in Genesis 3. Through the temptation of the serpent, Adam and Eve disobey God’s command, and sin enters the world. This event — often called “The Fall” — introduces brokenness, separation, shame, and death into human experience. It explains why the world is not as it should be and why we long for redemption.

The consequences of this fall are profound:

Separation from God
Cursed ground and painful labor
Relational division between humans
Physical death
A spiritual inheritance of sin passed to all humanity

Yet even in this tragic chapter, there is hope. In Genesis 3:15, God promises that the offspring of the woman will one day crush the serpent’s head — a veiled but powerful prophecy pointing forward to Jesus, the One who would ultimately defeat sin and Satan.

Covenant and Promise

If the Fall explains the problem, God’s covenants reveal His solution. A covenant is more than a contract — it is a sacred, relational promise that God initiates with humanity, not because of merit, but because of His grace.

There are five major covenants in the Old Testament:

Noahic Covenant (Genesis 9) — God promises never again to destroy the earth with a flood. It is a covenant with all creation and a sign of God’s mercy despite judgment.
Abrahamic Covenant (Genesis 12, 15, 17) — God promises Abraham descendants, land, and that through his seed all nations will be blessed. This covenant introduces the concept of salvation extending to the whole world through a chosen family.
Mosaic Covenant (Exodus 19–24) — At Mount Sinai, God gives His Law to Israel. Obedience brings blessing; disobedience brings curse. This covenant reveals God’s holiness and Israel’s role as a priestly nation.
Davidic Covenant (2 Samuel 7) — God promises David that one of his descendants will reign forever. This anticipates a future eternal King — a clear foreshadowing of Christ.
The New Covenant (Foretold in Jeremiah 31) — Though not enacted until Christ, it is promised in the Old Testament: a covenant written not on stone tablets, but on hearts — a covenant of forgiveness and intimate relationship with God.

Through these covenants, God shows that He is faithful, even when His people are not. They form the backbone of biblical theology and point unmistakably toward Jesus, who fulfills every promise.

The Law and Holiness

After delivering Israel from slavery in Egypt, God gives them His Law — summarized in the Ten Commandments — and expanded throughout Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy. These laws were meant to set Israel apart as a holy nation — distinct from surrounding peoples and wholly devoted to the Lord.

But why so many laws?

To Reveal God’s Holiness: God’s character is pure, just, and good. His people must reflect that.
To Expose Sin: As Paul later says in Romans 7:7, the Law makes us aware of our sinfulness.
To Guide Worship and Sacrifice: God shows how He is to be approached — through atonement, purity, and reverence.
To Protect Community Life: The civil and ceremonial laws were not arbitrary — they reflected God’s concern for justice, mercy, and neighbor love.

The sacrificial system, in particular, teaches an essential truth: sin deserves death, but God provides a substitute. Every lamb slain, every offering burnt, points forward to Jesus, the ultimate Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world (John 1:29).

Exile and Restoration

Despite God’s patience, Israel repeatedly breaks His covenant — worshiping idols, oppressing the vulnerable, and ignoring the prophets. As a result, judgment comes:

The Northern Kingdom (Israel) is conquered by Assyria (722 BC)
The Southern Kingdom (Judah) is exiled to Babylon (586 BC)

The exile is a major turning point. It seems like the end of the covenant. Jerusalem is destroyed, the Temple burned, and God’s people scattered. But even in judgment, God remains faithful. The prophets speak of a return, a rebuilding, and a new heart.

Books like Ezra, Nehemiah, Haggai, and Zechariah show the return from exile and God’s commitment to restore His people.

This theme mirrors our own experience: sin brings separation, but God offers restoration to those who return to Him. The ultimate restoration comes through Jesus, who ends our spiritual exile and brings us home to the Father.

Prophets and the Hope of the Messiah

The prophets were not fortune-tellers — they were God’s truth-tellers. They called Israel to repent, warned of judgment, and reminded them of God’s promises. But beyond immediate concerns, they offered glimpses of a coming Deliverer — the Messiah.

Key messianic prophecies include:

Isaiah 7:14 — “The virgin will conceive and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel.”
Isaiah 9:6–7 — A child born who will reign on David’s throne forever.
Isaiah 53 — The Suffering Servant who bears our griefs and is pierced for our transgressions.
Micah 5:2 — A ruler from Bethlehem whose origins are from ancient times.
Zechariah 9:9 — The king coming humbly, riding on a donkey.

These prophecies create a thread of hope — a promise that God will not leave His people in sin or despair. The Old Testament ends not with resolution, but with anticipation.

Malachi, the final book, looks forward to a coming messenger — and then the silence begins. For 400 years, no prophet speaks. Until John the Baptist arrives, preparing the way for Jesus.

Historical Background and Authorship

Understanding the historical background and authorship of the Old Testament deepens our appreciation of its authenticity, complexity, and divine preservation. Far from being a mythical collection of disconnected religious stories, the Old Testament is a meticulously composed record of real events, written by real people, inspired by the real God — over centuries, across cultures, and through crisis and covenant.

When Was the Old Testament Written?

The writing of the Old Testament spans over a millennium, making it one of the oldest and most expansive sacred literatures in the world. Most scholars estimate that the earliest portions — especially the Pentateuch (Genesis through Deuteronomy) — began taking written form around 1400–1200 BC, during or shortly after the events of the Exodus and wilderness wanderings under Moses.

The latest books, such as Malachi and parts of Daniel, were likely written around 400 BC, during or after the return from Babylonian exile. In this wide span of time, we witness the development of Israel from a tribal family to a kingdom, to an exiled nation, and finally to a people of hope awaiting their promised Messiah.

This means the Old Testament reflects:

Ancient nomadic life (Abraham and the patriarchs)
The rise and fall of empires (Egypt, Assyria, Babylon, Persia)
Cultural and political upheavals
Periods of intense national crisis and spiritual revival

Yet despite being composed across such a long and diverse timeline, the Old Testament remains astonishingly unified in message — something possible only through divine inspiration.

Who Wrote the Old Testament?

The Old Testament is a multi-authored work, written by more than 30 human authors from various backgrounds — kings, priests, prophets, scribes, and shepherds. These writers came from different time periods and occupations, but were united by one thing: they were inspired by the Spirit of God.

Here are a few key contributors:

Moses — Traditionally credited with writing the Pentateuch, the foundational five books that include the Law, the Exodus, and the covenant with Israel.
David — Israel’s greatest king, known for composing many of the Psalms, expressions of worship, lament, and trust.
Solomon — Credited with Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, and Song of Songs, which reflect divine wisdom and human experience.
The Prophets — Isaiah, Jeremiah, Ezekiel, Daniel, and the twelve minor prophets each brought God’s word to Israel during times of crisis, rebellion, and exile.
Anonymous scribes — Books like Job, Ruth, or Chronicles may have unknown or debated authors, but they were nonetheless included in the canon for their inspired truth and relevance.

Importantly, authorship in the ancient world did not always mean individual penmanship. It often meant a prophet’s teachings being compiled by disciples or scribes. For example, Jeremiah’s scribe Baruch (Jeremiah 36) wrote down much of the prophet’s revelations.

Despite different voices and writing styles, the unifying theme remains clear: God’s revelation of Himself through His dealings with His people. This unity across diversity is one of the greatest testimonies to the spiritual authority of the Old Testament.

How Was the Old Testament Preserved?

In ancient Israel, the transmission of sacred texts was a deeply sacred responsibility. Scribes were trained rigorously in copying each letter, word, and line with precision. The Hebrew Masoretes, in particular, were meticulous in preserving the biblical text.

Some key methods of preservation included:

Counting every letter in a line and comparing with master scrolls
Using specific materials and rituals for writing sacred Scripture
Discarding entire scrolls if even one error was found
Storing Scripture in sacred places like the temple or synagogues

This care ensured that even across centuries of oral tradition and written transmission, the integrity of the Old Testament was maintained. The discovery of the Dead Sea Scrolls in 1947 — containing ancient Hebrew manuscripts from the time of Jesus and earlier — confirmed the remarkable consistency of today’s Old Testament with its ancient versions.

How Was the Old Testament Canon Formed?

The word canon refers to the official list of books recognized as divinely inspired Scripture. For the Old Testament, this canon was not decided arbitrarily by a council or vote — rather, it was recognized by the people of God as these writings proved themselves over time to be uniquely inspired, authoritative, and consistent with the unfolding revelation of God’s covenant.

Three main criteria helped guide this recognition:

Prophetic or divine authorship — Was it written by a prophet or someone guided by God?
Consistency with previous revelation — Did it align with the teachings of Moses and the known character of God?
Usage in worship — Was it read publicly, treasured, and accepted in the religious life of Israel?

By the time of Jesus, the Old Testament canon was already widely established in three main sections:

The Law (Torah)
The Prophets (Nevi’im)
The Writings (Ketuvim)

Together, these formed what the Jews called the Tanakh — the Hebrew Bible — which is essentially the same set of books found in the Christian Old Testament (though arranged differently).

Jesus Himself affirmed this tripartite division when He said:

“Everything must be fulfilled that is written about me in the Law of Moses, the Prophets and the Psalms.”
(Luke 24:44)

The Old Testament and Jesus Christ

To many readers, the Old Testament and the New Testament might appear disconnected — one centered on law, judgment, and Israel; the other focused on grace, salvation, and Jesus Christ. But this perception is misleading and incomplete. In reality, the Old Testament and Jesus Christ are inseparably linked. The Old Testament is the foundation, prophecy, and preparation for the coming of the Messiah. Jesus Himself affirmed this connection repeatedly — not as a side note, but as a central truth of His mission.

If you want to know Jesus more deeply, you must first understand the Old Testament. For it is in these ancient writings that the light of Christ first begins to shine.

Fulfillment of Prophecies

One of the most profound ways the Old Testament points to Jesus is through its messianic prophecies. Scattered across the writings of the prophets, poets, and even the Law itself are glimpses — sometimes shadows, sometimes vivid portraits — of the coming Redeemer.

Here are just a few of the hundreds of prophetic fulfillments found in Jesus Christ:

Genesis 3:15 – After the fall, God promises a child of the woman who will crush the serpent’s head. Jesus is that promised offspring who defeats Satan at the cross.
Genesis 22 – Abraham is asked to sacrifice Isaac, his beloved son. This foreshadows the Father giving His only Son. On the same mountain range (Moriah), Jesus would later be crucified.
Deuteronomy 18:15 – Moses foretells a prophet like himself. Jesus is that final and ultimate prophet — speaking not just God’s word, but as the Word made flesh.
Isaiah 7:14 – “A virgin will conceive and bear a son, and will call him Immanuel.” Jesus is that child, born of Mary, fully God and fully man.
Isaiah 53 – The suffering servant is pierced for our transgressions, bearing the punishment that brings us peace. No passage more clearly prefigures the crucifixion.
Micah 5:2 – The ruler of Israel will come from Bethlehem — fulfilled when Jesus was born in the city of David.
Zechariah 9:9 – “Your King comes to you… humble and riding on a donkey.” Jesus enters Jerusalem this way, fulfilling the prophecy in His final week.

These prophecies — written hundreds of years before Jesus’ birth — are not vague poetic hopes. They are specific, historical, and divinely orchestrated, proving that the entire Old Testament was preparing for Christ.

Jesus’ Use of the Old Testament

Jesus didn’t just fulfill the Old Testament — He lived by it, taught from it, and confirmed its authority. In fact, Jesus quoted the Old Testament more than 70 times, and alluded to it hundreds more.

He resisted Satan’s temptations in the wilderness by quoting Deuteronomy.
He summarized the greatest commandments by referencing Leviticus and Deuteronomy.
He explained His death and resurrection through Psalms and Isaiah.
He challenged the Pharisees by pointing back to Genesis, Exodus, and Daniel.

Even on the cross, Jesus quoted Psalm 22 — “My God, My God, why have You forsaken Me?” — revealing the deep prophetic significance of His suffering.

In Luke 24:27, after His resurrection, Jesus appeared to two discouraged disciples on the road to Emmaus. What did He do?

“Beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, He explained to them what was said in all the Scriptures concerning Himself.”

Jesus taught that the entire Old Testament — from Genesis to Malachi — ultimately points to Him.

Typology: Jesus in the Symbols and Stories

Beyond direct prophecies, the Old Testament is full of types and shadows that foreshadow Jesus — not as accidental similarities, but as divine previews crafted by the Holy Spirit. These are known as “types of Christ.”

Some examples:

Adam – the first man, whose disobedience brought death. Jesus is the “second Adam,” whose obedience brings life (Romans 5:12–19).
The Passover Lamb – whose blood saved Israel from death in Egypt. Jesus is the Lamb of God whose blood saves from eternal death (John 1:29).
The Tabernacle and Temple – where God dwelled among His people. Jesus is God in flesh, the true dwelling place of God (John 1:14).
The High Priest – who interceded between God and man. Jesus is our eternal High Priest (Hebrews 4:14–16).
The Bronze Serpent – lifted in the wilderness to heal the dying. Jesus was lifted on the cross to heal all who believe (John 3:14–15).
Jonah – who spent three days in the belly of the fish. Jesus referenced Jonah as a sign of His own death and resurrection (Matthew 12:40).

These connections are not forced — they are woven deliberately through the fabric of Scripture, helping us see Jesus in the sacrifices, festivals, leaders, and even failures of the Old Testament.

Jesus Is the Fulfillment, Not the Replacement

It’s important to understand that Jesus did not come to discard the Old Testament, but to fulfill it.

“Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them.”
(Matthew 5:17)

This fulfillment happens in several ways:

Moral fulfillment — Jesus perfectly kept the Law, obeying where Israel failed.
Prophetic fulfillment — Jesus embodies every messianic expectation.
Sacrificial fulfillment — Jesus’ death fulfills the entire temple system of offerings.
Covenantal fulfillment — Jesus brings the New Covenant, written on hearts, not tablets.

The Old Testament lays the foundation. Jesus builds upon it — not in contradiction, but in completion.

The Apostles and the Old Testament

The early church didn’t discard the Old Testament — they preached Christ from it. The apostles constantly quoted it to show that Jesus is the promised one.

On Pentecost, Peter preached from Joel and Psalms to explain the coming of the Holy Spirit (Acts 2).
Paul, in Romans and Galatians, uses Genesis, Isaiah, and Habakkuk to teach justification by faith.
The book of Hebrews is a rich commentary on how Jesus fulfills the priesthood, sacrifices, and temple system of the Old Testament.

The early Christians didn’t see the Old Testament as outdated — they saw it as the revelation that made sense only in the light of Christ.

The Old Testament Is Christian Scripture

Some modern Christians, uncomfortable with the violence or complexity of the Old Testament, suggest we “unhitch” our faith from it. But this is a grave mistake.

The Old Testament is Christian Scripture — inspired by God, confirmed by Jesus, and necessary to understand salvation.

Without the Old Testament:

We cannot understand the gravity of sin
We cannot appreciate the holiness of God
We miss the richness of atonement, covenant, and promise
We lose the context that makes the cross glorious

The same Spirit who inspired the Gospels also breathed out Genesis, Isaiah, and Malachi. To love Jesus is to honor all His Word, including the Old Testament.

The Old Testament in Christian Theology

Theology is simply the study of God — and no theology is complete without the Old Testament. For Christians, the Old Testament is not merely a historical artifact; it is a divinely inspired, theologically essential part of Scripture. It reveals foundational truths about God’s nature, humanity’s condition, the need for salvation, and the unfolding drama of redemption that culminates in Jesus Christ.

Christian theology is built upon the Old Testament’s revelation of God’s holiness, justice, mercy, and covenantal love. To dismiss the Old Testament is to cut the roots of the Gospel itself.

Let’s explore several core theological themes and debates that arise from the Old Testament and how they shape Christian belief.

Continuity and Discontinuity

One of the key theological questions is: How does the Old Testament relate to the New Testament? Are they completely different systems — one about law and the other about grace? Or are they two chapters in the same divine story?

Christian theologians have long wrestled with the continuity and discontinuity between the covenants.

What Continues?

God’s character does not change. He is holy, just, and merciful in both testaments.
The moral law (e.g., commandments about worship, truthfulness, justice, sexual ethics) is reaffirmed in the New Testament.
The plan of salvation by faith was present from the beginning — Abraham believed God and it was credited to him as righteousness (Genesis 15:6, Romans 4:3).
God’s desire for relationship remains central. From the Garden of Eden to the New Jerusalem, God’s aim is to dwell with His people.

What Is Fulfilled or Transformed?

The ceremonial laws, including food laws, purification rituals, and sacrifices, were fulfilled in Christ (Colossians 2:16–17). He is the once-for-all sacrifice.
The civil laws of ancient Israel were for a specific time and nation. Their principles (justice, care for the poor, fairness) remain instructive, but the form no longer applies directly to the global Church.
The Sabbath, as a sign of the Mosaic covenant, finds fulfillment in the rest offered by Christ (Hebrews 4:9–11).

The continuity lies in the one unfolding story of redemption, and the discontinuity lies in how the old covenant gives way to the new, not in opposition, but in fulfillment (Matthew 5:17).

Grace and Judgment

Another misconception is that the Old Testament is all about judgment, while the New Testament is all about grace. But this view oversimplifies — and distorts — the character of God.

Grace in the Old Testament

Grace is not absent from the Old Testament. In fact, it shines brightly:

God clothed Adam and Eve after the fall (Genesis 3:21).
He spared Noah and offered humanity a new start (Genesis 6–9).
He chose Abraham not because of merit, but by sheer grace (Genesis 12).
He repeatedly forgave Israel despite rebellion (Numbers, Judges, Hosea).
He promised restoration after exile (Jeremiah 29:11; Ezekiel 36).

One of the most grace-filled passages comes from Exodus 34:6–7, where God reveals Himself:

“The Lord, the Lord, the compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness…”

This portrait of God permeates the Old Testament — and is echoed throughout the New.

Judgment in the Old Testament

God’s judgment in the Old Testament is never arbitrary. It comes after long-suffering patience, repeated warnings, and clear consequences. It serves both justice and mercy — calling people back to righteousness and restraining evil.

God’s justice is also redemptive. The exile, for example, wasn’t just punishment — it was purification, a refining fire to prepare for renewal.

The Law and the Gospel

The Law — especially the Mosaic Law — is a central feature of the Old Testament and raises crucial theological questions for Christians: Is the Law still binding? What was its purpose?

Paul and Jesus give us key insights:

The Law reveals sin: “Through the law we become conscious of sin” (Romans 3:20).
The Law points to Christ: “The law was our guardian until Christ came…” (Galatians 3:24).
The Law is fulfilled in love: Jesus summarized the law in two commands — love God and love neighbor (Matthew 22:37–40).

Christians are not “under the law” in the sense of earning righteousness by obedience. But the law still functions as:

A moral compass
A window into God’s character
A background for understanding Jesus’ work on the cross

The Gospel doesn’t cancel the Old Testament Law — it shows us that Jesus has fulfilled its demands on our behalf.

God’s Covenant Faithfulness

One of the richest theological threads in the Old Testament is God’s faithfulness to His covenants. Though humanity fails again and again, God remains true to His promises.

He preserves Noah’s line through the flood
He remains faithful to Abraham’s descendants despite their disobedience
He disciplines but does not destroy Israel
He sends prophets, not to condemn only, but to call people home
He ultimately fulfills every covenant in Christ — the seed of Abraham, the prophet like Moses, the son of David, and the Suffering Servant

This unwavering faithfulness reveals a God who cannot lie, who keeps covenant, and who pursues His people with relentless love.

The Role of Israel in Salvation History

The Old Testament is centered on Israel, God’s chosen nation. But Israel was not chosen for privilege — it was chosen for purpose.

“I will make you a light for the nations, that my salvation may reach to the ends of the earth.”
(Isaiah 49:6)

Through Israel, the world would see:

The nature of God
The seriousness of sin
The power of redemption
The hope of the Messiah

Christian theology affirms that the Church does not replace Israel, but rather, believers in Christ are grafted in to the covenant tree (Romans 11). God’s promises to Israel still matter — and His global mission has always been the plan.

The Old Testament Shapes Christian Doctrine

Every major Christian doctrine is rooted in the Old Testament:

Creation and humanity (Genesis 1–2)
Sin and death (Genesis 3)
Atonement and sacrifice (Leviticus)
Grace and faith (Genesis 15, Habakkuk 2:4)
God’s sovereignty (Daniel)
The resurrection of the dead (Job 19:25–26; Daniel 12:2)
The coming kingdom of God (Isaiah, Ezekiel)

The New Testament writers constantly drew upon the Old Testament — not just for quotes, but to shape theology, worship, and hope.

Without the Old Testament, Christian theology becomes shallow, fragmented, and disconnected from the very roots of God’s revelation.

Why This Truth Changes Everything

It’s one thing to study the Old Testament as history, theology, or literature. But if the Old Testament is truly the inspired Word of God — pointing to Jesus Christ and revealing God’s heart — then it must transform how we see ourselves, our world, and our purpose. The truth of the Old Testament is not locked in the past; it speaks directly into your present.

Let’s explore how understanding the Old Testament changes your view of God, your struggles, and your hope.

It Changes How You See God

Many people carry distorted views of God — as distant, angry, indifferent, or unknowable. But through the Old Testament, God introduces Himself clearly and repeatedly. He is not silent or hidden.

“The Lord, the Lord, a God merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love…”
(Exodus 34:6)

From the beginning pages of the Old Testament, we meet a personal, relational God who walks with Adam, calls Abraham by name, speaks to Moses face-to-face, and weeps over Israel’s rebellion through the voices of the prophets.

This is not a God who gives up on people. This is a God who pursues, disciplines, redeems, and ultimately gives everything — even His Son — to save.

When you read the Old Testament with open eyes, you discover a God worth trusting — not a distant deity, but a Father, King, and Redeemer.

It Confronts the Reality of Sin — and the Hope of Grace

The Old Testament pulls no punches when it comes to the human condition. It shows us the full depth of human sin, pride, injustice, violence, betrayal, and idolatry.

Cain murders his brother.
Humanity builds a tower to make a name for themselves.
Israel, saved from slavery, still grumbles and worships golden calves.
Kings exploit power, priests grow corrupt, and the people turn to false gods.

And yet — through it all — God continues to show mercy. He forgives. He restores. He calls people back to Himself again and again.

The Old Testament reveals what is broken in us, but it also whispers a promise of restoration and healing. It reminds us that we need a Savior — and that Savior is not ourselves.

Have you ever felt like you’ve gone too far for God to take you back?
Have you ever wondered if your sins have made you irredeemable?

Read the story of David — a murderer, an adulterer, and yet a man after God’s heart.
Read the story of Hosea — commanded to love an unfaithful wife as a picture of God’s love for His people.
Read the laments of Jeremiah — who weeps over a ruined city but clings to God’s mercy (Lamentations 3:22–23).

The Old Testament doesn’t hide our failure — but it points to grace.

It Gives Purpose to Your Suffering

Suffering can feel senseless — like a storm without reason or rescue. But the Old Testament is filled with stories of suffering that shapes, redeems, and ultimately serves God’s purposes.

Joseph was betrayed, enslaved, and imprisoned — only to become the one who saved his family from famine.
Job lost everything and asked God raw, honest questions — but encountered a God bigger than his pain.
Ruth endured widowhood and poverty — and became part of the lineage of Christ.
Israel went into exile — and came back with renewed faith and longing for the Messiah.

The Old Testament teaches us to lament, but not to lose hope. It shows us a God who is near to the brokenhearted, who brings beauty from ashes, and who writes a bigger story than what we can see.

Have you been wounded? Forgotten? Abandoned?

The Old Testament tells you: God sees. God knows. And God redeems.

It Grounds Your Identity in God’s Story

In a world obsessed with self-creation and image, the Old Testament reminds you who you really are:

You are made in the image of God (Genesis 1:27)
You are created for relationship, not isolation
You are fallen, but not forsaken
You are chosen, called, and invited into covenant
You are part of a people, not just an individual story

Christian identity is not rooted in performance, popularity, or possessions — but in God’s eternal promises, many of which are first spoken in the Old Testament.

When you know God’s covenant with Abraham, you realize that faith connects you to something ancient, holy, and global (Galatians 3:29).
When you understand Israel’s wilderness journey, you see your own spiritual ups and downs more clearly.
When you learn how God shepherded David, you learn how He wants to shepherd you.

It Illuminates the Mission of Jesus — and Your Role in It

The Old Testament reveals that God’s heart has always been for the nations.

“All peoples on earth will be blessed through you.”
(Genesis 12:3)

God didn’t choose Israel to bless only them — He chose them to bless the world. The prophets cried out that salvation would reach the ends of the earth, and the Psalms call the nations to praise the Lord.

When Jesus comes, He doesn’t start a new mission — He continues and completes the mission foretold in the Old Testament. He is the seed of Abraham, the son of David, the suffering servant, and the light to the Gentiles.

And now, if you belong to Christ, you are part of that mission.

Your life — your prayers, your words, your obedience — becomes part of God’s story to redeem the world. And that story starts in the Old Testament.

It Gives You Confidence in the Whole Bible

Some Christians feel unsure about parts of Scripture. Maybe you’ve read a passage in the Old Testament and thought, “Why is this here? What does this mean?”

But when you understand the storyline of the Old Testament — its unity, its purpose, its preparation for Christ — your confidence grows. You begin to see how:

The Bible is not a contradiction, but a progression
God’s character never changes
Every promise of God finds its “Yes” in Jesus (2 Corinthians 1:20)
The entire Bible is relevant, trustworthy, and alive

It Prepares Your Heart for Christ

Finally — and most importantly — the Old Testament prepares your heart to receive Jesus. It softens your pride, confronts your sin, stirs your longing, and awakens your hope.

The Law shows you your need.
The prophets show you your Savior.
The psalms teach you to cry out.
The stories show you God’s hand in chaos.
The covenants remind you that grace is never earned — only received.

The Old Testament is not a barrier to knowing Jesus. It is the bridge.

Why Christians Should Read the Old Testament Today

In the fast-paced, digital world of today, many Christians are tempted to focus only on the New Testament — seeing it as more “relevant,” “easier to understand,” or “more about Jesus.” And while the New Testament is certainly central to our faith, to ignore or overlook the Old Testament is to miss two-thirds of God’s Word and the very roots of the Gospel.

The truth is this: Christians need the Old Testament. Not just for head knowledge, but for heart transformation, spiritual maturity, and a fuller understanding of who Jesus is.

Here are several compelling reasons why every follower of Christ should treasure and read the Old Testament today:

1. It Deepens Your Understanding of the Gospel

The Gospel doesn’t begin in Matthew — it begins in Genesis. Without the Old Testament, we cannot fully grasp:

Why we need salvation (Genesis 3 — the Fall)
How God deals with sin (Leviticus — sacrifice and atonement)
What righteousness looks like (Exodus 20 — the Ten Commandments)
How grace was always God’s plan (Genesis 15 — Abraham justified by faith)
What redemption costs (Isaiah 53 — the suffering servant)

When John the Baptist called Jesus the “Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world”, that only made sense to people who knew the Old Testament — who had seen lambs sacrificed year after year in the temple.

When Jesus said, “The Son of Man must suffer… just as it is written,” He was pointing back to Isaiah, Psalms, and Daniel. The Gospel is the climax, not the beginning, of the biblical story.

The more you read the Old Testament, the more deeply you’ll understand the beauty, necessity, and magnitude of the cross.

2. It Reveals God’s Unchanging Character

The God of the Old Testament is not different from the God of the New. He is the same yesterday, today, and forever (Hebrews 13:8). His:

Holiness is seen at Mount Sinai
Compassion is seen in His care for widows and orphans
Patience is seen in His long-suffering with Israel
Justice is seen in the judgment of nations
Faithfulness is seen in His unbreakable covenants

Some people struggle with the difficult stories in the Old Testament — of judgment, war, or divine wrath. But when read in context, these stories reveal a God who is holy, righteous, and slow to anger. A God who warns before He acts. A God who takes sin seriously — not because He is harsh, but because He is good.

The Old Testament prevents us from shaping God in our own image. It forces us to see Him as He truly is — in majesty and mercy.

3. It Strengthens Your Faith in Times of Trial

Life is hard. We suffer loss, endure heartbreak, wrestle with doubt, and face injustice. The Old Testament is full of people like us — broken people in broken situations, learning to trust a faithful God.

Job teaches us to worship in suffering.
David shows us how to cry out with honesty and still hope in God.
Jeremiah writes through tears.
Ruth walks through grief.
Habakkuk learns to rejoice when there is no harvest.
Daniel prays in a lion’s den.

When you feel discouraged, confused, or abandoned, the Old Testament offers a mirror for your pain and a window to God’s faithfulness.

It gives you language to lament, reasons to hope, and reminders that God never wastes suffering.

4. It Teaches You to Pray and Worship

The Psalms alone make the Old Testament worth reading for every believer. They are a school of prayer — teaching you to:

Praise God in joy
Cry out in pain
Repent deeply
Trust fully
Rejoice in His promises

When you don’t know what to pray, open to Psalm 23 or Psalm 42 or Psalm 51. You’ll find prayers that have comforted millions for thousands of years.

In addition, books like 1 Chronicles, Ezra, and Nehemiah show us how entire communities worshiped — with reverence, song, sacrifice, and joyful celebration.

The Old Testament teaches us that worship is not a Sunday activity — it’s a life posture.

5. It Connects You to the Global and Historic Church

By reading the Old Testament, you join a spiritual family that stretches back thousands of years. You read the same words that Jesus read, that Paul preached, that early Christians memorized and died for.

It roots your faith in history, not hype
It joins you to Abraham, Moses, Esther, and Elijah
It makes you part of the story God has been writing for generations

In a world obsessed with the latest trend, the Old Testament invites you to anchor yourself in timeless truth.

6. It Equips You for Spiritual Warfare

The battles in the Old Testament are not just political — they are spiritual pictures. Israel’s wars against idolatry, sin, and compromise mirror our own struggles today.

Egypt represents bondage
Pharaoh symbolizes the enemy’s grip
The wilderness shows the testing of faith
The promised land reflects the life of victory and promise in Christ
Giants like Goliath symbolize fear, doubt, and opposition

Reading the Old Testament prepares you to fight the good fight of faith — not with swords, but with truth, prayer, and trust in God’s power.

7. It Prepares You to Share the Gospel with Confidence

Many people today have questions about the Bible’s unity, morality, and credibility. When you know the Old Testament:

You can answer why God gave laws to Israel
You can explain the justice and mercy of God in judgment
You can show that the Gospel is not a New Testament invention, but the fulfillment of God’s ancient plan

The more you know the Old Testament, the more clearly you can preach Christ — not as a footnote, but as the fulfillment of everything that came before.

8. It Awakens Awe and Reverence for God’s Word

Finally, reading the Old Testament reminds you that God speaks. These are not just old scrolls — they are God-breathed, Spirit-given truth.

“All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness.”
(2 Timothy 3:16)

Paul was talking about the Old Testament when he wrote those words.

Every law, every promise, every prophecy — even the genealogies and temple measurements — are part of a holy, majestic Word that points to a holy, majestic God.

If you want to grow in awe of Scripture, don’t just read the Gospels — read Genesis, Exodus, Isaiah, and Psalms. You’ll encounter the living God there.

Common Misconceptions About the Old Testament

Despite being divinely inspired and foundational to the Christian faith, the Old Testament is often misunderstood, dismissed, or mischaracterized — even by well-meaning believers. These misconceptions have kept many Christians from experiencing the depth, beauty, and spiritual power that the Old Testament offers.

Let’s address and correct some of the most common misunderstandings.

“The God of the Old Testament is Angry; the God of the New Testament is Loving”

This is one of the most damaging and theologically incorrect assumptions in Christian thinking. It presents a false dichotomy, suggesting that God somehow changed His character between the Old and New Testaments.

But Scripture declares that God is unchanging:

“I the Lord do not change.”
(Malachi 3:6)

In truth, the God of the Old Testament is the same God revealed in Jesus Christ.

Yes, we see God’s judgment in the Old Testament — in the flood, in Sodom and Gomorrah, in Israel’s exile. But we also see incredible mercy, patience, and compassion:

God patiently warned Nineveh before judgment — and relented when they repented (Jonah).
He gave chance after chance to rebellious Israel.
He revealed Himself as “compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love” (Exodus 34:6).

Likewise, in the New Testament, Jesus speaks of hell, cleanses the temple, and pronounces woes on religious hypocrites. Grace and truth, mercy and justice — these exist in both testaments, because God is consistent in all He does.

“The Old Testament Is Irrelevant for Christians Today”

Some believe that because we live under the New Covenant, the Old Testament no longer applies. This view often stems from a misunderstanding of how fulfillment works.

Jesus didn’t cancel the Old Testament — He fulfilled it (Matthew 5:17).

This means:

The sacrificial system points to His atoning death
The ceremonial laws find their spiritual meaning in Him
The moral truths remain consistent with His teaching
The prophecies find their “Yes” in Christ

Paul affirms in Romans 15:4:

“For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us… so that through the endurance taught in the Scriptures and the encouragement they provide we might have hope.”

When Paul said “the Scriptures,” he meant the Old Testament.

The stories of Abraham, Joseph, Ruth, David, Elijah — all teach us about faith, obedience, suffering, and redemption. They are not obsolete; they are timeless.

“The Old Testament Is Just a Collection of Rules and Laws”

Yes, the Old Testament contains many laws — especially in Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy. But it’s far more than a rulebook. In fact, the Law is only part of the broader narrative.

The Old Testament includes:

Epic stories of faith and failure
Songs of worship and lament (Psalms)
Proverbs full of practical wisdom
Romantic poetry (Song of Songs)
Prophetic visions and promises
Historical chronicles of God’s work

The laws themselves aren’t lifeless commands — they reflect God’s holiness and care. Many of them protected the vulnerable, promoted justice, and taught spiritual truths through symbolic practices.

Moreover, the Old Testament’s laws help us see the depth of our need for grace. As Paul said, “Through the law we become conscious of sin” (Romans 3:20).

“The Old Testament Is Too Hard to Understand”

It’s true — some parts of the Old Testament can be challenging. Names are unfamiliar. Contexts are ancient. Prophecies can be poetic and symbolic.

But hard doesn’t mean impossible — and it certainly doesn’t mean irrelevant.

With the right tools and guidance, anyone can grow in their understanding:

Use a good study Bible or commentary
Read alongside the New Testament to see fulfillment
Start with narratives (Genesis, Exodus, Ruth, 1 Samuel) and Psalms
Ask: What does this passage show me about God? About humanity? About redemption?

Over time, the Old Testament becomes more than understandable — it becomes deeply nourishing.

“The Old Testament Contradicts the New Testament”

Some critics — and even some believers — assume the Old and New Testaments contradict each other. They see one as about law and wrath, and the other as about grace and love.

But this is a misunderstanding of biblical continuity.

The Old Testament promises; the New Testament fulfills.
The Old Testament prepares; the New Testament reveals.
The Old Testament shadows; the New Testament shines the light of Christ on what was always there.

For example:

In Genesis, God promises that a descendant will crush evil (Genesis 3:15) — Jesus fulfills that on the cross.
In Exodus, God delivers His people through blood and water — Jesus delivers us through His blood and baptism.
In Isaiah, the servant suffers for our sins — Jesus is that suffering servant.

When you read both testaments together, you see not contradiction, but beautiful cohesion.

“Jesus Replaced the Old Testament”

Jesus did not replace the Old Testament — He revealed its true meaning.

When Jesus taught on the road to Emmaus (Luke 24:27), He didn’t say, “Forget the Old Testament.” He said, “Let me show you how all of it points to Me.”

When He quoted Scripture, He quoted from the Law, the Psalms, and the Prophets.

The early Church, too, based its preaching, prayers, and theology on the Old Testament — because that was their Bible. The apostles didn’t invent a new faith; they saw Jesus as the fulfillment of the ancient faith.

To follow Jesus is to follow the story that began in the Old Testament and continues through eternity.

A Journey Through Key Old Testament Books

The Old Testament is a vast and diverse collection of writings — from historical records to songs of worship, from legal codes to prophetic visions. But within its 39 books lies a cohesive and breathtaking narrative that tells the story of God’s pursuit of His people and prepares the way for Jesus Christ.

Let’s take a brief journey through some of the most foundational and spiritually rich books of the Old Testament, highlighting what they reveal about God, humanity, and redemption.

Genesis – The Book of Beginnings

Genesis is the first book of the Old Testament and the foundation for everything that follows. Its name means “origin” or “birth,” and it introduces us to the key themes of creation, fall, promise, and covenant.

Chapters 1–2: God creates the world, declaring it “very good.” Humanity is made in His image for relationship and stewardship.
Chapter 3: Sin enters the world through disobedience, bringing separation from God.
Chapters 12–50: God initiates His rescue plan by choosing Abraham, promising to bless all nations through his descendants.

Genesis shows us:

God as Creator and Covenant Maker
The origin of sin and its consequences
The first promises of redemption through a coming Savior

Exodus – Redemption and Revelation

Exodus tells the story of God’s deliverance of His people from slavery in Egypt. It is the foundational narrative of salvation in the Old Testament and becomes the model for all future redemption.

Key highlights include:

The ten plagues and the showdown with Pharaoh
The first Passover, where the blood of a lamb saves the Israelites from death
The crossing of the Red Sea — a dramatic symbol of freedom
Mount Sinai, where God gives the Ten Commandments and establishes His covenant with Israel
The Tabernacle, God’s dwelling among His people

Exodus reveals God as:

Deliverer
Lawgiver
Holy and near
It points forward to Christ — our Passover Lamb and our true deliverer from the bondage of sin.

Leviticus – Holiness and Worship

Leviticus can be a difficult read for modern audiences, but it is central to understanding God’s holiness and how sinful people can approach Him. It outlines the sacrificial system, festivals, and laws of purity.

Key truths:

God is holy, and those who worship Him must be holy
Sin must be atoned for through blood
The priesthood serves as mediators between God and people
The Day of Atonement (Yom Kippur) foreshadows Christ’s work on the cross

Leviticus teaches that access to God is costly, but made possible through His grace and provision.

Numbers – Wilderness and Testing

Numbers records Israel’s journey through the wilderness, from Mount Sinai to the edge of the Promised Land. It is a book of wandering, rebellion, judgment, and mercy.

Themes include:

God’s faithfulness, even when His people complain and rebel
Leadership and obedience tested in harsh conditions
Preparation for entering the land of promise

Despite their failures, God remains committed to His covenant. Numbers reminds us that spiritual growth often happens in deserts, not just in victories.

Deuteronomy – Covenant Renewal

As Moses prepares to die, he gives a series of speeches urging Israel to remember, obey, and love the Lord. Deuteronomy means “second law,” not because the law changes, but because it is restated and re-committed to a new generation.

Key themes:

Love the Lord with all your heart (Deuteronomy 6:5)
Blessing and curse tied to obedience or disobedience
A future prophet like Moses will one day come — pointing to Christ (Deuteronomy 18:15)

This book calls us to covenant faithfulness and points toward a coming transformation of the heart (Deuteronomy 30:6) — fulfilled in the New Covenant through Jesus.

Psalms – Worship in Every Season

The Psalms are the songbook of the Bible. Written by David and other authors, these 150 poems express every human emotion — joy, sorrow, fear, hope, repentance, and praise.

Types of psalms:

Praise and thanksgiving (e.g., Psalm 103)
Lament and complaint (e.g., Psalm 13)
Confession and repentance (e.g., Psalm 51)
Messianic prophecies (e.g., Psalm 22, 110)
Wisdom and trust (e.g., Psalm 1, 23, 91)

Jesus and the apostles quoted Psalms often, especially during His crucifixion. Reading the Psalms helps believers pray deeply, worship honestly, and hope fully.

Proverbs – Wisdom for Everyday Life

Proverbs is a collection of divinely inspired sayings that teach wisdom, discipline, and the fear of the Lord. Attributed mostly to Solomon, the book offers practical guidance on:

Relationships and friendship
Money and generosity
Words and silence
Work ethic and laziness
Pride and humility

Its central message:

“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom.” (Proverbs 1:7)

Proverbs shows that godly wisdom is not just about knowledge — it’s about living rightly in light of who God is.

Isaiah – Judgment and Messianic Hope

Isaiah is often called the fifth Gospel because it contains so many prophecies about Jesus. It spans themes of judgment, exile, redemption, and future glory.

Key highlights:

Isaiah 6 – The prophet’s vision of God’s holiness
Isaiah 9 – The promise of a child born to rule
Isaiah 53 – The suffering servant who bears our sins
Isaiah 61 – The mission of the Messiah to heal and restore

Isaiah calls sinners to repentance but also lifts weary hearts with the promise of salvation through a coming King. The Old Testament vision of the Messiah reaches its poetic and prophetic peak here.

Daniel – Sovereignty and Future Glory

Daniel tells of God’s power in a pagan world and His control over empires. Written during exile in Babylon, it includes both historical stories and apocalyptic visions.

Fiery furnace and lions’ den – God’s deliverance
Nebuchadnezzar’s dreams – God’s control over kingdoms
Prophecies of future kingdoms and the Son of Man (Daniel 7)

Daniel reveals that God is always on the throne, even when the world seems in chaos. It points to Christ as the eternal ruler who will establish a kingdom that never ends.

Ruth, Esther, and Nehemiah – Faithfulness in Dark Times

Ruth – A Moabite widow becomes the ancestor of David — and of Jesus. A story of loyal love and God’s providence.
Esther – A Jewish queen risks everything to save her people. God’s name isn’t mentioned, but His hand is everywhere.
Nehemiah – A man with vision rebuilds Jerusalem’s walls and calls people to return to God.

These books show that even in the darkest seasons, God is working behind the scenes, fulfilling His promises through ordinary people.

This journey through key books is just the beginning. Every book in the Old Testament is a treasure — waiting to be opened, studied, and loved. Each one reveals more of God’s heart and deepens our understanding of His eternal plan.

How to Start Reading the Old Testament

The Old Testament can feel overwhelming at first glance. With its long genealogies, ancient laws, poetic language, and prophetic imagery, many readers don’t know where to begin — or worse, give up too soon.

But don’t be discouraged. The Old Testament is not a closed book — it is an invitation into the unfolding story of God. And when approached with the right heart and tools, it becomes a deep well of truth, beauty, and spiritual nourishment.

Here’s how to start reading the Old Testament in a way that brings clarity, joy, and transformation.

1. Begin with the Right Books

You don’t need to read the entire Old Testament cover-to-cover your first time through (though that’s a worthy goal). Instead, consider starting with key books that lay the foundation of God’s story and are easier to engage with as a new reader.

Recommended Starting Points:

Genesis – The origin of creation, sin, faith, and covenant. A crucial foundation for the entire Bible.
Exodus – God’s dramatic rescue of His people and the giving of the Ten Commandments.
Psalms – Honest prayers and songs that connect deeply with human emotion and worship.
Proverbs – Practical wisdom for everyday life, relationships, and decision-making.
Ruth – A short but powerful story of loyalty, redemption, and God’s providence.
Jonah – A compelling narrative about obedience, mercy, and the wideness of God’s love.
Isaiah 40–66 – Rich prophecies about the coming Messiah, full of hope and vision.

These books provide a good balance of narrative, poetry, and prophecy and help orient your heart to the overarching themes of the Old Testament.

2. Read Through the Lens of Jesus

Always remember: the Old Testament is Christian Scripture. That means it must be read in light of Christ.

Jesus said:

“These are the very Scriptures that testify about Me.”
(John 5:39)

This includes Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, and all the prophets.

As you read, ask:

Where do I see humanity’s need for a Savior?
How does this story or law foreshadow Jesus?
What does this reveal about God’s justice, grace, or holiness?
What promise is being made — and how might it be fulfilled in Christ?

Seeing Jesus in the Old Testament will transform it from ancient text into living truth.

3. Use a Study Bible or Reading Plan

A good study Bible includes helpful footnotes, maps, introductions, and commentary that can clarify confusing passages and give historical context.

You can also find reading plans that guide you through the Old Testament in manageable chunks. Some great options include:

Chronological Plans – Following the timeline of events (e.g., starting with Genesis, then moving to Job).
Thematic Plans – Exploring themes like covenant, prophecy, or worship.
Blended Plans – Mixing Old Testament and New Testament readings each day for balance.

Consistency is more important than speed. Even reading one chapter a day can deepen your understanding over time.

4. Don’t Skip the Hard Parts — But Don’t Get Stuck Either

Yes, there are difficult sections in the Old Testament — lists of names, lengthy laws, and complex visions.

Here’s how to handle them:

Slow down when needed, and look for themes of God’s character.
Use footnotes, commentaries, or trusted teachers to help interpret.
Ask questions — even the ones that feel uncomfortable. Wrestling with Scripture leads to growth.
Move on if necessary, and come back later. Don’t let one hard chapter stop your journey.

The Holy Spirit is your teacher. Pray for insight — and trust that God delights to open His Word to you.

5. Reflect and Apply as You Go

The goal of reading the Old Testament is not just information — it’s transformation. As you read, pause to reflect:

What does this passage teach me about God’s heart?
What does it expose in my own heart?
Is there a command to follow, a sin to avoid, a truth to believe, or a promise to trust?

Keep a journal. Write prayers. Talk about what you’re learning with others. Let the Old Testament become part of your spiritual conversation with God.

6. Read in Community

Scripture was never meant to be read in isolation alone. The people of God have always read the Word together — in synagogues, churches, homes, and small groups.

Find a Bible study group, a mentor, or a Christian friend who is willing to journey through the Old Testament with you. Discuss what you’re learning. Share questions and insights. Reading in community deepens understanding and keeps you encouraged.

If you’re part of a church, ask if they offer Old Testament study groups or sermon series. You might be surprised how rich those discussions can be.

7. Trust the Process — and the Author

The Old Testament may seem foreign at first — but keep going. The more you read, the more familiar it becomes. Over time, you’ll begin to see:

Patterns: of grace, rebellion, and restoration
Types of Christ: in the lives of Abraham, Joseph, David, and others
Prophetic hope: that reaches its fulfillment in Jesus
God’s unchanging nature: holy, merciful, just, and faithful

Remember: the same Holy Spirit who inspired the Old Testament also dwells within you. He delights to reveal truth to hungry hearts.

Reading the Old Testament is not a religious chore — it’s an act of worship. It’s entering into the sacred story of a God who made you, pursued you, and redeemed you through Christ.

Conclusion — Embrace the Full Story of God

The Bible is not two separate books. It is one unified story — a divine narrative that begins in the Old Testament and finds its climax and fulfillment in Jesus Christ. From Genesis to Revelation, God is revealing who He is, who we are, and how we are made whole in Him.

To ignore the Old Testament is to start reading halfway through a story — missing the problem, the promises, the preparation, and the breathtaking foreshadowing of what’s to come. It’s like walking into the last act of a play without understanding the characters, the conflict, or the cost.

The Old Testament is not obsolete — it is essential. It is not law without grace, or history without relevance. It is God speaking to His people with clarity, conviction, and compassion — whispering the name of Jesus in every chapter.

In it, we see:

A holy God who creates and covenants
A broken humanity in need of rescue
A patient Redeemer pursuing His people
A promised Messiah who will save, restore, and reign forever

That Messiah is Jesus Christ — the fulfillment of every promise, every prophecy, every longing that echoes through the Old Testament.

Will You Embrace the Whole Word of God?

Maybe you’ve felt disconnected from the Old Testament. Maybe it’s seemed intimidating, confusing, or irrelevant. But today, you’ve seen something deeper — a treasure chest of grace, a mirror to your soul, and a path that leads straight to Jesus.

So what now?

Don’t just admire the Old Testament from a distance. Step into the story.

Open Genesis and read the first words ever spoken: “In the beginning, God…”
Pray through a Psalm tonight — bring your raw honesty before a God who hears.
Meditate on Isaiah 53 and see how clearly Jesus was revealed centuries before His birth.
Trust that the same God who parted the Red Sea can part the chaos in your life today.

Let the Old Testament ignite your faith, sharpen your worship, deepen your repentance, and enlarge your hope.

Come to Jesus — the Fulfillment of Every Promise

The Old Testament doesn’t end with a period — it ends with a pause, a longing, a question: When will the Messiah come?

The answer came in a manger in Bethlehem. The promised One arrived. His name is Jesus.

He is:

The true and better Adam, who obeyed where we failed
The true Lamb, whose blood saves us from death
The true High Priest, who intercedes for us forever
The King from David’s line, who will reign eternally
The Servant who was pierced for our transgressions
The fulfillment of the Law, the Prophet greater than Moses, the Seed of Abraham

And now He calls to you.

“Come to Me, all who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” (Matthew 11:28)

Have you received Him?
Have you turned from sin and trusted in the One the Old Testament prepared you for?

Today is the day. Don’t delay.

A Simple Prayer

If your heart is stirred and you want to respond, you can pray something like this:

“God, I believe that Your Word is true — from beginning to end. I see now how the Old Testament points to Jesus, and I believe He is the Savior I need. I turn from my sin, and I trust in His death and resurrection for my forgiveness and new life. Help me to love Your Word, follow Your Son, and walk in Your truth from this day forward. Amen.”

What’s Next?

If you’ve made that decision — or want to explore more — here are some next steps:

Start reading the Gospel of John, to meet Jesus personally
Return to Genesis and begin walking through God’s great story
Find a Bible-believing church where you can grow and ask questions
Pray daily, even simply — God hears you
Ask God to give you a hunger for His Word — especially the Old Testament you once avoided

The Bible is not just a book — it’s God’s voice to your soul.

Let the Old Testament no longer be a mystery, but a masterpiece — drawing you deeper into the love, truth, and glory of the God who has never stopped speaking.

This is His story. This is your invitation. Don’t stop at the cross — begin at the beginning.