Biblical Answer

Does the Old Testament Law Still Apply?

The question of whether the Old Testament law still applies is a complex one that has been debated among scholars and theologians for centuries. While some believe that the Old Testament law is still in force today, others argue that it has been fulfilled or abolished. The New Testament itself suggests that the Old Testament law has been fulfilled in Jesus Christ. In the book of Hebrews, for instance, it is written that the old covenant has been made obsolete and that a new and better covenant has been established through Jesus Christ (Hebrews 8:13).

In the New Testament, Jesus teaches that the law is not just a set of rules to be followed, but a way of life that is rooted in love and compassion. He emphasizes that the greatest commandment is to love God with all one's heart, soul, mind, and strength, and to love one's neighbor as oneself (Mark 12:30-31). The New Testament also restates the Ten Commandments, with the exception of the commandment regarding the death penalty, which is no longer applicable in today's society. This suggests that while the Old Testament law is not abolished, it is not in its entirety still applicable today.

The question of whether the Old Testament law still applies is not just a matter of biblical interpretation, but also of practical application. In today's society, many of the civil laws given in the Old Testament are no longer applicable or relevant. For instance, the laws regarding slavery, polygamy, and the treatment of women are no longer acceptable in modern society. However, the moral principles underlying these laws, such as the value of human life, the importance of justice, and the need for compassion, are still relevant today. Therefore, while the Old Testament law is not in its entirety still applicable today, its moral principles and teachings continue to be relevant and important for Christians today.