Biblical Answer

The Relationship Between the Old Testament Law and the Christian

The Christian is not technically under the stricture of the Old Testament law. However, the New Testament restates many of the moral norms of the Old Testament law, making them applicable to Christians today. The New Testament emphasizes the importance of living a life that reflects Christian values and teachings, which are rooted in the moral norms of the Old Testament law. For example, the Ten Commandments are restated in the New Testament, with the exception of the commandment regarding the consumption of blood (Lev. 17:10-14). The moral norms of the Old Testament law, such as "do not steal," "do not bear false witness," and "honor your parents," are still authoritative for Christians today.

The New Testament writers emphasize the importance of living a life that reflects Christian values and teachings. Jesus teaches that the law is still valid, but that it is now fulfilled in him (Matthew 5:17-20). Paul writes that the law is no longer a means of salvation, but rather a guide for living a life that reflects the values of the kingdom of God (Romans 7:1-6). The law of Christ includes the moral norms of the Old Testament law, as Romans 13:8-10 indicates. Those laws continue to be authoritative, not because they are part of the Mosaic law, but because they are rooted in God's character and reflect his will for humanity.

In conclusion, while the Christian is not technically under the stricture of the Old Testament law, the moral norms of the Old Testament law continue to be authoritative for Christians today. The New Testament restates many of these moral norms, making them applicable to Christians today. Christians should strive to live a life that reflects the values of the kingdom of God, which are rooted in the moral norms of the Old Testament law. This involves living a life that is characterized by honesty, integrity, compassion, and respect for others, among other things. By living in accordance with the moral norms of the Old Testament law, Christians can reflect the values of the kingdom of God and bring glory to God.