Biblical Answer

The Christian and the Old Testament Law

The question of whether Christians are under the Old Testament law is a complex one, with various perspectives and interpretations. However, from a biblical standpoint, the answer is that Christians are not technically under the stricture of the Old Testament law. This is because the New Testament restates all but one of the Ten Commandments as being applicable today, with the exception of the commandment regarding homosexual relationships (Lev. 18:22; 20:13). This does not prove the case for Christians, as many Old Testament laws are specifically declared not binding in the New Testament, such as food restrictions.

The Fulfillment of the Law

The logic of opposite principles suggests that if the law has been fulfilled, then it has diminished. The Old Testament itself confirms this, stating that the law has diminished since the arrival of Jesus Christ (Matt. 5:17). Christ's fulfillment of the law does not mean that the Old Testament is no longer relevant, but rather that it is reinterpreted for the new community of disciples in light of his life, death, and resurrection. This includes Gentiles being incorporated into the people of God. Moreover, the moral norms of the law, now clarified, remain in force for the church.

The New Testament's Emphasis

New Testament writers emphasize different themes in a theology of the law, such as the importance of love and the fulfillment of the law through Jesus Christ (Rom. 13:10; Matt. 22:37-40). They also emphasize the need to live a life that reflects Christian values and teachings, rather than simply following a set of rules and regulations. This means that while the Old Testament law is not binding in the same way, its moral norms and principles continue to guide the church in its daily life and practices. In conclusion, while Christians are not under the Old Testament law in the same way, its moral principles and norms remain relevant and applicable today.