Biblical Answer

The Applicability of Old Testament Law

The question of whether the Old Testament law still applies is a complex one that has been debated by scholars and theologians for centuries. While some may argue that the civil laws given to the Old Testament people of God are still in force today, others contend that they have fulfilled their role and are no longer applicable. In this section, we will examine the validity of Old Testament rules and explore the implications of their applicability in the Christian life.

The New Testament, particularly the teachings of Jesus and the writings of Paul, provide significant insights into the relationship between the Old Testament law and the Christian life. While Paul never conceived of a situation in which the church arrived and the law diminished, he did acknowledge that the law pointed forward to a new situation which has now arrived (Fitzmyer, 194,202 n. 45). The Old Testament itself contains references to the temporary nature of certain laws, such as the ritual laws (Hebrews) and the food laws (Jesus' teachings). These examples suggest that some Old Testament laws may no longer be applicable in the Christian life.

In fact, the New Testament restates all but one of the Ten Commandments as being applicable today. The only exception is the commandment related to the death penalty, which is not applicable in the Christian life. The abolition of certain Old Testament laws, such as circumcision and food laws, is also evident in the New Testament. These examples indicate that the Old Testament law has been fulfilled and is no longer in force. As we explore the applicability of Old Testament law, it is essential to recognize the distinction between the civil laws given to the Old Testament people of God and the moral principles underlying those laws. The moral principles, such as love and compassion, remain relevant and applicable in the Christian life, while the civil laws may no longer be applicable in their original context.