Is the Old Testament Relevant for Today?

Aug 19

Written By Maureen Abley

Pastor Brad Abley: Biblical Educator

Pastor’s Corner - The Old Testament

Is the Old Testament relevant today?

The answer is unequivocally yes! In the New Testament itself we find the phrase, "it is written," at least 125 times and almost always in the perfect tense, which means it was written in the past but its authority continues.

This comes from reading the parable of the sower in Matthew 13; my focus is on the words of Jesus, who declares in Matthew 13:14 that the prophecy of Isaiah "is being fulfilled" (present passive indicative).

Then, He quotes Isaiah 6:9-10. What we see here is the dynamic activity and authority of the Old Testament for the Christian faith.

Moreover, given that Jesus is incorporating Isaiah into the New Testament, we see the dynamic power of Scripture as a whole, with the unique phenomenon of prophecy and fulfillment -- a fulfillment which continues today.

I've marveled at the brilliance of the Word of God for 45 years and I continue to stand in ever greater awe of it today. Now, time to preach a new series on The Parables of Jesus for the hungry and eager radio listeners in Uganda!