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NASB | Matthew 5:17 ¶ "Do not think that I came to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I did not come to abolish but to fulfill. |
AMPLIFIED 2015 | Matthew 5:17 ¶ "Do not think that I came to do away with or undo the Law [of Moses] or the [writings of the] Prophets; I did not come to destroy but to fulfill. |
Bible Question: What is the difference between the New Testament and the Old? Which are we to follow? I have noticed and heard that the Old Testament contains more extreme rules or guidance whereas the New is more up to date and suits our time at a better degree. |
Bible Answer: ripken8os : You write: "What is the difference between the New Testament and the Old? Which are we to follow? I have noticed and heard that the Old Testament contains more extreme rules or guidance whereas the New is more up to date and suits our time at a better degree." Which are we to follow -- The Old Testament (OT) or the New Testament (NT)? We are to follow the Word of God, the Scriptures. We are to follow the whole Bible. The Word of God, the Scriptures, is made up of both parts of the Bible, what we call the OT and the NT. Jesus followed the OT. The Apostle Paul followed the OT. So did Peter and the other Apostles. Sin is the transgression of the Law, which is contained in the OT. So without the OT we would not know what sin is. If we couldn't define and identify sin, how could we avoid committing it? You write: "the Old Testament contains more extreme rules." Does it? The OT regulates what we do. The teachings and commandments of Jesus in the NT apply not only to what we do, but also to what we think, making the standard even higher. You have heard that the NT is more up to date and suits our time to a better degree. The Word of God, both OT and NT, is as up to date as this morning's newspaper. It's been up to date and it will remain up to date. The Word of the Lord endures forever. Jesus said: (NASB Matthew 5:18) "For truly I say to you, until heaven and earth pass away, not the smallest letter or stroke shall pass from the Law until all is accomplished." The OT commandments prohibiting murder, stealing, commiting adultery, lying and coveting -- which of these is out of date? Which no longer applies? Which is not up with the times? I appreciate your coming to the forum to ask and find out whether what you heard is true. I urge you to read and familiarize yourself with both Testaments -- Old and New. See for yourself what it says and teaches. You may be surprised to learn that the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob is a God of mercy and lovingkindness. Grace and peace, kalos |