In the August 2019 issue of Themelios, I provide a biblical-theological foundation for reading the Old Testament in a Christ-centered way. I argue that Jesus himself provides both the light for enabling us to see and savor what is in the OT and the necessary lens that influences and guides us as we interpret.
This article overviews both Old and New Testament texts that identify how the primary audience receiving blessing and not condemnation from OT instruction would be Christians enjoying the benefits of Christ’s work on the cross. Jesus illumines the OT for Christian readers, and he helps to faithfully interpret the meaning of these texts as well. There is always an organic relationship between the OT human author’s understanding and the full divine-intended meaning, but often the light and lens and Christ clarifies, expands, and deepens that meaning, as the mystery is revealed. For us to grasp the full meaning of the OT’s history, laws, poems, and prophecies, we must read the OT through the light and lens of Christ.
Inside you will find:
- New Testament Reflections on the Audience of Old Testament Instruction (227)
- Old Testament Reflections on the Audience of Old Testament Instruction (228)
- New Testament Reflections on the Rebels’ Inability to Understand the Old Testament (236)
- New Testament Reflections on the Remnant’s Inability to Fully Understand the Old Testament (238)
- New Testament Reflections on the Old Testament’s Mystery Revealed (239)
- The Centrality of Christ for Interpreting the Old Testament (243)
