Old Testament Lesson

With the possible exceptions of Psalms, Proverbs, and the occasional dip into the stories of Genesis… we are not much of an Old Testament people.  Paul says, “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.” (2^nd Timothy 3:16-17)  ALL scripture.  The Old Testament is something we need to remember has great value for our journey in Christ today. 

            The “torah” (the first five books of the Bible) also referred to as the “Pentateuch” is often referred to as the “law.”  A far more accurate description would be “instruction” that is comprised of two components, “hagadah” and “halakah.”  These are translated, “redemption” and “behavior.”  Interesting.  Applicative.  All the way back to the beginnings of life instruction and religion, the concepts of note have been the redemption that man receives, and the behavior that results from that redemption.

            Take a moment today and ponder your “redemption”…. Ponder the sacrifice that hung on the cross, pinned there by nails of love and hope…

            However, just pondering the “redemption” will get you nowhere…

            Allow the beauty, passion, and intensity of that redemption to alter your behavior.  May what we do, not just what we think and remember, be a glory to Him who creates.