What Is the Difference Between the Old and New Testament — Meaning Explained
The Old Testament records God's covenant with Israel through the Law and prophets; the New Testament reveals the new covenant through Jesus Christ.
The Old Testament records God's covenant with Israel through the Law and prophets; the New Testament reveals the new covenant through Jesus Christ.
"Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil." — Matthew 5:17 (KJV)
What "What Is the Difference Between the Old and New Testament?" Actually Means
The Bible's two testaments form one unified story. The Old Testament (39 books) covers creation through about 400 BC, documenting God's creation of the world, His covenant with Abraham and Israel, the Mosaic Law, the prophets, and Israel's history. The New Testament (27 books) records the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ, the birth of the church, and the apostles' letters to early Christians. The Old Testament points forward to a coming Messiah; the New Testament reveals that Messiah as Jesus. Jesus said He came not to destroy the law but to fulfill it (Matthew 5:17). The old covenant was based on law and sacrifice; the new covenant is based on grace and Christ's once-for-all sacrifice (Hebrews 8:6-13). Together, they tell one story of God's redemptive plan for humanity.
Anchor Verses (KJV)
Matthew 5:17
"Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil."
Hebrews 8:13
"In that he saith, A new covenant, he hath made the first old. Now that which decayeth and waxeth old is ready to vanish away."
2 Timothy 3:16
"All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness."
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