“Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever” (Heb 13:8).

The Torah, Foundation of Covenant Continuity is a study series composed of four posts in addition to this introduction. The purpose of the series is to demonstrate that the OT law serves a specific purpose and function within the historical context of ancient Israel, and its fulfillment in Christ are an expression of God’s covenant faithfulness and grace, which are found throughout the canon of Scripture. Three general themes that will be explored are: role of the Torah, the function of OT law within ancient Israel, as well as the current theological and experiential life of the Christian, and the continuity of the Pentateuch within the canon of Scripture. Covenant continuity is the basis of OT relevancy in the NT era, and the concept will be explored by making the case that grace, not legalism, has been the basis for relationship between God and His people all along.

The series consists of (Updated Sunday, March 12, Post links added below):

  1. Introduction
  2. The Role of the Torah
    1. Pentateuchal booksPentateuchal functionMessianic vision
    1. Pastoral and sermonic features
  3. The Torah Within Ancient Israel
    1. National IdentityRegulation  of moral and social behavior Abraham’s faith
    1. Abraham’s offspring
  4. The Torah in View of Canon
    1. Covenant continuityChrist provides canonical continuity
    1. Potential polemics of continuity
  5. The Torah in the Life of Christians
    1. Fulfillment in ChristSovereignty of God
    1. Continuity in Christ

The Torah provides an identity, functions as a history, and presents a messianic promise; together with, a moral guide based on God’s character. The fulfillment of the Torah in Christ informs evidence of covenant continuity; therefore, it should be viewed as relevant for the Christian and the church. This continuity demonstrates God’s covenant faithfulness rather than a dichotomy between the law and the gospel message. What is more, where flexibility in interpretation and implementation of the law may be an initial impression, Jesus, actually demands more of His covenant people, not less. In the posts ahead, we will see just how much Hebrews 13:8: “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever” (ESV)[1] is as relevant to the writings of the OT as it is to the NT. After all, God did not undergo evangelical conversion just prior to the beginning of the NT era; in fact, the OT repeatedly tells of a time when God will circumcise the heart, not just the flesh.

This post is from a recent term paper. Though it really just scratches the surface, it was a fascinating and edifying research study that I am very excited about sharing over the next few days!

[1] Unless otherwise noted, all biblical passages referenced are in the English Standard Version.

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