The New Testament vs. The Old Testament

Attribute	The New Testament	The Old Testament
Number of Books	27	39
Language	Greek	Hebrew, Aramaic
Time Period	1st century AD	Before 4th century BC
Focus	Teachings of Jesus, Early Christian Church	History of Israelites, Laws and Prophecies
Central Figure	Jesus Christ	Moses, Abraham, David

Language and Composition

The Old Testament was originally written in Hebrew, with some portions in Aramaic, while the New Testament was written in Greek. This difference in language reflects the cultural and historical contexts in which each testament was composed. The Old Testament contains a variety of literary genres, including historical narratives, poetry, prophecy, and law. In contrast, the New Testament primarily consists of letters, gospels, and apocalyptic literature.

Themes and Messages

Both the Old and New Testaments share common themes such as the nature of God, the importance of faith, and the need for redemption. However, the Old Testament focuses more on the covenant relationship between God and the Israelites, as well as the consequences of disobedience. The New Testament, on the other hand, emphasizes the life and teachings of Jesus Christ, the establishment of the new covenant, and the promise of salvation through faith in Him.

Characterization of God

In the Old Testament, God is often portrayed as a powerful and just ruler who punishes disobedience and rewards obedience. He is also depicted as a compassionate and merciful God who forgives those who repent. In the New Testament, God is revealed as a loving and compassionate Father who sent His Son to die for the sins of humanity. The emphasis is on God's grace and forgiveness rather than His judgment.

View of Humanity

The Old Testament presents a more pessimistic view of humanity, highlighting the sinful nature of mankind and the need for redemption. It portrays individuals who struggle with their faith and often fail to live up to God's standards. In contrast, the New Testament offers a more hopeful view of humanity, emphasizing the potential for transformation and spiritual growth through faith in Christ. It portrays individuals who are able to experience forgiveness, redemption, and new life in Him.

Role of Jesus Christ

Jesus Christ plays a central role in both the Old and New Testaments, but in different ways. In the Old Testament, Jesus is foreshadowed through prophecies and typology, pointing to His future coming as the Messiah. In the New Testament, Jesus is revealed as the fulfillment of these prophecies, the Son of God who came to earth to save humanity from sin. His life, death, and resurrection are the focal points of the New Testament, demonstrating God's love and plan for salvation.

Law and Grace

The Old Testament is characterized by the law, with detailed instructions on moral, ceremonial, and civil matters. The emphasis is on obedience to God's commands and the consequences of disobedience. In contrast, the New Testament emphasizes grace, highlighting the forgiveness and salvation that come through faith in Jesus Christ. The law is not abolished but fulfilled in Christ, leading to a new covenant based on grace and faith rather than works.

Historical Context

The Old Testament reflects the history of the Israelite people, from their origins in the book of Genesis to their exile and return in the books of Ezra and Nehemiah. It provides insights into the culture, customs, and religious practices of ancient Israel. The New Testament, on the other hand, focuses on the life and ministry of Jesus Christ, the early Christian church, and the spread of Christianity throughout the Roman Empire. It offers a glimpse into the social, political, and religious landscape of the first century AD.

Continuity and Discontinuity

While there are significant differences between the Old and New Testaments, there is also continuity in their message and themes. The New Testament builds upon the foundation laid in the Old Testament, revealing the fulfillment of God's promises and the unfolding of His plan for redemption. The Old Testament points forward to the coming of Christ, while the New Testament looks back at His life, death, and resurrection as the climax of salvation history.