Western Oklahoma Presbyterian Examiner takes a new look at the Old Testament.

Is the Old Testament still relevant to folks in these parts?

Most folks know that there are some Psalms that have been made into modern day Christian music. Most folks understand that some of the prophecy of the Old Testament was fulfilled way back then and some probably is yet to be fulfilled. Most people even know that there is an Old Testament book that describes passionate love-making.

All of that seems to be nice to know stuff.  We have Jesus, right?

So what’s up with studying this Old Testament stuff? Can’t I just say that I read it once and then put it on the shelf like I did my world history book? I mean, unless you are called to be a Biblical scholar, do I really need to try to understand the Old Testament?

We don’t do stoning anymore. An eye for an eye has been replaced with insurance, incorporation, living trusts, and all other manner of legal defenses. Let’s face it folks, we know how to breed cattle in western Oklahoma. Some of the best beef in the world probably lived just down the road from you at one point. We don’t use laws about mending clothing—we rip the knees out of jeans before we sell them.

Is the Old Testament still relevant to the person living in Burns Flat, Dill City, Foss, Canute, Sentinel, Cordell, or even in the metropolis of Elk City?

The short answer is, of course, yes.

Why?

It is a story. It is a good story. It is a good story of God’s people. We are God’s people and this really needs to be read as our story. It is a story of faith, culture, literature, joy, regret, happiness, penitence, sin, redemption, glory, defeat, bondage, deliverance, obedience, rebellion, hate, and love. This story takes us on a journey through time and reminds us that God did not abandon his creation, even though we as people seem to have turned our backs on him time and time again.

For all of the killing, bloodshed, and downright ruthlessness that we find in the Old Testament; it is a story of God loving us time and time again. It gives insight into the grace that we know today.

But I am not Jewish. How can this relate to me?

God didn’t choose the Hebrew people because they were special. They became special because God chose them. He chose them to bless the world through them. Likewise, we are to bless the world today with the Good News of salvation in Jesus Christ.

Jesus is a Jew! Through him the promises and blessing made by God through Abraham are being fulfilled—through us!

The next time you think twice about reading the Old Testament, think about reading your story instead of a collection of history, law, and prophecy. In other words…