How do we study the Law in the Bible?

As we study the Bible, we see that the authors used a variety of literary styles to communicate to people in a way they would understand. In fact, there are 9 major literary styles found in the Bible, including Law, Narrative, Poetry, Wisdom, Prophecy, Gospels, Parables, Letters, and Apocalyptic. Commonly used in their culture, the original hearers would’ve been familiar with these styles and would’ve known how to read each appropriately for their intended purpose. But what about us today?

How do we study the Law of the Old Testament?

In the first five books of the Old Testament, God gave laws or instruction to the Israelite people on how to live with Him and with each other. Although often referred to as “The Law,” these books are largely narrative illustrating that God’s law is relational in nature and cannot be interpreted outside of God’s story.

How is it unique?

Hebrew law is unique because it is an integral part of the old covenant, which outlined the relationship between God and His people. The Law can be broken down into 3 categories: Moral (God’s unchanging principles of right and wrong), Civil (how to live with each other) and Ceremonial (how to worship God). Because Jesus fulfilled the Law, or the terms of the old covenantal relationship, we are now in a new covenant relationship with God through Jesus.

What was its purpose? 

Even in the Old Testament, obedience to the Law was not a means to salvation, rather it was God’s gift to the Israelites to set them apart as a nation for His glory and to serve as a guide to love God and love others well. The law’s purpose is to show us the character and wisdom of God, make us conscious of our sin (Romans 3:20-24), and point to our need for Jesus (Hebrews 10).

Why should I read it today?

Although we are not expected to keep Old Testament law today, it would be difficult to appreciate our need for Jesus and the significance of the new covenant without first understanding the purpose of the Law in the Biblical story.

How do I get the most out of it?

• What is the spirit of the law? What kind of law is it considered (moral, ceremonial, or civil)?
• Why did God give this law? How does the history of that time period help us understand the law’s purpose?
• What does this show us about God’s character and desire for His people?
• How does loving God and loving your neighbor (Matthew 22:36-40) fulfill all the Laws?

Interested in learning more about the Law? Check out episode 103 of The Chara Project Podcast on How to Study the Law, available on YouTube and most podcasting sites.

Interested in learning more about other Literary Styles of the Bible? Check out this article.