Introduction

Old Testament Passages Used in John's Gospel

Introduction:

I. The problem stated:

The problem addressed in this study, or what we might better term the reason for having this study, is

quite complex, yet not altogether complicated. It seems that from one perspective there is a failure,

generally speaking, on the part of Bible students to recognize the cohesiveness of the Bible as a unite.

While some view the Old Testament as worthless, because it is a Law under which we no longer live,

others view each verse as a vacuum, which stands somehow sealed off from the rest of the volume.

The truth remains, however, that the New Testament is concealed in the Old Testament, and the Old

Testament is revealed in the New Testament. One can hardly understand the New Testament without

an understanding of the Old Testament, and one can hardly understand God’s will for man’s life apart

from both connected as God intends.

While it is true that we no longer live under the Law of Moses, we are yet bound by truths and

principles, whether recorded in the Old Testament or the New Testament. It is therefore necessary for

us to come to a proper understanding of how the two are connected, and what better way to develop

this understanding than by observing how New Testament writers, particularly the Apostle John, used

and reverenced the Old Testament writings.

II. The purpose stated:

It is our purpose that by the close of this study we will better appreciate and understand the

manner in which the Bible was written as a piece of literature, which “is able to make one wise unto

salvation.” Though this study will consist of some tedious examination, it is one that will be greatly

benefit us all as we “search the Scriptures.”

III. Understanding the Law Under which We Live:

I. Before we begin our study proper, there are several things that are needed to be explained and

understood by way of introduction:

A. The first of which is: Under which Law do we live? (1) The Law of Moses, or (2) the Law

of Christ.

B. Secondly, we will set forth some matters as pertaining to Old Testament texts and

translations.

II. Heb 10:1.

A. Something greater than the Law of Moses.

B. Heb 8.

C. That which is greater is the Law of Christ (cf. Gal 6:1).

III. Three dispensations of time recorded in Scripture:

A. Each having different aspects binding, yet each containing the same principles of truth.

i. One could not keep the matters of one Law while living under another, and expect

to be just with God.

ii. Example of laws in countries.

iii. However, matters such as obedience, reverence, morality, have always been an

edict from God, the violation of which is sin (1 Jn 3:4).

B. Because the Bible identifies three different Laws, with only one binding on one group of

people at a time, it is necessary for us to determine the one which governs us.

i. This is something that must be resolved because many people look to the wrong

place in order to justify certain practices.

ii. Example: People use David as an example of instrumental music in worship.

C. Let us now note the distinction of the three:

i. Patriarchal:

a) Began with Adam.

b) Head of family served as priest and spiritual leader for all those born under

him.

c) At the death of the patriarch the responsibility was passed to the next oldest.

d) Job 1:1-2, 5.

e) Lasted 2511 years.

ii. Mosaic (Law of Moses):

a) Began with Moses on Mt. Sinai.

Jn 1:17.
Priesthood through the tribe of Levi.
Ex 28:1; 6:16, 20.
Lasted 1481 years.

b) Covenant between God and Israel.

Ex 19:1-5; 24:1-8; Dt 4:1-2, 8; 5:1-3.
Not made with Gentiles (Rom 2:14).
It was the Ten Commandments (Dt 4:13, 23).

iii. Christian (Law of Christ):

a) Began with apostles in Acts 2 (Jer 31:31-34; Heb 8:8-13; Lk 24:47; Ac 2:16,

38).

b) Refered to as: Last Days, because this is the last dispensation of time.

Next, let us note the extirpation of the Mosaic Law.

A. The Law of Moses (Old Testament) was intended to be limited:

i. Gal 3:19, 24.

ii. Christ came to fill it (Gal 3:16; Matt 5:17-18; Jn 19:28-30).

B. Hence, the Old has been taken out of the way—it is removed.

i. Gal 3:19 >> v.16.

ii. Jer 31:31-34 >> Heb 8:6-13.

iii. Eph 2:14-16.

iv. Col 2:14-17.

v. Hence, we are:

a) Dead to the Law—Rom 7:4…

b) Discharged from the Law—Rom 7:6…

c) Which Law was the Ten Commandments—Rom 7:7.

C. Heb 7:12-22; 9:15-17; 10:1-4, 9, 20, 28-29.

V. Hence, there is a consummation:

A. We now live under the Law of Christ—the New Testament.

i. Eph 3:1-11.

ii. Matt 17:1-5; Heb 1:1-2; Matt 28:18; Col 3:17.

iii. All of mankind is subject to this Law—Jn 12:48; Mrk 16:15.

B. Mrk 9:1; Jn 16:13; Ac 1:7-8; 2:1-4.

i. Joel 2:28-32 >> Ac 2:16-21.

ii. Lk 24:47 >> Ac 2:38.

iii. Heb 12:22; Dan 2:44; Matt 16:18-19; Mrk 9:1.

iv. Gal 6:2.

Street Address: 1019 Clothilde St., Morgan City, LA 70380 Mailing Address: PO Box 1756, Morgan City, LA 70381 Phone: (985) 384-3489