The Role of Obedience and Difficult Commands in the Bible
Throughout the Old Testament, we encounter a recurring theme of obedience to divine commands, which at times included difficult instructions. For instance, in the Book of Numbers, we find a command that is challenging to comprehend from our modern perspective: \"Tötet nun jedes männliche Kind und jede Frau, die schon mit einem Mann geschlafen haben.\" - 4. Mose 31:17. This command reflects the historical and cultural context of ancient times and poses a moral and ethical challenge when read today. It's important to consider the evolution of commandments from the Old Testament, with its complex societal laws, to the New Testament, which emphasizes the law of love and grace through Jesus Christ. In this light, we can understand the progression from verses such as Deuteronomy 20:17 and Joshua 6:21 to the teachings of Jesus who said, \"Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them.\" - Matthew 5:17-19. This transition signals a move towards a more heart-centered approach to obedience, as further explained in the New Covenant detailed in Hebrews 8:6-7.
Love as a Central Theme in Christianity
When we turn to the New Testament, love emerges as the central theme that defines Christian living. In the writings of Paul, we find an eloquent description of love's preeminence: \"Die Liebe erträgt alles, sie glaubt alles, sie hofft alles, sie erduldet alles.\" - 1. Korinther 13:7. This verse encapsulates the essence of Christian love – its enduring nature, its propensity to believe and hope in all circumstances, and its remarkable capacity for patience. This love is further described as patient, kind, and without envy in 1 Corinthians 13:4-6, and as the binding force of perfect unity in Colossians 3:14. Jesus Himself emphasized the importance of this love, instructing His followers to \"Love one another as I have loved you.\" - John 13:34-35, thus setting a standard of sacrificial and unconditional love as a hallmark of His disciples.
Reading the New Testament: A Guide to Continuing Study
For those seeking to deepen their understanding of the New Testament, the sequence of readings can offer a rich tapestry of wisdom and instruction. After delving into the insights of 2 Peter, with its exhortations to grow in knowledge and guard against false teachings, one can transition into the book of Hebrews. Here, the superiority of Jesus Christ and the importance of faith are illuminated, as we're reminded that faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen (Hebrews 11:1-3). Following the book of Philemon, which showcases the power of forgiveness and reconciliation in Christ, readers can explore the practical wisdom of the book of James, which emphasizes faith demonstrated through actions (James 2:14-17). Finally, the books of 1 Peter and 2 Peter offer encouragement and guidance for believers facing trials and admonitions to live as faithful witnesses in a challenging world (1 Peter 5:6-7).
FAQ
Q: Who commanded the actions in Numbers 31:17?
A: The command in Numbers 31:17 was given by God to Moses as part of the instructions to the Israelites regarding their dealings with the Midianites.
Q: What to read after 2 Peter?
A: After the book of 2 Peter, you can continue with the book of 1 John in the New Testament, which discusses the nature of God as love and how we, as believers, should live in that love.
Q: What to read after Hebrews?
A: After the book of Hebrews, you can continue with the book of James, which provides practical wisdom for living out the Christian faith and emphasizes genuine faith demonstrated through actions.
Q: What to read after Philemon?
A: After the book of Philemon, you can continue reading the book of Hebrews, which discusses the superiority of Jesus Christ and the importance of faith.
