Psalm of the Day: Psalm 54
Proverb of the Day: Proverbs 30:18-33
Scripture Reading: Luke 5:12-16
We see in this passage what respect our Lord Jesus Christ paid to the ceremonial law of Moses. He bids the leper to go and show himself to the priest" according to the requirement in Leviticus, that he may be legally pronounced clean. He tells him offer an offering on the occasion of his doing so, "according as Moses commanded." Our Lord knew that the last days of the Levitical institutions were close at hand, and that they were soon to be laid aside forever. But so long as they were not fulfilled yet, he would have them respected. They were ordained by God and pictures and lively emblems of the Gospel. They were not to be ignored.
There is a lesson here for Christians, which we shall do well to remember. Let us take heed that we do not despise the Old Testament, because its work is done. Let us beware of neglecting those parts of the Bible under the idea that the believer in the Gospel has nothing to do with them. The Old Testament is still the inspired Word of God. Galatians 3:24 says, "Wherefore the law was our schoolmaster to bring us unto Christ, that we might be justified by faith." Just as any building needs a proper foundation, the New Testament stands on the Old Testament. Without it, the Christian faith would crumble.
It is true that the darkness is past, and the true light now shines in the age of grace (1 John 2:8). We have nothing to do now with altars, sacrifices, or priests, but we must never forget that the Old Testament is still full of instruction, the character of God, and principles for living. It must be interpreted in the right context. It contains that same Gospel in the bud, which we now see in full flower. Rightly understood, we shall always find it throwing strong light on Christ. The Bible reader who neglects to study it will miss many blessings.
Prayer for the Day: Dear Lord, give me a passion to study the Old Testament because it is is still your Word and teaches much about your character.
Action Plan: What are some of your favorite Old Testament passages? How can they be applied to your life today as you seek to live for Christ?
This devotional was taken from The Gospel of Luke by J.C. Ryle published in 1858
and adapted by Pastor Tim Lewis of New England Shores Baptist Church.
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