The graphic on my monitor contains more than 63,000 sheets of paper. The book lying next to it on my desk has over 1,200 pages. Both the graphic and the book share the same theme: the relationship between the Old and New Testaments. The graphic illustrates these connections with colorful sheets.
By Dr. Tobias Krämer
Every arch a bridge. The book is titled "Commentary on the New Testament Use of the Old Testament" (by Beale and Carson, Baker Academic 2007). In this work, the New Testament is commented on verse by verse from the perspective of where and how it draws upon the Old Testament. Christians have always pondered the relationship between the two testaments.
However, when you look at these two figures, it quickly becomes clear that this relationship cannot be reduced to a single point. We are not dealing with a single relationship, but with a network of connections, references, allusions, quotations, reminiscences, analogies, comparisons, and echoes of the most diverse kinds. And we are currently learning to perceive this network in detail and to meticulously differentiate it. The result: 63,000 sheets, 1,200 pages.
It has often been said that the Old Testament is promise, the New its fulfillment. This connection exists, but the Old Testament contains much more than just promise. Then there is the notion that the Old Testament is the old covenant, the New a new covenant. This connection also exists – among others.
The same applies to the models of Israel and the Church, law and grace, shadow image and the reality of Christ, and so on. Forget all these schemes! They are simplifications, shortcuts, and, in some cases, distortions of a network of relationships that is far more complex.
For those interested in the Bible, there is only one way: to trace, passage by passage, where connections exist between the Testaments and what these connections mean. It's fortunate that Beale and Carson exist. They have already completed this painstaking work over a period of almost ten years.
Chazak u'varuch – be strong and blessed!
This article first appeared in our newspaper "Israelaktuell," issue 141. You can order the newspaper here . We would also be happy to send you several copies for distribution.
