Old Testament – New Insights

Originally posted: November 26, 2006

In my Old Testament – Lesson 1 outline I wrote that much of my study of this ancient volume of scripture had been guided by A Missionary Study Guide which I received while on my mission in 1971. Published by the Quorum of the Twelve, it stated,

"Ordinarily the greatest value will accrue if the Standard Works are studied in this order: Book of Mormon, New Testament, Pearl of Great Price, Doctrine & Covenants, the book of Genesis and those portions of the Old Testament which relate to subjects being studied."

I believe I used that statement as an excuse for failing to seriously study the Old Testament in subsequent years. When I was first called to teach the Gospel Doctrine class, I was relieved that the course of study was the Book of Mormon, to be followed by the Doctrine and Covenants/Church History. However, the day of reckoning finally arrived and I had to begin preparing and teaching lessons about the Old Testament. Though the Old Testament was more challenging to read and understand, to my surprise I was delighted to find that the stories and doctrines were as relevant today as they were thousands of years ago. I placed new value on the Old Testament and have since approached it with new enthusiasm.

We are about to conclude another year of study of this great volume of scripture. It has been for myself a year of new and renewed insights. Here are a few:

• The days before the great flood were similar to those of our time. As stated by Elder McConkie, “The coming of the flood of Noah, and with it the ‘end of the world’ for the carnal civilization of that day, is a perfect type of the coming of the Lord, and the end of the world for the wicked of the latter-days.” A clear reminder that we need to heed the words of the living prophet.
• After rescuing Lot from his Elamite captors, Abraham was offered the spoils of war by the king of Sodom. Abraham responded by saying that he would take not even a “thread” of the bounty. He wanted nothing of the wicked king’s possessions. In today’s world we are often tempted to accept a “thread” of wickedness. Like the bounty offered to Abraham, these threads look tempting. We need to realize that by accepting a “thread” of unrighteousness we may be taking the first step towards embracing unrighteous behavior.
• I have reviewed the story of Joseph many times over the years, but continue to be impressed with his steadfast faithfulness in spite of persistent challenges.
• In contrast to the story of Joseph, we find the continued murmuring of Israel after escaping bondage in Egypt. They complain about hunger; the Lord provides food. They Lord provides food; they complain about the lack of variety. In the face of miracles, the Israelites complained. Joseph, faced with challenge after challenge, keeps turning adversity into opportunities. Joseph teaches us the value of great faith. The Israelites teach us that murmuring accomplishes nothing.
• The story of Eli’s sons, Hophni and Phinehas, warn us about the evil of seeking to honor ourselves. Are we ever guilty of honoring ourselves by the music we listen to, the movies we watch, indulging in inappropriate Sabbath activities, or going into debt for that which is not necessary? How may such activities affect our spirituality? Who do we honor?

This list could go on for pages. Though the Old Testament is an ancient work, it is rich with stories, insights, and teachings that can guide us today.

As you conclude your study of the Old Testament, what stories or teachings have touched your soul and changed your life for the better? I would like to add your thoughts to future Old Testament lesson outlines.