How to Read the Bible for All Its Worth by Gordon D. Fee & Douglas Stuart
Week 9: Chapter 9 — The Law(s): Covenant Stipulations for Israel
Read Chapter 9 of How to Read the Bible for All Its Worth. Key texts: Exodus 19–24; Leviticus 19; Matthew 5:17–20.
Previewing Week 9 of How to Read the Bible for All Its Worth
Read 3 of 8 discussion questions below. Unlock the complete 12-week guide when you’re ready.
The Law of Moses is perhaps the most misunderstood part of the Old Testament — and understanding it rightly is essential to understanding both the Old and New Testaments.
Discussion Questions
8 questions1.Fee and Stuart argue that the Old Testament Law was a covenant document — a formal agreement between God and Israel at a specific historical moment. It was never intended as a universal moral code for all peoples in all times. How does this covenant framework change everything about how we approach the Law?
2.The authors point out that Christians already do not keep most of the Old Testament Law — we do not offer sacrifices, avoid shellfish, or stone Sabbath-breakers — yet we feel guilty about selectively applying other laws. What principle do Fee and Stuart give us for explaining why this selective approach is not arbitrary or inconsistent?
3.Fee and Stuart describe the Law's structure using the ancient Near Eastern suzerainty treaty as a background. The Law was Israel's response to God's prior act of redemption (the Exodus), not the means of their redemption. How does this sequence — redemption first, law second — anticipate the gospel?
a.How does Paul's argument in Galatians and Romans draw on exactly this sequence?
b.What error about salvation does this sequence correct?