Read the Old

For most readers of the Bible, books such as John, Acts, Philippians, and Psalms are more readily opened than Leviticus, Numbers, and the Minor Prophets. It is important to remember, however, that the following words were written by Paul in reference to the Old Testament:

2 Timothy 3:16-17 (NIV)
All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.

All Scripture. Don’t hesitate to read the more-difficult-to-understand passages and books of the Bible. You will discover words that are more helpful than you might think. Jesus found them helpful.

• In response to a question, Jesus quoted from Deuteronomy and Leviticus.
  

Matthew 22:37-39 (NIV)
“‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’”

• In response to the temptations launched by the Lier, Jesus quoted from Deuteronomy, chapters 6 and 8.
  

Matthew 4:4 (NIV)
“It is written: ‘Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.’”
Matthew 4:7 (NIV)
“It is also written: ‘Do not put the Lord your God to the test.’”
Matthew 4:10 (NIV
“Away from me, Satan! For it is written: ‘Worship the Lord your God, and serve him only.’”

• Jesus referred to Himself as the Son of Man (Daniel, chapter 7), rode into Jerusalem on a donkey (Zechariah, chapter 9), and cried out to the Father (Psalm 22).
  
• All throughout the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus quoted Old Testament passages.

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Here’s a cool bit of information. You have access to the same books, chapters, and verses that Jesus did. (In fact, they’re easier for you to find since chapter and verse numbers weren’t added until much later!)

#ordinarylives