Old Testament & Christian Morality

[Drich]

Hi guys,

It seems whenever I present some typical disgusting law from the Old Testament (rape, slaves, etc.) to a Christian, they disregard it because it is Old Testament.

What justifies Christians to disregard the Old Testament? If Jesus absolved the laws commanded to the Israelites and replaced them with faith, and no real laws were handed down in the New Testament, where do these moderate Christians get their so called Objective Morality from?

I'm always stumped by this argument and would appreciate a thoughtful answer from both Christians and non-Christians.

Thanks!
Greeny

This is a really good question!

The OT law can be divided into 3 categories. It starts with the ceremonial law of the Jews. This dictates religious ceremony, holy day observances temple practices, Priest attire, temple lay out, sacrifices etc..
Then you have the Social law. This includes the dietary laws, living arrangements, gender roles, clothing, Slavery, money lending and the like, finally we have the Moral law. This is the only segment that sorta carries over. This is more 10 commandment stuff plus or minus a command.

I say sort carries because in Christianity we have been freed from all of the law as a way to obtain Righteousness (the right to be with God) Righteousness ceased becoming an obtainable objective when Christ "completed the Law." there by make it impossible for anyone to earn their way into heaven by their deeds and efforts. Ex: "For you have heard it said you shall not Murder, but I tell you the truth anyone who hates His brother is guilty of this sin."

That said the "moral Law" is what governs the life of the christian not as a way to earn righteousness before God, but as a thank you for the Gift of atonement/righteousness we have received.

there is alittle more to it but I believe this answers you basic question.