Dividing God’s Word Properly (Part Two) 8-14-26

Time and Purpose for Everything!

I am continuing with a guideline for learning and understanding the Word of God. Your Word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path (Psalm 119:105). Every word of God is pure; He is a shield to those who put their trust in Him (Proverbs 30:5).

History is important!

Time frame – Everything in the Word of God is for us to learn, understand and apply it to our lives. However, in the Old Testament (old covenant), some things were meant for the nation of Israel only-

For the law was given through Moses and ceremonial laws (Leviticus, chapter 19); but grace and truth came through Jesus Christ (John 1:17). Foods Permitted and Forbidden (Leviticus, chapter 11). Additional laws in Leviticus 12, Leviticus 13, and Leviticus 14.

Dietary laws- Overview of New Testament Dietary Laws

AI Summary- The New Testament presents a transformative view on dietary regulations.

Jesus' Teachings — Jesus indicated that what enters the mouth does not defile a person, emphasizing inner purity over dietary restrictions (Matthew 15:11). Apostolic Practice — The apostles, following Jesus' example, declared all foods clean, as seen in Acts 10:15.

Paul's Letters — In 1 Timothy 4:1-5, Paul teaches that all foods are sanctified by prayer and thanksgiving, reinforcing the idea of dietary freedom. Covenant Shift — The transition from Old Testament laws to New Testament teachings reflects a broader understanding of God's grace and acceptance.

The Word of God -

Now the Spirit expressly says that in latter times some will depart from the faith, giving heed to deceiving spirits and doctrines of demons, speaking lies in hypocrisy, having their own conscience seared with a hot iron, forbidding to marry, and commanding to abstain from foods which God created to be received with thanksgiving by those who believe and know the truth. For every creature of God is good, and nothing is to be refused if it is received with thanksgiving; for it is sanctified by the word of God and prayer (1 Timothy 4:1-5).

What did Paul mean when He said to those who know the truth? Some people are still still believing that some laws are not for the people of God today.

I am summing it up like this-  Jesus took care of that the old covenant. When He died the curtain was torn from top to bottom and a new and better covenant came, which is called the dispensation of, or time period of grace.

When one learns and understand the difference between the two covenants, they go to a higher level in their spiritual walk. John wrote and I am also writing. I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth (3 John 4).

Caution- the entire Bible is for us to learn and grow, because the whole Bible is about Jesus Christ. For instance, He was foreshadowed in types and figures. Example- Jesus was the Passover Lamb (foreshadowed) in the Old Testament (Exodus, chapter 12) that the Jews were waiting to physically appear hundreds of years later.

Please stop reverting back to the part of the Old Testament that is not for us today; it’s a part of history that we should know about God’s covenant people. Now we are His also His covenant people under a new and better covenant in the time period of Grace.

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Betty A. Burnett ~ burnettministries.org