The Old Testament, Modern Teaching, and the Integrative Evidenced-Based Approach

The Old Testament, Modern Teaching, and the Integrative Evidenced-Based Approach

I recently watched a 17-minute video entitled What Does the Old Testament Have to Do with Curriculum by David I. Smith, Ph.D., author of On Christian Teaching. In this video, Dr. Smith explores lessons from the Old Testament that can be helpful in how we teach people today. He takes note of how the Hebrew Bible is divided into three parts:

The first part is known as the Torah, which means “Teaching,” and consists of Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy, which are also collectively known as the books of Moses or the Pentateuch.

The second part is known as the Prophets and includes the books of Joshua, Judges, Samuel, Kings, Isaiah, Jeremiah, Ezekiel, Hosea, Joel, Amos, Obadiah, Jonah, Micah, Nahum, Habakkuk, Zephaniah, Haggai, Zechariah, and Malachi.

The third part is known as the Writings, the Psalms, or the Wisdom books and includes the books of Job, Psalms, Proverbs, Song of Solomon, Ruth, Lamentations, Ecclesiastes, Esther, Daniel, Ezra, Nehemiah, and Chronicles.

This division was also how the New Testament writers understood the Old Testament. Jesus said to His disciples after His resurrection:

This is what I told you while I was still with you: Everything must be fulfilled that is written about me in the Law of Moses, the Prophets and the Psalms (Luke 24:44 NIV84, my emphasis).

But as a shorthand, they sometimes referred to the entire Old Testament canon by just saying the Law and the Prophets. Jesus, after affirming that the greatest commandment is to love God with one’s entire being and the second is to love our neighbor as ourselves, said:

All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments (Matthew 22:40 NIV84, my emphasis).

When Philip found Nathanael, he told him,

We have found the one Moses wrote about in the Law, and about whom the prophets also wrote—Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph (John 1:45 NIV84, my emphasis).

And sometimes they significantly abbreviated how they referred to the entire Old Testament by simply saying “the Law.” Here, Jesus uses both shorthand terms in one response:

Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them. I tell you the truth, until heaven and earth disappear, not the smallest letter, not the least stroke of a pen, will by any means disappear from the Law until everything is accomplished (Matthew 5:17, 18 NIV84, my emphasis).

When Jesus says “the Law,” He is not restricting His comments to the Ten Commandments but is referring to the entire 39 books of the Old Testament. He is saying that everything in the Old Testament about the plan of salvation, from Genesis to Malachi, must be accomplished.

Elsewhere, Jesus used the term “Law” when referring only to the psalms, which is part of the Writings, demonstrating that the shorthand term “Law” was used for the entire Old Testament canon and not just the five books of Moses:

Jesus answered them, “Is it not written in your Law, ‘I have said you are gods’?” (John 10:34 NIV84; Jesus is referencing Psalm 82:6).

 

Bindings, Disruption, Discernment

So, we have seen that the Old Testament is divided into three parts: the Law, the Prophets, and the Writings. What is interesting about Dr. Smith’s presentation is that he presents the idea that these three sections of Scripture approach the revelation of truth—the way God teaches, the pedagogy of education—in three different ways. He suggests that:

  • The Law (five books of Moses) teaches through “bindings,” the instructions, the rules, what one is required to do.
  • The Prophets teach through “disruption,” the consequences of disobedience and God’s calling for people to return to obedience.
  • The Writings teach through “discernment,” looking at the lessons in the world, such as studying the ant or the lily of the field.

What struck me about Dr. Smith’s thesis is that this division of Scripture into three different methods of teaching the truth is describing the Integrative Evidenced-Based approach that we promote here at Come and Reason Ministries. Basically, it is teaching through the integration of the three threads of evidence that God has used to reveal truth to fallen humanity and through which our Creator teaches us reality. And those three threads are:

  • Scripture/divine revelation (2 Timothy 3:16)—which would correspond to the Law
  • Life’s experiences (Psalm 34:8; John 20:27)—which would correspond to the Prophets
  • Science/nature (Romans 1:20)—which would correspond to the Writings

The Law teaches through divine revelation—God-inspired direct revelation. For example, God revealed to Moses the truth of a literal six-day creation week followed by the Sabbath; the original sinless condition of humankind; the temptation, the fall, and the curse that fell upon the earth; the promised Messiah to redeem the fallen human race; the rebellion and the Flood; God’s plan for the entire world to be blessed through Abraham’s Seed (Jesus); the purpose of God for the Jewish nation to be His evangelists to prepare the world for the coming Messiah; and the teaching tool object lessons (e.g., the sanctuary) to act out the entire plan of salvation.

Through the Prophets, God teaches via life’s experiences—the exhortations, warnings, reproofs, promises, and pleas followed by reaping the real-life consequences of breaking trust with God, refusing to follow His directions, and rejecting His wisdom; but also the experiencing of the mercy, grace, and redemption for those who learn through the painful sojourn and return to God.

And in the Writings, God teaches through science and nature, observing the conflict between good and evil being fought across all aspects of creation. From contemplating how reality actually works to being inspired by the constancy of all of God’s laws, the reliability of His sustaining power, and the complexity of the interconnected systems of other-centered giving upon which all life is built.

But ask the animals, and they will teach you, or the birds of the air, and they will tell you; or speak to the earth, and it will teach you, or let the fish of the sea inform you (Job 12:7, 8 NIV84).

The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands (Psalm 19:1 NIV84).

Go to the ant, you sluggard; consider its ways and be wise! (Proverbs 6:6 NIV84).

 

Three Divisions, One Message

God is the God of reality, the Creator, the builder of space, time, energy, matter, stars, planets, galaxies, and all living beings (Genesis 1; John 1:3). God is the sustainer of all reality (Colossians 1:17; Hebrews 1:3). And God’s laws are the protocols that reality functions and operates upon. Truth always leads us back to God, for God is the source of all truth. And all truth, when properly understood, reveals a perfect harmony between God’s revelations in Scripture, science, and our experiences in life.

Sin is transgression of the law—the deviation and violation of the protocols upon which God created life and health to operate. Thus, sin, the breaking of the laws of life, causes pain, suffering, and, unless remedied by our Creator, eternal death. This truth is revealed in Scripture (Romans 6:23; James 1:15; Galatians 6:8), demonstrated in science/nature; (e.g., tie a plastic bag over one’s head and break the law of respiration, the result is death.); and confirmed by life experiences. These eternal lessons, these eternal truths, are recorded for us by divine inspiration in the Old Testament—in the Law, the Prophets, and the Writings.

As God’s agents today, it is our responsibility to use His methods, to actively utilize the integrative evidence-based approach, to share eternal truths with others, to be lights shining in the darkness, teaching people how reality works, to become thinkers and not mere reflectors of other people’s thoughts, to become mature people “who by constant use have trained themselves to distinguish good from evil” (Hebrews 5:14 NIV84), people who have the mind of Christ (1 Corinthians 2:16) and who, like their Savior, can teach God’s eternal truths through Scripture (Law), life experiences (Prophets), and science/nature (Writings).

 

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Testimony 31

It was very touching to hear the testimony of your class share how viewing God’s true character has changed their lives. My feelings are the same – there is so much freedom in knowing that God LOVES me – regardless of my… just, REGARDLESS! I’m still blown away by the true gospel, the fact that God is not ready to strike us when we fail. He is not arbitrary. He simply loves us and warns of the natural consequences because He can’t stand to see us suffer. I AM IN LOVE WITH THIS GOD!!!

Ceil V.,  UT, USA

 

Testimony 50

After coming into contact with Come And Reason Ministries, I can finally say that many of my unanswered questions have fallen into place. I discovered that my view of God’s Law was “imposed laws and rules” with “imposed punishments” and that this was the major culprit of my many unanswered questions. Thanks be to God for using you and those around you to help us who have struggled with this “infection” of thought. I have now rejected the “imposed law” concept to fully embrace “Design Law”… to look thru “Design Law,” instead of “imposed law,” is a relief.

Viliami L., Australia

 

Testimony 70

I have been watching you for many years and have learned to love God with all my heart. I was raised by a loving Christian mother that had been lied to about who God really was, so our religious upbringing was hell fire and damnation. As soon as I was old enough and moved out, I not only left the church, I ran as fast as I could to get away from it. Sad to say, it wasn’t until the past couple of years that I learned and understand who my Father really is and how much He loves me. I understand God’s Design Laws (which make sense) and when I’m teaching my church Bible study class, I’m able to really put to use the things I’ve been learning and Holy Spirit is leading. Thank you for introducing me to my Father of true, pure love. Everyday with Him is new and exciting. One thing that breaks my heart is that I didn’t know Him sooner. God Bless you and your ministry!

Judy Phelps, Reno, NV, USA

Testimony 7

Ok, so last night I listened to “The Law of Liberty” and “How to Achieve Victory: Freedom, Truth and Spirtual Warfare.” These are both MY ABSOLUTE FAVORITES so far! The logic is just soooooo beautiful. I had to re-listen to them a couple of times. I just want to EXPLODE! (<< we assume with joy and happiness)

N. B., Canada

 

Testimony 20

I just wanted to personally thank you for your teachings and insight into scripture. I came across your website via my cousin who suggested I look into “Healing the Mind” information. My youngest daughter has been struggling over the last couple of years and it all came to a head this spring. When I started listening to the “Healing the Mind” lectures my own life began to be transformed. I began sharing with all my daughters the concepts you laid out so clearly. I ordered your book and soaked it up. I just want to say “Thank You!” My walk with the Lord has been refreshed and renewed. Your obedience to the Lord is a blessing to so many.

R. K., Anderson, SC, USA

 

Testimony 28

I have been following your Bible study class for about a year now. I must say I am impressed with how your ministry has grown. I took it upon myself to listen to all your lesson podcasts from the past and they have both enriched me physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually. I have learnt a lot from this class. I have also noticed how the class has grown in spiritual strength. One of the things that benefited me is that now I am not afraid of God. I use to be, but now it has melted away. The second thing is that you helped me to have a real life relationship with God. Now He is my friend that was always there and I love having him with me all the time. Thirdly, because of this class, it inspired me to take over and lead a class. I have called it “Let Us Reason Together,” adapting your inquisitive style and creating a class of free thinkers.

T. Banda, Malawi, Africa

 

Testimony 66

I am incredibly grateful for the transformative impact you’ve had on my life, and words cannot fully express my appreciation. Over the years, I have been an avid listener and follower of C&R and extend my heartfelt thanks for creating the C&R mobile app. It has allowed me to immerse myself in your lessons repeatedly, enabling me to grasp the profound significance about the Character of God, Design Law, the protocols for life, the reasons behind the current chaos, and Christ’s mission to restore everything. They have deeply touched me. Having studied with various churches, I came away with the perception that God is no different from the deities of ancient Greek or Roman mythology—demanding sacrifices and taking pleasure in bloodshed. Thanks to your transformative teachings, I have experienced a profound awakening to the true nature of God and the immense power of His love. It is truly a remarkable and liberating sensation to finally grasp the truth and embrace the empowering nature of God’s laws. My self-perception has become brighter and more infused with love. My journey of growth continues on a daily basis.

Chris P., Lake Mary, FL, USA

 

Testimony 24

I wanted to thank you very much for presenting your understanding of God. I’ve always been troubled by this question: Why did Jesus have to die? Since my conversion I understood that The Father & Jesus are one, I did not have issues with that. But was there not any other way to save us than for Jesus to die? I guess I actually had a question about God – if He is so wise, how come He did not find another way? I did not see the real ‘beauty’  in the cross. Only when you explained the picture in the medical context, Jesus providing medicine for my selfishness, have I started to finally ‘see the light’. Thank you so much. Your seminar, “Healing the Mind,” are absolutely marvelous & have shared them with my family and many other people, including colleagues at work. Thanks, thanks, thanks. May God bless you abundantly in your ministry.

M. W., Australia

 

Testimony 14

We really appreciate your views on the judgment and they make good sense considering our free choice.

Anonymous

 

Testimony 30

God lead me to your book “The God-Shaped Brain” while I was searching for another book about the brain and then to your interview about your book on HeartWise Ministries [where] I found out about [Come And Reason Ministries]. I’m now devouring the webcasts of your Bible studies. I have been so greatly blessed and I thank God so much for your courage to speak the Truth in love no matter what. Listening to you contrast the two opposing systems (laws) and digging deep to unearth the hidden treasures in the Bible makes me so incredibly happy and I feel very blessed to be part of your Bible Study Group although I live far away. I am just so excited that there is a group of people that is spreading the Truth about the character of God and it saddens me how few realize what our Father in Heaven is really like.

Kessy B., Australia

 

Testimony 64

I’ve been reading the bible and walking with Jesus since I was around 16. I’m 42 now. I’ve mostly been alone in my walk although I went to several churches in different denominations. For the past 3 years God has been showing me His character of agape. It’s been a blessing and changed how I view God and my walk with Jesus. About a year ago I came across the power of love and the principles of design law. These teachings changed how I read scripture and have been such a beautiful blessing. I’m very excited and grateful for these truths. We share these truths of agape, design law and the reality of the principles of the two trees in the garden of Eden with people on Facebook and YouTube. People all over are learning to trust God and His agape design law which makes life possible. Thank you for everything you shared with me. May God continue to bless your ministry and lives.

Bradley M., Hinsdale, NY, USA

 

Testimony 32

The message [of Come And Reason Ministries is] for all Christians (and those who may become Christians) and not just Adventists or any other group. It is difficult to imagine why any [anyone] with intellectual and spiritual honesty could find fault with the way you explained the healing substitution concepts and the truth about God’s character, though I know some will reject and criticize. On behalf of those in our group near Tacoma, WA, thank you and your staff for all of the hard work and for sharing the Gospel in this manner. God’s message of healing love will be carried to the whole world and then Jesus will come – He promised it.

Terry U., Tacoma, WA, USA

 

Testimony 48

I just want to tell you how blessed I have been reading “The Remedy!” It has become a daily part of my devotional relationship with God. In it I have found a God of love and a God that loves me! The bible has come alive for me! It is the first time that I can say that I have felt hope fill my heart as I have read God’s word. This is good news I can share! Thank you, Dr Jennings! Thank you for your heart for others. I can’t put into words how this has set me free! It has strengthened my trust and love for God.

Jason H.

 

Testimony 27

Your teachings about our heavenly Father have changed my life. Thank you sooooooo very very much! I know He’s doing some serious healing in my heart and life and I look forward to each new day to learn something new about Him and to just hear you speak about Him. Thank you, forever.

Nancy S.

 

Testimony 33

I was invited over a friend’s house to see the “God and Your Brain” seminar today. I became [a christian] 36 years ago at the age of 19, but have struggled with the concept of God taking His ‘pound of flesh’ out on His Son to be appeased. Wow. Your seminar has been an incredible revelation and breath of reason and fresh air! I have your book, “The God Shaped Brain,” and it is SO eye opening. Finally, after 36 years enlightenment has come! Praise the Good Lord! What can I say, but that the Real Gospel is truly “Good News!” Thank you for your efforts in giving the Gospel a clear sound!

Paul C.,  Springfield, MA, USA