What is the Difference Between Old Testament and New Testament?

The Old Testament and the New Testament are the two main divisions of the Holy Bible. They differ in various aspects, such as focus, time period, prophetic emphasis, and practice of worship. Some of the key differences between the Old and New Testaments include:

1. Focus: The Old Testament primarily focuses on the history of Israel and God's law, while the New Testament is centered on the life and teachings of Jesus Christ.
2. Time Period: The Old Testament books were written from the time of Moses until about 400 BC, covering approximately 1,000 years. In contrast, the New Testament was written between approximately AD 50 and AD 150, spanning about 100 years.
3. Prophetic Emphasis: The Old Testament contains many prophecies that look forward to the coming Messiah, while the New Testament highlights the fulfillment of these prophecies, particularly in the life of Jesus Christ.
4. Practice of Worship: The Old Testament emphasizes the need for the Jewish people to follow God's Law to find atonement. In the New Testament, Jesus offers forgiveness and eternal life to all who believe in Him, marking a shift in the practice of worship.
5. Size: The Old Testament consists of thirty-nine books and makes up about three-fourths of the Bible. The New Testament includes twenty-seven books, making up the remaining one-fourth of the Bible.

Despite these differences, both testaments reveal the same holy, merciful, and righteous God who condemns sin but desires to save sinners through an atoning sacrifice. The Old Testament lays the foundation for the coming of the Messiah, and the New Testament builds upon that foundation with further revelation from God.

Comparative Table: Old Testament vs New Testament

Here is a table highlighting the main differences between the Old Testament and the New Testament:

The Old Testament is foundational, providing the basis for the Judeo-Christian faith and laying the groundwork for the teachings and principles found in the New Testament. The New Testament builds on that foundation, revealing the Messiah and showing the grace of God towards sinners.