Topical Sermons - Executable Outlines

“that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.” (2
Ti 3:17)
Mark A. Copeland
To not read and study the OT is to deprive one of much admonition, learning, wisdom, and instruction
that God intended for His children! In encouraging others to study the OT, let me offer...]
II. SUGGESTIONS FOR STUDYING THE OLD TESTAMENT
A. INCLUDE IT IN YOUR BIBLE READING PROGRAM...
1. Do not limit your daily Bible reading to just the New Testament
2. I encourage one to read the whole Bible through each year, both OT and NT
a. I usually start with Genesis and end with Revelation
b. Others prefer reading portions from both OT and NT each day throughout the year
-- The important thing is make the OT a part of your regular study of the Bible
B. CONSIDER USING A MODERN TRANSLATION...
1. I grew up on the KJV, and had little problem with the NT; but the OT was extremely
difficult for me
2. In high school, I began reading the NASB, and the OT came alive for me!
-- I personally recommend either the NKJV or the NASB
C. TAKE ADVANTAGE OF BIBLE CLASSES OR SERMON SERIES...
1. If your congregation offers a study in the OT, take it!
2. If the preacher presents a series from the OT, give close attention to it!
-- Don’t be like some who won’t attend whenever the class or sermon is on the OT
D. GIVE SPECIAL ATTENTION TO PSALMS, PROVERBS, AND THE PROPHETS...
1. Certainly all of God’s word is of great value
2. But one might appreciate the value of the OT more quickly, by giving attention to:
a. The Psalms - as a great source of comfort, peace, and drawing near to God,
especially in troubling times
b. The Proverbs - as a great source of practical wisdom for everyday living
c. The Prophets - as a great source for learning about the righteousness, justice, mercy
and love of God
CONCLUSION
1. Should one study only those Scriptures that pertain to the covenant or dispensation under which
they live...?
a. Should the Jews have discarded Genesis, and the first fourteen chapters of Exodus?
b. Should we discard the gospels, since Jesus lived and died under the Old Covenant?
-- Of course not!
2. Neither should we ignore the OT, for it provides...
a. The background and setting of the NT
b. Much in the way of admonition, learning, comfort, hope, even wisdom concerning our salvation
in Christ!
Be careful not to neglect that which was written and preserved for OUR benefit...
Topical Sermons 251