A Mistake to Exclude the Old Testament from the Sabbath-School.
By W. Henry Green
It is my opinion that it would be a serious mistake to exclude the Old Testament from Sabbath-school instruction or to disparage it as a factor in that instruction. Because— 1. It is a part of the inspired word of God, which has not been abolished nor superseded by the New Testament; and as such it is pronounced by the apostle "profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness." Even its typical rites and institutions, which have ceased to be obligatory as outward forms, point as directly as ever to their great Antitype, and in their substantial meaning are of permanent force and value. 2. The New Testament is based upon the Old, and the knowledge of the latter is essential to a correct understanding of the former. 3. The elementary and preliminary character of the Old Testament adapts it in a remarkable degree for the instruction of the young, for whom its narratives have a special attraction, while its facts and institutions serve as object-lessons under proper teaching, and convey the truth more widely even than didactic statements. 4. The prevalent disposition to undervalue the Old Testament, and even to set aside its authority and historical character, will be best counteracted by its more diligent and thorough study. The truth of God and his revelation is one in all ages and under both dispensations; his church is one; true religion is the same, and the method of salvation is the same. And it is very important that this unity should be perceived and the whole Bible be recognized as the standard of faith and the rule of duty. 5. Many prevalent errors and misconceptions are traceable to an undue neglect of the Old Testament. False views of the nature of salvation and an inadequate sense of man's absolute need of a divine Saviour and his absolute dependence on divine grace result from a failure to emphasize the fall of man and the consequent corruption of the race as set forth in the Old Testament. The mercy and love of God are set in a false light by him who fails to insist upon the law and justice of God dwelt upon in the Old Testament.—W. Henry Green, in Old Testament Student.