Episode 105 - God of the Old Testament or God of the New Testament?

  Back To Series

In this episode of For Your Journey, District Apostle Schnabel reflects on Chief Apostle Schneider’s recent Pentecost message, focusing on how God's character is revealed across the Old and New Testaments. A common misconception is addressed - that God appears harsh and vengeful in the Old Testament, but loving and gentle in the New Testament through Jesus. District Apostle Schnabel helps clarify this view by affirming that God’s nature has never changed; rather, His full revelation came through Jesus Christ.

Referencing John 1:14,  District Apostle Schnabel explains that while God was active and gracious throughout the Old Testament (guiding prophets, showing mercy, and choosing the underdog) His complete nature, "full of grace and truth", was only fully revealed in the incarnation of Jesus. The law of the Old Testament demonstrated humanity’s inability to meet divine standards, preparing the way for Christ’s fulfillment of the law.

Scripture always contained signs of grace (e.g., Psalm 103), and God consistently demonstrated a pattern of lifting the humble and the overlooked. Yet, only in Christ does humanity see God's heart in its fullness. Jesus embodies divine love, justice, and mercy; not as a replacement for the God of the Old Testament, but as the visible image of the same eternal God.

The conversation concludes with a personal encouragement: just as the disciples needed time to fully understand Jesus’ identity, believers today also grow in their understanding over time. Honoring the spiritual journey of long-standing members helps reinforce the continuity of God’s work across generations.

Key Points:

  • Jesus is not a "new God" but the full revelation of the God already present in the Old Testament.
  • The Old Testament contains grace and love, but the full image of God is seen in Christ.
  • Understanding God progresses with time; both in Scripture and in personal faith.
  • Jesus fulfills the law and brings salvation where humanity falls short.