New Testament scriptures complete—not contradict—Old Testament scriptures. As such, the Old Testament must be interpreted in light of the New. Here is a threefold law of Bible interpretation:

1.  Scripture must be interpreted in the light of other scripture.
2.  The Old Testament must be interpreted in light of the New Testament. We are under a better covenant; established upon better promises (Hebrews 8:6).
3.  When in doubt concerning the interpretation of a certain scripture, always go back to the central theme of the entire Bible, which is the sacrifice of Jesus. We are redeemed from the curse (Galatians 3:13; Deuteronomy 28:61)!

When you find scriptures that you do not know how to put in perspective to what is written in the New Testament, remember that the Ten Commandments are all fulfilled in the new commandment given to the Body of Christ (Romans 13:9-10). When we walk in love, we fulfill the law. The law was for the unregenerated man (1 Timothy 1:8-11).

The love law is for God’s new creation in Christ. The love law is one commandment, but it is twofold (1 John 3:23): (1) Have faith in the name of Jesus, and (2) love one another. We are to be ruled by and to lead our lives in the love of God. God’s love is perfected in us as we act on God’s Word and love one another (1 John 2:5, 4:12).

The Old Testament law was not made for the righteous, but for the lawless and disobedient (1 Timothy 1:9-10). We are the righteousness of God, justified (made righteous) in the Name of the Lord Jesus (1 Corinthians 6:9-11)!

If you will apply these guidelines to understanding Scripture, you will stay free of error and confusion.