Biblical Theology

New Testament governs Old

Schenck (2009) states, “But from a Christian perspective, the New Testament provides an authoritative lens through which to read the Old Testament.  New Testament passages thus take priority when integrating New Testament with Old” (p.62).  This being said, I do not believe that the Old and New Testament’s contradict each other as some suppose.  Fee and Stuart (2003) suggest that God’s own character is revealed through the Old Testament Law.  The Law also establishes a relationship between God and his people.  This is all part of God’s long term design.  God still desires a relationship with His followers, a relationship that includes loyalty.  I believe then that the New Testament does not correct the Old Testament as much as it helps to interpret it.  

The kingdom trajectory

Love of God and Love of Neighbor

According to Schenck (2009), “The New Testament already has as its prevalent principle the love of God and the love of neighbor as the absolute principles of New Testament ethics” (p.63).    The kingdom trajectory is one build on love.  “Thy Kingdom come” is a kingdom driven by love for God and love for fellow brothers and sisters. This love is two sides of the same coin (1 John 4:20).

Eschatology

Schenck (2009) concludes that the kingdom perspective “asks where the biblical texts seem to indicate God will eventually lead the world, particularly after Christ’s return” (p.63).  A kingdom trajectory focuses on end times, when Christ will return and God’s creation will be reconciled to Him.  God’s story that begun with creation will ultimately conclude the separation that begun with the fall.       

Center points in the church

Schenck (2009) states, “What we are ultimately seeking here is the kingdom perspective on any given topic” (p.66).  The kingdom trajectory then, serves as the center point of the church.  Love of God and love of neighbor Schenck (2009) concludes “The biblical and ethical principal of love must stand as the governing element in the equation of any biblical instruction.  Specifically, then, the great commandments of love, taught by Christ in the gospels stand as the center points of the church.  Doctrine, scripture and praxis are all determined by love for God and love for fellow man and woman.  God’s will is these two loves exemplified and they ever present with the coming of God’s kingdom. 

“Schenck, K. (2009). Brief guide to Biblical interpretation. (2^nd ed.). Marion, IN: Triangle Publishing