If you’ve ever read parts of the Bible and thought, “Wow, that’s intense…”—you’re not alone. Many people notice that the Old Testament often feels more strict, violent, or unfamiliar than the New Testament. So what’s going on?
Here’s how Christians understand it:
Different Seasons of the Same Story
Christians believe the Bible tells one unfolding story—but it unfolds in seasons, just like life.
The Old Testament focuses on the early relationship between God and humanity, especially the people of Israel.
The New Testament reveals the arrival of Jesus and the fullness of God’s plan for the whole world.
It’s not a contradiction—it’s a progression. Like a story that starts in shadow and leads to sunrise.
The Old Testament: A Time of Foundation and Law
The Old Testament was written in a time when people worshiped many gods, practiced child sacrifice, and followed brutal tribal codes. To guide His people in that world, Christians believe God gave laws that would:
Protect the vulnerable
Set Israel apart from violent cultures
Teach people right from wrong
Prepare the world for a future Savior
It may seem harsh today—but it was radically just for its time. Many of the rules were designed to limit harm, show mercy, and teach holiness in a broken world.
The New Testament: A Time of Fulfillment and Grace
When Jesus arrived, He brought something new: not a new god, but a deeper revelation of the same God.
“The law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ.”(John 1:17)
Jesus didn’t erase the Old Testament—He fulfilled it. He took the weight of sin and judgment on Himself and offered a path of mercy, forgiveness, and love to all people.
This is why the New Testament feels different: it reveals a new chapter where God walks with us, heals us, and rescues us from what we could never fix alone.
The God of Both Testaments Is the Same
God didn’t change—our understanding of Him grew.
The Old Testament shows God’s justice and His longing to protect what’s good.The New Testament shows God’s mercy and His personal plan to redeem what was broken.
Together, they reveal a God who is both holy and loving—and who always planned to save us.
Still Have Questions?
That’s okay. The Bible is rich and layered, and there’s a lot to wrestle with.
But Christians believe that when you see the whole story—from Genesis to Jesus—you discover a God who has always been working to heal, teach, and love His people.
And maybe the hard parts… are part of what makes the good news so good.