Old testament is the shadow of new testament

A classic Christian theological concept!

The idea that the Old Testament is the "shadow" of the New Testament is rooted in Hebrews 10:1, which says, "The law is only a shadow of the good things that are coming—and not the genuine form of these realities." This verse is often interpreted to mean that the Old Testament (the "law" and the "shadow") foreshadowed or prefigured the events and truths of the New Testament (the "genuine form" of these realities).

In other words, the Old Testament contains types, shadows, and foreshadowings of the events and truths that would be fully revealed in the New Testament. The Old Testament is seen as a preparation for the coming of Jesus Christ and the establishment of the New Covenant, which is the central theme of the New Testament.

Here are some examples of how the Old Testament is seen as a shadow of the New Testament:

  1. The Tabernacle and Temple: The Old Testament Tabernacle and Temple were physical structures that foreshadowed the ultimate and eternal Temple of God, which is Jesus Christ (John 2:19-21).
  2. Animal Sacrifices: The animal sacrifices of the Old Testament foreshadowed the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who is the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world (John 1:29).
  3. The High Priest: The High Priest of the Old Testament, who would enter the Holy of Holies once a year to make atonement for the people, foreshadowed Jesus Christ, who is the High Priest of the New Testament and who has entered the heavenly Holy of Holies once for all (Hebrews 9:11-12).
  4. The Prophets: The Old Testament prophets, who spoke of a future Messiah and Savior, foreshadowed the coming of Jesus Christ, who is the fulfillment of their prophecies.
  5. The Law: The Old Testament Law, which was given to guide the people of Israel, foreshadowed the Law of Christ, which is the principle of love and the fulfillment of the Old Testament Law (Romans 13:8-10).

In summary, the Old Testament is seen as a shadow of the New Testament because it contains types, shadows, and foreshadowings of the events and truths that would be fully revealed in the New Testament. The Old Testament prepares the way for the coming of Jesus Christ and the establishment of the New Covenant, which is the central theme of the New Testament.