The Old Testament is the first part of Holy Scripture, consisting of 39 books written before the coming of Christ. It begins with the creation of the world and traces the history of humanity’s fall into sin, God’s covenant with Abraham, and His formation of the nation of Israel. It includes the giving of the Law through Moses, the worship system of the Tabernacle and Temple, and the moral, civil, and ceremonial instructions that shaped Israel’s life. These writings reveal God’s character, faithfulness, justice, and mercy.

The Old Testament is organized into several sections: the Law (Torah), the Historical Books, the Wisdom Literature, and the Prophets. The Law (Genesis through Deuteronomy) establishes the foundation of God’s covenant. The Historical Books (Joshua through Esther) recount Israel’s triumphs, failures, and exile. The Wisdom Books (Job through Song of Songs) reflect on life, suffering, worship, and morality. The Prophets (Isaiah through Malachi) speak God’s word to His people—calling for repentance and pointing forward to the coming Messiah.

Jesus affirmed the Old Testament as the authoritative Word of God. In Luke 24:27, He interpreted “Moses and all the Prophets” as pointing to Himself. The Old Testament is therefore not just background—it is prophetic and preparatory, anticipating Christ’s life, death, and resurrection. Conservative Anglicans hold that the Old Testament is fully inspired, useful for instruction and edification, and essential to understanding the New Testament.

Article VII of the Thirty-Nine Articles states: “The Old Testament is not contrary to the New: for both in the Old and New Testament everlasting life is offered to mankind by Christ.” This continuity shows that Scripture is one unified revelation with Christ at its center. The Law and the Prophets are not abolished, but fulfilled in Him (Matthew 5:17). The Church therefore reads and proclaims the Old Testament regularly, recognizing its full authority and spiritual power.

Bishop N.T. Wright observed: “Without the Old Testament, we would not understand Jesus’ mission, identity, or purpose.” Similarly, Bishop J.C. Ryle wrote, “He that does not read the Old Testament reverently cannot understand the New Testament rightly.” The Old Testament is the first chapter in the great drama of redemption—a chapter filled with beauty, brokenness, and divine promise. It tells the story that only Jesus can complete.