Reading the Bible

[Jun_Canada]

This is probably a silly question to ask but I would love it if someone cleared it up for me.
My question is:

How are we to approach the Bible? Like can we actually use what is said in the OT for advice? For example, I was just reading Isa 41:13. Is that a word to everyone to not fear or is it just a message to Israel?
I know there must be a verse somewhere like that in the NT but my main stumbling block is how I am supposed to approach the OT...whether it is really a word for me or whether its just a letter to the people of Israel or whoever the book was written to.
It would be so awesome if someone could clarify this issue for me!
Thank you so much!
Hope every1 is having an awesome week so far!
God Bless!

 

[IKTCA]

Brother JC:

Unchanged is the heart of God that spoke the words recorded in Isaiah. His heart yearned to have fellowship with Israelites then, and the same heart yearns to have fellowship with you now. I pray that God blesses you richly through the words of the Old Testament.

In the old days, God spoke to Israel since they were the only people who knew God. Now, who know God today? Aren't we the people that know Jesus? Since you believe in the name of Jesus, you have the ears to hear God's words.

Rupert

 

[angelwind]

Brother JC:

Unchanged is the heart of God that spoke the words recorded in Isaiah. His heart yearned to have fellowship with Israelites then, and the same heart yearns to have fellowship with you now. I pray that God blesses you richly through the words of the Old Testament.

In the old days, God spoke to Israel since they were the only people who knew God. Now, who know God today? Aren't we the people that know Jesus? Since you believe in the name of Jesus, you have the ears to hear God's words.

Rupert

Don't know why, brother Rupert, but this just made me feel so good tonight.

 

[HumbleBee]

Approach the OT, the same way you do the NT! All Scripture is God-breathed and for your edification!

 

[Jun_Canada]

Thanks a lot for the reply! It was awesome!
I had 1 more question along with what you said
I guess this is a frequently asked question but I would love to clear this up in my head.
How can God be vengeful but loving at the same time?
In the OT God caused the flood, but in the NT he is loving and everything.
This is just 1 case but I hope u guys can understand how I am thinking.
Any response would be awesome!
Thanks!!

 

[IKTCA]

Don't know why, brother Rupert, but this just made me feel so good tonight.

Strange joy seems to be our reward who fellowship with the Lord Jesus Christ in truth and humility. As John the Baptist moved in his mother's womb when he heard Mary's greetings, so my spirit leaps in joy when I hear the greetings of a dear sister.
Rupert

 

[HumbleBee]

Thinking of God in terms of a Father will help your understanding. An earthly father who is loving does discipline his child for disobedience etc to teach him the right, safest, and best way for him to live. If there were no consequences to sin, bad choices, evil deeds etc, people would destroy not only themselves, but others, and eventually the whole world. God's vengeance is to let the wicked know that He is true, Omniscient, Omnipresent, and Omnipotent, as well as that He is a God of love! Those who do not live by His Commandments based on love will certainly experience His judgment! However, those who live a life of loving obedience to Him will be blessed with God's favor!

How can God be vengeful but loving at the same time?

In the OT God caused the flood, but in the NT he is loving and everything.
This is just 1 case but I hope u guys can understand how I am thinking.

 

[IKTCA]

Brother JC:

On your second question, Sister HB posted a good answer. I was hoping (and am still hoping) others to add their thoughts from different perspectives.

Our God hates sin with all his fury. No man can stand before this fury and live. He became a man and went to the Cross for us in order to save us. Which is greater, his fury or his love?

I know certain questions must be answered by God Himself. No explnations from men can answer those questions. I wonder if yours is one of those. If so, keep it in your heart. God will reveal the answer to you.