Response to Myself

Having reexamined my earlier post entitled "Understanding the Bible," I have concluded that it isn't entirely clear what I was getting at. Besides the fact that I (and I presume most people) will see Jesus as a central figure in the Bible, my point that love and lust are the lens with which the Bible is intended to be interpreted goes beyond the fact that he held this position.

Christianity is based on the teachings of Christ, and, despite his lack of leading presence in the Old Testament it was included in the Holy Bible as a reference tool. This tool has proven useful for understanding the development of the religion, and is referenced in the New Testament in both metaphorical and literal instances. In other words, besides the historical context which is provided through the literal passages of the Old Testament, it paints pictures which help us to better understand the New Testament teachings of Christ and his Apostles.

I understand where some (maybe even a lot of Christians) like to look at the two Testaments as equally influential in mainstream Christian doctrine, but they are not. The Old Testament has a very important purpose of not only providing Christians with an ever present reminder of the importance of examining the history of their faith, but, when viewed through the Lens of Christ, can give us greater understanding of how to apply the lessons of Jesus.