What does dividing the Bible into Testaments mean?

Definition of “Testament”

The term “testament” in Scripture derives from concepts of “covenant,” often represented by the Hebrew word berit and the Greek word diathēkē. These words describe a binding agreement or promise between God and humanity. Over time, the writings that made up these covenants came to be called the Old Testament and New Testament. While each Testament covers distinct periods and focuses on different covenants, both are unified under the single plan of redemption.

Historical Background of the Two Divisions

Early believers began referring to the Hebrew Scriptures (Law, Prophets, and Writings) as the “Old Testament” because they anticipated and looked forward to a promised Messiah. After the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus, the teachings that reflected the fulfillment of these promises were written and collected, eventually recognized as the “New Testament.”

Archaeological findings such as the Dead Sea Scrolls (discovered in Qumran between 1946 and 1956) have confirmed the reliability of many Old Testament texts, closely matching later manuscripts used for translations. Early fragments of New Testament writings (like the John Rylands Papyrus, dated to the second century AD) also bear witness to the faithful preservation of the new covenant writings.

The Old Testament

The Old Testament contains thirty-nine books in most Protestant Bibles. These books narrate events from creation (Genesis) up to a few centuries before Christ. They include the giving of the Law to Israel, historical records, poetic writings (like Psalms and Proverbs), and the prophetic books that foretold future events involving God’s people and the arrival of the Messiah.

Jesus Himself attested to the authority and necessity of these writings. He said, “These are My words that I spoke to you while I was still with you: Everything must be fulfilled that is written about Me in the Law of Moses, the Prophets, and the Psalms” (Luke 24:44). Accordingly, even though called the “Old” Testament, the value and authority of these books endure.

The New Testament

The New Testament consists of twenty-seven books—Gospels, a historical record (Acts), Epistles (letters), and an apocalyptic prophecy (Revelation). These writings detail the birth, ministry, crucifixion, resurrection, and ascension of Jesus Christ. They also document the formation of the early church and provide instruction for believers.

Jesus introduced the new covenant at the Last Supper: “This is My blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins” (Matthew 26:28). Through His sacrificial death and resurrection, this covenant was inaugurated, bringing a new relationship between God and humans. The Gospels call attention to Jesus as the fulfillment of the prophecies and types found in the Old Testament.

Covenantal Significance

Calling these two divisions “Testaments” highlights their covenantal nature. The Old Testament details the covenant God established with Israel under the Law of Moses. The New Testament highlights the covenant of grace through Jesus Christ. The letter to the Hebrews explains, “But now Jesus has received a far superior ministry, just as the covenant He mediates is better and is founded on better promises. For if that first covenant had been without fault, no place would have been sought for a second” (Hebrews 8:6–7).

Unity Within Two Testaments

Though divided into Old and New, Scripture retains unity in themes, promises, and purpose. The New Testament writers consistently reference the Old Testament for validation (e.g., Matthew’s frequent fulfillment quotations). Paul adds, “All Scripture is God-breathed and profitable for instruction, for conviction, for correction, and for training in righteousness” (2 Timothy 3:16). This underscores that the two Testaments are not opposed but rather complement each other, revealing one overarching plan of salvation.

Why Two Main Divisions?

1. Historical Fulfillment: The Old Testament builds the foundation and sets the stage for the Messiah, while the New Testament presents Jesus as that promised Messiah.

2. Covenantal Shift: The Old covenant operated with the sacrificial system and the Law given to Israel; the new covenant highlights salvation by grace through faith in Christ’s once-for-all sacrifice.

3. Literary Classification: The structure aids readers in recognizing distinct historical periods, focusing on God’s progressive revelation of Himself.

Implications for Believers

• Recognizing both Testaments underscores that God’s character and plan of redemption do not change.

• Studying the Old Testament reveals the backdrop against which the New Testament events occurred.

• Embracing the New Testament teaching leads believers to see how Jesus completes the story begun in Genesis.

Key Scriptural Evidence

• Jeremiah 31:31 prophesies a “new covenant” for God’s people.

• Hebrews 9:15 speaks of Jesus as the mediator of this new covenant.

• Luke 24:44 affirms the Old Testament as God’s Word pointing to Jesus.

• 2 Timothy 3:16 stresses the God-breathed nature of all Scripture, old and new alike.

Conclusion

Dividing the Bible into the Old Testament and New Testament highlights the unfolding of God’s covenants throughout history while emphasizing the unity and cohesiveness of Scripture. The Old Testament prepares the way for Christ by recording humanity’s need for redemption and God’s promise of a Savior. The New Testament proclaims that redeeming work as fulfilled in Jesus, offering salvation through His death and resurrection.

In understanding these two divisions, believers and seekers alike encounter the unchanging nature of God and His purposeful plan of salvation from creation to eternity.