The question of whether New Testament believers can use the Old Testament the way the author of Hebrews does is an important one. It highlights the relationship between Scripture’s inspiration, interpretation, and application.
Let’s explore this in two parts: first, the unique inspiration of the biblical authors, and second, how believers today can faithfully interpret and apply the Old Testament in light of Christ.
The Unique Role of Biblical Inspiration
The author of Hebrews, like all Scripture writers, was divinely inspired by the Holy Spirit (2 Timothy 3:16; 2 Peter 1:21). This means that his interpretation of the Old Testament carries divine authority. When he applies passages like 2 Samuel 7:14 to Christ, he is not guessing or speculating—his insight is guided by the Spirit to reveal the full meaning of God’s Word.
Because of this, the biblical authors could employ interpretive techniques that we might not use with the same confidence. For example, they could draw connections, typologies, or prophetic fulfillments that may not seem immediately obvious to us. Their work provides an authoritative model for how the Old Testament points to Christ.
Can We Use the Old Testament Like the Author of Hebrews?
While we are not inspired in the same way as the biblical authors, we can and should interpret the Old Testament in light of Christ, following their example. Jesus Himself taught that the entire Old Testament ultimately points to Him (Luke 24:27, 44–47). Paul and the other apostles consistently show how Old Testament passages are fulfilled in Christ, revealing patterns, typologies, and promises that come to fruition in His person and work.
However, we must do this carefully and humbly, recognizing the following principles:
How to Interpret the Old Testament in Light of Christ
Follow the Apostolic Example
The New Testament provides us with a Spirit-inspired roadmap for interpreting the Old Testament. When passages are explicitly applied to Christ (e.g., Psalm 110, Isaiah 53), we can confidently do the same. Where the connections are less explicit, we must interpret with reverence and care.
Understand the Original Context
Begin by studying what the Old Testament text meant in its historical and literary context. For example, 2 Samuel 7:14 originally referred to Solomon and the Davidic kings. Only after understanding this can we see how the passage ultimately points to Christ.
Use the Law/Gospel Distinction
Recognize the dual functions of Scripture. The Law commands and shows human failure, while the Gospel reveals God’s work in Christ. Old Testament promises, such as the Davidic covenant, are fulfilled not through human effort but in Jesus’ perfect obedience and atoning work.
Recognize Christ as the Fulfillment of Types and Shadows
The Old Testament is full of types (persons, events, or institutions that foreshadow Christ). For example, David as king points to Jesus as the greater King. The temple points to Jesus as the true dwelling place of God with His people. Hebrews demonstrates this pattern extensively, and we should learn from it.
Maintain a Christ-Centered Focus
All Scripture ultimately directs us to Christ. This doesn’t mean forcing every detail to be about Jesus, but rather understanding that He fulfills the overarching themes of Scripture: God’s promises, human redemption, and the establishment of God’s eternal kingdom.
Rely on the Holy Spirit
While we are not inspired authors, the same Spirit who inspired Scripture illuminates it to us (John 16:13; 1 Corinthians 2:10–16). Prayerful dependence on the Spirit is essential as we study and apply God’s Word.
Be Guided by the Confession and Church Tradition
The Church, especially within Reformed theology, has a rich history of interpreting Scripture through a Christ-centered lens. Creeds, confessions, and respected theologians help us avoid misinterpretation or error.
Conclusion
While the inspiration of the biblical authors is unique, their interpretive methods are instructive for us. We are called to read the Old Testament as Christ-centered Scripture, recognizing its ultimate fulfillment in Him. This requires careful study, reliance on the Spirit, and faithfulness to the biblical text. When done properly, this approach not only deepens our understanding of Scripture but also magnifies the glory of Christ as the fulfillment of God’s redemptive plan.
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