Is Old Testament Still Relevant? How to Study the Bible the Right Way | The Church Resource Podcast

Welcome to The Church Resource — the show where we talk about the best tools, tips, and conversations for churches, leaders, and everyday believers! Hosted by Lucas Pinckard and joined by Dr. Chris Respass, this episode dives deep into one of the most important — yet often overlooked — topics in the church today: how to study the Bible.

In this episode, Lucas and Dr. Chris start off lighthearted — chatting about sports, old college allegiances, and generational fandom (shoutout to all the long-suffering Cowboys fans!). But soon, they turn their attention to something far more enduring: how we approach God’s Word.

One of the biggest questions both pastors hear is:
“How do I study the Bible?”

This simple but profound question launches an in-depth discussion on how churches can teach Scripture in a way that connects the Old Testament and New Testament — not as two separate stories, but as one unified narrative of God’s redemptive plan.

Key Takeaways:
- The Old Testament Still Matters: Many believers focus heavily on the New Testament, but Dr. Chris reminds us that the Old Testament lays the foundation for understanding Christ. The promises, prophecies, and covenants all find fulfillment in Jesus. Without the Old Testament, the New loses its depth and meaning.

- Teaching in Balance: Whether through sermon series, Bible institutes, or small groups, both leaders stress the importance of having a balanced approach to Scripture. At Antioch Bible Institute, Dr. Chris structures classes by semester, offering introductions to both testaments and courses in theology and biblical literacy.

- Making Connections: Lucas highlights how his own teaching through Romans connects directly to stories in Kings and Chronicles. Seeing how Paul’s writings reflect Israel’s history helps bring the Bible to life — showing God’s consistent nature across both covenants.

- Study Tools That Help: From the Holman Bible Atlas to good study Bibles with cross-references, the right tools can open up new levels of understanding. Even something as simple as a map can help contextualize Scripture and deepen your study.

- Practical Wisdom for Teachers: Not everything you study needs to make it into your sermon! Dr. Chris reminds teachers that some discoveries are just for personal edification. Aim for clarity, not complexity — and let 10% of your teaching “blow people’s minds” just enough to make them hungry for more of God’s Word.

- Creating Safe Spaces for Learning: Every class or group should be a place where people can ask honest questions without fear. Whether your church uses lecture-style teaching, small group discussions, or creative methods like songs, poems, or skits — meet people where they are and help them grow.

This conversation is a masterclass in both pastoral wisdom and biblical practicality. Lucas and Dr. Chris remind us that teaching Scripture well isn’t about showing off knowledge — it’s about helping people encounter God’s truth in a way that transforms their lives.

As Dr. Chris says, some classes are “paternalistic” — because sometimes, people don’t know what they need until they learn it. But ultimately, every approach to studying or teaching the Bible must be bathed in prayer. The Spirit leads; we just follow faithfully.

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