The two sides of the BetterBible.

Why Does the BetterBible Have a Finished Side and an Unfinished Side?

The BetterBible, our unique approach to understanding the Holy Scriptures, is designed to offer readers a clearer, more contextual understanding of biblical teachings. One of the most distinctive features of our website is the division into two sections: the Finished Side and the Unfinished Side. This division is not just a creative choice but a purposeful and theologically grounded method to help believers grasp the distinction between the Old and New Covenants.

Understanding the Purpose of the Two Sides

The Unfinished Side: Genesis 1:1 – John 19:29

The Unfinished Side of the BetterBible encompasses all scripture from Genesis 1 to John 19:29. This section represents the period before Jesus declared, “It is finished” (John 19:30). While many Christians might regard the New Testament as beginning with the birth of Jesus, it’s crucial to understand that the New Covenant, in its fullness, only commenced after the shedding of Jesus’ blood.

Throughout the Old Testament and the Gospels up until John 19:29, the law of Moses was still in effect. Jesus Himself was born under this law. As Galatians 4:4-5 (NKJV) states, “But when the fullness of the time had come, God sent forth His Son, born of a woman, born under the law, to redeem those who were under the law, that we might receive the adoption as sons.” This clearly indicates that Jesus’ primary mission during His earthly ministry was to redeem those under the law.

The Finished Side: John 19:30 – Revelation 22:21

The Finished Side begins from John 19:30, where Jesus proclaimed, “It is finished,” marking the completion of His redemptive work. From this point onward, the New Covenant is fully in effect. This side covers the period from the completion of Jesus’ sacrificial work through the end of Revelation, encapsulating the essence of the New Covenant and its implications for believers today.

The Importance of Context in Bible Study

One of the challenges many Christians face today is interpreting scriptures without a clear understanding of the covenantal context. By dividing our website into the Unfinished and Finished Sides, we aim to provide a structured approach to Bible study that encourages readers to consider the context of each scripture verse.

Three Key Questions for Contextual Understanding

To aid readers, listeners, and participants in our courses and podcasts, we propose three essential questions whenever approaching a scripture verse:

1. What covenant does the scripture verse fall under?

Understanding whether a verse falls under the Old Covenant or the New Covenant is crucial. This helps to determine the applicability and relevance of the verse to a Christian’s life today. For instance, dietary laws and sacrificial systems outlined in the Old Testament are no longer binding under the New Covenant.

2. What relevance does the scripture have on a Christian’s life and salvation?

 Not all scriptures have the same direct impact on our salvation or daily living. Some instructions were specific to ancient Israel, while others have timeless principles. Identifying the relevance helps in applying biblical truths appropriately.

3. Who is Jesus speaking to in the Gospels?

 When approaching the red letters of Jesus in most translations, it’s essential to discern the audience. Was Jesus addressing the Pharisees, His disciples, or the multitudes? Understanding this context can shed light on the intent and application of His teachings.

The BetterBible Approach

Old Covenant Understanding Before John 19:30

Up until John 19:30, Jesus’ teachings and actions were primarily directed towards those under the law. His mission included calling Israel to repentance, fulfilling the law, and preparing the way for the New Covenant. For example, in His Sermon on the Mount, Jesus expounded on the law, often intensifying its demands to reveal the need for a Savior.

New Covenant Understanding After John 19:30

After Jesus declared, “It is finished,” the New Covenant’s full significance came into effect. This covenant is characterized by grace, faith in Jesus’ finished work, and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. The epistles and other New Testament writings provide guidance for living under this new covenant, emphasizing faith, love, and the transformative power of the gospel.

Practical Applications & Implications for Believers

The division of the BetterBible into the Unfinished and Finished Sides is not just an academic exercise but a practical tool for believers. By distinguishing between the covenants, Christians can avoid common pitfalls such as legalism or misapplying Old Testament laws to New Testament believers. This approach fosters a deeper understanding of God’s redemptive plan and a more accurate application of biblical principles.

Conclusion

The BetterBible’s unique structure, with its distinct Unfinished and Finished Sides, is designed to enhance biblical understanding by highlighting the transition from the Old Covenant to the New Covenant. This approach helps believers to read scripture with greater clarity and context, ensuring that the teachings of Jesus and the apostles are rightly understood and applied.

By asking key questions about the covenantal context, relevance, and audience, readers can navigate the Bible more effectively, growing in their faith and living out the transformative power of Jesus’ finished work. As we delve into the scriptures with this structured approach, we gain a richer, more nuanced understanding of God’s Word, leading to a more profound and practical faith journey.