Interpreting Law and Sin Through a Biblical Lens

 Based on chapel notes from Dr. Christopher Yuan

When interpreting Old Testament laws, such as those in Leviticus 18:22 and 20:13, it’s important to understand the broader biblical context. There are two general approaches: the revisionist approach and the traditional approach.

Those with a revisionist view often argue that certain laws, especially those referring to the Holiness Code, do not apply to us today. This view may interpret terms like "abomination" as ritual impurity rather than a command for moral purity. In contrast, those with a traditional perspective might recognize that some laws — particularly those with penalties of death — highlight enduring moral truths rather than temporary ceremonial codes. Dr. Christopher Yuan’s resources, such as The Holy Sexuality Project video series or Holy Sexuality and the Gospel book, contain more information on these viewpoints.

Dr. Yuan always encourages interpreting Scripture through literary, historical, and canonical contexts. For instance, the Hebrew term to’evah (abomination) is also used in Proverbs to describe behaviors God finds morally detestable, not just ritually impure. This helps distinguish between cultural practices and universal moral commands.

One helpful guideline Dr. Yuan points out is to ask ourselves if a law is reaffirmed in the New Testament. When a New Testament author affirms an Old Testament law, it signals continued moral relevance. For example, Jesus reaffirms God’s design for sexuality and marriage in Mark 10:6–9, pointing back to Genesis. 

Furthermore, Dr. Yuan reminds us from Romans 6 that “the wages of sin is death,” a consequence we all face. This highlights the seriousness of all sin, not just particular behaviors. But the good news is clear: Through Christ’s blood and grace through faith, we are washed clean.

Interpreting Scripture faithfully requires careful study, humility, and a canon-centric lens. Sin separates us from God, but His mercy offers redemption to all who believe.