| Main Message | Old Testament | New Testament |
|---|---|---|
| Nature of God | Creator, covenant-maker, lawgiver, judge, redeemer | Father, Son, and Holy Spirit; love, grace, mercy, forgiveness |
| Humanity's Condition | Sinful, alienated from God | Redeemed by Christ, saved by grace |
| God's Plan for Salvation | Through the Law, prophets, and sacrifices | Through Jesus Christ, who died and rose again for our salvation |
| Focus of Worship | God's glory and attributes | Christ's person and work |
| Emphasized Virtues | Obedience, righteousness, justice | Love, faith, grace |
| Hope for the Future | Promised Messiah, future restoration | Eternal life, resurrection, new heaven and earth |
| Literary Style | Historical narratives, laws, poetry, prophecy | Gospels, epistles, apocalypse |
| Target Audience | Primarily the Israelites | All people, regardless of ethnicity or religion |