Before the coming of Jesus Christ, the Bible outlines several principles regarding the relationship between God and humanity, particularly concerning righteousness and the hope of eternal life. Here are some key aspects:

1. Faith and Righteousness:

• The Bible emphasizes faith as a crucial component of righteousness. For example, in Genesis 15:6, it says of Abraham, “And he believed in the Lord; and he counted it to him for righteousness.” Abraham’s faith was central to his relationship with God.

1. The Law:

• The Mosaic Law, given to the Israelites, served as a guide for living a life that was pleasing to God. It included moral, ceremonial, and civil laws. However, the Law also highlighted human inability to achieve perfect righteousness on their own. Galatians 3:24 explains, “Wherefore the law was our schoolmaster to bring us unto Christ, that we might be justified by faith.”

1. Sacrifices and Atonement:

• The sacrificial system in the Old Testament provided a means for atonement of sins. Leviticus 17:11 states, “For the life of the flesh is in the blood: and I have given it to you upon the altar to make an atonement for your souls: for it is the blood that maketh an atonement for the soul.”

1. God’s Mercy and Grace:

• Throughout the Old Testament, God’s mercy and grace are evident. Psalm 103:8-12 highlights God’s compassion and forgiveness: “The Lord is merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and plenteous in mercy. He will not always chide: neither will he keep his anger forever. He hath not dealt with us after our sins; nor rewarded us according to our iniquities.”

The New Testament reveals that these elements pointed forward to the coming of Jesus Christ, who fulfilled the Law and the Prophets (Matthew 5:17) and offered Himself as the ultimate sacrifice for sin. In Him, the promise of eternal life is extended to all who believe, as John 3:16 affirms: “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.”