Why is the Old Covenant important in understanding the New Covenant?

The Old Covenant is essential for understanding the complete narrative of Scripture as it reveals God's initial covenant with His people through the law, which provides insight into God's holiness and the reality of human sinfulness. It serves as a tutor or schoolmaster, pointing us to our need for a Savior (Galatians 3:24). As we recognize the limitations of the Old Covenant, we gain a deeper appreciation for the New Covenant. The New Covenant fulfills the requirements of the law and offers grace and mercy to those who could not meet its standards. By understanding the purpose and failure inherent in the Old Covenant, believers can rejoice in the freedom and life that comes from the New Covenant in Christ, where the law is now written on our hearts, and we are empowered by the Spirit.