Christianity, while rooted in Judaism and the Hebrew Scriptures, does not require its adherents to follow all of the Mosaic Law as outlined in the Old Testament. This theological stance is grounded in both the New Testament and the teachings of the Church, as elucidated in the Catechism of the Catholic Church.

Biblical Basis

1. Jesus’ Fulfillment of the Law: Christians believe that Jesus Christ fulfilled the Mosaic Law. In the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus states, “Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them” (Matthew 5:17). This indicates that Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection accomplished what the Law aimed to achieve, thus transforming the way the Law is to be understood and followed.
2. A New Covenant: The New Testament describes a new covenant established by Jesus. In the Letter to the Hebrews, it says, “By calling this covenant ‘new,’ he has made the first one obsolete; and what is obsolete and outdated will soon disappear” (Hebrews 8:13). This suggests that the old covenant, including its laws, is superseded by the new covenant in Christ.
3. The Council of Jerusalem: In Acts 15, the early Church leaders, including Peter and Paul, decided that Gentile converts to Christianity were not required to follow all the Mosaic Law, particularly circumcision, which was a sign of the old covenant. This decision highlighted the understanding that faith in Christ, not adherence to the old Law, was the path to salvation.

Catechism of the Catholic Church

The Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC) provides further clarity on why Christians are not bound by the Mosaic Law in its entirety:

1. Fulfillment in Christ: The CCC states, “The Law of the Gospel ‘fulfills,’ refines, surpasses, and leads the Old Law to its perfection” (CCC 1967). This reflects the belief that Christ’s teachings bring the Old Law to its intended conclusion.
2. Moral, Ceremonial, and Judicial Precepts: The CCC differentiates between the moral, ceremonial, and judicial precepts of the Mosaic Law. The moral laws, such as the Ten Commandments, are still considered valid because they reflect God’s eternal will. However, the ceremonial and judicial precepts, which were specific to the historical and cultural context of ancient Israel, are not binding on Christians (CCC 1978).
3. A Law of Love: The New Law or Law of the Gospel is described as a “law of love” (CCC 1972). It is primarily about the internal transformation of believers and their relationship with God and others, rather than strict adherence to external rules.

Conclusion

Christians are not beholden to all of the Mosaic Law because they believe that Jesus Christ has fulfilled and transcended these laws. The New Testament teachings and the Catechism of the Catholic Church both emphasize that while the moral truths of the Old Law endure, the ceremonial and judicial aspects have been replaced by the New Law of Christ, which focuses on love, grace, and internal transformation. This understanding allows Christians to follow the essence of God’s will without adhering to every specific commandment of the Mosaic Law.

By understanding these theological foundations, Christians can appreciate the continuity and fulfillment of God’s revelation from the Old Covenant to the New Covenant, and live out their faith in accordance with the teachings of Christ and the Church.