The New Testament doesn’t make the distinction explicit, but there are a few hints that help us navigate the differences.

The New Testament is full of instructions we would identify as the moral law. Jesus’ teaching is full of it, the epistles are full of moral law, etc. But the New Testament nowhere requires followers of Christ to do the things we would identify as ceremonial law. In fact, portions of Hebrews in particular are clear that certain aspects of the Old Testament law have been fulfilled in Christ and thus are no longer requirements on New Testament saints. So what we can do is look at the kind of commands Jesus gives to his followers and look at the kind of commands Hebrews says have been fulfilled and note the distinction between them. The ceremonial, laws which stood as symbols of eternal realities, find their fulfillment in Christ and are no longer required of believers.

I have heard these kinds of categories used often to help us (Christians) navigate the law. They are helpful, but there is some ambiguity in distinguishing between the types. For the Jews, all of the law was moral. What criteria do we use to distinguish between moral and ceremonials especially (and where do they come from)? I also wonder why we don’t we find these in the NT anywhere, not even Paul. Do you think Eph. 2:14-15 sheds any light on this issue?

Thanks for the comment. John 14:21 presents a theme found over and over again in the New Testament, namely, that though we are not saved by the law, we still must obey God’s commands.

And excellent observation that it is the law that reveals our sinfulness to us. You remind me of Romans 7:7, etc.

It was by the law that I was saved. I never had an understanding of my sinfulness before God and had never repented. When I became alive to the law and realized my brokenness before God, I cried out for salvation from what I deserve.

Anyway, I have been reading on here and I thank you for your labors.

Kyle.