Thank you for the question about the Old Testament Laws being sostrict, “Why are the laws in the Old Testament so strict? Did God actually make these and do we need to follow them?”
If I may share my observations and understanding of the laws of the Old Testament. Here are some thoughts for one’s consideration?
There are two reasons why God commanded the Jewish people are to obey the Laws of God. Here are the two main reasons:The Jewish people were to become a treasured possession of God and his priest before the nations.
A. Exodus 19 says this, “5 Now if you obey me fully and keep my covenant, then out of all nations you will be my treasured possession. Although the whole earth is mine, 6 you will be for me a kingdom of priests and a holy nation.’ These are the words you are to speak to the Israelites” (NIV).
Thus the Laws are to remind the Jewish people that they are a distinct people through the Laws that were given to them especially resting on the Sabbath. The individuals who encounter a Jewish person may inquire about the distinct cultural practices which would give that Jewish person an opportunity to share about their faith in God. If the Jewish practices were just like the Canaanites, then the Canaanites would think that the Creator God was just another local deity.
B. The Jewish people were able to possess the Promised Land as long as they obey the Laws of God. Deuteronomy 4 says this, “Now, Israel, hear the decrees and laws I am about to teach you. Follow them so that you may live and may go in and take possession of the land the LORD, the God of your ancestors, is giving you. 2 Do not add to what I command you and do not subtract from it, but keep the commands of the LORD your God that I give you” (NIV).
God gave a conditional promise to the Jewish people that if they obey his Laws, they would be able to possess and live in the land. Their disobedience would lead to the Curses as stated in Deuteronomy 28.
Thus in my understanding of the text, the Law is no longer applicable to the followers of Jesus. Christians are not seeking to live in the Promised Land nor are they required to become Jews. The Old Testament Law was written on two stone tablets, now the Law is written in our hearts with the Greatest Commandment of loving God and our neighbors as ourselves and the Great Commission of making disciples of every people group/nations.
Are there benefits in observing the dietary laws? I believe there are good health reasons as the prohibition of eating meat with blood in it or certain sea creatures that are scavengers that may be unhealthy if one consumes them. Generally, we will be healthier if we follow the dietary laws and even taking a Sabbath rest so that our body and spirits may be renewed and refreshed. We will be less stressed and more trusting of our God to care and to provide for us.
SUMMARY: The Laws of the Old Testament were given to the Jewish people so that they would be a distinct people and witness for God in this world.
For more perspectives: