Bible study on the old and new covenant
Here is a comprehensive Bible study on the Old and New Covenant:
Introduction
The Bible is divided into two main covenants: the Old Covenant and the New Covenant. The Old Covenant was established between God and the Israelites, while the New Covenant was established between God and believers through faith in Jesus Christ. Understanding the differences and similarities between these two covenants is crucial for a deeper understanding of God's plan of salvation.
The Old Covenant
The Old Covenant was established with the Israelites after they left Egypt (Exodus 19:1-25). It was a covenant of law, where God gave the Israelites the Ten Commandments and other laws to follow. The Old Covenant was based on works, where the Israelites were expected to obey God's laws in order to receive blessings and avoid curses.
Key features of the Old Covenant:
- Based on works, not faith
- Law-based, not grace-based
- Required animal sacrifices and offerings
- Focused on the temple and the priesthood
- Limited to the Israelites
The New Covenant
The New Covenant was established through Jesus Christ, who is the mediator of the New Covenant (Hebrews 8:6). It is a covenant of grace, where God offers salvation to all people through faith in Jesus Christ. The New Covenant is based on the sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who died on the cross to pay the penalty for our sins.
Key features of the New Covenant:
- Based on faith, not works
- Grace-based, not law-based
- No longer requires animal sacrifices and offerings
- Focused on Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God
- Open to all people, not just the Israelites
Comparison of the Old and New Covenants
| Old Covenant | New Covenant | |
|---|---|---|
| Basis | Works | Faith |
| Focus | Law | Grace |
| Sacrifices | Animal sacrifices | Jesus Christ |
| Temple | Temple | Jesus Christ |
| People | Israelites | All people |
| Salvation | Through obedience | Through faith |
The Fulfillment of the Old Covenant
The Old Covenant was fulfilled through Jesus Christ. Jesus fulfilled the law by keeping it perfectly, and he also fulfilled the prophecies and promises made to the Israelites. The Old Covenant was a shadow of the things to come, and Jesus is the substance of those things (Colossians 2:17).
The Abrogation of the Old Covenant
The Old Covenant was abrogated, or done away with, through Jesus Christ. The New Covenant is the new and better covenant, and it is the only way to receive salvation. The Old Covenant is no longer in effect, and it is not possible to be saved through it.
Conclusion
The Old and New Covenants are two distinct covenants that are based on different principles. The Old Covenant was based on works and law, while the New Covenant is based on faith and grace. Jesus Christ is the mediator of the New Covenant, and he is the only way to receive salvation. Understanding the differences and similarities between the Old and New Covenants is crucial for a deeper understanding of God's plan of salvation.
Study Questions
- What are the key features of the Old Covenant?
- What are the key features of the New Covenant?
- How do the Old and New Covenants differ?
- How is Jesus Christ related to the Old and New Covenants?
- What is the significance of the fulfillment and abrogation of the Old Covenant?
Additional Resources
- "The Old and New Testaments" by F.F. Bruce
- "The Covenants of Promise" by O. Palmer Robertson
- "The New Covenant" by John MacArthur
- "The Old Covenant" by John Piper
I hope this Bible study on the Old and New Covenant is helpful!