Difference between new and old covenant

The Old Covenant and the New Covenant are two distinct periods in the history of salvation, as understood in Christianity. The Old Covenant refers to the period of time from the creation of the world until the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, while the New Covenant refers to the period of time that began with the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ and continues until the present day.

Here are some key differences between the Old Covenant and the New Covenant:

Old Covenant (Before Jesus Christ)

  1. Law: The Old Covenant was based on the Mosaic Law, which was given to the Israelites through Moses. This law was a set of rules and regulations that governed the behavior of the Israelites and their relationship with God.
  2. Sacrifices: The Old Covenant required animal sacrifices to atone for sin. These sacrifices were offered in the Temple in Jerusalem and were seen as a way to appease God's wrath and restore fellowship with Him.
  3. Priesthood: The Old Covenant had a priestly system, where the priests were responsible for offering sacrifices and mediating between God and the people.
  4. Salvation: Salvation in the Old Covenant was seen as a future event, where God would one day redeem His people and establish a new kingdom.
  5. Relationship with God: The relationship between God and His people was seen as one of law and obedience, with God as a distant and wrathful judge.

New Covenant (After Jesus Christ)

  1. Faith: The New Covenant is based on faith in Jesus Christ, who is seen as the ultimate sacrifice for sin. This faith is not based on works or obedience to the law, but on the promise of God's grace and forgiveness.
  2. Sacrifice: The New Covenant has only one sacrifice, which is the sacrifice of Jesus Christ on the cross. This sacrifice is seen as sufficient to atone for the sins of all humanity.
  3. Priesthood: The New Covenant has a new priesthood, where all believers are seen as priests and have direct access to God through Jesus Christ.
  4. Salvation: Salvation in the New Covenant is seen as a present reality, where believers are justified and forgiven of their sins through faith in Jesus Christ.
  5. Relationship with God: The relationship between God and His people in the New Covenant is seen as one of love and intimacy, with God as a loving Father who desires a personal relationship with each believer.

Some key passages that highlight the differences between the Old Covenant and the New Covenant include:

Overall, the Old Covenant and the New Covenant represent two distinct periods in the history of salvation, with the Old Covenant being a preparation for the New Covenant and the New Covenant being the fulfillment of God's plan of salvation.