Covenant sounds like one of those big and boring words. Why would we ever want to study such a word? Because covenants touch everything in society. But mostly because the Bible talks about covenants.
The Bible’s idea of a covenant refers to a sacred agreement or contract between God and His people. Think about it: a covenant is a sacred agreement between God and man. Surely, we all want to know more about the sacred promises God has made to us.
Many Bible readers think of only two covenants: the old covenant and the new covenant. By this they often mean the Old Testament and the New Testament, but there are many covenants that are mentioned in the Bible.
Are we all under the same contract or covenant with God? Of course not.
Here are just four of the many.
1. The Abrahamic Covenant. Though this is covered in many texts, it is extensively detailed in Genesis 15.
2. The Mosaic Covenant. Exodus 19–24
This covenant was established between God and the Israelites through Moses. Many refer to this as the Law of Moses. Of course, it is really God’s Law given through Moses.
3. The Davidic Covenant. 2 Samuel 7:8–17
This covenant was established between God and King David.
4. The New Covenant or New Testament. Hebrews 8:6–13
The core idea of a covenant emphasizes man’s role as a covenant partner with God. Just like in any agreement, we have responsibilities to uphold. This includes living in obedience to God’s Word, seeking His guidance, and fulfilling the purposes He has for us.
From the Abrahamic Covenant to the New Covenant of the New Testament, a covenant is the unfolding of God’s plan to reconcile humanity to Himself. This encourages believers to share the good news of Jesus Christ and participate in the expansion of God’s kingdom.
What a beautiful and important word covenant is! God has made a covenant with you! You can read about it in the New Testament.
Lonnie Davis