Married to Another (Study of the Two Covenants)
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Transcript of Married to Another (Study of the Two Covenants)
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Married to Another(3 Part Study Contrasting the Two Covenants)
A life-application study featuring seven Biblical examples of the two Covenants with one
example illustrated by marriage. We will consider how to be delivered from the natural
law of sin and death in the Old Covenant schoolmaster system a religion based upon
legalistic performance, disconnection, guilt, shame and frustration. We will explore how to
enter into the supernatural law of the Spirit of life under the New Covenant of grace and faith.
These things [Salvation by grace Eph. 2:7-10] . . . affirm constantly (Titus 3:8)
JeffWilson
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The covenant of mercy was made before the foundation
of the world. It has existed from all eternity and was
called the everlasting covenant. 7BC 934
As the Bible presents two laws, one changeless and
eternal, the other provisional and temporary, so there
are two covenants. The covenant of grace was first
made with man in Eden, when after the Fall there was
given a divine promise that the seed of the woman should
bruise the serpent's head. To all men this covenant
offered pardon and the assisting grace of God forfuture obedience through faith in Christ. It also
promised them eternal life on condition of fidelity to
God's law. Thus the patriarchs received the hope of
salvation. PP 370
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Third Revision: March 2013. Cover design/illustration by author. Contact: [email protected]
__________________________________________________________________________________
Contents:
Seven (7) Biblical Examples of the Covenants: -Adam and Eve
Cain contrasted with Able and Noah contrasted with Babylon
Abrahams family during unbelief, correlating Mount Sinai
The old covenant experience manifest at Mount Sinai
The faithful Roman Centurion
Absentee School Kids
Romans Chapter 7: The illustration of marriage and remarriage.
Seven (7) Characteristics of the Two Covenants The Prince of the Covenants Seven (7) Love Languages
___________________________________________________________________________________
Introduction: This is Part 1 of 3 of an in-depth study presenting seven different examples, seven
characteristics, and seven love languages of the two Covenants. The last Biblical example is
illustrated in by marriage. Hence the title Married to Another (Rom. 7:3,4). Im sure from Scripture
many more examples could come to your mind however, I have just included a small sample that I feel
clearly serves the purpose of illustrating the nature of either the old covenant, the new covenant or both.
Recently while I was editing and refining this article during down time at work, a colleague came
behind me, glanced over my shoulder right at my PC screen and said, Hmmm, married to another ha.
I think I was right in assuming she naturally took the title quite literally! I felt a slightly awkward and
didnt really want to try and explain that the title is symbolic and refers to being spiritually connected
to Christ and that the article is in no way promoting infidelity!
As you read through, before long you will notice plenty of Scriptural references to support what has
being said. These are not random references. They are relevant to the text and were specifically chosen
to harmonize with the context. I would like to think the things presented on the following 14 pages
would not be seen merely as personal opinion. When it comes to Scripture, my opinion is only worth
anything as it is influenced by principle pillars of truth which rest on the solid foundation of Gods
Word. If you are unsure with anything in this article and especially if you havent thoroughly explored
this theme, I would then challenge you to prayerfully do so. You can read the Scriptural references and
you might humbly come to a very similar conclusion J. But by all means, feel free to disagree. I
welcome your feedback. It is quite possible there are things I need to reconsider, clarify or
completely change. If after reading this, you have any feedback or friendly criticism then feel free to
email me on the above address.
The Everlasting Covenant: There are many different covenants mentioned in Scripture. For just one
brief example there is the Covenant God made with Noah by the token of the rainbow, promising that a
flood would never again destroy the world (Gen. 6:18; 9:11,18). The covenant we will explore in this
article however is the gospel Covenant the one associated with redemption first given in Genesis after
the fall of Adam and Eve with the first sacrifice prefiguring the Messiah, the Prince of the Covenant
to come and the promise of gospel enmity implanted in every believing soul that is converted.
The gospel Covenant is also reflected in the Abrahamic Covenant (See Gal 3:8). In actual fact, God
promised to establish it with Abraham, His son Isaac and his numerous descendants (Gen 17:21; Psm.105:8) as we will examine later. These are two of the seven Examples we will consider.
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Seven (7) Biblical Examples of the Two Covenants________________________________________________________________
Example 1: - Adam and Eve
And the eyes of them [Adam and Eve] both were opened, and they knew that they were
naked; and they sewed fig leaves together, and made themselves aprons Gen 3:7 [An OldCovenant characteristic]. . . . . . Unto Adam also and to his wife did the LORD God make
coats of skins, and clothed them Gen 3:21 (A New Covenant provisional characteristic.)
Adam and Eve:(Self-righteousness versus Gods righteousness). After Adam and Eve fell into sin, the
characteristics of distrust, fear, shame, guilt, blame, self-justification, disconnection and distancing
themselves from God took the place of love (Gen 3:8-13). They lost their covenantal garments of light
(signifying their character of purity and innocence) and felt naked and exposed. So they sowed fig
leaves together for clothes. This was an attempt to cover the shame of their nakedness (Gen 3:7). This
was the result of their own devising and the first example in Scripture of a manifestation of works
our first parents unsuccessful natural attempt to try and cover their emotional problems of
disconnection and deal with their shame. This reflects and illustrates the Old Covenant experience.
Only God could remedy the problem. He provided a sacrifice for lambskins to cover them.
Life Application: The provisional sacrifice pointed to the gift of Gods free grace. It prefigured the
sacrifice (freely given life) of Christ, as the lamb slain from the foundation of the world, who covers
the shame of our moral nakedness with His spotless righteousness (Rev 3:17,18; 13:8.). God also
promised to put gospel enmity, a heaven-born hatred against sin, in the hearts of Adam, Eve and their
seed (Gen. 3:15). Gospel enmity characterized by an aversion toward sin (disconnection/lawlessness) is
another indication of the new birth testifying of a New Covenant experience.
Earliest Origins of the Old and New: Most Christians consider the everlasting gospel as
foundational to their faith. In fact, the everlasting gospel, the gospel of Christ, the gospel of
salvation, the everlasting covenant, the Abrahamic Covenant and the New Covenant andthe object of the gospel of the kingdom are really seven (7) different expressions describing
much the same thing character restoration. This is the central theme of the Bible. It is important
to realize that although some of the above phrases contain the word new or old, this doesnt
imply that those particular Covenants wereALTOGETHER applicable to a particular dispensation.
Sealing the Covenant: It is true that the New Covenant was not sealed and ratified until the cross
when the messenger of the Covenant would come (Dan. 9:27; 11: 22; Matt. 26:27, 28; Heb.
9:16,17; Mal. 3:1) and eventually seal the covenant with His own blood. Paul writes, For where a
testament [Covenant] is, there must also be the death of the testator. For a testament is of force
aftermen are dead: otherwise it is of no strength at all while the testator liveth (Heb. 9:16,17). Itwas after Calvary when Christ the testator died that the real force of the New Testament
/Covenant took place. So there ARE overlaps and there are distinctions.Most people have a legal will in place by the time they reach a certain age. But the provisions
contained in that will/testament are not executed until that persons death. In the same way, Christs
covenantal will would begin to take effect as soon as He had confirmed the covenant by His death.
After someones death, the covenant/will cannot be changed. No one can add anything to it or take
away anything from it (Gal 3:15). However, it may need repeating that the New
Covenant/Everlasting Gospel is not restricted to a particular dispensation. Both Covenants exist
today The Covenants are not matters of time but of condition Glad Tidings, chapter 4, E.J.
Waggoner. The gospel experience of deliverance, enmity and supernaturalvictory available in
the New Covenant extended back to Adam and Eve just as the Old Covenant experience, which
also began with Adam and Eve, can extend forward to the present (Gen 3:15; Eze. 36:25-27.) Both
Covenants developed further over time and the contrasting experiences associated with them
became clearly noticeable in different peoples behavior. Lets examine some examples.
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Example 2: - Cain contrasted with Able / Noah contrasted with Babylon
By faith [firm trust/belief] Abel offered unto God a more excellent sacrifice than Cain, by
which he obtained witness that he was righteous, God testifying of his gifts. Heb. 11:4
The New and Old Covenant experience was further demonstrated in Adam and Eves children Cain and
Able. They both professed to serve the living God. When God required a sacrifice, Cain brought a
bloodless offering from the fruit of the ground produced by his own works. This indicated unbelief.
This act of Cain points to an Old Covenant experience. Cains offering revealed a heart of unbelief (to
do religion his way) and God had no respect for it (Gen 4:5). Able on the other hand brought a livingsacrifice prefiguring Christ the life-giver. This demonstrated faith in the Messiah to come and was
acceptable to God (Gen 4:4).
Noah contrasted with Babylon: By faith Noah, being warned of God of things not seen as yet, moved
with fear, prepared an ark to the saving of his house . . . and became heir of righteousness which is by
faith Heb. 11:7. Cain's experience is further reflected in the tower of Babel. After the event of the flood
during the days of Noah, the people of the ancient world decided to build a city and a tower whoseheight may reach unto heaven in an attempt to save themselves and escape from another deluge of
water Gen 11:4. They did not accept or see the significance behind the Covenantal rainbow of promise.
The rainbow was a divine promise and merciful reminder that God would never again allow the earth to
be swallowed up by a flood. The manmade structure of the tower of Babel was the epitome of works-
based religion. It is further reflected in modern Protestant/Papal/New Age/Humanistic mentality. This
religion of Babylon to this day will be made more manifest as we approach the end.
The characteristics of Satans lady Babylon, the great whore, will stand in clear contrast to the
Christs representative lady His beloved bride and faithful church. Lucifer the great deceiver and
leader of Babylon will influence the religio-political beast powers to "have indignation against the holy
Covenant" and Christs holy bride. However, Christs ladys message invites all people to receive the
blessing of the marriage covenant and experience (the everlasting gospel). This will eventually cause
Babylon to "fall", or as Jesus said, come to an end (Rev 14:6-12; Matt 24:14).
Life Application: When we were born of the flesh (our first birth) we all naturally inherited an
inflexible law of sin nature (Rom 8:23,25; 8:2). Unaided by Gods Spirit or grace, we soon very
naturally and easily develop a moral nature/character that has a tendency toward self-justification that
tries to obtain righteousness and approval by our own worldly or religious performance. This is
amazingly subtle. (Any of you parents may from time-to-time notice this in your kids). This natural
tendency is so enmeshed into our nature that, without the illumination of Gods Word in exposing our
moral defects we find it very hard to recognize and usually do not want to acknowledge this! We find it
difficult to admit the reality of our bent to sinfulness. I regularly encounter wonderful people from wide
differing socioeconomic backgrounds influenced by New Age mentality. These often times
sophisticated and educated people appear to highly prize and value love, peace, healthy living,spirituality etc. They are often high achievers and that in it self is not always a bad thing for Christians
either. (It is good to faithfully develop our God-given gifts and talents. Matt 25:14-30). So although
these people may have many admirable qualities, under the subtle deception of their philosophy there is
usually either a lack of knowledge of, a complete denial of, or a reluctance to want to acknowledge the
inherent sinfulness of human nature. They believe in the inner light and the humanistic philosophy
that humanity can naturally develop the good inside themselves (find enlightenment like in Buddhism
etc.) but they do not recognize in and of ourselves, without divine supernatural converting power, there
is none righteous no not one. (See Jer. 17:9; Rev 3:15-18; John 3:6, 9:41; 1 Cor. 15:50; Jer. 13:23; Isa
64:6; Mark 7:21,22; Rom 3:10).
God has always desired that His people would, at least eventually, experience the New Covenant and
learn from the hopelessness of the Old. Fortunately, oftentimes when people get tired of the old, fed upwith either a life of sin and guilt, or, the emptiness and futility of attempting to obtain righteousness by
personal religious achievements, they are moved to the foot of the cross to seek liberation in the New.
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Example 3: - Abraham during unbelief correlating Mount Sinai
Example 3 here blends into Example 4. The Jewish Christians in the church of Galatia were steeped
in legalism (people who desired to be under the law). In writing to this church, Paul compares the
Covenants to a famous, yet at one point, dysfunctional family where the mother and father made somemistakes. However, fortunately they eventually got it right! It was a family where God first established
His Covenant - the family of Abraham. There is an important lesson to be gained here because Paul
wrote something concerning Abrams wife Sarah and Hagar her mistress we should take note of. He
wrote unequivocally, these womenARE[signify] two Covenants (Gal 4:24 KJV). So we can expect
to find in this Scripture the nature and characteristics of the Two Covenants.
Tell me, you who desire to be under law, do you not hear the law? For it is written that
Abraham had two sons, one by a slave and one bya free woman. But the son of the slave
was born according to the flesh, the son of the free woman through promise. Now this is an
allegory: these women are two covenants. One is from Mount Sinai, bearing children for
slavery; she is Hagar. Now Hagar is Mount Sinai in Arabia; she corresponds to present
Jerusalem, for she is in slavery with her children. But the Jerusalem above is free, and sheis our mother. For it is written, "Rejoice, O barren one who does not bear; break forth and
shout, you who are not in travail; for the children of the desolate one are many more than
the children of her that is married." Now we, brethren, like Isaac, are children of promise.
But as at that time he who was born according to the flesh persecuted him who was born
according to the Spirit, so it is now. But what does the scripture say? "Cast out the slave
and her son; for the son of theslave shall not inherit with the son of thefree woman." So,
brethren, we are not children of the slave but of the free woman. -Gal 4:18-28 RSV.
These woman are the two Covenants: Sarah and Hagar represent the two covenants. One Covenant is
from Sinai and one from heaven. One corresponds to bondage and the other to freedom. One is of the
flesh and the other is of the Spirit. One was based upon what Abraham, Sarah devised (with the
assistance of Hagar) in their human attempt to hasten the promised child. The other was based on whatGoddid in doing what Abraham and Sarah could not do, and that was, through divine impregnation,
miraculously bringing about Isaac the child of the promise. Ishmael, the son of the slave woman,
represents those under the old Covenant and the free woman Sarah the mother of Isaac, represents
those under the New/everlasting Covenant. Now that we know what the two women epitomize, we
know what characterizes the two Covenants. 1) Slavery/spiritual bondage 2) Freedom/spiritual liberty!
Now Hagar is Mount Sinai in Arabia: The apostle Paul here connects one covenant, one womens
experience (Hagar) with something that occurred years later at Mount Sinai. What do Abraham and
Sarahs servant lady have to do with Mount Sinai? The connection between Mount Sinai and Hagar is
that of attempted works-based salvation and subsequent bondage. In Patriarchs and Prophets Ellen
White indicates that Israels experience at Mount Sinai further epitomized Old Covenant behavior.
Another compact--called in Scripture the "old" covenant--was formed between God
and Israel at Sinai, and was then ratified by the blood of a sacrifice. The Abrahamic
covenant was ratified by the blood of Christ, and it is called the "second," or "new,"
covenant . . . . .But if the Abrahamic covenant contained the promise of redemption,
why was another covenant formed at Sinai? In their bondage the people had to a great
extent lost the knowledge of God and of the principles of the Abrahamic covenant. In
delivering them from Egypt, God sought to reveal to them His power and His mercy, that
they might be led to love and trust Him. He brought them down to the Red Sea--where,
pursued by the Egyptians, escape seemed impossible--that they might realize their utter
helplessness, their need of divine aid; and then He wrought deliverance for them. Thus they
were filled with love and gratitude to God and with confidence in His power to help them. He
had bound them to Himself as their deliverer from temporal bondage.
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But there was a still greater truth to be impressed upon their minds. Living in the midst
of idolatry and corruption, they had no true conception of the holiness of God, of the
exceeding sinfulness of their own hearts, their utter inability, in themselves, to render
obedience to God's law,and their need of a Saviour. All this they must be taught. PP 371
God brought them to Sinai; He manifested His glory; He gave them His law, with the
promise of great blessings on condition of obedience: "If ye will obey My voice indeed, and
keep My covenant, then . . . ye shall be unto Me a kingdom of priests, and an holy nation."
Exodus 19:5, 6. The people did not realize the sinfulness of their own hearts, and that
without Christ it was impossible for them to keep God's law; and they readily entered
into covenant with God [the old covenant]. Feeling that they were able to establish their
own righteousness, they declared, "All that the Lord hath said will we do, and be
obedient." Exodus 24:7. They had witnessed the proclamation of the law in awful majesty,
and had trembled with terror before the mount; and yet only a few weeks passed before they
broke their covenant with God, and bowed down to worship a graven image. They could not
hope for the favor of God through a covenant which they had broken [the old covenant];
and now, seeing their sinfulness and their need of pardon, they were brought to feel
their need of the Saviour revealed in the Abrahamic covenant and shadowed forth in the
sacrificial offerings. Now by faith and love they were bound to God as their deliverer fromthe bondage of sin. Now they were prepared to appreciate the blessings of the new covenant.
- Patriarchs and Prophets pp. 371, 372, Bracketed comments added.
Life Application: Problem: All people back then, and today, have sinned and come short of the glory
of God (Rom 3:23). Although the Old Covenant was instrumental, it required continual offerings.
Christs offering of Himself on the other hand was once and for all. Solution: The solution was
through the bringing in of a better hope through the mediator of the New Covenant Heb. 7:19. The
will of God is to cleanse, to take away the first (old) Covenant and its sacrificial services and establish
the second. This includes removing cultivated and cherished sin. The purpose of the New Covenant is
to purge our conscience, to purify our minds and hearts from guilt and shame. (Heb. 9:14.), for God to
put/write the law of liberty on our minds and hearts through His life-giving Spirit, (Heb. 8:10; 10:16; 2
Cor. 3:3), to empower us to walk in His laws of life and happiness, live a life of victory (Gen 22:17;Luke 1:68-75) and ultimately deliver us from the power of death (See Matt 6:13; Rom 6:14; Heb. 2:14;
Phil 4:13; 1 John 5:4.)
Gods Covenant with Abraham was founded upon the blood/life of a sacrifice. (See Gen. 15:9,10,17).
These passages speak of a burning lamp of fire that passed through the sacrifice Abraham prepared.
This fire was a symbol of the flame of Gods love and pointed forward to the messiah to come and offer
Himself as asacrifice (See Song 8:6.). Abraham caught a more striking glimpse of the messiah when he
was about to offer his own son Isaac as a sacrifice. He then understood that this was what God would do
in the future in giving His own Son for to redeem a lost sinful world. In whom we have redemption
through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins Col 1:14. The difference between Abrahams sacrifice
and Gods is that God would see it all the way through! The sacrifice of Christ was not gospel fiction,
not merely a human sacrifice it was an infinite sacrifice. Christ did not pretend to die, He did not diein part (a human death while His Spirit lived on), He died in reality! (See my study entitled Epic
Sacrifice from The King of Glory Series.) This other-centered act of God the Father in completely
giving His only begotten Son to redeem a fallen world is the cornerstone of the everlasting Covenant.
The Messiah was to come through the seed of Abraham. We need to recognize this seed had a divine
origin it was not merely human but supernatural in nature, just as it was with the birth of Isaac. Christ
was a blend of the human with the divine. Great blessing was to come upon multitudes through Christ.
Ye are the children . . . of the covenant which God made with our fathers, saying unto Abraham, And
in thy seed shall all the kindreds of the earth be blessed. Acts 3:25, 26
And so all Israel shall be saved: as it is written, There shall come out of Zion the deliverer,
and shall turn away ungodliness from Jacob: For this is my covenant unto them, when Ishall take away their sins. Rom 11: 26, 27
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Example 4: - The old covenant experience manifest at Mount Sinai
The two Covenants were further amplified through Moses
And he took the book of the covenant, and read in the audience of the people: and they said,
All that the LORD hath said will we do, and be obedient. And Moses took the blood, and
sprinkled it on the people, and said, Behold the blood of the covenant, which the LORD
hath made with you concerning all these words. Ex. 24:7
Further examples of the Old Covenant Experience: In the above verse we have another hint of the Old
Covenant performance-based (self-reliant) doing contrasted with the Everlasting Covenant. Notice the
words we will do . . . with emphasis here on we implying self-dependence. They promised to obey
yet Jesus said, With men it [obedience] is impossible (Mark 10:27; Rom 8:3,4). The carnal mind is
enmity with God: it is not subject to the law of God and neither indeed can be Rom. 8:7. What was the
result of their legalistic presumption? What eventuated from their good intentions? While Moses was
up on Mt. Sinai receiving the words of the Covenant inscribed on the stone Tables of the Covenant
or Tables of the Testimony (Ten Commandments) Ex 32:15; 34:28; Deut. 4:14; 9:11, the children
of Israel disconnected from God and were overcome by unbelief (Heb. 4:6). They forgot their promise
to God, became increasingly impatient. By the time Moses came down from the mountain they had
made a golden calf, and indulged in drunkenness, rhythmic dance-music (described by Moses as the
noise of war!) and committed idolatrous worship of their lifeless god. (See Ex 32:6-25). (When Gods
merciful Covenant is forgotten or neglected or we come to the place of unbelief, like Israel of old,
there is a natural tendency for us also to fall into idolatry (Duet 4:23; 31:16, 20)). Then in anger,
Moses cast the tables of stone out of his hands and brake them (Ex 32:19). As a boy when I first heard
that account, I thought Moses would be sure to get into big trouble with God for breaking the two
irreplaceable (at least humanly speaking) tables of possible sapphire stone. Think about it, these were
not ordinary stones. They contained words engraved in them by the pre-existent Christ and His Father
Co-Creators of the Universe! Yet God did not reprimand Moses! Why? (Now this is only my opinion
here ok): Because his act served as a powerful lesson - a reminder to generations to come, showingIsraels unbelief(or ours today) equates to a broken law. A broken law/broken Covenantepitomized
their fractured experience with God. This served as a schoolmaster to bring them to Christ.
Significance of the blood: Earlier on we noted Moses sprinkled the people with the blood of a sacrifice.
This was another thing that puzzled me. Now I understand it represented the life of the Savior to come,
which was to figuratively cover the life of penitent believers (Lev 17:11). Blood = life. But the people
did not grasp the significance of the symbolic blood of the covenant or apply the reality of it to their life.
But their minds were blinded: for until this day remains the same vail untaken away in the
reading of the old testament; which vail is done away in Christ. But even unto this day, when
Moses is read, the vail is upon their heart. Nevertheless when it shall turn to the Lord, the vail
shall be taken away. 2 Cor. 3: 14-16
Yet it is significant that Moses told the Israelites to behold, to deeply consider its symbolic meaning.
The blood atonement of Christ (through His freely given life/infinite sacrifice) is the foundation of the
Everlasting Covenant. That's why the blood of an animal, prefiguring Christ, was involved in the
Covenant. While at face value, sprinkling blood on people appears to be a really peculiar thing to do, it
is however rich in symbolic meaning and contains a powerful lesson. In order to obey, we need to be
daily spiritually sprinkled Heb. 12:24; 1 Pet. 1:2 or covered (filled) with the imparted life/Spirit of
Christ otherwise when it comes to true obedience we may as well forget it! In and of our selves there
will be no point or power in trying to obey. Someone said, Its not about trying, its about dying
implying the need to daily die to self that Christ can live and work through us (Phil 2:13; Gal 2:20)
Gods Covenant: What is most encouraging is that although we might drift away and break our covenant
with God, He never breaks His Covenant with us! My covenant will I not break, nor alter the thingthat is gone out of my lips. - Psm. 89:34
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Life Application: (The Doing and/or NotDoing Paradox) Now we will make sense of an interesting
apparent paradox. Although God recognized the utter impossibility of His peoples intendedfulfillment
of we will do, regarding the words of His Covenant, there were a number of occasions when He
actually commanded them to do . . . ! Concerning His commandments, on occasion He said, Do
them! (Deut. 27:26; 32:46; Joshua 22:5; 23:6). He doesnt necessarily tell them how it is like He is
having a bit of fun with them and thinking: Ill leave it up to you guys to find out. If you want to try it
your way go ahead and fail! (Duet. 29:9; Psm. 103:18; Jer. 11:6,8). He commands but He alsosupplies empowering grace for obedience (Rom. 1:4, 5; Phil 4:13). All His biddings are enablings - if
we truly believe! He was leading Israel from the Old Covenant self-reliant experience of all of the
words of the Lord we will do to whatHe could accomplish and do through them ifthey would only
cooperate, and, believe. One of the biggest struggles we all have as Gods professed people is to really
believe. So the primary part of the doing in the New Covenant is to believe!
The Work of God: The work of God is to believe in His Son. Christ the pre-existent Son of God was
instrumental in giving the Tables of the Covenant (10 Commandments) to Moses. He was the rock that
followed and led Israel during their Exodus journeying (Gal. 3:19; 1 Cor. 10:4). Yet many became
hardened through unbelief. When the people following Jesus asked, What shall WE DO, that we might
work the works of God? (John 6:28) in realizing their over self-focus, Jesus gave a radical response.
He said, This is the work of God, to believe on Him [me, the Son] whom He [the Father] hath
sent (John 6:29. See Heb. 4: 6-11). True belief proves itself by action - faith that works by love.
Progressively and increasingly Abraham believed God and this belief was demonstrated by active
living faith in trustful obedience (See Gen. 26:5). And this was counted unto him for righteousness
(Luke 8:50; See also John 6:29; Rom 4:3-5, 11,13; Mark 1:15; Acts 15:7; Gen 15:6).
Satans agencies Indignation against the Holy Covenant: As mentioned, the everlasting
gospel is synonymous with the everlasting Covenant. Since there has always been an attack
upon the gospel, cant we expect there will be opposition to the New Covenant? Absolutely.
Through modern religious Babylon, Satan has caused widespread confusion concerning thecovenants (2 Cor. 11:4; Gal 1:6).
In the book of Revelation we see vivid contrast between the everlasting gospel (New blood
Covenant) and the false doctrine and theological threats and attacks of Babylon that distorts the
only true gospel and eclipses the character of God. (Rev 14:6-12; 16:13,14; 17:6.) In relation
to the characteristic of the Papacy, the prophet Daniel was even more specific. He actually
mentions the words Holy Covenant denoting the object of her attack. Referring to the
Papacy/beast power, Daniel prophesied, He shall have indignation against the Holy
Covenant (Dan 11:28,30). Clearly, Antichrist does not want people to comprehend or
experience, Jesus blood/life of the Covenant. Therefore it is important that we study to discover
the REAL value and purpose of the New/everlasting/Holy Covenant.
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Example 5: - The faithful Roman Centurion
The centurion answered and said, Lord, I am not worthy for you to come under my roof:
but speak the word only, and my servant shall be healed. Matt 8:8
Now we will consider the faith of a man who experienced the everlasting covenant to whom Jesus
the Prince of the Holy Covenant encountered and commended. The self-distrust and firm belief
exemplified in the Roman army officer are two essential qualities for entering the New Covenant. The
gospel of Matthew recounts the story of a Roman centurion whose servant was very sick. One day as
Jesus, the great Teacher, entered into Capernaum a Roman approached Him to present his case (Matt 8:
5-10). The Teacher responded decidedly and positively with, I will come and heal him. The man
didnt feel worthy enough for the Teacher to come under his roof but said, speak the word only, and
my servant shall be healed (Matt 8:8). He recognized the great Teacher/healer possessed extraordinary
divine authority more authority than he possessed over 100 Roman soldiers. The Centurions response
was an expression of faith, an indication of a strong belief that the Teacher marveled at and publically
commended. Jesus described this non-Jew, non-Seventh-day Adventist, as a man possessing great
faith. Jesus did not find this kind of faith amidst the Seventh-day [first] Adventists of Israel (See Matt
8:8, 5-10). And what was his faith based on? Implicit trust in Gods Word: - the Word only. Unlike
the proud self-righteous Jews, the Roman officer humbly acknowledged his own unworthiness and
FULLY believed there was ultimate authority and life-changing healing power in Gods Word (See
Matt 8:9). (Keep in mind, that faith, firm belief, humility and self-distrust are essential character
attributes of the New Covenant.) He believed if Christ said it, it was so. The Word of the Living God is
the rock we will build upon (Luke 6:48; 1 Cor. 3:10). Obviously this study contains more than just
Scripture. I do think however, you would have found that my comments harmonize with the Scriptural
references. The study was not built on the shifting sand of human speculation (Luke 6:47-49). We can
believe whatever Gods Word says concerning the Covenants is so. It is not make-believe gospel fiction
it is a definite reality. (See Gen 15:6; Isa 55:11).
In my own experience of meeting the non-churched, when I have shared truth from Gods Word I have
sometimes marveled at their faith and acceptance of it. They recognize their unworthiness and seem so
free of theological traditions, inhibitions and resistance. I have felt that, like in the case of the centurion,
some of these people manifest greater faith than many of us in spiritual Israel. It could be said, Truly I
have not found so great faith no not in all Israel. It reminds me of the illustration Jesus drew upon in
describing the reception of truth. He said; And no one puts new wine into old bottles [wineskins]; if he
does, the wine will burst the skins, and the wine is lost, and so are the skins; but new wine is for fresh
skins." (Mark 2:22).
Life Application: This is saying, the pure unfermented truth of the gospel (the new wine) is best
imparted to people (new skins/vessels/bottles) whose hearts and minds are open and willing to hear and
retain the truth (2 Cor. 4:6,7; John 2:6,7,9; Luke 11:31,32; 21:31,32). It is more likely to be preserved
when shared with those whose hearts are not dried up contracted and stubbornly closed due to years ofinfluence from misleading erroneous traditions and I hope and pray that is not any of us! A huge part
of the everlasting Covenant is saving grace. Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but
according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost . . .
be careful to maintain good works. Titus 3: 5, 8. In this article I have affirmed and repeated
constantly (Titus 3:8) the essence of the two Covenants: We are saved by grace through faith, and
not of ourselves . . . . not of works lest any should boast (Eph. 2:8). Through the renewal of the Spirit
(new birth) we are created in Christ Jesus unto good works (See Eph. 2:7-10). We are not saved by
works, but we are to maintain good works and we should clearly understand the difference.
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Example 6: - Absentee school kids
There are two aspects of the OldCovenant. Firstly, it served to illustrate the whole plan of salvation
under shadowy types as a God-ordained temporary system to point out moral sin (Rom 3:20; 5:20).
Secondly the eternal law contained in the Old Covenant Sanctuary is intended to guide, protect,preserve and bless us (Matt 5: 17-19; Psm. 119:142; Rev 11:19). Yet when it was broken, which was
too often the case, it became what the apostle Paul referred to as a schoolmaster to bring us to Christ.
Before Christs beloved lady entered the Covenant of faith she oftentimes manifested a lack of moral
and relational maturity and instead behaved like little absentee (disconnected/distanced) children.
These kids needed to be disciplined by a truant officer and guided back to the Teacher.
But before faith came, we were kept under the law, shut up unto the faith which should
afterwards be revealed. Wherefore the law was our schoolmaster to bring us unto Christ,
that we might be justified by faith. But after that faith is come, we are no longer under a
schoolmaster. For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus. Gal 3:23-26
Kept under the law: Firstly, it is important to recognize in the original Greek, the word kept in thepassage is not altogether a negative expression. It means, to guard, to protect by military guard, either
to prevent hostile invasion or to keep the inhabitants of a besieged city from flight . . to keep by
watching and guarding to preserve one for the attainment of something. The law protects us from the
enemy and serves to preserve us for the attainment of the promised inheritance. So even though a person
may be legalistic in their Christian experience, because he or she respects Gods law, and is conscious
of its claims, he or she will be somewhat protected and guided (kept) by it. Yet after faith is come into
ones life, when they start living IN Christ, they are then no longer under [under the discipline and
guidance of] the *schoolmaster. This is not to say Christians no longer revere or remain subject to
Gods law. No, no! It means they are no longer enslaved to it, no longer held morally captive under the
continual condemnation shame and guilt of a broken law/broken Covenant.
They are now under grace forgiving and empowering grace, under the liberating law of the spirit of
life in Christ Jesus. They find delight in His law and in His strength they obey it (Gal 3:25; Rom 6:14)
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*Identifying the schoolmaster: In 1888 there was much confusion and considerable debate over exactly what the schoolmaster
in Galatians referred to. Some emphatically insisted it was the ceremonial law and others, A.T. Jones particularly, suggested it
was the moral law. Interestingly Ellen White said it was both. At another time she said the schoolmaster was especially the
moral law. (Sunnyside, Cooranbong June 6, 1896.) I accepted the word of inspiration here yet in my own mind I couldnt
understand why she, along with Jones came to that conclusion until one day the lights came on. I read a S.O.P. quotation that
connected the schoolmaster with the sacrificial service way back from Abel to Christs day. Then it all began to make sense to
me. I began to see the moral law in the context of the desert tabernacle/sanctuary and in that context the moral law was a
broken law/covenant (sin/disconnection) and thats what Christ death took care of (Isa 59:2). It reconciles us to God and takes
care of the sin problem. Sin - the consequential result of disconnection from God- is a schoolmaster to bring us to faith in
Christ: Thelaw is broken but cannot pardon the transgressor. Itis our schoolmaster, condemning to punishment. Where is
the remedy? The law drives us to Christ, who was hanged upon the cross that He might be able to impart His righteousness to
fallen, sinful man and thus present men to His Father in His righteous character. - Ellen G. White, 1SM 341.
Greek Meaning of *Schoolmaster: (G3807paidaggos) a tutor i.e. a guardian andguide of boys. Among the Greeks and the Romans the name was applied to
trustworthy slaves who were charged with the duty of supervising the life and moralsof boys belonging to the better class. The boys were not allowed so much as to step
out of the house without them before arriving at the age of manhood.
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The moment we disconnect from Christ and start depending on our own righteousness, (Rom. 10:3),
like many of the Israelites, we instantaneously move back into the Old Covenant experience
sometimes subconsciously! When we disrespect or hurt our neighbor in any way, we come back under
the schoolmaster. In direct or subtle ways the people we offend might directly or indirectly let us know
of our neglect or offense. This brings shame and guilt to our conscience and serves as a schoolmaster!
Perhaps to our shame and embarrassment, people sometimes pull us up when we fail to represent Christ
in word or deed. They notice our inconsistencies when we happen to be selfish, momentarily disconnect
ourselves from God and neglect to think and care for our neighbors welfare in the Spirit of Christ-likelove. As born-again Christians we may at times disconnect from God or others and fall, but in such
cases God does not cast us off. We are to confess our sins to God or others we may have wounded and
lovingly reconnect with them! He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and cleanse us from all
unrighteousness (1 John 1: 9). Under the influence of the New Covenant, with Gods infinite mercy,
love and forgiving empowering grace, the trend of our old life and habits are forsaken and radically
changed (2 Cor. 5:17; Gal. 6:15; Rom. 6:4; 8:11; 12:2).
The Purpose of Gods *Schoolmasters: The broken 10 Commandment law served especially as a
schoolmaster. But there was another schoolmaster in addition to this - the ceremonial (sacrificial) law.
Christ was the foundation for the whole Jewish economy. The death of Able in consequence
of refusing to accept Gods plan [gospel/covenant] in the school of obedienceto be savedby the blood of Jesus Christ typified by the sacrificial offerings pointing to Christ. Cain
refused the shedding of blood which symbolized the shedding of blood for the entire world.
This whole ceremony was prepared by God, and Christ became the foundation of the whole
system. This is the beginning of its work as the schoolmaster to bring sinful human agents
to a consideration of Christ the foundation of the whole Jewish economy.
All who did service in connection with the sanctuary were being educated constantly in
regard to the intervention of Christ in behalf of the human race. This service was designed to
create in every heart a love for the law of God, which is the law of the kingdom. Ellen G.
White, Manuscript Release -3 Oakland, California, Cir. 1900
Life Application: The continual shedding of blood of harmless helpless feeling creatures (lambs, rams,
goats, calves, bullocks etc.) taught people with sensitive consciences and eyes to see and ears to hear,
the high cost of sin: - it cost life! The nature of the transgression will determine the degree of emotional
consequences such as depression, unrest, guilt, shame and regret. Rom 6:23. (For us today, the wages of
sin is still all of the above and eventual death, however Christ has bridged the gulf and through His
sacrifice given ALL both sinner and saint present probationary life (John 3:16; Rom 5:18; 1 Tim 4:10;
Rom 5:6, 10). We are no longer under condemnation. Why? Because condemnation is equivalent to
shame and guilt and shame and guilt is the result of a broken law. So when we come to Christ we are
delivered from the law(Rom. 7:6) not the law of liberty of course but the law of sin and death!
We are no longer under the law of condemnation (Rom. 8:3; John 3:17; 8:11) no longer under the curse
of the law (Gal 3:10,13), no longer under the law of sin (Rom 7:8, 23, 25; 8:2) and therefore no
longer constantly under the guidance, discipline and correction of the schoolmaster. Now we are undersomeone greater than the schoolmaster, we are under grace (Rom. 6:14,15), under the leading and
guidance of Christ, the great Teacher of righteousness, friend, Savior and everlasting Father of our
redemption. Now they are not afraid of the schoolmaster (the law) but get along much better with him
and his wisdom and counsel pointing to the great Teacher is written in their heart.
When children have a different motive for school, when they love and respect their teacher, they are no
longer treated like naughty little girls and boys that wander off and wag school and need the truant
officer to guide them back to the teacher. As Gods professed children, we may have wondered off from
the school of Christ and been led into sin. But the purpose of the schoolmaster (especially the moral
law) along with the convicting Holy Spirit, are there to quicken our consciences (John 16:8) and bring
us back to faith, back to Christ, back to the school of righteousness. We are now at the feet of the
Master - Christ the great Teacher of righteousness and day-by-day grow in love and grace.
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For many a good reason it was the will of God, under His eternal purpose, to bring in the
New/Everlasting Covenant of righteousness Psm. 119:142; Dan 9:24; Eph. 3:11. As we have been
repeating, it was generally the case that in the Old Covenant people tried, in and of themselves, to obey
God and live righteously (Luke 18:9). This of course always resulted in failure and disappointment
(Heb. 8:8; Ex. 19:8; Gal. 2:16, 3:2, 5). Thats why the apostle Paul used strong perhaps exaggerated
terms to make a point. He stated that the law (broken law) worketh wrath, slays the guilty and
killeth and leads the guilty to be cursed or separated from God (See 2 Cor. 3:6; Rom. 4:15; 7:13;
Gal 3:10).
Run, John, run, the law commands But gives us neither feet nor hands,Far better news the gospel brings: It bids us fly and gives us wings
John Bunyan (1628-1688)
When we are IN Christ (synonymous with Christ is IN us) Gods principles and laws are seen and felt
in a different light: Thy testimonies also are my delight and my counselors (Psm. 119:24) they bless
the obedient and function as a lamp and a light to guide in the way of life. (James 1:25; 2:12; Prov
6:23)
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Example 7: - Romans chapter 7 and marriage to remarriage
Now for the final example. So farwe have considered the Covenants as illustrated by 1) - Adam and Eve.
2) - Cain contrasted with Able and Noah contrasted with Babylon. 3) - Abrahams family during unbelief,
correlating Mount Sinai. 4) - The old covenant experience manifest at Mount Sinai. 5) - The faithful Roman
Centurion.6) Absentee School Kids.
Now we will explore illustration number 7 - Romans Chapter 7: The illustration of marriage and remarriage.The apostle Paul explicitly defines the nature of the two covenants in a daring way in Romans 7:1-6. He
likens the Old Covenant to a horrible marriage experience and the New to a meaningful and intimate
one brimming over with other-centered love.
Do you not know, brethren--for I am speaking to those who know the law--that the law is
binding on a person only during his life? Thus a married woman is bound by law to her
husband as long as he lives; but if her husband dies she is discharged from the law
concerning the husband. Accordingly, she will be called an adulteress if she lives with
another man while her husband is alive. But if her husband dies she is free from that law,
and if she marries another man she is not an adulteress. Likewise, my brethren, you have
died to the law through the body of Christ, so that you may belong to another, to him who
has been raised from the dead in order that we may bear fruit for God. While we wereliving in the flesh, our sinful passions, aroused by the law [the law of sin], were at work in
our members to bear fruit for death. But now we are discharged [delivered KJV] from the
law [the law of sin], dead to that which held us captive, so that we serve not under the old
written code but in the new life of the Spirit. Rom 7:1-6
Here the apostle Paul uses a clever illustration most adults can identify with especially those who are
currently in or have once been in a physically or emotionally abusive marriage -- to make a point. He
compares the Old Covenant to a horrible/broken marriage and the New to a wonderful marriage. He
likens a failing marriage to a slavish Christian experience. He employs the figure of marriage (the union
of two people - husband and wife) to illustrate the legalistic Christians union with the law of sin (See
also Rom 7: 14-23).
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It is important to realize the woman or lady mentioned in the above passages is not a worldly lady
by any means but actually religious one! (Paul begins the illustration by saying I speak to those that
know the law, in other words this lesson applies to the Jewish Christians and NOT the gentiles.) The
woman represents Gods professed people the bride, the church (Isa. 54:6; 2 Cor. 11:2; 2 John 1:1,5)
only in this instance she is emotionally disconnected and her marriage is purely legalistic. (Legalists
may appear to have a happy face on Sabbath and be diligent in keeping reforms, Bible study, outreach
and in church attendance etc. but beneath the religious facade they are empty and miserable! In the
context of sin there are only three kinds of people in this world. 1) Willing slaves. 2) Unwilling slaves.And 3) Those who are free!! It is generally the case that worldlings are willing slaves. They freely
indulge in sin. Professed Christians on the other hand are often unwilling slaves. They sometimes know
they shouldnt think, act or behave in certain ways but without a vital connection with God they are
powerless to do otherwise. Free people on the other hand are those whom Christ has set free from
condemnation and empowered their lives. (See John 8:33-36; Gal 5:1; Heb. 2:15; 2 Pet 2:19)
In the above example, the woman is married to the type of tyrannical man that makes her life feel very
unsatisfied and miserably enslaved. (This first husband represents the law WITHOUT Christ - the
judicial side of the 10 Commandment law that the apostle refers to as the ministration of
condemnation or ministration of death which was written and engraven in stones. (2 Cor. 3:7,9).
More specifically this is a broken law - the law/principle of sin (a task master) or the first Adams sin
nature we are all naturally united to. (Rom 7:25; 8:2). When we are bound to this law, like the woman
we feel dissatisfied and miserably enslaved. Thatis the law we need to be delivered from. After the
sinful carnal mind/character is crucified, the woman (us) is at liberty to marry another but not until then
(Rom 6:1-22; 2 Tim 2:11; Gal 2:20; 5:24). One day while she encounters another man (who
represents Christ the second Adam), her hearts desire is awakened but she cannot marry him while her
first husband is living. After she is almost suicidal and can take no more, she secretly and somewhat
shamefully wishes her first husband were dead! She then knows she could be free to marry another!
(Please dont take this aspect of the allegory literally ok?!!!)
One day in sorrow and repentance of her unwise decision in marrying this man, she cries out to God for
deliverance. And thats the turning point where the old is past and all things are become new (2 Cor.
5:17). Now unlike the woman, when we were born we had no choice whatsoever in what we inherited
and later became married/enmeshed to. Some people here might say, well thats unfair. Yes it maybe.
However, it would be more unfair without Gods provisional gospel of moral restoration. And Satan
claims thatsalvation is unfair (Zec. 3:1-8; Jude 1:9,10).
Life Application: So the question is, how can she/we get rid of the first husband? Legally she/we
cant! However her/our new future husband (Christ) can. Around 30 AD He absorbed into His sinless
divine/human nature all the sinfulness of this old representative man of sin and crucified him at
Calvary! (See Rom 6:6; Eph. 2:15; 1 Pet 2:24; 2 Cor. 5:21). And the point is, when He died,she (we)
died with him because the two had become one flesh. The good news is Christ raises her, not him, in
newness of life and chooses her to be His spiritual beloved bride (Rom 6:3-6; 2 Cor. 11:2). By faith she
must believe that her old man is now dead and begin to walk in newness of life the law of the spirit
of life in Christ Jesus. (See Rom 6:11) This is the work of justification.
None other but God can remove the first Adam (the inflexible law of sin and death) from her/our life.
Christ crucified the first Adams sin nature/character at the cross and through His Spirit supernaturally
imparts His new/divine nature/character to us His lady, His church. (Rom. 6:1-11; 2 Pet. 1:3,4). This
second man she meets (the messenger and Prince of the Covenant) is her High Priest-King, Teacher,
and loving Savior. He forgives, restores and cleanses her and becomes her new husband and she
becomes His chosen lady, and His spotless bride. (Dan. 11:22; Mal. 3:1; Jer. 31:32; Isa 54:5; Eph.
5:22-28; Eze. 16:8). Then the law becomes spiritual. The law of the spirit of life in Christ Jesus has
set her free from the law of sin and death (Rom 8:3,4).
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Seven (7) Characteristics of the Covenants
Up to now we have considered seven different examples of the two Covenants. Now we will explore
seven characteristics of them before examining the seven divine love languages. Here is the shortversion summary.
1) The Covenants were based upon blood sacrifice: This awakened gratitude, love and convictionleading to self-distrust, humble confession of sin and deep repentance. The blood points to
Christs freely given divine life of Christ and His justification, forgiving, cleansing, saving
power. (See John 1: 7-9; 3:16,17; 1 John 1:9; Ex 6:3-8; 20:1,2; Deut. 5: 15; Eph. 2:8-10)
One Covenant was characterized by belief and the other by unbelief. We need to recognize
the new covenant is an everlasting covenant even though it wasnt ratified until the cross.
(See Heb. 13: 20) The covenants are not matters of time but of condition (belief leading to
willing obedience or pseudo belief (in reality unbelief) and broken promises). The new birth,
symbolized by the reality (not the sign) of circumcision, was an essential part of the NewCovenant.
4) The Covenants were founded on the 10 Commandment lamp and light, law of liberty and love:
The 10 Commandments in Exodus 20 actually begin by specifying Gods saving power in
delivering Israel from Egyptian bondage (Ex. 20:1,2). We all need reminding that Gods
saving power (from spiritual bondage) is the basis of commandment keeping.
5) The earthly tabernacle, (point of divine contact), was replaced by the heavenly tabernacle that
was based upon better promises.
6) 7) The New Everlasting Covenant is characterized by willing obedience to Gods Commandments
and is manifest in victory over sin: The blessing of Abraham is characterized by deliverance and
victory in Christ.
7) The Covenant was founded upon an oath/will promising a glorious inheritance.
Now we will explore these seven characteristics in greater depth.
1) They were both based upon Christs freely given life typified by sacrifices: The life of the
sacrifice is in the blood therefore blood = life. Animal sacrifice prefiguring Christs freely given life in
His one offering. This purposed to perfect the conscience of them that are sanctified - vitally
connected with Him. The blood (divine freely given life of Christ) justifies and sanctifies. (Heb. 10:14:
Ex. 24:7; Gen. 15:9,10,17).
Covenant of Mercy: Gods sacrificial act is an act born out of mercy toward His children. (Mosesrecognized the merciful nature of the Covenant (Deut. 7:9,12); the author of Kings (whoever that was?)
recognized this (1 Kings 8:23; 2 Chron. 6:14); Nehemiah recognized this (Neh. 1:5); king David, Isaiah,
and Daniel all recognized this. They understood Gods Covenant was based on faithfulness and mercy
(Psm. 89:28; Isa. 42:6, 54:10; Dan 9:4). What greater mercy could be demonstrated than for God to give
His only begotten Son for the life of the world? (John 3:16-18).
2) One Covenant was characterized by belief - faithful trust in God and His promises - and the
other Covenant by unbelief: The everlasting Covenant is a conditional Covenant and requires true-
hearted belief which is made manifest in obedience to Gods Commandments For what saith the
scripture? Abraham believed God, and it was counted unto him for righteousness - Rom 4:3; (See Heb.
4:1-11). Abrahams belief was characterized by obedience and his willingness to offer his son Isaac to
the Lord. The 10 Commandments specified in Exodus 20 actually begin in verse 1 and 2 with a
reminder of Gods saving power. In fact in relation to the Sabbath Commandment, it is interesting to
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note Deut. 5s version is quite different to the wording in Exodus 20. In Deuteronomy the Sabbath is
not described as a memorial of creation but rather as a memorial of redemption, of Gods saving
power!!! (See Deut. 5:15). This points to anything but works salvation but points to the New!
3) The new birth, symbolized by the reality of circumcision, was an essential part of the New
Covenant: If a child remained uncircumcised he was cut of from the people and the covenant was
broken (See Gen. 17:11, 14). This indicates unless one is born again (circumcised in heart Deut. 30:5,6)
the Covenant is ineffective and redundant. The reality of circumcision is the sealing of righteousness inthe heart by the Holy Spirit (Eph. 1:7-14). The sign of circumcision, made by hands, is a reminder of
mans attempt to work out the promise of God and his failure, a reminder that we can do nothing of
ourselves to obtain righteousness and a warning of Abrahams big mistake to put no confidence in the
flesh. The supernatural new birth (the reality of circumcision, circumcision made by the Spirit not
made with hands) is closely linked to righteousness of faith (firm belief) and keeping Gods
Commandments. Thats why the three are an integral part of the New Covenant. (See Jer. 4:4; Rom 2:
25, 27, 29; 3:30; 1Cor. 7:19; Gal. 5:6; Eph. 2:11; Col. 2: 10-13). Abrahams children are not exclusively
Jews. Romans 2:28-29 For he is not a Jew, which is one outwardly; neither is that circumcision, which is
outward in the flesh: (29) But he is a Jew, which is one inwardly; and circumcision is that of the heart, in
the spirit, and not in the letter; whose praise is not of men, but of God (See Rom 3:2; 9:6-8; Heb. 12:22-24).
The outer court of the desert Tabernacle, represented the earth. Here the brazen altar (prefiguring thecross) and the laver (prefiguring the water of life for spiritual regeneration) is where conversion (new
birth) takes place. (See John 3:3,5,14; Titus 3:5; Phil 3:3; Rom 2:25-29)
4) Founded upon the perpetual moral 10 Commandment lamp and light, law of liberty and love:
The law was/is is part of both Covenants and there is no fault whatsoever with the law. Although it is
only a limited reflection (photograph) of God the Father and Son, the law is still perfect. There is no
fault in the law. The commandment is a lamp; and the law is a light and its reproofs instruct us in
the way of life (Psm. 19:7; Prov. 6:23). Therefore in relation to the professed people of God, during
Sinai and afterwards in their desert wanderings, God found fault . . . with them. And the fault is still
with many of His professed followers today (Heb. 8:8).
Though this covenant was made with Adam and renewed to Abraham, it could not be
ratified until the death of Christ. It had existed by the promise of God since the first
intimation of redemption had been given; it had been accepted by faith; yet when ratified by
Christ, it is called a new covenant. The law of God was the basis of this covenant, which
was simply an arrangement for bringing men again into harmony with the divine will,
placing them where they could obey God's law. Patriarchs and Prophets p. 371
The covenant which had existed by the promise of God since the first intimation of redemption had
been given refers to the promise of enmity given to Adam and Eve at the fall in Eden. This was
nothing less than the everlasting covenant. In the life of victory under the New Everlasting Covenant,
the law is written on the heart (Luke 1:68-75; Heb. 8:10; 10:16).
5) The earthly tabernacle system, (a point of divine contact), gave way to the eternal heavenly
tabernacle that was based upon better promises: Both Tabernacles were a point of divine contact.
Yet the old earthly tabernacle/temple systems vanished: Aside from some of the items found in the
Most Holy Place, like the 10 Commandments, by the time of the cross, both Old Testament era
tabernacles (the Old Covenant desert Tabernacle and its services, and the Solomons temple in
Jerusalem), vanished away. (Dan. 9:26; Luke 19:43; Matt 24:2). As Christ yielded up His life on
Calvarys cross, the relevance of the old system/temples came to an end. (See Matt 27:46-51). God
never intended forthese gloriousyetless than perfect tabernacles to be of any permanent nature.
There are a few reasons why the New [Heavenly] Covenant is better and much superior to the Old.
Firstly, because it was the source of better promises (Heb. 7:19,22; 8:6; 9:23; 10:34). Secondly, the
New Covenant Tabernacle is better because it was pitched by God and will exist for eternity! Thirdly
it was better because it is based upon the promise of what God would accomplish rather than thepromises of men. Finally, it had a permanent nature because Christ the eternal Son of God, our crowned
and anointed Priest-King is the central figure ministering in this tabernacle. (We will feature this more
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in the second study entitled, Delivered from the Law). Through His infinite sacrifice and ministry
Christ the Prince of the Holy Covenant can and will accomplish in our lives what the Old pointed to but
was powerless to accomplish. It goes way beyond gospel fiction it is to take away our sins not merely
legally but as a reality! (Rom 1:16; 11:26, 27; 1 John 1:9)
6) The New Everlasting Covenant is characterized by willing obedience to Gods Commandments
and statutes and manifest in victory over sin: The blessing of Abraham is characterized by
deliverance, obedience and victory in Christ. (1 Cor. 15:57; 1 John 5:4; Rev. 15:2; Acts 3:26; Rom 1:16,17; 11: 26, 27; Jude 24,25; 2 Tim 4:18.) There are blessings in obedience to Gods law of liberty
which forms as a written contract in covenantal marriage between Christ and His bride. We are not only
to believe but we are to walk in the steps of that faith of our father Abraham (Rom 4: 11-13). Through
the empowering grace of the indwelling Christ, willing obedience is an essential part of the covenant.
The covenant with Abraham also maintained the authority of God's law. The Lord appeared
unto Abraham, and said, "I am the Almighty God; walk before Me, and be thou perfect."
Genesis 17:1. The testimony of God concerning His faithful servant was, "Abraham obeyed
My voice, and kept My charge, My commandments, My statutes, and My laws." Genesis
26:5. And the Lord declared to him, "I will establish My covenant between Me and thee and
thy seed after thee in their generations, for an everlasting covenant, to be a God unto thee and
to thy seed after thee." Genesis 17:7. PP 370
7) The everlasting Covenant was founded upon an oath the legal will of the Prince - promising
an eternal inheritance and eternal life: The promise to Israel involved earthly Canaan (the promised
land) a type of the heavenly Canaan (Ex 12:25; Deut. 6:3; Joshua 22:4,5). This was a shadowy type
of our glorious/eternal country and city homes in paradise that Christ has prepared for the overcomers
that will inherit this upon His return (John 14:2,3). The future provisions prefigured in the shadowy
earthly Canaan were included in the will of Christ the testator before His death (Heb. 9:16,17.) Now
they will be imparted upon His return. Our future inheritance of our heavenly home is made certain by
its inclusion in Christs testament or will that was made of force and confirmed after Calvary. These
promises are unalterable. No man can alter His will or can add to or take away from these provisions!
(Gal. 3:15; Eph. 1:7-14).
The next segment we will briefly consider the seven love languages of Christ the Prince of the
everlasting covenant. These are not unrelated to the everlasting covenant. All 7 love languages blend
into Christs covenantal other-centered agape love for His chosen lady and bride.
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The Prince of the Everlasting Covenants
Seven (7) Love Languages
You may have heard of the best selling book The Five Love Languages by Gary Chapman. It
contains several tips on how to identify your spouses particular love language.
The Prince of the New Covenant Sanctuary speaks all seven (7) Love Languages! The Old
Covenant Sanctuary was a shadow of the Princes saving work. The book of Hebrews contains seven
love languages. Christ the Prince of the Covenant began His work with the gift of sacrifice,
(Passover/unleavened bread) continued it after His resurrection (first fruits) and
Coronation/glorification (Pentecost) to impart the gift of His Spirit, He lovingly corrects us, gives of
His time, and is touched by the feelings and weaknesses. His ministry is a continual act of service. He
comforts His beloved with words of affirmation, and has made a total commitment to His bride.
There are two love languages in GodsNew Covenant, that can also be applied to human relationships,that do not appear in Chapmans book. These are number 2 and 7 in the table below - *correction and
*commitment. These are vital yet so often lacking in relationships today.
The Prince of the Covenants Seven (7) Love Languages
1) Special Gifts: The Prince of the Covenant gave Himself by the gift of sacrifice.
Upon His glorification and coronation at Pentecost, He imparted the gifts of His
Spirit to His waiting bride (Eph. 4:7; Heb. 6:4; Rom 5:17,18.)
2) *Correction: The words/promises of Gods law/Covenant are for His beloveds
instruction, guidance and correction which ensures the happiness and security of His
lady. They serve to preserve and protect her freedom. Genuine forgiveness,
transparency and acknowledgement of wrongs committed are vital for preserving
love and in maintaining healthy relationships. (Prov. 3:12; Matt 5:23; 18:5)
3) Quality Time: The Prince desires to meet with His beloved. There is need for
daily prayer. His Tabernacle was a point of contact. It points to our soul temple - the
ultimate place for open and meaningful communication through prayer. This is the
primary purpose forquality time (Eph. 6:18; Phil 4:6; Luke 6:12)
4) Touch: Christs divinity touched humanity. The divine/human Mediator/Prince of
the Covenant came down to our level. On occasion He physically touched people. InHis humanity He was emotionally touched with our feelings and weaknesses (Heb.
4:15; Matt 19:13, 15; John 9:6,15).
5) Acts of Service: The merciful Prince of the New Covenant is a Priest forever
ministering and serving on our behalf. He imparts His Spirit and grace. (John
12:13,14; John 21:9,13, 25; Phil 2:7, 8.)
6) Words of affirmation: The words of the Prince of the Covenant are a great source
of comfort to His beloved. (John 6:33; 16:33; Prov. 12:18; 15:4; 18:21; 25:11; 31:26;
Luke 4:22; 1 John 3:20,21; 8:11)
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An example of Gods Correction followed by Commitment to His lady Ancient Israel: Inreflection and summation of what has been said, here through Ezekiel the prophet, is Gods message of
love and warning to ancient Israel. It is a reminder to Christs beloved lady (modern Israel today) not to
take the New Everlasting Covenant for granted. To remember who clothed her, remember who provided
her with the garments of righteousness and remember to retain the beautiful character of Christ.
THE PRINCE OF THE COVENANTSCARE & CORRECTION:
And when I passed by thee, and saw thee polluted in thine own blood [as a new born
baby], I said unto thee when thou wast in thy blood, Live; yea, I said unto thee when
thou wast in thy blood, Live. I have caused thee to multiply as the bud of the field, and
thou hast increased and waxen great, and thou art come to excellent ornaments: thy
breasts are fashioned, and thine hair is grown, whereas thou wast naked and bare.
Now when I passed by thee, and looked upon thee, behold, thy time was the time of
love; and I spread my skirt over thee, and covered thy nakedness: yea, I sware unto thee,
and entered into a covenant with thee, saith the Lord GOD, and thou becamest mine.
Then washed I thee with water; yea, I throughly washed away thy blood from thee, and
I anointed thee with oil. I clothed thee also with broidered work, and shod thee with
badgers' skin, and I girded thee about with fine linen, and I covered thee with silk. I
decked thee also with ornaments, and I put bracelets upon thy hands, and a chain on thy
neck.
And I put a jewel on thy forehead, and earrings in thine ears, and a beautiful crown
upon thine head. Thus wast thou decked with gold and silver; and thy raiment was of
fine linen and silk, and broidered work; thou didst eat fine flour, and honey, and oil: and
thou wast exceeding beautiful, and thou didst prosper into a kingdom.
And thy renown went forth among the heathen for thy beauty: for it was perfect through
my comeliness, which I had put upon thee, saith the Lord GOD. But thou didst trust in
thine own beauty, and playedst the harlot because of thy renown, and pouredst out thy
fornications on every one that passed by. . . . . . . . .
THE PRINCE OF THE COVENANTSLOVE & COMMITMENT:
For thus saith the Lord GOD; I will even deal with thee as thou hast done, which hast
despised the oath in breaking the covenant. Nevertheless I will remember my covenant
with thee in the days of thy youth, and I will establish unto thee an everlasting
covenant. Then thou shalt remember thy ways, and be ashamed, when thou shalt
receive thy sisters, thine elder and thy younger: and I will give them unto thee for
daughters, but not by thy covenant.
And I will establish my covenant with thee; and thou shalt know that I am the LORD:
That thou mayest remember, and be confounded, and never open thy mouth any more
because of thy shame, when I am pacified toward thee for all that thou hast done, saith
the Lord GOD. Eze. 16: 7-15, 59-63.
The Sanctified Life: She is not however immune from memories or temptations of the past life.
Temptation is inevitable. Her Prince works as an advocate and Supreme Court judge and is not
7) *Commitment: Commitment is the love language that most often neglected in
relationships today. The Prince of the Covenant is completely committed to His bride.
He confirmed a will with an oath promising to share His eternal inheritance with
His chosen lady (Jer. 3:14; 31:3; John 14:3,18; 15:26; 16:7; Rev. 21:9-11,24).
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Married to another
- Part 2
Being Delivered
From the Law(What the law engraven on stonecan, and cant, do!)
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Superseding Natural Law!
Introduction: Welcome to part two of three in the study of the Covenants. At face value
glancing at the title and subtitle on the previous page one could easily think, this study is
promoting infidelity, and rebellion to law and order! If you read the first study you will know it
is certainly not! In this study we will consider how to be delivered from the law of sin and death,how to be free from condemnation to walk in the liberty of Christ. We will examine the purpose
of the 10 Commandment law and what it can and cant do. We will explore how the law takeson a completely different revolutionary perspective when we are living and abiding in Christ.
We will also consider the instances when God did extraordinary things that implicated He is incontrol of everything and is way and above all natural law. We will discover how this is
practically significant in terms of the gospel - it promises and provides a power that supersedesthe inflexible law of sin and death.
What the law can and cant do: Now we will further consider the illustration of marriage as we
developed and applied in part 1. In a marriage the two individuals that unite are no longer two butbecome one flesh. (Gen 2:24; Eph. 5: 31) In the Old Covenant experience we are married (closely
bound) to our first husband the old *flesh nature/character the law of sin and death or the broken
law. In our fallen state we become so familiar and closely enmeshed with sin that it was part of our very
nature/character and identity we were no longer two but one. We might have known the law but
because we didnt have the presence of Christ we failed to keep the law and thats what made our
Christianity a miserable Old Covenant one! There is nothing wrong with the law (it is holy, just and
good, glorious etc.) It is a reflection of righteousness. But in the context of the weakness of our flesh
nature the apostle Paul wrote, what the law could not do . . (Rom 8:2,3). There are certain things the
law can do but there are more things that it simply could not [and cannot] do in that it is weak through
the flesh! It cannot bring righteousness (Gal. 2:21). The stone written code is powerless to transform
the character, give life, save or give us an inheritance Gal 3: 21; Rom 8:3; Gal 2:21; 3:18). But the good
news is that what the law could not do . . God can and does do in us through His supernaturaltransformative power! (Rom 8:3)
God is more powerful than natural law! See Matt 14:25-30. The gospel can be likened to walking on
water and flying with eagles wings! Christ and Peter, at one point, lived beyond the natural law of
gravity by miraculously walking on water. Through Gods heart-transforming supernatural power you
can live beyond the natural law of sin and eternal death. That which was once unnatural (righteousness)
becomes natural. This lesson teaches us God, the heavenly Creator of all law is not subject to any
natural law. Sometimes He does extraordinary things for His faithful children that supersede natural law
(See Isa 40:31; Heb. 1:3; Dan 3:22-25). The point is, the everlasting gospel is more powerful than the
law of sin and death.
The Purpose of the Law: What is the purpose of the law then? Why did God give it? The laws job isto awaken knowledge of sin. It entered the world that the offence [sin] might abound and that sin
by the Commandment (Rom. 3:20; 5:20). The primary job of the law is to magnify sin that it might
become [be seen as] exceeding sinful (Rom 7:13). Speaking of the 10 Commandments, as mentioned,
the apostle said, The letter [ministration of death written on stone] kills but the Spirit gives life (2
Cor. 3:6). In other words, merely focusing on the law, merely attempting to obey it in our own strength
without the Spirit of life in our hearts is a dead-end road that leads many well meaning sincere
professed Christians to secret despair, frustration and disappointment.
___________________________________________________________________________________(*Defining the Biblical term flesh. Now for a little clarification. Just in case anyone is confused at this point, the word
flesh mentioned throughout these studies generally refers to the fleshly/self-centered character and NOT merely the physical
aspect of our human nature. We will always have the fallen physical nature until Christs return when He will change ourbodies to glorious and perfect incorruptible ones.)
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In fact, obedience from the heart without an indwelling Christ is not merely difficult it is impossible!
(John 15:5) The frustration and guilt we experience as a consequence of our failures is what kills the joy,
freedom and life of our Christian experience and makes it a legal dry lifeless theory. There is absolutely
no fault in the law whatsoever but the fault was with people who, in and of themselves, try to obey it
when it is powerless to save. When we have Christ in our hearts and lives we have a radically different
relationship and response to the law we say with David, Oh how I love Thy law. It becomes our
delight, our meditation day and night, it is a light and a lamp, and a source of peace, comfort and
guidance to us who love it. Under the New, Gods Commandments are not grievous (1 John 5:3).
He is the Rock, his work is perfect: for all his ways are judgment: a God of truth and
without iniquity, just and right is he. Deut. 32:4
All Gods are perfect and nothing whatsoever He devises is faulty (Deut. 32:4; James 1:17; Matt 5:48).
Concerning the faultless nature of the law, the same could be said of the Old Covenant tabernacle. It
was temporary in nature but wasnt faulty. The people, however involved in its services were. So the
Old Covenant tabernacle and its services was glorious in that it reflected the heavenly ministration
and served a provisional purpose (Heb. 8:5; 9:23). It was a shadow of good things to come. Again,
God was trying to teach His people the cost of disconnecting themselves from Him (guilt, shame,
emotional consequences, and the need for a Savior- a perfect man to offer sacrifice and die in our place).
From the curse of Stone to hearts of flesh: The written law on stone (the ministration of death and
condemnation) can never save us or produce righteousness (Gal 2:21). Its purpose along with the
sacrificial law, is that the offence might abound, that sin would be magnified and clearly recognized
through the consciousness of guilt and shame (Rom. 5:20; 7:9, 13). Otherwise we would feel no need
for deliverance, no need of a Savior! But although the law is a description of righteousness, it is not
thesource of righteousness. Unlike our Savior it cannot provide righteousness but through the guilt itawakens, it CAN bring us unto to Christ who is the source of righteousness! (Gal. 3:21,24). The
moral 10 Commandment law is a reflection, a photograph of Gods character. Christ on the other hand
is the living object of the photograph, the ultimate expression and embodiment of Gods law. Think
about this. If you were to ask anyone who is happily married what would they rather kiss, cuddle, hug
and talk to day or night a static unresponsive photograph of their spouse or their actual livingbreathing spouse him or herself, it would be almost certain they would say My spouse! Theyd be
crazy to say otherwise! But a small photograph carried around in a purse or wallet still evokes
wonderful emotions and memories of their beloved and may help to preserve faithfulness and loyalty.
Christ the Son of God is the living breathing, seeing, talking walking law of God demonstrated to whom
it was prophesied He would magnify the law, and make it honorable (Isa 42:21). The stone law
defines righteousness yet it cannot impartrighteousness. Christ the embodiment of law can and DOES!
He modeled trust and dependence on the Father, and in contemplation of His life through prayer,
meditation and reading the Word (particularly the gospels), we meditate on Christ the end
[goal/aim/object] of the law day and night. And then it can be said, great peace have they which
love Thy law and nothing shall offend them [cause them to stumble] - Psm. 119:165
From the slavery of Judicial to the liberty of supernatural: How do we get the law from beingmerely judicial to becoming natural? The object of the New Covenant is to transfer the law from stone
and from dry religious formality, to the fleshly tables of the heart (2 Cor. 3:3). It is to bring us from
being under judicial law to being under natural law the supernatural law of the Spirit of life IN Christ
Jesus. (John 15: 1-10; Rom. 6:22; 8:3,4). As far as motivation goes, supernatural law, which becomes
natural under the New Covenant, is always far more powerful than the Old Covenant judicial .
One leads to fear-based motivation, eventual disconnection and failure, and the other is motivated by
love, which inspires connection and consequential victory.
The law of gravity is an example of natural law. It helps illustrate a spiritual lesson. Gravity is an
inflexible law (principle) designed by God that most people, unless they are foolish or intend to self-
destruct, live in harmony with. Almost everyone understands gravity exists to ground and protect them.
We instinctively know if someone jumps off a high building he or she will suffer very serious physical
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consequences possibly death! When they ignore this law and suffer the consequences, it is not God
that has inflicted injury upon them but they themselves suffer the law of cause-effect.
Christians understand the moral law is a protector and preserver of freedom. Like the law of gravity, the
10 Commandments are inflexible laws of life for our freedom, protection and happiness originating
from God. (They cannot be accommodated or changed anymore than His character can be changed).
There are inflexible principles inbuilt in the law itself that when violated bring emotional
consequences EVERY TIME. Both God AND His laws are protectors and preservers of freedom. (Psm119:24). The commandment is a lamp; and the law is a light to guide in the way of life (Prov. 6:23).
They preserve our success and welfare by preserving and protecting our relationships both human and
Divine. When Christians transgress and step out of the protection of Gods law of liberty (James 1:25;
2:12) and suffer emotional consequences (fear, pain, guilt, resentment, disconnection, fractured
relationships, heart-ache, anger, frustration, depression) we need to understand it is not God that has
arbitrarily inflicting them. They bring these toxic heavy emotions, and the effects and consequences,
upon themselves. The idea that Gods character and His laws are merely judicial or arbitrary leads to
open or secret resentment of Him - and even sometimes causes people to despise and reject Him. Just
look at atheism for example. Do your homework and you will see atheism came on the heels of the
strong rejection of Romes depiction of Gods character. During the French Revolution, they said in
effect, if God is like that (the way Papal Rome portrayed Him) then we will not serve Him, in fact we
dont even believe a god like that exists! I think they have a point! Id be an atheist too if I thought
God was like that. On the other hand, understanding Gods laws (natural and spiritual) as inflexible
principles of other-centered love for our happiness and protection makes us think twice about violating
them. It helps us to love, revere and respect Him to Fear God and give glory to Him.
Lawlessness = the curse of the law which is disconnection: Sin or lawlessness can be defined as
anything we think, say or do that hurts the Father God, the Son or another person (Heb. 6:6).
Understanding law this way instead of seeing it merely as dos and donts serves as a far more
powerful motivator in changing behavior. In hurting others we hurt ourselves and as Christians with
sensitive consciences we dont want to hurt people anymore! Whether we profess to be Christians or
not, sin results in fractured human relationships, it cause