God's Ministry - Almighty God Does Not Break Covenants

GOD'S MINISTRY
THROUGH HIS SON JESUS CHRIST OF NAZARETH
BY THE POWER OF THE HOLY SPIRIT

Revs. Mr. and Mrs. H. Dean Daniels

E-mail: gods-ministry@hdd-gods-ministry.com

Web-site: http://www.hdd-gods-ministry.com/

ALMIGHTY GOD DOES

NOT BREAK COVENANTS - PART I

God has not broken His covenant with Israel!

(Man, is the “covenant” breaker, not God!)

Leviticus 26:25 And I will bring a sword upon you, that shall avenge the quarrel of my covenant: and when ye are gathered together within your cities, I will send the pestilence among you; and ye shall be delivered into the hand of the enemy.

Leviticus 26:42 Then will I remember my covenant with Jacob, and also my covenant with Isaac, and also my covenant with Abraham will I remember; and I will remember the land.

Leviticus 26:44 And yet for all that, when they be in the land of their enemies, I will not cast them away, neither will I abhor them, to destroy them utterly, and to break my covenant with them: for I am the Lord their God.

[45] But I will for their sakes remember the covenant of their ancestors, whom I brought forth out of the land of Egypt in the sight of the heathen, that I might be their God: I am the Lord.

Leviticus 26:44

a [when they be in the land of their enemies]

Five promises while in dispersion:

1. I will not cast them away.

2. I will not abhor them.

3. I will not utterly destroy them.

4. I will not break My covenant with them.

5. I will remember My covenant with their ancestors for their sakes.

The above promises were in effect only if Israel repented and confessed according to Leviticus 26:40-41.

b [I will not cast them away.] God has not utterly cast away His people whom He foreknew; He will yet bring them back to repentance and make a great nation out of them (Isaiah 11:10-12; Ezekiel 27; Zech. 12:10-13:1; Zech. 14:14-21; Luke 1:32-33; Romans 11:1-2,11-33).

c [break my covenant with them.] In a sense God has not broken His covenant with them, but they have broken their covenant with Him; therefore, He cannot fulfill it until they come to complete repentance (Isaiah 1:9, refs.; Romans 11:25-33; Rev. 12, notes).

COVENANTS

Part-I

A Covenant is a contract or agreement between two parties. In the Old Testament the Hebrew word berith is always thus translated. Berith is derived from a root which means "to cut," and hence a covenant is a "cutting," with reference to the cutting or dividing of animals into two parts, and the contracting parties passing between them, in making a covenant (Gen. 15; Jer. 34:18, 19).

The corresponding word in the New Testament Greek is diatheke, which is, however, rendered "testament" generally in the Authorized Version. It ought to be rendered, just as the word berith of the Old Testament, "covenant."

This word “covenant” is used (1) of an understood agreement or pact between two individual parties or entities (Gen. 21:32), or between tribes or nations (1 Sam. 11:1; Josh. 9:6, 15). In entering into a covenant, Jehovah was solemnly called on to witness the transaction (Gen. 31:50), and hence it was called a "covenant of the Lord" (1 Sam. 20:8). The marriage pact is called "the covenant of God" (Prov. 2:17), because the marriage was made in God's name. Wicked men are spoken of as acting as if they had made a "covenant with death" not to destroy them, or with hell not to devour them (Isa. 28:15, 18).

(2.) The word is used with reference to God's revelation of himself in the way of promise or of favour to men. Thus God's promise to Noah after the Flood is called a covenant (Gen. 9; Jer. 33:20, "my covenant"). We have an account of God's covenant with Abraham (Gen. 17, comp. Lev. 26:42), of the covenant of the priesthood (Num. 25:12, 13; Deut. 33:9; Neh. 13:29), and of the covenant of Sinai (Ex. 34:27, 28; Lev. 26:15), which was afterwards renewed at different times in the history of Israel (Deut. 29; Josh. 1:24; 2 Chr. 15; 23; 29; 34; Ezra 10; Neh. 9). In conformity with human custom, God's covenant is said to be confirmed with an oath (Deut. 4:31; Ps. 89:3), and to be accompanied by a sign (Gen. 9; 17). Hence the covenant is called God's "counsel," "oath," "promise" (Ps. 89:3, 4; 105:8-11; Heb. 6:13-20; Luke 1:68-75). God's covenant consists wholly in the bestowal of blessing (Isa. 59:21; Jer. 31:33, 34).

The term covenant is also used to designate the regular succession of day and night (Jer. 33:20), the Sabbath (Ex. 31:16), circumcision (Gen. 17:9, 10), and in general any ordinance of God (Jer. 34:13, 14).

A "covenant of salt" signifies an everlasting covenant, in the sealing or ratifying of which salt, as an emblem of perpetuity, is used (Num. 18:19; Lev. 2:13; 2 Chr. 13:5).

COVENANT OF WORKS, the constitution under which Adam was placed at his creation. In this covenant, (1.) The contracting parties were (a) God the moral Governor, and (b) Adam, a free moral agent, and representative of all his natural posterity (Rom. 5:12-19). (2.) The promise was "life" (Matt. 19:16, 17; Gal. 3:12). (3.) The condition was perfect obedience to the law, the test in this case being abstaining from eating the fruit of the "tree of knowledge," etc. (4.) The penalty was death (Gen. 2:16, 17).

This covenant is also called God’s covenant with man, as made with man in his unfallen state; a covenant with life, because "life" was a promise attached to obedience; and a covenant, because it demanded perfect obedience to The Laws’ of God, with God.

This covenant is included under the gospel, inasmuch as Christ has fulfilled all of its conditions “in behalf of” his people (those that have received Christ as their Lord and Saviour) and now continues to offer salvation on the condition of faith in Him. It is still in force, however, as it rests on the immutable justice of God The Father and Christ The Son and is binding on all, both those who have and have not fled to Christ receiving forgiveness, accepting his righteousness and living “in and by” His righteousness.

CONVENANT OF GRACE, the eternal plan of redemption entered into by three persons ‘Yahweh (Jehovah) The Heavenly Father and The Only Begotten Son of God and The Holy Ghost. ‘Yahweh (Jehovah) is the Godhead, and The Covenant of Grace being carried out by them in it’s several parts. In it The Heavenly Father is The Godhead in its indivisible Sovereignty, and all “Three” Are “Surety” (Guarantors of the Covenant) and are in Agreement and Unity (John 17:4, 6, 9; Isa. 42:6; Ps. 89:3).

The conditions of this covenant were and still remain, whereas (1.) On the part of the Father (a) all needful preparation to The Son for the accomplishment of his work (Heb. 10:1-5, 6-11; Isa. 42:1-8); (b) support in the work (Luke 22:43); and (c) a glorious reward in the exaltation of Christ when His work was done (Phil. 2:6-11), His investiture with universal dominion (John 5:22; Ps. 110:1), His having the administration of the covenant committed into his hands (Matt. 28:18; John 1:12; 17:2; Acts 2:33), and in the final salvation of all his people (Isa. 35:10; 53:10, 11; Jer. 31:33; Titus 1:2). (2.) On the part of the Son the conditions were (a) his becoming incarnate (Gal. 4:4, 5); and (b) as the second Adam his representing all his people, assuming their place and undertaking all their obligations under the violated covenant of works; (c) obeying the law (Ps. 40:8; Isa. 42:21; John 9:4, 5), and (d) suffering its penalty (Isa. 53; 2 Cor. 5:21; Gal. 3:13), in their stead (place).

Christ, the mediator of, fulfils all its conditions in behalf of his people, and dispenses to them all its blessings. In Heb. 8:6; 9:15; 12:24, this title is given to Christ. (See DISPENSATION.)

Covenant of The Levi

Num. 25:10-14

The Covenant of Levi

This covenant was given through Moses to Phinehas, the son of Levi, who was jealous for the Lord and executed judgment upon rebels (Num. 25:1-9). It consisted of two great promises:

1. A covenant of peace and blessing to Levi's house (Num. 25:12).

2. An everlasting priesthood (Num. 25:13).

The Covenant of Salt

Lev. 2:13; Num. 18:19

This covenant was made with Israel concerning the sacrifices they were to offer forever. See usage of "salt" in Mark 9:49, 50; Col. 4:6. In Palestine and surrounding countries salt was used in making covenants and if two persons ate food with salt in it, though they were the worst of enemies they became friends. The Arab expression is, "There is salt between us," or "He has eaten of my salt," which means partaking of the hospitality which cemented friendship. Covenants were generally confirmed at sacrificial meals and salt was always present. This covenant of salt pictured the everlasting friendship between God and His people (Num. 18:19).

Sixteen Terms of the Covenant

1. To walk in God's law.

2. To observe and do all the commandments of the Lord.

3. To keep His judgments and His statutes.

4. Not to give their daughters as wives of foreigners (Neh. 10:30).

5. Not to give their sons as husbands of foreigners.

6. Not to buy on the sabbath (Neh. 10:31).

7. Not to buy on any holy day.

8. To observe the seventh year as one of rest-keeping the sabbatical year (Neh. 10:31; Exodus 23:10-11; Leviticus 25).

9. To pay a third of a shekel each to the temple yearly (Neh. 10:32-33).

10. To supply wood for the temple (Neh. 10:34).

11. To bring in all the firstfruits to the priests (Neh. 10:35-37).

12. To observe the law of the firstborn (Neh. 9:36; Exodus 13:2,12-13; Leviticus 27:26-27; Numbers 18:15-16; Deut. 12:6.

13. To tithe all the income (Neh. 10:37).

14. To pay the tithe of tithes (Neh. 10:38).

15. To bring offerings to the temple (Neh. 10:39).

16. Not to forsake the house of God.

The Covenant

Christ, the substance of Isa 42:6; 49:8. Christ, the Mediator of Heb 8:6; 9:15; 12:24.

Christ, the Messenger of Mal 3:1.

Made with

Abraham. Gen. 15:7-18; 17:2-14; Lu 1:72-75; Ac 3:25; Gal. 3:16.

Isaac. Gen. 17:19, 21; 26:3, 4.

Jacob. Gen.28:13, 14; 1Ch 16:16, 17.

Israel. Exod. 6:4; Ac 3:25.

David. 2^nd Sam. 23:5; Ps. 89:3, 4.

Renewed under the gospel Jer. 31:31-33; Rom. 11:27; Heb. 8:8-10, 13.

Fulfilled in Christ Luke 1:68-79.

Confirmed in Christ Gal. 3:17.

Ratified by the blood of Christ Heb. 9:11-14, 16-23.

Is a covenant of peace Isa. 54:9, 10; Ezek. 34:25; 37:26.

Is unalterable Ps. 89:34; Isa 54:10; 59:21; Gal. 3:17.

Is everlasting Ps.111:9; Isa 55:3; 61:8; Eze 16:60-63; Heb 13:20.

All saints interested in Ps 25:14; 89:29-37; Heb 8:10.

The wicked have no interest in Eph 2:12.

Blessings connected with Isa 56:4-7; Heb 8:10-12.

God is faithful to De 7:9; 1Ki 8:23; Ne 1:5; Da 9:4.

God is ever mindful of Ps 105:8; 111:5; Lu 1:72.

Be mindful of 1Ch 16:15.

Caution against forgetting De 4:23.

Plead, in prayer Ps 74:20; Jer 14:21.

Punishment for despising Heb 10:29, 30.

Fifteen Great Covenants of Scripture

1. Solaric (Genesis 1:14-18; Genesis 8:22; Psalm 89:34-37; Jeremiah 31:35-37; Jeremiah 33:19-26). This covenant was made between God and man. In addition to eternal seasons of fruitfulness it promised that man would continue forever-as long as the solar system endures. In this connection definite promises were made to Noah, David, and others as seen in scriptures above.

2. Edenic (Genesis 1:26-3:24). This was made with Adam and Eve before the fall and was conditional upon obedience (Genesis 2:17). The terms of the covenant were:

(1) Be fruitful, not sterile (Genesis 1:28).

(2) Multiply, increase human kind (Genesis 1:28).

(3) Replenish the earth with people, as when Lucifer ruled (Genesis 1:28).

(4) Subdue the earth (Genesis 1:28).

(5) Rule all God's works (Genesis 1:28; Psalm 8).

(6) Till the ground and be a partaker of the garden (Genesis 2:15).

(7) Protect your dominion from enemies (Genesis 2:15).

(8) Freely eat of all things except the tree of knowledge (Genesis 1:29-30).

(9) Refrain from eating of the tree of knowledge (Genesis 2:16-17).

(10) Fear the penalty for sin (Genesis 2:17).

3. Adamic (Genesis 3:14-19). This agreement was made with Adam and Eve after the fall and before the expulsion from the garden. It ushered in the Dispensation of Conscience. The covenant consisted of two parts:

(1) The five-fold curse on:

(A) The serpent (Genesis 3:14, 15; Isaiah 65:25)

(B) Satan (Genesis 3:15; John 12:31; Col. 2:14-17; Hebrews 2:14-18)

(C) The woman (Genesis 3:16; 1 Cor. 11:3; 1 Cor. 14:34; 1 Tim. 2:11-15)

(D) The man (Genesis 3:17-19; Psalm 90:9, 10; Romans 5:12-21)

(E) The ground (Genesis 3:17-19; Romans 8:18-23)

(2) The promise in Genesis 3:15. This included redemption and the removal of the curse (Romans 8:18-23; Rev. 22:3).

4. Cainic (Genesis 4:11-15). This was a pledge to Cain of vengeance on anyone who found him and killed him.

5. Noahic (Genesis 8:20-9:29). This contract was made with Noah and the beasts of the field after the flood and ushered in the Dispensation of Human Government. The terms of the covenant were:

(1) God would not curse the ground or living creatures any more "while the earth remaineth" (Genesis 8:22; Genesis 9:12, 16)

(2) Man should replenish the earth forever (Genesis 9:1, 12, 16).

(3) Man should rule the earth (Genesis 9:2, 3).

(4) Animals should be eaten, but not the blood (Genesis 9:3,4)

(5) There should be capital punishment for murderers (Genesis 9:5, 6; Numbers 35)

(6) The rainbow should be a sign of the covenant (Genesis 9:12-17).

(7) The covenant would be eternal (Genesis 9:12, 16).

6. Abrahamic (Genesis 12:1-3). This was made with Abraham after the confusion of tongues when God saw that it was impossible to deal with the race as a whole. It ushered in the Dispensation of Promise (Genesis 13:14-18; Genesis 15:1-21; Genesis 17:4-8; Genesis 22:15-18; Genesis 26:1-5; Genesis 28:3,10-15). The covenant consisted of two parts:

(1) The seven-fold promise:

(A) "I will make of thee a great nation" (Genesis 12:1-3; Genesis 13:16; Genesis 17:18-20; Genesis 24:34, 35; Galatians 3)

(B) "Make thy name great" (Genesis 12:1-3; Exodus 2:24,25; Exodus 6:3-8)

(C) "Thou shalt be a blessing" (Genesis 12:1-3; Galatians 3:13,14)

(D) "I will bless them that bless thee" (Genesis 12:1-3; Matthew 25:31-46)

(E) "I will bless thee" (Genesis 13:14-18; Genesis 15:18-21; Galatians 3)

(F) "I will curse them that curse thee" (Zech. 14; Matthew 25:31-46)

(G) "In thee shall all the nations of the world be blessed" (Deut. 28:8-14; Isaiah 60:3-5; Isaiah 66:18-21; John 8:56-58; Galatians 3:16)

(2) The sign of the covenant: circumcision (Genesis 17:1-21; Isaiah 24:5)

7. Hagaric (Genesis 16:7-14). This was a covenant made with Hagar concerning her seed through Ishmael, Abraham's son. It concerned many generations and was in three parts:

(1) Commands:

(A) Return, submit to Sarah (Genesis 16:9)

(B) Call her son Ishmael, meaning "God shall hear" (Genesis 16:11)

(2) Promises:

(A) Seed to be multiplied beyond number (Genesis 16:10; Genesis 17:20-22)

(B) Ishmael to be blessed and become a great nation (Genesis 17:20; Genesis 21:17-18)

(C) Ishmael to beget twelve princes (Genesis 17:20; Genesis 25:12-18)

(3) Prophetic revelation:

(A) Ishmael to be a wild man (Genesis 16:12)

(B) His hand to be against every man (Genesis 16:12)

(C) Every man's hand to be against him (Genesis 16:12)

(D) Ishmael to dwell in the presence of his brethren (Genesis 16:12)

8. Sarahic (Genesis 17:15-19; Genesis 18:9-15). This covenant was made with Sarah and promised certain blessings to her and her offspring Isaac for many generations. It was in two parts:

(1) Commands:

(A) Change her name from Sarai to Sarah, meaning "princess" (Genesis 17:15)

(B) Call her son Isaac (Genesis 17:19)

(2) Promises:

(A) To be blessed with a son (Genesis 17:16-19; Genesis 18:10-15)

(B) To be made a mother of nations (Genesis 17:16)

(C) To become a mother of many kings (Genesis 17:16)

(D) Abrahamic covenant to be continued with Isaac (Genesis 17:19)

(E) Abrahamic covenant to be continued with Isaac's seed forever (Genesis 17:19)

9. Healing (Exodus 15:26; Exodus 23:25). This was made with Israel and all who desired or chose to come under the covenant of God as given to Moses. It was in two parts:

(1) Commands:

(A) Diligently hearken to God's voice (Exodus 15:26; Leviticus 26:14-15)

(B) Do that which is right in His sight (Exodus 15:26)

(C) Give ear to His commandments (Exodus 15:26)

(D) Keep all His statutes (Exodus 15:26; Leviticus 26:3, 14-15)

(E) Serve the Lord (Exodus 23:25)

(2) Promises:

(A) "I will put none of these diseases upon thee" (Exodus 15:26)

(B) "I am the Lord that healeth thee" (Exodus 15:26)

(C) "I will take away sickness from the midst of thee" (Exodus 23:25)

This covenant was made a part of the new covenant, for Christ "took our infirmities and bare our sicknesses" (Isaiah 53; Matthew 8:17; 1 Peter 2:24).

10. Mosaic or old covenant; also called the Old Testament (Exodus 20:1-24:8; 2 Cor. 3:6-18).

11. Levitic (Numbers 25:10-14). This was given through Moses to Phinehas, the son of Levi, who was zealous for the Lord and executed judgment upon rebels (Numbers 25:1-9). It consisted of two great

promises:

(1) Peace and blessing to Levi's house (Numbers 25:12)

(2) An everlasting priesthood (Numbers 25:13)

12. Palestinian (Leviticus 26; Deut. 11:8-32; Deut. 27:1-30:20). This covenant was made with Israel through Moses and was conditioned upon the obedience of the nation. There were seven parts:

(1) Dispersion for disobedience (Deut. 28:63-68; Deut. 30:1)

(2) Repentance while in dispersion (Deut. 30:2; Zech. 12:10-14)

(3) The return of the Lord (Deut. 30:3; Zech. 14; Acts 15:14-17)

(4) Restoration in the land (Deut. 30:5; Isaiah 11:1-12; Ezekiel 37; Matthew 24:31)

(5) National conversion (Deut. 30:6; Isaiah 66; Zech. 12:10-13; Romans 11:26)

(6) Judgment of Israel's oppressors (Deut. 30:7; Zech. 14; Matthew 25:31-46)

(7) National prosperity (Deut. 30:9-10; Romans 11)

13. Salt (Leviticus 2:13; Numbers 18:19). A covenant made with Israel concerning the sacrifices they were to offer forever. See usage of salt in Mark 9:49, 50; and Col. 4:6. In Palestine and surrounding countries salt was used in making covenants. If people dined together on food with salt in it, they became friends, though they may have been enemies before. The Arab expression, "There is salt between us," or "He has eaten of my salt," means partaking of the hospitality which cements friendship. Covenants were generally confirmed at sacrificial meals and salt was always present. The covenant of salt pictured the everlasting friendship between God and His people (Numbers 18:19).

14. Davidic (2 Samuel 7:1-17). This agreement was made with David and his house through Nathan the prophet, and was conditioned upon obedience as all other covenants. It was to be an everlasting covenant, containing seven blessings:

(1) A Davidic house forever (2 Samuel 7:13-16; Psalm 89:20-37; Luke 1:32-35)

(2) A Davidic throne forever (2 Samuel 7:12-16; Isaiah 9:6,7; Luke 1:32-35)

(3) A Davidic kingdom forever (2 Samuel 7:12-16; Isaiah 9:6,7; Luke 1:32-35)

(4) A sure land for Israel forever (Genesis 17; 2 Samuel 7:10)

(5) No more affliction from the nations forever (Deut. 28:1-30:10; 2 Samuel 7:10)

(6) The Fatherly care of God forever (2 Samuel 7:14; 2 Cor. 6:15-18)

(7) An eternal covenant (2 Samuel 7:10-16; Isaiah 9:6, 7; Luke 1:32,33)

15. New covenant (Matthew 26:28; 2 Cor. 3:6-18). This is the one made by Christ (Hebrews 8:6). It is still in force and includes all the terms, conditions, commands, promises and benefits revealed in the twenty-seven books of the New Testament

The Seven-fold Purpose of Lights:

1. Divide day and night, light and darkness (Genesis 1:14,18)

2. Be for signs (Genesis 1:14)

3. Be for seasons (Genesis 1:14)

4. Be for days (Genesis 1:14)

5. Be for years (Genesis 1:14)

6. Give light on earth (Genesis 1:15, 17)

7. Rule day and night eternally (Genesis 1:16, 18; Genesis 8:22) Genesis 1:16.

Sixteen Terms of the Covenant

1. To walk in God's law.

2. To observe and do all the commandments of the Lord.

3. To keep His judgments and His statutes.

4. Not to give their daughters as wives of foreigners (Neh. 10:30).

5. Not to give their sons as husbands of foreigners.

6. Not to buy on the sabbath (Neh. 10:31).

7. Not to buy on any holy day.

8. To observe the seventh year as one of rest-keeping the sabbatical year (Neh. 10:31; Exodus 23:10-11; Leviticus 25).

9. To pay a third of a shekel each to the temple yearly (Neh. 10:32-33).

10. To supply wood for the temple (Neh. 10:34).

11. To bring in all the firstfruits to the priests (Neh. 10:35-37).

12. To observe the law of the firstborn (Neh. 9:36; Exodus 13:2,12-13; Leviticus 27:26-27; Numbers 18:15-16; Deut. 12:6.

13. To tithe all the income (Neh. 10:37).

14. To pay the tithe of tithes (Neh. 10:38).

15. To bring offerings to the temple (Neh. 10:39).

16. Not to forsake the house of God.

Daniel 9:27 And he shall confirm the covenant with many for one week: and in the midst of the week he shall cause the sacrifice and the oblation to cease, and for the overspreading of abominations he shall make it desolate, even until the consummation, and that determined shall be poured upon the desolate.

Christ, the substance of Isa 42:6; 49:8.

Christ, the Mediator of Heb 8:6; 9:15; 12:24.

Christ, the Messenger of Mal 3:1.

Made with

Abraham. Ge 15:7-18; 17:2-14; Lu 1:72-75; Ac 3:25; Ga 3:16.

Isaac. Ge 17:19, 21; 26:3, 4.

Jacob. Ge 28:13, 14; 1Ch 16:16,17.

Israel. Ex 6:4; Ac. 3:25.

David. 2 Sam. 23:5; Ps 89:3, 4.

Renewed under the gospel Jer 31:31-33; Ro 11:27; Heb 8:8-10, 13.

Fulfilled in Christ Lu 1:68-79.

Confirmed in Christ Ga 3:17.

Ratified by the blood of Christ Heb 9:11-14, 16-23.

Is a covenant of peace Isa 54:9,10; Eze 34:25; 37:26.

Is unalterable Ps 89:34; Isa 54:10; 59:21; Ga 3:17.

Is everlasting Ps 111:9; Isa 55:3; 61:8; Eze 16:60-63; Heb 13:20.

All saints interested in Ps 25:14; 89:29-37; Heb 8:10.

The wicked have no interest in Eph 2:12.

Blessings connected with Isa 56:4-7; Heb 8:10-12.

God is faithful to De 7:9; 1Ki 8:23; Nei. 1:5; Dan. 9:4.

God is ever mindful of Ps 105:8; 111:5; Lu 1:72.

Be mindful of 1Ch 16:15.

Caution against forgetting De 4:23.

Plead, in prayer Ps 74:20; Jer 14:21.

Punishment for despising Heb 10:29, 30

The Renewed Covenant

The renewed covenant of Exodus 34:10-28 was made with Moses and Israel in answer to the three requests of Exodus 34:9. Of the Ten Commandments, the ones emphasized here were the main ones broken in the sin with the golden calf (Exodus 32:1-6, 21-25; Also see Exodus 34:12-17).

Covenants of Scripture

Covenants Were:

1. Sacred (Joshua 9:18; Galatians 3:15-17)

2. Binding (Joshua 9:18; Galatians 3:15-17)

3. Upheld with penalty for breaking (Leviticus 26; Deut. 28; 2 Samuel 21:1-6; Jeremiah 34:8-22; Ezekiel 17:13-19)

4. Covenants Were Ratified by:

(1) Oaths (note, Genesis 22:16)

(2) Blood of animals (Genesis 15:9-17; Genesis 31:43-53; Exodus 24:8; Hebrews 9:19-22)

(3) Feasts (Genesis 21:26-31; Genesis 26:30-31; Genesis 31:46,54)

(4) Monuments (Genesis 28:16-22; Genesis 31:43-53)

(5) Raising of the hands (Ezra 10:19; cp. Genesis 14:22)

(6) Pulling off shoes (Ruth 4:7-8)

(7) Blood of Christ (Matthew 26:28; Hebrews 9:11-22; Hebrews 13:11-12, 20)

Concerning the old covenant, the Ten Commandments were written on stone originally, which Moses threw down and broke. Then God burned them again into new tables of stone like the first (Deut. 10:1) which were kept in the ark that had a mercy-seat on it as a constant reminder of God's presence and of man's obligation to obey it (Numbers 10:33; Numbers 14:44; Deut. 10:8; Joshua 3:3-17; etc.). The new covenant has an eternal ark (Hebrews 8:1-6; Hebrews 9:1-22; Rev. 11:19).

Genesis 31:45

Each man present gathered a stone as a personal token of the covenant (Genesis 31:46-52). There were two significant stones in Jacob's life:

1. A monument of his covenant with God (Genesis 28:18)

2. A monument of his covenant with Laban (Genesis 31:45)

Fifteen Great Covenants of Scripture

2. Edenic (Genesis 1:26-3:24). This was made with Adam and Eve before the fall and was conditional upon obedience (Genesis 2:17). The terms of the covenant were:

(1) Be fruitful, not sterile (Genesis 1:28).

(2) Multiply, increase human kind (Genesis 1:28).

(3) Replenish the earth with people, as when Lucifer ruled (Genesis 1:28).

(4) Subdue the earth (Genesis 1:28).

(5) Rule all God's works (Genesis 1:28; Psalm 8).

(6) Till the ground and be a partaker of the garden (Genesis 2:15).

(7) Protect your dominion from enemies (Genesis 2:15).

(8) Freely eat of all things except the tree of knowledge (Genesis 1:29-30).

(9) Refrain from eating of the tree of knowledge (Genesis 2:16-17).

(10) Fear the penalty for sin (Genesis 2:17).

(1) The five-fold curse on:

(A) The serpent (Genesis 3:14,15; Isaiah 65:25)

(B) Satan (Genesis 3:15; John 12:31; Col. 2:14-17; Hebrews 2:14-18)

(D) The man (Genesis 3:17-19; Psalm 90:9,10; Romans 5:12-21)

(E) The ground (Genesis 3:17-19; Romans 8:18-23)

(2) The promise in Genesis 3:15. This included redemption and the removal of the curse (Romans 8:18-23; Rev. 22:3).

4. Cainic (Genesis 4:11-15). This was a pledge to Cain of vengeance on anyone who found him and killed him.

5. Noahic (Genesis 8:20-9:29). This contract was made with Noah and the beasts of the field after the flood and ushered in the Dispensation of Human Government. The terms of the covenant were:

(1) God would not curse the ground or living creatures any more "while the earth remaineth" (Genesis 8:22; Genesis 9:12,16)

(2) Man should replenish the earth forever (Genesis 9:1,12,16).

(3) Man should rule the earth (Genesis 9:2,3).

(4) Animals should be eaten, but not the blood (Genesis 9:3,4)

(5) There should be capital punishment for murderers (Genesis 9:5,6; Numbers 35)

(6) The rainbow should be a sign of the covenant (Genesis 9:12-17).

(7) The covenant would be eternal (Genesis 9:12,16).

(1) The seven-fold promise:

(A) "I will make of thee a great nation" (Genesis 12:1-3; Genesis 13:16; Genesis 17:18-20; Genesis 24:34,35; Galatians 3)

(B) "Make thy name great" (Genesis 12:1-3; Exodus 2:24,25; Exodus 6:3-8)

(D) "I will bless them that bless thee" (Genesis 12:1-3; Matthew 25:31-46)

(E) "I will bless thee" (Genesis 13:14-18; Genesis 15:18-21; Galatians 3)

(F) "I will curse them that curse thee" (Zech. 14; Matthew 25:31-46)

(G) "In thee shall all the nations of the world be blessed" (Deut. 28:8-14; Isaiah 60:3-5; Isaiah 66:18-21; John 8:56-58; Galatians 3:16)

(2) The sign of the covenant: circumcision (Genesis 17:1-21; Isaiah 24:5)

7. Hagaric (Genesis 16:7-14). This was a covenant made with Hagar concerning her seed through Ishmael, Abraham's son. It concerned many generations and was in three parts:

(1) Commands:

(A) Return, submit to Sarah (Genesis 16:9)

(B) Call her son Ishmael, meaning "God shall hear" (Genesis 16:11)

(2) Promises:

(A) Seed to be multiplied beyond number (Genesis 16:10; Genesis 17:20-22)

(B) Ishmael to be blessed and become a great nation (Genesis 17:20; Genesis 21:17-18)

(3) Prophetic revelation:

(A) Ishmael to be a wild man (Genesis 16:12)

(B) His hand to be against every man (Genesis 16:12)

(D) Ishmael to dwell in the presence of his brethren (Genesis 16:12)

8. Sarahic (Genesis 17:15-19; Genesis 18:9-15). This covenant was made with Sarah and promised certain blessings to her and her offspring Isaac for many generations. It was in two parts:

(1) Commands:

(A) Change her name from Sarai to Sarah, meaning "princess" (Genesis 17:15)

(B) Call her son Isaac (Genesis 17:19)

(2) Promises:

(A) To be blessed with a son (Genesis 17:16-19; Genesis 18:10-15)

(B) To be made a mother of nations (Genesis 17:16)

(D) Abrahamic covenant to be continued with Isaac (Genesis 17:19)

(E) Abrahamic covenant to be continued with Isaac's seed forever (Genesis 17:19)

9. Healing (Exodus 15:26; Exodus 23:25). This was made with Israel and all who desired or chose to come under the covenant of God as given to Moses. It was in two parts:

(1) Commands:

(A) Diligently hearken to God's voice (Exodus 15:26; Leviticus 26:14-15)

(B) Do that which is right in His sight (Exodus 15:26)

(D) Keep all His statutes (Exodus 15:26; Leviticus 26:3,14-15)

(E) Serve the Lord (Exodus 23:25)

(2) Promises:

(A) "I will put none of these diseases upon thee" (Exodus 15:26)

(B) "I am the Lord that healeth thee" (Exodus 15:26)

This covenant was made a part of the new covenant, for Christ "took our infirmities and bare our sicknesses" (Isaiah 53; Matthew 8:17; 1 Peter 2:24).

10. Mosaic or old covenant; also called the Old Testament (Exodus 20:1-24:8; 2 Cor. 3:6-18).

11. Levitic (Numbers 25:10-14). This was given through Moses to Phinehas, the son of Levi, who was zealous for the Lord and executed judgment upon rebels (Numbers 25:1-9). It consisted of two great promises:

(1) Peace and blessing to Levi's house (Numbers 25:12)

(2) An everlasting priesthood (Numbers 25:13)

12. Palestinian (Leviticus 26; Deut. 11:8-32; Deut. 27:1-30:20). This covenant was made with Israel through Moses and was conditioned upon the obedience of the nation. There were seven parts:

(1) Dispersion for disobedience (Deut. 28:63-68; Deut. 30:1)

(2) Repentance while in dispersion (Deut. 30:2; Zech. 12:10-14)

(3) The return of the Lord (Deut. 30:3; Zech. 14; Acts 15:14-17)

(4) Restoration in the land (Deut. 30:5; Isaiah 11:1-12; Ezekiel 37; Matthew 24:31)

(5) National conversion (Deut. 30:6; Isaiah 66; Zech. 12:10-13; Romans 11:26)

(6) Judgment of Israel's oppressors (Deut. 30:7; Zech. 14; Matthew 25:31-46)

(7) National prosperity (Deut. 30:9-10; Romans 11)

13. Salt (Leviticus 2:13; Numbers 18:19). A covenant made with Israel concerning the sacrifices they were to offer forever. See usage of salt in Mark 9:49,50; and Col. 4:6. In Palestine and surrounding countries salt was used in making covenants. If people dined together on food with salt in it, they became friends, though they may have been enemies before. The Arab expression, "There is salt between us," or "He has eaten of my salt," means partaking of the hospitality which cements friendship. Covenants were generally confirmed at sacrificial meals and salt was always present. The covenant of salt pictured the everlasting friendship between God and His people (Numbers 18:19).

(1) A Davidic house forever (2 Samuel 7:13-16; Psalm 89:20-37; Luke 1:32-35)

(2) A Davidic throne forever (2 Samuel 7:12-16; Isaiah 9:6,7; Luke 1:32-35)

(3) A Davidic kingdom forever (2 Samuel 7:12-16; Isaiah 9:6,7; Luke 1:32-35)

(4) A sure land for Israel forever (Genesis 17; 2 Samuel 7:10)

(5) No more affliction from the nations forever (Deut. 28:1-30:10; 2 Samuel 7:10)

(6) The Fatherly care of God forever (2 Samuel 7:14; 2 Cor. 6:15-18)

(7) An eternal covenant (2 Samuel 7:10-16; Isaiah 9:6,7; Luke 1:32,33)

The Seven-fold Purpose of Lights:

1. Divide day and night, light and darkness (Genesis 1:14,18)

2. Be for signs (Genesis 1:14)

3. Be for seasons (Genesis 1:14)

4. Be for days (Genesis 1:14)

5. Be for years (Genesis 1:14)

6. Give light on earth (Genesis 1:15,17)

7. Rule day and night eternally (Genesis 1:16,18; Genesis 8:22)

Genesis 1:16

Covenant

A contract or agreement between two parties. In the Old Testament the Hebrew word berith is always thus translated. Berith is derived from a root which means "to cut," and hence a covenant is a "cutting," with reference to the cutting or dividing of animals into two parts, and the contracting parties passing between them, in making a covenant (Gen. 15; Jer. 34:18, 19).

This word is used (1) of a covenant or compact between man and man (Gen. 21:32), or between tribes or nations (1 Sam. 11:1; Josh. 9:6, 15). In entering into a covenant, Jehovah was solemnly called on to witness the transaction (Gen. 31:50), and hence it was called a "covenant of the Lord" (1 Sam. 20:8). The marriage compact is called "the covenant of God" (Prov. 2:17), because the marriage was made in God's name. Wicked men are spoken of as acting as if they had made a "covenant with death" not to destroy them, or with hell not to devour them (Isa. 28:15, 18).

A "covenant of salt" signifies an everlasting covenant, in the sealing or ratifying of which salt, as an emblem of perpetuity, is used (Num. 18:19; Lev. 2:13; 2 Chr. 13:5).

This covenant is also called a covenant of nature, as made with man in his natural or unfallen state; a covenant of life, because "life" was the promise attached to obedience; and a legal covenant, because it demanded perfect obedience to the law.

The "tree of life" was the outward sign and seal of that life which was promised in the covenant, and hence it is usually called the seal of that covenant.

This covenant is abrogated under the gospel, inasmuch as Christ has fulfilled all its conditions in behalf of his people, and now offers salvation on the condition of faith. It is still in force, however, as it rests on the immutable justice of God, and is binding on all who have not fled to Christ and accepted his righteousness.

CONVENANT OF GRACE, the eternal plan of redemption entered into by the three persons of the Godhead, and carried out by them in its several parts. In it the Father represented the Godhead in its indivisible sovereignty, and the Son his people as their surety (John 17:4, 6, 9; Isa. 42:6; Ps. 89:3).

The conditions of this covenant were, (1.) On the part of the Father (a) all needful preparation to the Son for the accomplishment of his work (Heb. 10:5; Isa. 42:1-7); (b) support in the work (Luke 22:43); and (c) a glorious reward in the exaltation of Christ when his work was done (Phil. 2:6-11), his investiture with universal dominion (John 5:22; Ps. 110:1), his having the administration of the covenant committed into his hands (Matt. 28:18; John 1:12; 17:2; Acts 2:33), and in the final salvation of all his people (Isa. 35:10; 53:10, 11; Jer. 31:33; Titus 1:2). (2.) On the part of the Son the conditions were (a) his becoming incarnate (Gal. 4:4, 5); and (b) as the second Adam his representing all his people, assuming their place and undertaking all their obligations under the violated covenant of works; (c) obeying the law (Ps. 40:8; Isa. 42:21; John 9:4, 5), and (d) suffering its penalty (Isa. 53; 2 Cor. 5:21; Gal. 3:13), in their stead.

Christ, the mediator of, fulfils all its conditions in behalf of his people, and dispenses to them all its blessings. In Heb. 8:6; 9:15; 12:24, this title is given to Christ

Old and New Covenant Contrasts,

(Eighty Five)

	OLD TESTAMENT	NEW TESTAMENT
1	Old Testament (2 Cor. 3:14)	New Testament (2 Cor. 3:6)
2	First covenant (Hebrews 8:7; Hebrews 9:1)	Second covenant (Hebrews 8:7; Hebrews 10:1-9)
3	Came by Moses (John 1:17)	Came by Christ (Hebrews 8:6; Hebrews 9:15)
4	Law of Moses (Acts 13:38-39)	Law of Christ (Galatians 6:2)
5	Law of sin (Romans 7:23; Romans 8:2)	Law of righteousness (Romans 9:31)
6	Law of the flesh (Romans 7:5-6)	Law of the Spirit (Romans 8:2)
7	Not of faith (Galatians 3:12)	Law of faith (Romans 3:27)
8	Yoke of bondage (Galatians 5:1)	Law of liberty (James 1:25)
9	Ended by Christ (Romans 10:4)	Started by Christ (Hebrews 8:6; Hebrews 10:9)
10	Brought death (2 Cor. 3:7)	Brought life (Romans 8:2; Galatians 3)
11	Makes guilty (2 Cor. 3:9)	Makes free (Galatians 5:1; John 8)
12	A shadow (Col. 2:14-17)	The reality (Hebrews 10:1-18)
13	Fulfilled (Matthew 5:17-18)	Now in force (Hebrews 8:6; Hebrews 10:9)
14	Demands righteousness (Luke 10:28)	Gives righteousness (John 1:17; John 3:16)
15	Makes imperfect (Hebrews 7:19)	Makes perfect (Hebrews 7:19)
16	Glorious (2 Cor. 3:7)	More glorious (2 Cor. 3:8-10)
17	Powerless to save (Hebrews 9:9; Hebrews 10:4)	Saves to uttermost (Hebrews 7:25)
18	Many sacrifices (Hebrews 9:12-13)	One sacrifice (Hebrews 10:12)
19	Temporary priest (Hebrews 7:23)	Eternal priest (Hebrews 7:17)
20	Remembers sins (Hebrews 10:3)	Forgets sins (Hebrews 8:12; Hebrews 10:17)
21	Yearly atonement (Hebrews 10:3)	Eternal atonement (Hebrews 10:14)
22	Sinful ministry (Hebrews 5:1-4)	Sinless ministry (Hebrews 7:26)
23	Aaronic priesthood (Hebrews 7:11)	Melchisedek (Hebrews 5:5-10; Hebrews 7:21)
24	Of Levi (Hebrews 7:11)	Of Judah (Hebrews 7:14)
25	Animal sacrifices (Hebrews 9:12)	Human sacrifice (Hebrews 9:14-28)
26	Earthly tabernacle (Hebrews 9:2)	Heavenly tabernacle (Hebrews 8:2)
27	Sinful mediator (Galatians 3:19)	Sinless mediator (1 Tim. 2:5)
28	No inheritance (Romans 4:13)	Eternal inheritance (Hebrews 9:15)
29	Ratified by animal blood (Hebrews 9:16-22)	Ratified by the blood of Christ (Matthew 26:28)
30	Law of works (Romans 3:26-31)	Law of grace (John 1:17)
31	Works wrath (Romans 4:15)	Saves from wrath (Romans 5:9)
32	Could not redeem (Hebrews 10:4)	Redeems (Galatians 3:13; Hebrews 9:12-15)
33	Could not satisfy (Isaiah 1:13-14)	Does satisfy God (Hebrews 10:15-18)
34	No miracle power (Hebrews 7:18)	Miracles (Galatians 3:1-5; John 14:12)
35	Abolishment predicted (Hosea 2:11)	Establishment predicted (Hebrews 8:7)
36	Circumcision (Exodus 12:48)	No circumcision (Romans 4:9-25)
37	Made to change (Hebrews 9; Galatians 3)	Made eternal (Hebrews 13:20)
38	Faulty (Hebrews 8:7)	Perfect (James 1:25)
39	Weak (Hebrews 7:18)	Strong (Hebrews 7:25)
40	Unprofitable (Hebrews 7:18)	Profitable (Hebrews 7:19,25)
41	Natural program (Hebrews 9:10-13)	Spiritual program (2 Cor. 3:6,13)
42	Daily program (Hebrews 7:27)	Finished program (Hebrews 10:10-18)
43	Weak priests (Hebrews 5:2; Hebrews 7:28)	Perfect priest (Hebrews 7:26)
44	Priests by law (Hebrews 7:28)	Priest by an oath (Hebrews 7:21,28)
45	No salvation (Hebrews 10:2-4)	Eternal salvation (Hebrews 5:9; Hebrews 10:10)
46	Self-honored (Hebrews 5:4)	God-honored priest (Hebrews 5:5)
47	Nothing perfect (Hebrews 7:19)	Makes perfect (Hebrews 7:19; Hebrews 10:14)
48	No intercessors (Isaiah 59:16)	Two intercessors (Romans 8:26,34; Hebrews 7:25)
49	Costly program (Hebrews 5:1; Hebrews 9:9)	Free for all (Ephes. 2:8; Rev. 22:17)
50	Earthly agents (Hebrews 5:1-4)	Heavenly agent (Hebrews 9:24; Hebrews 10:12)
51	Monotonous failure (Hebrews 10:11)	Glorious success (Hebrews 10:10-18)
52	No personal access to God (Hebrews 9:7)	Personal access to God (Hebrews 4:14-16; Hebrews 10:19)
53	Many offerings (Hebrews 9:12-13)	One offering (Hebrews 10:10-14)
54	Good promises (Deut. 28:1-14)	Better promises (Hebrews 8:6)
55	A good covenant (Romans 7:12)	A better covenant (Hebrews 7:22; Hebrews 8:6)
56	Many priests (Hebrews 7:23)	One priest (Hebrews 7:24-28)
57	Many sufferings (Hebrews 9:12-13)	One suffering (Hebrews 9:26; Hebrews 10:14)
58	Present things (Hebrews 9:9)	Things to come (Hebrews 10:1)
59	Typical tabernacle (Hebrews 9)	True tabernacle (Hebrews 8:2; Hebrews 9:11)
60	Dead works (Hebrews 9:14)	Living service (Hebrews 9:14)
61	Made at Sinai (Galatians 4:24)	Made at Calvary (Matthew 26:28)
62	No mercy (Hebrews 10:28)	Complete mercy (Hebrews 8:12)
63	Handmade things (Hebrews 9:1-5,24)	Not handmade (Hebrews 9:23-24)
64	Given by angels (Galatians 3:19)	By the Holy Spirit (Hebrews 10:15-18)
65	An old way (Hebrews 8:13)	New and living way (Hebrews 10:19-20)
66	Helpless ministers (Hebrews 7:18)	Able ministers (2 Cor. 3:6)
67	Carnal ministry (Hebrews 9:9-10)	Spiritual ministry (2 Cor. 3:6)
68	Ministration of (2 Cor. 3:6,8)	Ministration of Spirit and life (2 Cor. 3:7)
69	Ministration of condemnation (2 Cor. 3:9)	Ministration of righteousness (2 Cor. 3:9)
70	Glory covered (2 Cor. 3:13)	Glory uncovered
71	Brings bondage (Galatians 4:24-25)	Brings liberty (2 Cor. 3:17)
72	Cannot justify (Galatians 2:16)	Can justify (Acts 13:38-39)
73	Brings a curse (Galatians 3:10)	Redeems from it (Galatians 3:13)
74	Live by works (Galatians 3:10)	Live by faith (Galatians 3:11)
75	Cannot give life (Galatians 3:21)	Can give life (John 6:63-68)
76	Exposes sin (Galatians 3:19)	Covers sin (Romans 4:1-8)
77	Under law (Romans 6:14-15)	Under grace (Galatians 3:22-25)
78	Engenders persecution (Galatians 4:29)	Engenders tolerance (1 Cor. 13)
79	Done away (2 Cor. 3:7-14)	Not done away (2 Cor. 3:11)
80	Abolished (2 Cor. 3:13)	Remains (2 Cor. 3:11)
81	Cast out (Galatians 4:30)	Not cast out (Hebrews 8:6)
82	Taken away (Hebrews 10:9)	Not taken away (Hebrews 10:9)
83	Blotted out (Col. 2:14-17)	Not blotted out (Hebrews 8:6)
84	Not by an oath (Hebrews 7:20-21)	Made by an oath (Hebrews 7:20-21)
85	For Israel only (Deut. 4:7-8; Deut. 5:3)	For all people (Matthew 26:28)

Don’t break your Covenant with God!

Revs. Mr. and Mrs. H. Dean Daniels Sui Juris