What is a covenant?
- A solemn promise enforced by a curse one invokes on oneself. Obedience is also encouraged by promised blessings.
When did the Old Covenant begin?
- Previous covenants: Adam, Noah, Abraham
- But when we speak of the New Covenant this is the covenant which has been replaced.
- The nation of Israel entered into a covenant with God.
- “All that the Lord has spoke we will do and we will be obedient.”
What did the blood mean?
- Covenant: “May this happen to me if I should break this covenant” (Jer 34:18-20)
- Sacrifice: “This should have happened to me but God has mercifully allowed this animal to take my place.”
Was mercy available to those who broke the Old Covenant?
- Yes, for most sins but not for blasphemy, murder, adultery, kidnapping