Allegory in Scripture: Understanding the Two Covenants

Overview

• Discussion of the allegory in relation to biblical covenants.
• Key focus on distinguishing between the "book of the law" and the "book of the covenant."

Key Scriptural References

• Galatians Chapter 4 Verse 21: Introduction to the allegory of two sons, representing two covenants.
  • Son by the bondwoman (Hagar) = "Book of the Law" = Carnal, fleshly, bondage.
  • Son by the free woman = "Book of the Covenant" = Promise, faith.
• Exodus Chapter 24 Verse 12 & Verse 8: Context of receiving the law post blood ratification.
• Hebrews Chapter 12 Verse 22: Reference to Mount Zion and the heavenly Jerusalem.
• Ephesians Chapter 2 Verses 12-22: Reinforcement of covenants of promise through Messiah.

Allegorical Interpretation

• Two Sons: Representing two covenants.
  • Bondwoman's son (Hagar): Represents Sinai covenant leading to slavery.
  • Free woman's son: Represents the covenant of promise, faith-based.
• Mount Sinai vs. Mount Zion:
  • Mount Sinai: Associated with Hagar, slavery, and the law.
  • Mount Zion: Associated with the living God, heavenly Jerusalem, freedom.

Covenant Dichotomy

• Book of the Law vs. Book of the Covenant:
  • Book of the Law: Represents bondage, the current state of Jerusalem in Paul's time.
  • Book of the Covenant: Represents freedom, heavenly Jerusalem, and the promise.

Paul's Allegory and Theological Implications

• Current State of Jerusalem:
  • Under the bondage of the "Book of the Law."
  • Transition urged by Paul from law to faith through Yahushua.
• Transformation by Messiah:
  • Yahushua's resurrection changes the priesthood.
  • Encourages movement from bondage under the law to freedom in the covenant.

Conclusion

• Significance of Allegory:
  • Emphasizes the division and transition from the old covenant (law) to the new covenant (promise).
  • Highlights the theological shift brought about by Messiah, emphasizing freedom and faith.
  • Serves as a foundational understanding for the early church's shift away from purely legalistic adherence to the law.

Additional References

• Exodus 19:5-24:8: Israel's calling as a "gathered assembly" and "firstborn," supporting the Covenant interpretation.
• Hebrews and Ephesians: Further reading for deeper understanding of covenant theology and promise fulfillment in the New Testament.