Understanding Biblical Covenants

Introduction

• Definition of Covenant: A contract or agreement; in the Bible, it's between God and His people.
• Importance: Understanding covenants is key to grasping God's purposes and will.
• Total Covenants: Eight covenants in the Bible.

The Edenic Covenant

• Key Word: Rule
• Scripture: Genesis 2:15
• Purpose: Man was to rule and enjoy God's creation.
• Outcome: Man rebelled (Adam's sin), losing his designated role.

The Adamic Covenant

• Key Word: Redemption
• Scripture: Genesis 3:15
• Consequence of Sin: Curse on man, animals, and the earth.
• Promise: Enmity between serpent's seed (Satan) and woman's seed (Jesus).
• Fulfillment: Jesus' victory over sin and death.

The Noahic Covenant

• Key Word: Restraint
• Scripture: Genesis 8:21
• Context: Preservation of Noah and animals; God's mercy.
• Sign: Rainbow, promise never to destroy all life again.

The Abrahamic Covenant

• Key Word: Restore
• Scripture: Genesis 12:1-3
• Promises to Abraham:
  • Land (Israel)
  • People (Jews)
  • Blessing to all nations

The Mosaic Covenant

• Key Word: Reveal
• Context: Reveals God's standards and man's sin.
• Conditions: Man must follow God's laws (Leviticus 26).
• Purpose: Temporary, leading to need for a sacrifice; fulfilled by Christ.

The Palestinian Covenant

• Key Word: Return
• Scripture: Deuteronomy 29-30
• Promise: Return to God and land; new heart in future with Christ's return.

The Davidic Covenant

• Key Word: Reign
• Scripture: 2 Samuel 7:12-16
• Promises to David:
  • A throne
  • A house
  • A kingdom forever
• Fulfillment: Ultimately in Jesus Christ, David’s greater son.

The New Covenant

• Key Word: Regenerate
• Scripture: Jeremiah 31:27-34
• Context: Exile and promise of return with a new heart.
• Fulfillment: Jesus speaks of the new covenant for the church at the Last Supper.

Conclusion

• Purpose: Fulfillment of all covenants for God's children to rule and enjoy Him eternally.
• Final Vision: All covenants complete with the second coming of Jesus.