Dr. Adetokunbo Illesanmi makes a good distinction between a covenant and a blessing. “A covenant is a sacred agreement between God and people, while a blessing is a promise of God to reward people who obey certain conditions. Covenants are often accompanied by oaths, signs and ceremonies, defining obligations and commitments…When people accept the terms of a covenant and obey God’s law, they receive the blessings associated with that covenant.”
In my view, the New Covenant is a capstone of all Biblical covenants because all covenants are consummated in Christ. Jesus as the mediator of the New Covenant has brought us unquantifiable blessings and benefits. One, the new Covenant was established on better promises. “That is why he is the one who mediates a new covenant between God and people, so that all who are called can receive the eternal inheritance God has promised them. For Christ died to set them free from the penalty of the sins they had committed under that first covenant,” (Hebrews 9:15 NLT).
Two, the New Covenant was established on a better hope. “For the law never made anything perfect. But now we have confidence in a better hope, through which we draw near to God,” (Hebrews 7:19 NLT).
Thirdly, the New Covenant created a new and living way through the veil that is his flesh.
Fourthly, in the New Covenant, God qualifies us (Col 1:12). It is no longer a case of what we do (under the law covenant) or who we were related to (under the Abrahamic covenant), but who we trust, our faith in Christ Jesus.
Five, in the New Covenant, we have the forgiveness of sins. Our sins are not merely covered by the blood of bulls and goats; they are paid for and taken away by the Lamb of God (John 1:29). At the cross, justice was satisfied. His forgiveness is eternal and complete.
Six, in the New Covenant, we get to know what is freely given to us. “Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who is from God, that we might know the things that have been freely given to us by God,” (I Corinthians 2:12 NKJV).
Seven, we have unimpeded access into the Father’s presence. “For through Him we both have access by one Spirit to the Father,” (Ephesians 2:18 NKJV). Because of Jesus, the door to the throne room is always open (Heb. 4:16). We can approach him with freedom and confidence (Eph 3:12).
Eight, in the New Covenant, we receive the gift of the Holy Spirit (John 14:26), who empowers us for service (Acts 1:8).
Nine, in the New Covenant, we are all made royal priests unto God. Priesthood is no longer for a select few (1 Peter 2:9).
Ten, we are predestined, called, justified and glorified through Christ (Romans 8:30). We are seated with Christ in heavenly places (Eph 2:6).
In summary, certain words describe our covenant blessings with God. Predestined (Romans 8:30); regenerated (John 1:12); adopted (Gal.4:5-6); and glorified (Rom.8:19-21). Redeemed (Ephesians 1:7-8) and sanctified, Hebrews 2:11, among others.
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