Covenant

Scripture: Genesis 17:1-10.

Memory Verse: “And I will make my covenant between me and thee, and will multiply thee exceedingly”. Gen. 17:2.

Introduction

Our God is The Greatest. He is sovereign and more than able to keep all His covenants. In Genesis 17:2, God told Abraham, “And I will make my covenant between me and thee, and will multiply thee exceedingly.” He always wants to bless.
Definition

A covenant is a solemn bond between two or more parties usually in the form of an oath. Isa. 59:21; Jer. 31:33, 34; Gal. 3:15-18. God wants a deep, sacred commitment from His own. He covenanted with Noah, Abraham, and David – Gen. 9:8, 9; Gen. 17:4, 5; Ps. 89:3, 4; Gen.17:4, 5.

• Noahic Covenant: Gen 6:18; Gen. 9:8-17. This has mighty promises from God subject to Noah’s commitment and obedience.

• Abrahamic Covenant: Gen. 17:7-21; Gen. 17:1. The promise was that Abraham would have many descendants who will inherit the “promised land” of Canaan.

• The Sinai or Mosaic Covenant: Exo. 19:5-6; Exo. 24:7-10; Exo. 31:18

• Palestinian Covenant: Lev. 26:1; Deut. 11:8-32

• Davidic Covenant: 2 Sam. 23:5.
The New Covenant

Jesus initiated a new covenant between God and man – Jer. 31:31-34. This is superior to all previous covenants. It governs all areas of life and we must measure all we think, say or do against this covenant. All conflicts must be resolved in favour of this ultimate covenant. Heb. 9:23-28; John 1:29. His blood cleanses from all sin. – 1 Jn. 1:9.
Conclusion
The new covenant is the best deal for mankind’s deliverance from sin, it’s consequences and eternal perdition. It ushered in a new era and new life. All previous covenants were precursors showing the futility and emptiness of our efforts to mend the rift between God and man. It is indeed the dividing line between saints and sinners. The most significant features of the new covenant are living a holy life and showing as many people as possible the way out of damnation. It is borne out of pure grace and compassion. There is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to man for salvation except the name of Jesus. Please accept and live for Him for the rest of your life. And so shall it be in Jesus’ name. Amen!