In this message, I look at 9 distinctive elements of the New Covenant as I compare it with the Old Covenant.
1. Better promises – Hebrews 8:6 – “But as it is, Christ has obtained a ministry that is as much more excellent than the old as the covenant he mediates is better, since it is enacted on better promises.
2. Old is OLD…New is NEW…Hebrews 8:13 – “In speaking of a new covenant, he makes the first one obsolete. And what is becoming obsolete and growing old is ready to vanish away.”
3. Healing – OT provided vs. NT - provided AND authority to heal
4. Priesthood of ALL believers – Hebrews 4:16 – “Let us then with confidence draw near to (boldly approach) the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.”
5. Prophethood of ALL believers – Cessationism? – Everyone CAN hear from God! Blessing and ABUSED. Risky relationships.
6. Everyone gets access – Joel 2/Acts 2 – young/old, rich/poor, male/female, Jews/Gentiles
7. Holy Spirit permanently resides INSIDE / New Creation & Nature / Law on hearts
1 John 2:27 - And as for you, the anointing which you received from Him remains in you, and you have no need for anyone to teach you; but as His anointing teaches you about all things, and is true and is not a lie, and just as it has taught you, you remain in Him.
8. Became Sons/Daughters – God became man so that mankind could become sons of God. Inheritance. New type of relationship. Father/Son! OT – Sons of God were ONLY angels.
9. Leadership’s Purpose (5-fold Ministry) is different (upside-down pyramid) – Ephesian 4:11-12 -11 And he gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the shepherds (pastors) and teachers, 12 to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ
Jesus vs. Moses – “greater works YOU SHALL DO…”
