PART I The Two Covenants
What is a Covenant? “an agreement of solemn and binding force” (ISBE) Idea of “binding” is found in definitions of this word in many languages There is more than one type of covenant Parity Vassal Unilateral
Parity Covenants Covenant between equals (Gal. 3:15) Example: Abraham and Abimelech (Gen. 21:22-27) More than a casual agreement Negotiated conditions Both recognized binding nature of their covenant Similar to our modern idea of contracts
Vassal Covenants Different than parity covenants (Ps. 111:9) Covenant that stronger party makes with weaker God’s covenants with man are not parity covenants Ex. 19:5-6; Ps. 78:10; Deut. 4:9-14 Israel agrees to obey covenant (Ex. 24:3-8) OT example: Gen. 6:13-22 NT example: Matt. 28:18-19; Mark 16:15-16
Unilateral Covenants Still between a stronger party and a weaker Only a one-sided covenant God’s second covenant with Noah Gen. 9:8-17 God’s promise to David to establish him a house 2 Sam. 7:10-16; Acts 2:30 God’s covenant with Abraham (Gen. 12:1-3)