North Charlottesville church of Christ

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Lesson 4A - the Nature and Purpose of the New Covenant

Larry Rouse
01/29/25 - Wed Bible Study

Series: The Covenants of God

Meeting Purpose

To continue the study of God's covenants, focusing on the differences and similarities between the Old and New Covenants and the concept of glory.

Key Takeaways

• The Old and New Covenants have important differences, but both are valuable for study and understanding God's plan

• The Old Covenant was temporary and physical/"fleshly", while the New Covenant is eternal and spiritual

• The concept of "glory" refers to God's nature being revealed or reflected, with the New Covenant providing a fuller revelation of God's glory

• Studying God's glory can lead to spiritual growth and transformation

Topics

Importance of Studying Both Covenants

• Both Old and New Testaments are Scripture and profitable (2 Timothy 3:16-17)

• Early Christians studied the Old Testament extensively

• The Old Testament provides context, prophecies, and examples for New Testament teachings

Contrasts Between Old and New Covenants

• Old Covenant: temporary, physical/"fleshly", limited to Jews

• New Covenant: eternal, spiritual, for all people

• Hebrews emphasizes these contrasts (e.g. Hebrews 9:9-10)

• Physical vs spiritual nature seen in other areas (e.g. resurrection bodies, 1 Corinthians 15:44-47)

The Concept of Glory

• Glory defined as God's nature being revealed or reflected

• Old Covenant had glory (e.g. Moses' face shining), but was passing away

• New Covenant has greater, eternal glory (2 Corinthians 3:7-11)

• Jesus fully reveals God's glory (John 1:14)

• Studying God's glory leads to spiritual transformation

Revelation of God's Goodness

• Moses asked to see God's glory, God revealed His goodness (Exodus 33:18-19)

• God's goodness includes His grace and compassion

• New Covenant provides fuller revelation of God's goodness through Christ

Next Steps

• Continue studying the concept of glory in Scripture

• Reflect on how seeing God's glory can lead to personal spiritual growth

• Prepare to discuss more about the revealed will of the apostles in the next lesson