North Charlottesville church of Christ

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

Larry Rouse
02/05/25 - Wed Bible Study

Series: The Covenants of God

Meeting Purpose

Discuss the differences between old and new covenants in Christianity, focusing on the authority and glory of the new covenant.

Key Takeaways

• The new covenant, delivered through Jesus and the apostles, has greater glory and authority than the old covenant

• Understanding covenant differences is crucial for proper biblical interpretation and avoiding doctrinal confusion

• The apostles' teachings form the foundation of the new covenant, which was delivered "once for all" and is complete

Topics

Glory of the New Covenant

• New covenant shows God's character more clearly than old covenant

• Contrast between "ministry of death" (old) and "ministry of righteousness" (new)

• Moses saw God's goodness as greater glory than the terrifying display at Sinai

• Jesus transfiguration scene emphasizes listening to Him over Moses/Elijah

Authority in the New Covenant

• Jesus gave authority to apostles to deliver His teachings

• Acts 2:42 shows early church devoted to "apostles' doctrine"

• Jude 3 indicates faith was "once for all delivered" - no new revelations

• Understanding apostolic authority helps discern true vs. false teachings

Practical Implications

• Example: A cappella singing in worship based on New Testament authority

• Importance of seeking scriptural basis for religious practices

• Glorifying God by speaking/acting according to His revealed word

Next Steps

• Continue study on spiritual provisions in the new covenant

• Examine modern religious groups that confuse old and new covenants

• Strengthen understanding of biblical authority among Christians