Honoring the New Covenant

From Deception to Devotion: The Legacy of King Saul

Introduction:

The concept of a covenant, a sacred agreement between God and humanity, has deep roots in the Bible. One of the most profound developments in this divine relationship is the establishment of the New Covenant. The New Covenant is not just a continuation of the old but a transformation of it, offering a deeper and more intimate connection with God. In this article, we'll explore the journey from King Saul's misstep to the institution of the New Covenant by our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, and the call to honor and participate in this remarkable covenant.

1. King Saul's Covenant and the Consequence (Joshua 9 and 2 Samuel 21):

Our story begins in the book of Joshua (Joshua 9), where we encounter an intriguing event. The Gibeonites, a neighboring people, employed a clever ruse to secure their safety by entering into a covenant with the Israelites. Despite the deception, the Israelite leaders, including Joshua, made a solemn agreement in the name of the Lord to protect the Gibeonites. The commitment was binding and underscored the importance of upholding one's word in the name of God.

However, the story takes a dark turn in later biblical accounts, particularly in 2 Samuel 21. King Saul, the first king of Israel, violated the covenant with the Gibeonites. In his attempt to harm these people, Saul not only broke a solemn oath but also transgressed against the Lord. His actions had severe consequences, leading to the need for retribution and a need for justice to be served.

In response, King David, who succeeded Saul, had to take significant actions to reconcile with the Gibeonites. This included handing over seven descendants of Saul to them (2 Samuel 21:1-9), as the Gibeonites sought justice for the wrongs committed against them.

2. The Promise of the New Covenant (Jeremiah 31:31-34 and Ezekiel 36:26-27):

While the Old Testament recounts the instances of human failure and disobedience, it also prophesies the coming of a New Covenant. The book of Jeremiah (31:31-34) foretells a covenant that will be different from the old one. It is a covenant where God will write His law on the hearts of His people, offering forgiveness, direct knowledge of God, and an eternal relationship. Ezekiel (36:26-27) reinforces this idea, promising a new heart and a new spirit, enabling obedience to God's commands.

3. The Fulfillment in Luke 22:20:

The fulfillment of this New Covenant occurs in the New Testament when we hear the words of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, during the Last Supper. In Luke 22:20, Jesus takes the cup and declares, "This cup that is poured out for you is the new covenant in my blood." This profound moment marked the inauguration of the New Covenant. Through His sacrificial death and resurrection, Jesus made it possible for all who believe in Him to enter into this new and transformative covenant with God.

4. Invocation:

Today, as believers in Christ, we are invited to honor and participate in the New Covenant. It's not just a historical event but a living reality that shapes our relationship with God. This covenant offers the forgiveness of sins, a new heart, and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit to guide and empower us.

5. Embrace the New Covenant:

The call to action is clear: embrace the New Covenant. Accept the forgiveness offered through Christ, let Him write His law on your heart, and allow the transformation of your relationship with God. By honoring this covenant, we not only experience personal transformation but also contribute to a world shaped by love, grace, and God's eternal promises.

Closing:

As we explore the journey from King Saul's transgressions to the establishment of the New Covenant by Jesus Christ, it's a reminder of the transformative power of God's grace. King David's actions, though challenging, ultimately led to reconciliation and the restoration of a broken covenant.

The fulfillment of the New Covenant, marked by Jesus' words during the Last Supper, should resonate deeply with believers in Christ. It's a call to embrace this remarkable covenant, to experience the forgiveness of sins, and to allow Christ to write His law on our hearts. This New Covenant is a promise of renewed hope, eternal love, and a transformed relationship with our Heavenly Father.

Let us heed this call and walk in the freedom, grace, and purpose offered through the New Covenant, knowing that God's eternal promises are ever true.

In His Service and Grace,

Pst. JK. Woodall, Ph.D.

May God's wisdom and blessings guide your path as you continue your journey in faith and leadership.