Difference between revisions of "Covenant"

<p> '''Covenant.''' The Hebrew '''berith''' means primarily ''"a cutting",'' with reference to the custom of cutting or dividing animals in two and passing between the parts in ratifying a covenant. (Genesis 15; &nbsp;Jeremiah 34:18-19. In the New Testament, the corresponding Greek word is '''diatheke''' , which is frequently translated ''testament,'' in the Authorized Version. In its biblical meaning two parties, the word is used - </p> <p> 1. Of a covenant between God and man; for example, God covenanted with Noah, after the flood, that a like judgment should not be repeated. It is not precisely like a covenant between men, but was a promise or agreement by God. </p> <p> The principal covenants are ''the covenant of works'' - God promising to save and bless men on condition of perfect obedience - and ''the covenant of grace'' , or God's promise to save men on condition of their believing in '''Christ''' and receiving him as their [[Master]] and Saviour. </p> <p> The first is called the ''Old Covenant,'' from which we name the first part of the bible the ''Old Testament'' , the Latin rendering of the word covenant. The second is called the ''New Covenant,'' or ''New Testament'' . </p> <p> 2. Covenant between man and man, that is, a solemn compact or agreement, either between tribes or nations, &nbsp;Joshua 9:6; &nbsp;Joshua 9:15; &nbsp;1 Samuel 11:1, or between individuals, &nbsp;Genesis 31:44. By which each party bound himself to fulfill certain conditions and was assured of receiving certain advantages. </p> <p> In making such a covenant, God was solemnly invoked as witness, &nbsp;Genesis 31:50, and an oath was sworn. &nbsp;Genesis 21:31. [[A]] sign or witness of the covenant was sometimes framed, such a gift, &nbsp;Genesis 21:30, or a pillar or heap of stones erected. &nbsp;Genesis 31:52. </p>