1. PART I The Two Covenants

2. 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

3. 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

4. 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

5. 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)