The Similarity, and the Difference Between the Old and the New Covenants

The Similarity, and the Difference Between the Old and the New Covenants

The similarity between the two covenants is that both have their conditions and promises. Deut. 28. Jesus consecrated the new covenant when He came into the world and said, “Behold, I have come—in the volume of the book it is written of Me—to do Your will, O God.” Heb. 10:7. Therefore the similarity of the two covenants is that both require obedience in order to obtain the promise (John 7:17); and both covenants required sacrifices and blood for reconciliation and purification. Heb. 9:11-15. The old covenant had need of a high priest and a priesthood. The new covenant did too. Heb. 7:11-28; 1 Pet. 2:9; Rom. 15:16.

What is the difference between the two covenants? The difference is that the laws and commandments they were required to obey in the old covenant were written on tablets of stone. Ex. 34:29. In the new covenant they are written in the heart. Heb. 10:16-18. The difference is that in the old covenant the high priest used the blood of animals to enter into the sanctuary. In the new covenant Jesus—as High Priest—entered the sanctuary with His own blood and brought about an eternal salvation. In the old covenant the priests brought sacrifices and gifts that were taken outside themselves. In the new covenant we are required to give our own bodies as a sacrifice. Rom. 12:1, 6:13. The difference is that the high priests in the old covenant changed, because they were mortal beings; but in the new covenant He is immortal. Furthermore, the high priest in the old covenant did not have victory over the sin for which he was to bring a sacrifice, but our High Priest was tempted in all things just as we are, yet without sin. Therefore He can give grace for victory in all trials. Heb. 4:14-16. The old covenant could not lead anyone to perfection, but a better hope was introduced with the new covenant. Heb. 7:19. “Therefore He is also able to save to the uttermost those who come to God through Him, since He ever lives to make intercession for them.” V. 25.

The law was given through Moses, but he did not come with the power to fulfill it. Grace and truth came through Jesus Christ. John 1:17. Thus what was formerly impossible for the law became possible. Jesus redeemed us from the curse of the law so we could receive the Spirit that was promised, and the righteous requirement of the law could be fulfilled in those who walk according to the Spirit. Gal. 3:13-14; Rom. 8:3-4. Therefore sin cannot rule over those who are under grace. Rom. 6:14. The time of restoration came with Jesus. Heb. 9:10.