Lesson 3B - The Covenants of God - Larry Rouse - 1-23-25 - North Charlottesville church of Christ

Meeting Purpose
To continue the study of God's covenants, focusing on the transition from the Old to the New Testament and its implications for Christian practice.
Key Takeaways
The Old Covenant (Old Testament) was purposefully designed to keep Israel intact as a nation but was always intended to be replaced by the New Covenant.
The death of Jesus on the cross marked the transition from the Old to the New Covenant, "nailing" the old law to the cross.
Understanding the distinction between covenants is crucial for proper Christian doctrine and practice, avoiding the mixing of Old Testament laws with New Testament teachings.
Topics
Purpose and Fulfillment of the Old Covenant
The Old Covenant kept Jews distinct through laws like dietary restrictions and Sabbath observance
It was never meant to last forever, but to prepare for and point to Christ
The Old Covenant was fulfilled, not found faulty, when Christ came
Transition to the New Covenant
Jesus' death on the cross marked the end of the Old Covenant (Colossians 2:14-17)
The "handwriting of requirements" (Old Law) was nailed to the cross
This removed the "middle wall of separation" between Jews and Gentiles (Ephesians 2:11-16)
Implications for Christian Practice
Christians are not bound by Old Testament-specific laws (e.g., Sabbath, circumcision, dietary laws)
Attempting to keep parts of the Old Law can lead to falling from grace (Galatians 5:1-4)
The early church struggled with this transition, particularly regarding circumcision
Common Misunderstandings in Modern Christianity
Mixing Old and New Covenant practices (e.g., tithing, instrumental music in worship)
Creating clergy/laity distinctions not found in the New Testament
Misapplying Old Testament marriage and divorce laws
Next Steps
Continue to study and teach the distinctions between the Old and New Covenants
Be prepared to address and correct misunderstandings about covenant application in church practices
Emphasize the importance of following New Testament teachings for Christian living and worship