On Being New Covenant People

Two weeks ago, I wrote an article proposing that we change our identity goal of being a New Testament Christian and a New Testament church to being New Covenant Christians and a New Covenant church. You may say “What’s the difference? What’s the big deal?”. Permit me to ramble a little.

First, it is a matter of perception. In our thinking the old and new testaments are two volumes in the Bible: the Old Testament with its 39 books and the New Testament and its 27 books. Thus, those first 39 books are no longer binding or important for us as Christians. Such a position is not valid interpretation. Why are there so many Old Testament quotations and allusions in the New? As Edward Fudge says. “the book of Hebrews frequently quotes, regularly refers to, and always assumes the presence of what we call the Old Testament. After all, those earlier Scriptures were the early church’s Bible.” See Paul’s positive reference to the Old Testament scriptures in 2 Tim. 3:14-17.

Secondly, it is a matter of proper exegesis. What do you think of this argument? Jesus said that he came not to abolish the law and the prophets but to fulfill [plaromai] them until all was accomplished [genatai]. From these forward-looking statements in Mt. 5:17-18 one jumps to Jesus’ last words on the cross, “It is finished [telestai]” (John 19:30). Therefore, it is alleged, at that moment the Old Testament passed away and the new, perfect [teleion] law of liberty (James 1:17) came into effect. All this is supported by the KJV which uses “fulfilled” in every case. Yes, we need correct exegesis!

Thirdly, it is a matter of “thus saith the Lord.” Our Lord said of the cup, “This is my blood of the new covenant” (Luke 22:20) not of the 27 books of the New Testament. Forgive these ramblings since there is much more to being New Covenant people. Perhaps, some of you would like to speak and write.

—Tom Yoakum