Covenant

In the biblical context, a covenant is a solemn agreement or promise between two parties, often involving commitments and obligations. Covenants are central to the narrative of the Bible, serving as foundational elements in God's relationship with humanity. The Hebrew word for covenant, "berit," and the Greek "diatheke" both convey the idea of a binding agreement.

1. Divine Covenants: The Bible records several covenants initiated by God with individuals or groups, each serving a specific purpose in His divine plan.

· Noahic Covenant: After the flood, God established a covenant with Noah and his descendants, promising never to destroy the earth with a flood again. The sign of this covenant is the rainbow. Genesis 9:11-13 states, "I establish My covenant with you: Never again will all life be cut off by the waters of a flood; never again will there be a flood to destroy the earth. And God said, 'This is the sign of the covenant I am making between Me and you and every living creature with you, a covenant for all generations to come: I have set My rainbow in the clouds, and it will be a sign of the covenant between Me and the earth.'"

· Abrahamic Covenant: God made a covenant with Abraham, promising him numerous descendants, land, and blessings. This covenant is foundational for the nation of Israel and is marked by the rite of circumcision. Genesis 17:7 declares, "I will establish My covenant as an everlasting covenant between Me and you and your descendants after you, to be your God and the God of your descendants after you."

· Mosaic Covenant: Given at Mount Sinai, this covenant established the laws and commandments that would govern the Israelites. It is conditional, based on the people's obedience to God's laws. Exodus 19:5 states, "Now if you will indeed obey My voice and keep My covenant, you will be My treasured possession out of all the nations—for the whole earth is Mine."

· Davidic Covenant: God promised David that his throne would be established forever, a promise ultimately fulfilled in Jesus Christ. 2 Samuel 7:16 says, "Your house and kingdom will endure forever before Me, and your throne will be established forever."

· New Covenant: Foretold by the prophets and established through Jesus Christ, this covenant offers forgiveness of sins and a personal relationship with God. Jeremiah 31:31 prophesies, "Behold, the days are coming, declares the LORD, when I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel and with the house of Judah."

2. Human Covenants: Covenants between individuals or groups are also present in the Bible, often involving mutual promises or agreements. Examples include the covenant between Jonathan and David (1 Samuel 18:3) and the covenant between Jacob and Laban (Genesis 31:44).

Oaths

Oaths in the Bible are solemn promises or affirmations, often invoking God as a witness to the truth of one's words or the fulfillment of one's commitments. The taking of oaths is a serious matter, reflecting the importance of truthfulness and integrity.

1. Biblical Teaching on Oaths: The Bible provides guidance on the use and significance of oaths.

· Old Testament: Oaths were a common practice, and the Law provided regulations for their use. Leviticus 19:12 instructs, "You must not swear falsely by My name and so profane the name of your God. I am the LORD."

· New Testament: Jesus taught about the integrity of one's word, emphasizing that oaths should not be necessary if one's speech is truthful. Matthew 5:34-37 records, "But I tell you not to swear at all: either by heaven, for it is God’s throne; or by the earth, for it is His footstool; or by Jerusalem, for it is the city of the great King. Nor should you swear by your head, for you cannot make a single hair white or black. Simply let your 'Yes' be 'Yes,' and your 'No,' 'No.' Anything more comes from the evil one."

2. Examples of Oaths: The Bible contains numerous examples of oaths, both positive and negative.

· Positive Examples: Abraham's servant swore an oath to find a wife for Isaac from Abraham's relatives (Genesis 24:3-9). Jonathan and David swore oaths of friendship and loyalty to each other (1 Samuel 20:16-17).

· Negative Examples: Herod's rash oath led to the beheading of John the Baptist (Matthew 14:7-9). Peter swore an oath denying Jesus, fulfilling Jesus' prediction of his denial (Matthew 26:72).

In summary, covenants and oaths are significant elements in the biblical narrative, reflecting the seriousness of commitments made before God and the importance of faithfulness and truthfulness in human relationships.