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God's Covenant with His People – Lesson 7

Introduction to Covenant in the Catholic Tradition

  • Definition: A covenant is a sacred, unconditional agreement between God and His people, demonstrating divine love and fidelity.

  • Significance: Covenants reveal God’s plan and love in salvation history.

The Major Covenants in Salvation History

1. The Noahic Covenant

  • Scripture: Genesis ext 6-9

  • Key Figure: Noah

  • Details: God promised never to destroy earth by flood.

  • Sign: Rainbow

  • Catholic Insight: Universal, prefigures New Covenant.

2. The Abrahamic Covenant

  • Scripture: Genesis ext 12, ext 15, ext 17

  • Key Figure: Abraham

  • Details: Promises of a great nation, land, and blessing to all nations through his descendants.

  • Sign: Circumcision

  • Catholic Insight: Beginning of Chosen People; fulfilled in Jesus.

3. The Mosaic Covenant

  • Scripture: Exodus ext 19-24

  • Key Figure: Moses

  • Details: God gave the Law (Ten Commandments); Israel became God's treasured possession.

  • Sign: The Law

  • Catholic Insight: Guides holiness; prepares for Messiah; fulfilled by Jesus.

4. The Davidic Covenant

  • Scripture: 2 ext Samuel ext 7

  • Key Figure: David

  • Details: God promised to establish David’s dynasty and throne forever.

  • Significance: Jerusalem and Temple central.

  • Catholic Insight: Jesus is the eternal King, fulfilling this covenant. (cf. Mt ext 1:1)

5. Jesus - The New Covenant

  • Scripture: Luke22:20;Jeremiah31:31-34;Hebrews8-10

  • Key Figure: Jesus Christ

  • Details: Forgiveness of sins, interior transformation (law on hearts), eternal life.

  • Mediator: Jesus

  • Sign: The Eucharist

  • Catholic Insight: Jesus fulfills all covenants, establishing the Church and sacraments.

Conclusion

  • Covenants reveal God's faithfulness and love, bridging relationship with humanity.

  • The New Covenant in Christ is the ultimate expression, inviting participation in divine life through the Church.