@Mem,
@p_rehbein,
@ResidentAlien,
@Pilgrimshope,
@Dino246 ,
@Inquisitor ,
@Soyeong ,
@Nehemiah6 ,
@SabbathBlessing
From your replies I got and reading scripture, I now have a better understanding of the differences and I would like to tank everyone who replied, be blessed and sorry for the delay.
In the New Testament, particularly in the teachings of Jesus the differences between the Old and New Covenants are highlighted in various ways:
Authority and Fulfillment: Jesus frequently speaks of fulfilling the Old Testament prophecies and laws rather than abolishing them. He asserts his authority as the fulfillment of the Law and the Prophets (Mat 5:17). While the Old Covenant was based on obedience to the Mosaic Law, the New Covenant is fulfilled through faith in Jesus Christ and his teachings.
Focus on the Heart : Jesus emphasizes the importance of inner righteousness rather than merely outward observance of the law. He teaches that it's not just about following the letter of the law but also about the attitudes and intentions of the heart (Mat 5:21-48). The New Covenant brings a deeper spiritual dimension, focusing on love, mercy, and forgiveness.
Access to God : In the Old Covenant, access to God was primarily through the temple, priesthood, and sacrificial system. However, in the New Covenant, Jesus becomes the ultimate High Priest who offers himself as the perfect sacrifice for the forgiveness of sins. Through Jesus, believers have direct access to God without the need for intermediaries (Heb 9:11-14, John 17:20-23).
Universal Reach : While the Old Covenant was primarily for the nation of Israel, the New Covenant extends to all peoples. Jesus commissions his disciples to go and make disciples of all nations (Mat 28:19-20), emphasizing the universal scope of the Gospel message.
Spiritual Empowerment : In the Old Covenant, the Holy Spirit came upon certain individuals for specific tasks, but in the New Covenant, the Holy Spirit is poured out on all believers. Jesus promises the Holy Spirit as a guide, comforter, and source of power to empower believers to live according to God's will (John 14:16-17; Acts 2:1-4).
Permanence and Superiority : The New Covenant is described as superior to the Old Covenant (Jer 31:31-34). It is characterized by permanence, as it is based on the unchanging promises of God and the finished work of Jesus Christ. While the Old Covenant was temporary and pointed forward to the coming of Christ, the New Covenant is everlasting and brings ultimate reconciliation between God and humanity.
These differences highlight the transformative nature of the New Covenant, which brings about a deeper relationship with God and a greater emphasis on faith, and spiritual renewal.
Be blessed everyone.