Tuesday, 14 April 2020

Covenants and cups

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Question of the day: What's the "deal" with Exodus 6 & 7?

Answer: God is offering us a covenant (such a deal) in these two chapters. It's not usually mentioned or as famous as the other covenants, but it is a covenant none-the-less. Let's examine the structure of the covenant.

First, it's a grace covenant. That means we are grateful recipients, but have no consideration (other than to receive it). We have no "skin in the game." The title of the covenant is found in Exodus 6:1. We could call it the "Now you will see" covenant.

Where as: (verse 2) "I am Adonai" (this is continued in verse 3).

Where as: "I established my covenant" with your forefathers. (verse 4)

Where as: "I have heard the groaning of B'nei Yisrael" (verse 5)

Therefore: (4 parts corresponding to the 4 cups at every Seder meal) (1) I will bring you out from under the burdens of the Egyptians. (2) I will deliver you from their bondage, and (3) I will redeem you with an outstretched arm and with great judgments. (4) I will take you to Myself as a people, and I will be your God. You will know that I am Adonai your God. (verses 6 & 7).

Here is another breakdown of the 4 parts:

1. Sanctification or separation. We may have been separated from the Egyptians, but the greater reality is found here. Jeremiah 51:45 "Come out of her, My people!" (quoted in Revelation 18:4)

2. Judgment on your enemies. Even God's judgment is full of grace.

3. Redemption or salvation. Isaiah 53:1 "Who has believed our report? To whom is the arm of Adonai revealed?" That's right, Yeshua is the savior who is the Arm of the Lord.

4. Rejoicing or praise to God. We are His people and He is our God. Let's celebrate the ultimate relationship, the wedding feast of the marriage supper of the lamb Revelation 22:17 "The Ruach and the bride say, 'Come!' And let the one who hears say, 'Come!' Let the one who is thirsty come - let the one who wishes freely take the water of life!"