The Better Message Of The New Covenant - Zac Poonen
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Summary
The speaker argues that the New Covenant offers something superior to the external miracles and blessings emphasized in the Old Covenant. This better thing is the eternal joy found in the Father's presence, which requires believers to run the race of faith by laying aside all sin and unnecessary weights. Ultimately, following Jesus means daily self-denial and taking up one's cross to maintain constant communion with God.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
God has provided something better for usWhile Hebrews 11 recounts the wonderful faith and miracles of Old Testament figures, verse 40 states that God has provided something better for believers under the New Covenant.
Laying aside weights and sin to run the raceHebrews 12 urges us to lay aside every encumbrance and the sin that clings to us so we can run the race looking unto Jesus, who endured the cross for the joy set before Him in the Father's presence.
Following Christ's example of suffering and sinlessnessPeter and John both emphasize that the New Covenant is not merely about doctrine, but about living as Jesus lived, following in His steps and walking without sin or deceit.1 Peter 2:21
The great multitude from every tribe and nationRevelation 7 describes a countless multitude standing before the throne in white robes washed in the blood of the Lamb, which includes babies who died and received the righteousness of Christ.Revelation 7:9
The 144,000 in whom no lie was foundRevelation 14 depicts a smaller, focused group who followed the Lamb wherever He went and thoroughly eliminated lying from their lives and conduct.
The Pharisees had correct doctrine and external purity but still went to hellJesus rebuked the Pharisees in Matthew 23 for having correct doctrines and upright outward lives while neglecting the inside of the cup, warning us that the New Covenant requires a clean inner life.
Worshipping Jesus and finding refuge in God's careFrom the Magi worshipping the child Jesus to God protecting Him from Herod's plot in Egypt, Jesus provides an example of worship and a refuge for helpless believers.Matthew 2:11–13
Subjection to imperfect parents and peopleJesus lived in subjection to imperfect earthly parents for thirty years without despising them, offering an example for how we should treat imperfect people around us.
Tempted in all points as we areHebrews 4 and 2 explain that Jesus was made like us in all things and tempted in every way so that He can run to help us when we are tempted.Hebrews 4:15
The secret of the Lord is for those who fear HimPsalm 25 states that God reveals the secrets of His covenant to those who fear Him, giving them spiritual revelation rather than just head understanding.Psalm 25:14
In Him was life, and the life was the light of menJohn 1 teaches that life is the light of men, meaning doctrine is like the parts of a body while the life of Jesus is the breath and substance that matters most.
