Picturing Theology, Revised Edition

236 | Picturing Theology, Revised Edition

3. Is a covenant of peace (Shalom) which gives access to God (Ezekiel 34:23-31; Romans 5:1-2; Ephesians 2:17-18; Hebrews 7:2-3). 4. Is uniquely celebrated and experienced in the Lord’s Supper and Baptism (Mark 14:22-25; 1 Corinthians 10:16; Colossians 2:12; 1 Peter 3:21). 5. By faith, both imputes and imparts righteousness to the participants so that God’s laws are put in the hearts and written on their minds (Jeremiah 31:33; Romans 1:17; 2 Corinthians 5:21; Galatians 3:21-22; Philippians 1:11; 3:9; Hebrews 10:15-17; 12:10-11; 1 Peter 2.24). B. The Covenant enables us to understand and experience Christian sanctification: 1. Righteousness: right relationships with God and others (Exodus 20:1-17; Micah 6:8; Mark 12:29-31; James 2:8). 2. Truth: right beliefs about God and others (Psalm 86:11; Isaiah 45:19; John 8:31-32; 17:17; 1 Peter 1:22). 3. Holiness: right actions toward God and others (Leviticus 11:45; 20:8; Ecclesiastes 12:13; Matthew 7:12; 2 Corinthians 7:1; Colossians 3:12; 2 Peter 3:11). C. The purpose of the New Covenant is to enable the Church to be like Christ Jesus: 1. Jesus is the new pattern for humanity: a. The second Adam (Romans 5:12-17; 1 Corinthians 15:45-49). b. The likeness into which the Church is fashioned (Romans 8:29; 1 John 3:2). c. His life, character, and teaching are the standard for faith and practice (John 13:17; 20:21; 2 John 6, 9; 1 Corinthians 11:1). 2. This covenant is made possible by the sacrifice of Christ himself (Matthew 26:27-29; Hebrews 8-10). 3. The apostolic ministry of the new covenant is meant to conform believers to the image of Christ (2 Corinthians 3; Ephesians 4:12-13).