Hebrews 8:9
It will not be like the covenant I made with their fathers when I took them by the hand to lead them out of the land of Egypt, because they did not abide by My covenant, and I disregarded them, declares the Lord.
not like the covenant I made with their fathers
This phrase refers to the Mosaic Covenant, which God established with the Israelites at Mount Sinai. The Greek word for "covenant" here is "διαθήκη" (diathēkē), which can mean a testament or a will, emphasizing the solemn and binding nature of God's promises. Historically, this covenant was characterized by laws and rituals that the Israelites were to follow. The phrase "not like" indicates a contrast between the old covenant and the new one, which is based on better promises and mediated by Jesus Christ. This highlights the transformative nature of the New Covenant, which is not based on adherence to the law but on grace and internal transformation.

on the day I took them by the hand
This imagery of God taking the Israelites "by the hand" is tender and personal, suggesting a guiding and nurturing relationship. The Greek word "ἡμέρα" (hēmera) for "day" signifies a specific time when God intervened in history to lead His people out of Egypt. This act of deliverance is foundational in Jewish history, symbolizing God's power and faithfulness. The phrase underscores God's intimate involvement in the lives of His people, guiding them with care and purpose.

to lead them out of the land of Egypt
The exodus from Egypt is a pivotal event in the Old Testament, symbolizing liberation from bondage and the beginning of a journey toward the Promised Land. The Greek word "ἐξάγω" (exagō) for "to lead out" conveys the idea of bringing forth or delivering. This historical context reminds believers of God's ability to deliver from spiritual bondage and lead them into a life of freedom and promise through Christ.

because they did not abide by My covenant
The failure of the Israelites to "abide" by the covenant is a recurring theme in the Old Testament. The Greek word "ἐμμένω" (emménō) means to remain or continue in something. This highlights the Israelites' inability to keep the law due to their sinful nature. It serves as a reminder of humanity's need for a Savior who can fulfill the law on their behalf. The New Covenant, unlike the old, is not dependent on human faithfulness but on God's grace and the perfect obedience of Jesus.

and I disregarded them, says the Lord
The phrase "I disregarded them" is a sobering reminder of the consequences of disobedience. The Greek word "ἀμελέω" (ameléō) means to neglect or overlook. This does not imply that God abandoned His people entirely but that He allowed them to face the consequences of their choices. It underscores the seriousness of covenantal faithfulness and the need for a mediator who can bridge the gap between a holy God and sinful humanity. In the New Covenant, Jesus is that mediator, ensuring that believers are never disregarded but are always in the Father's care.

Persons / Places / Events
1. The Fathers
Refers to the Israelites' ancestors who were led out of Egypt by Moses. They were the recipients of the Mosaic Covenant at Mount Sinai.

2. Egypt
The land from which God delivered the Israelites, symbolizing bondage and oppression. The Exodus from Egypt is a foundational event in Israel's history.

3. The Covenant
The Mosaic Covenant, established at Mount Sinai, which included the Law given to Moses. It was conditional, requiring Israel's obedience.

4. The Lord
God, who established the covenant with Israel and led them out of Egypt. He is the one who declares the new covenant in Hebrews 8.

5. The New Covenant
The context of Hebrews 8 is the introduction of a new covenant, superior to the old, established through Jesus Christ.
Teaching Points
Understanding the Old Covenant
The Mosaic Covenant was based on the law and required Israel's obedience. It served as a tutor to lead us to Christ, highlighting the need for a savior due to human inability to fully keep the law.

The Faithfulness of God
Despite Israel's unfaithfulness, God remained faithful to His promises. The new covenant is a testament to His unwavering commitment to His people.

The Superiority of the New Covenant
Unlike the old covenant, the new covenant is based on better promises and is mediated by Jesus Christ. It is internal, written on hearts, and offers complete forgiveness of sins.

Personal Relationship with God
The new covenant emphasizes a personal relationship with God, where He is known intimately by His people, not just through external laws.

Living in the New Covenant
Believers are called to live in the reality of the new covenant, embracing the grace and truth found in Jesus Christ, and allowing the Holy Spirit to transform their lives.
Bible Study Questions
1. How does understanding the context of the Mosaic Covenant help us appreciate the new covenant described in Hebrews 8:9?

2. In what ways does the deliverance from Egypt symbolize our spiritual journey from bondage to freedom in Christ?

3. How can we ensure that we are living in the reality of the new covenant, rather than reverting to a legalistic mindset?

4. What are some practical ways we can cultivate a deeper personal relationship with God under the new covenant?

5. How does the promise of the new covenant in Hebrews 8:9 encourage us in our daily walk with Christ, especially when we face challenges or feel unworthy?
Connections to Other Scriptures
Jeremiah 31:31-34
Hebrews 8:9 directly references this prophecy, where God promises a new covenant different from the one made with the ancestors of Israel.

Exodus 19-24
These chapters describe the establishment of the Mosaic Covenant, including the giving of the Ten Commandments and the laws at Mount Sinai.

Deuteronomy 29-30
Discusses the renewal of the covenant and the blessings and curses associated with obedience or disobedience.

Romans 11:11-24
Paul discusses the relationship between the old and new covenants, using the metaphor of the olive tree to describe how Gentiles are grafted into the promises of God.
Christ in Heaven, the Mediator of the New CovenantC. New Hebrews 8:6-13
The Reasons Assigned for the Introduction of the New CovenantJ.S. Bright Hebrews 8:6-13
People
Hebrews
Places
Egypt, Jerusalem
Topics
Agreement, Bring, Care, Continue, Continued, Covenant, Declares, Didn't, Disregarded, Egypt, Faithful, Fathers, Forefathers, Forth, Guide, Heed, Lead, Paid, Regard, Regarded, Says, Taking, Unlike
Dictionary of Bible Themes
Hebrews 8:9

     6659   freedom, acts in OT
     8742   faithlessness

Hebrews 8:1-13

     5381   law, letter and spirit
     6698   newness

Hebrews 8:6-13

     1352   covenant, the new

Hebrews 8:7-13

     5100   Melchizedek

Hebrews 8:8-9

     6163   faults

Hebrews 8:8-10

     7024   church, nature of

Hebrews 8:8-12

     1429   prophecy, OT fulfilment
     6653   forgiveness, divine

Library
Christ Our Mediator. --Continued.
"But now hath he [Christ] obtained a more excellent ministry, by how much also He is the mediator of a better covenant, which was established upon better promises" (Heb. viii. 6). Having considered Christ's preparatory work, His earthly mission, we wish now to consider His office and work as mediator between God and men. Christ sought no additional honor because of His message to men and suffering on their account. On the contrary, He prayed: "And now, O Father, glorify thou me with thine own self,
Frank G. Allen—Autobiography of Frank G. Allen, Minister of the Gospel

The New Covenant.
"Now in the things which we are saying the chief point is this: We have such a High-priest, Who sat down on the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in the heavens, a Minister of the sanctuary, and of the true tabernacle, which the Lord pitched, not man. For every high-priest is appointed to offer both gifts and sacrifices: wherefore it is necessary that this High-priest also have somewhat to offer. Now if He were on earth, He would not be a Priest at all, seeing there are those who offer
Thomas Charles Edwards—The Expositor's Bible: The Epistle to the Hebrews

Wesley Refused the Sacrament at Epworth
In the evening I reached Epworth. Sunday, 2. At five I preached on "So is everyone that is born of the Spirit." About eight I preached from my father's tomb on Hebrews 8:11. Many from the neighboring towns asked if it would not be well, as it was sacrament Sunday, for them to receive it. I told them, "By all means: but it would be more respectful first to ask Mr. Romley, the curate's leave." One did so, in the name of the rest; to whom he said, "Pray tell Mr. Wesley, I shall not give him the sacrament;
John Wesley—The Journal of John Wesley

God in the Covenant
But I have been thinking for the last two or three days, that the covenant of grace excels the other covenant most marvelously in the mighty blessings which it confers. What does the covenant of grace convey? I had thought this morning of preaching a sermon upon "The covenant of grace; what are the blessings it gives to God's children?" But when I began to think of it, there was so much in the covenant, that if I had only read a catalogue of the great and glorious blessings, wrapped up within its
Charles Haddon Spurgeon—Spurgeon's Sermons Volume 2: 1856

The New Covenant
"But this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel; After those days, saith the Lord, I will put My law in their inward parts, and write it in their hearts; and will be their God, and they shall be My people. And they shall teach no more every man his neighbour, saying, Know the Lord: for they shall all know Me, from the least of them unto the greatest of them, for I will forgive their iniquity, and I will remember their sin no more."--JER. xxxi. 33, 34. ISAIAH has often been called
Andrew Murray—The Two Covenants

The Person Sanctified.
"The putting off of the body of the sins of the flesh."--Col. ii. 11. Sanctification embraces the whole man, body and soul, with all the parts, members, and functions that belong to each respectively. It embraces his person and, all of his person. This is why sanctification progresses from the hour of regeneration all through life, and can be completed only in and through death. St. Paul prays for the church of Thessalonica: "The God of peace sanctify you wholly, and may your whole spirit and soul
Abraham Kuyper—The Work of the Holy Spirit

Christ Our High Priest.
"Now, if there was perfection through the Levitical priesthood (for under it hath the people received the law), what further need was there that another priest should arise after the order of Melchisedec, and not be reckoned after the order of Aaron? For the priesthood being changed, there is made of necessity a change also of the law. For he of whom these things are said belongeth to another tribe, from which no man hath given attendance at the altar. For it is evident that our Lord hath sprung
Frank G. Allen—Autobiography of Frank G. Allen, Minister of the Gospel

Perseverance in Holiness
May the King himself come near and feast his saints to-day! May the Comforter who convinced of sin now come to cheer us with the promise! We noticed concerning the fig tree, that it was confirmed in its barrenness: it had borne no fruit, though it made large professions of doing so, and it was made to abide as it was. Let us consider another form of confirmation: not the curse of continuance in the rooted habit of evil; but the blessing of perseverance in a settled way of grace. May the Lord show
Charles Haddon Spurgeon—Spurgeon's Sermons Volume 35: 1889

The Scriptures Reveal Eternal Life through Jesus Christ
John v. 39--"Search the scriptures, for in them ye think ye have eternal life, and they are they which testify of me." Eph. ii. 20--"And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets." As in darkness there is need of a lantern without and the light of the eyes within--for neither can we see in darkness without some lamp though we have never so good eyes, nor yet see without eyes, though in never so clear a sunshine--so there is absolute need for the guiding of our feet in the dangerous
Hugh Binning—The Works of the Rev. Hugh Binning

Jesus, the Mediator of the New Covenant
"I give thee for a covenant of the people."--ISA. xlii. 6, xlix. 8. "The Lord shall suddenly come to His temple, even the Messenger of the covenant, whom ye delight in."--MAL. iii. 1. "Jesus was made Surety of a better covenant."--HEB. vii. 22. "The Mediator of the Better Covenant, established upon better promises . . . The Mediator of the New Covenant. . . Ye are come to Jesus, the Mediator of the New Covenant."--HEB. viii. 6, ix. 15, xii. 24. WE have here four titles given to our Lord Jesus in
Andrew Murray—The Two Covenants

How the Wise and the Dull are to be Admonished.
(Admonition 7). Differently to be admonished are the wise of this world and the dull. For the wise are to be admonished that they leave off knowing what they know: the dull also are to be admonished that they seek to know what they know not. In the former this thing first, that they think themselves wise, is to be thrown down; in the latter whatsoever is already known of heavenly wisdom is to be built up; since, being in no wise proud, they have, as it were, prepared their hearts for supporting
Leo the Great—Writings of Leo the Great

Sanctification.
I. I will remind you of some points that have been settled in this course of study. 1. The true intent and meaning of the law of God has been, as I trust, ascertained in the lectures on moral government. Let this point if need be, be examined by reference to those lectures. 2. We have also seen, in those lectures, what is not, and what is implied in entire obedience to the moral law. 3. In those lectures, and also in the lectures on justification and repentance, it has been shown that nothing is
Charles Grandison Finney—Systematic Theology

The Ascension
"So then the Lord Jesus, after He had spoken unto them, was received up into heaven, and sat down at the right hand of God. And they went forth, and preached everywhere, the Lord working with them, and confirming the word by the signs that followed. Amen." MARK 16:19-20 (R.V.) WE have reached the close of the great Gospel of the energies of Jesus, His toils, His manner, His searching gaze, His noble indignation, His love of children, the consuming zeal by virtue of which He was not more truly the
G. A. Chadwick—The Gospel of St. Mark

Covenanting Predicted in Prophecy.
The fact of Covenanting, under the Old Testament dispensations, being approved of God, gives a proof that it was proper then, which is accompanied by the voice of prophecy, affording evidence that even in periods then future it should no less be proper. The argument for the service that is afforded by prophecy is peculiar, and, though corresponding with evidence from other sources, is independent. Because that God willed to make known truth through his servants the prophets, we should receive it
John Cunningham—The Ordinance of Covenanting

The Great Shepherd
He shall feed his flock like a shepherd; He shall gather the lambs with His arm, and carry them in His bosom, and shall gently lead those that are with young. I t is not easy for those, whose habits of life are insensibly formed by the customs of modern times, to conceive any adequate idea of the pastoral life, as obtained in the eastern countries, before that simplicity of manners, which characterized the early ages, was corrupted, by the artificial and false refinements of luxury. Wealth, in those
John Newton—Messiah Vol. 1

The Covenant of Works
Q-12: I proceed to the next question, WHAT SPECIAL ACT OF PROVIDENCE DID GOD EXERCISE TOWARDS MAN IN THE ESTATE WHEREIN HE WAS CREATED? A: When God had created man, he entered into a covenant of life with him upon condition of perfect obedience, forbidding him to eat of the tree of knowledge upon pain of death. For this, consult with Gen 2:16, 17: And the Lord commanded the man, saying, Of every tree of the garden thou mayest freely eat; but of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, thou shalt
Thomas Watson—A Body of Divinity

Questions About the Nature and Perpetuity of the Seventh-Day Sabbath.
AND PROOF, THAT THE FIRST DAY OF THE WEEK IS THE TRUE CHRISTIAN SABBATH. BY JOHN BUNYAN. 'The Son of man is lord also of the Sabbath day.' London: Printed for Nath, Ponder, at the Peacock in the Poultry, 1685. EDITOR'S ADVERTISEMENT. All our inquiries into divine commands are required to be made personally, solemnly, prayerful. To 'prove all things,' and 'hold fast' and obey 'that which is good,' is a precept, equally binding upon the clown, as it is upon the philosopher. Satisfied from our observations
John Bunyan—The Works of John Bunyan Volumes 1-3

Concerning the Scriptures.
Concerning the Scriptures. From these revelations of the Spirit of God to the saints, have proceeded the Scriptures of Truth, which contain, I. A faithful historical account of the actings of God's people in divers ages; with many singular and remarkable providences attending them. II. A prophetical account of several things, whereof some are already past, and some yet to come. III. A full and ample account of all the chief principles of the doctrine of Christ, held forth in divers precious declarations,
Robert Barclay—Theses Theologicae and An Apology for the True Christian Divinity

The Strait Gate;
OR, GREAT DIFFICULTY OF GOING TO HEAVEN: PLAINLY PROVING, BY THE SCRIPTURES, THAT NOT ONLY THE RUDE AND PROFANE, BUT MANY GREAT PROFESSORS, WILL COME SHORT OF THAT KINGDOM. "Enter ye in at the strait gate; for wide is the gate, and broad is the way that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it."--Matthew 7:13, 14 ADVERTISEMENT BY THE EDITOR. If any uninspired writer has been
John Bunyan—The Works of John Bunyan Volumes 1-3

Solomon's Temple Spiritualized
or, Gospel Light Fetched out of the Temple at Jerusalem, to Let us More Easily into the Glory of New Testament Truths. 'Thou son of man, shew the house to the house of Isreal;--shew them the form of the house, and the fashion thereof, and the goings out hereof, and the comings in thereof, and all the forms thereof, and all the ordinances thereof, and all the forms thereof, and all the laws thereof.'--Ezekiel 43:10, 11 London: Printed for, and sold by George Larkin, at the Two Swans without Bishopgate,
John Bunyan—The Works of John Bunyan Volumes 1-3

How to Make Use of Christ for Taking the Guilt of Our Daily Out-Breakings Away.
The next part of our sanctification is in reference to our daily failings and transgressions, committed partly through the violence of temptations, as we see in David and Peter, and other eminent men of God; partly through daily infirmities, because of our weakness and imperfections; for, "in many things we offend all," James iii. 2; and, "if we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us," 1 John i. 8; "a righteous man falleth seven times," Prov. xxiv. 16; "there is not
John Brown (of Wamphray)—Christ The Way, The Truth, and The Life

The Doctrine
OF THE LAW AND GRACE UNFOLDED; OR, A DISCOURSE TOUCHING THE LAW AND GRACE; THE NATURE OF THE ONE, AND THE NATURE OF THE OTHER; SHOWING WHAT THEY ARE, AS THEY ARE THE TWO COVENANTS; AND LIKEWISE, WHO THEY BE, AND WHAT THEIR CONDITIONS ARE, THAT BE UNDER EITHER OF THESE TWO COVENANTS: Wherein, for the better understanding of the reader, there are several questions answered touching the law and grace, very easy to be read, and as easy to be understood, by those that are the sons of wisdom, the children
John Bunyan—The Works of John Bunyan Volumes 1-3

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