In the biblical context, a covenant is a solemn agreement or promise between God and His people, often accompanied by signs, sacrifices, and specific obligations. Covenants are central to the narrative of the Bible, serving as foundational elements in God's relationship with humanity.

Old Testament Covenants

1. Noahic Covenant: After the flood, God established a covenant with Noah, promising never to destroy the earth with a flood again. The sign of this covenant is the rainbow. Genesis 9:11-13 states, "I establish My covenant with you: Never again will all life be cut off by the waters of a flood; never again will there be a flood to destroy the earth. And God said, 'This is the sign of the covenant I am making between Me and you and every living creature with you, a covenant for all generations to come: I have set My rainbow in the clouds, and it will be a sign of the covenant between Me and the earth.'"

2. Abrahamic Covenant: God made a covenant with Abraham, promising him numerous descendants, land, and blessings. This covenant is marked by the rite of circumcision. Genesis 17:7 declares, "I will establish My covenant as an everlasting covenant between Me and you and your descendants after you, to be your God and the God of your descendants after you."

3. Mosaic Covenant: Given at Mount Sinai, this covenant established the Law, including the Ten Commandments, as a guide for Israel's conduct. Exodus 19:5-6 states, "Now if you will indeed obey My voice and keep My covenant, you will be My treasured possession out of all the nations—for the whole earth is Mine. And unto Me you shall be a kingdom of priests and a holy nation."

4. Davidic Covenant: God promised David that his throne would be established forever, a promise ultimately fulfilled in Jesus Christ. 2 Samuel 7:16 says, "Your house and kingdom will endure forever before Me, and your throne will be established forever."

New Testament Covenant

The New Covenant, prophesied in Jeremiah 31:31-34 and fulfilled in Jesus Christ, is central to the New Testament. It is characterized by the forgiveness of sins and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. Jesus, at the Last Supper, speaks of this covenant in Luke 22:20 : "In the same way, after supper He took the cup, saying, 'This cup is the new covenant in My blood, which is poured out for you.'"

Identity

In the Bible, identity is deeply rooted in one's relationship with God and is often defined by covenantal terms. The identity of God's people is shaped by their covenantal status and their role in God's redemptive plan.

Old Testament Identity

1. Israel as God's Chosen People: The identity of Israel is primarily defined by their covenant relationship with God. Deuteronomy 7:6 states, "For you are a people holy to the LORD your God. The LORD your God has chosen you to be a people for His prized possession, above all peoples on the face of the earth."

2. Priestly and Holy Nation: Israel's identity is also characterized by their calling to be a kingdom of priests and a holy nation, as seen in Exodus 19:6 : "And unto Me you shall be a kingdom of priests and a holy nation."

New Testament Identity

1. Believers as Children of God: In the New Testament, identity is redefined through faith in Jesus Christ. Believers are called children of God, as stated in John 1:12 : "But to all who did receive Him, to those who believed in His name, He gave the right to become children of God."

2. The Church as the Body of Christ: The collective identity of believers is expressed as the Body of Christ, with each member playing a vital role. 1 Corinthians 12:27 affirms, "Now you are the body of Christ, and each of you is a member of it."

3. A Royal Priesthood: Echoing the Old Testament, believers are described as a royal priesthood in 1 Peter 2:9 : "But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for God’s own possession, to proclaim the virtues of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light."

In summary, covenant and identity are intricately linked in the biblical narrative, with covenants establishing the framework for understanding the identity and purpose of God's people throughout history.