NASHVILLE (BP) — This weekly Bible study appears in Baptist Press in a partnership with Lifeway Christian Resources of the Southern Baptist Convention. Through its Leadership and Adult Publishing team, Lifeway publishes Sunday School curricula and additional resources for all age groups.
This week’s Bible study is adapted from the Bible Studies For Life curriculum.
Bible Passages: Jeremiah 31:31-34; Luke 22:14-20
Discussion Question:
- What’s the good news in this new covenant?
Food for Thought by Jeff Iorg*
Jeremiah promised a new covenant was coming. The new covenant was going to be different than former covenants in significant ways. But it was also a continuation of God’s historic work among His people. This covenant was unlike previous covenants, yet it built on those previous covenants.
In the past, God’s covenants were focused on external symbols and requirements. God’s new covenant was devoid of external symbols or requirements. He declared, “I will put my teaching within them and write it on their hearts” (v. 33). The new covenant focused on internal change.
God still wants changed behavior, but only when motivated by inner transformation.
After celebrating the Passover meal, Jesus would face arrest, condemnation and crucifixion. God’s grand purpose of salvation was about to be accomplished. Jesus gave the breaking of bread new meaning with His assertion, “This is My body, which is given for you” (v. 19). When Jesus took the cup after supper, He asserted, “This cup is the new covenant in My blood, which is poured out for you” (v. 20).
A new covenant was coming, and God would establish it through the death of Jesus. Under the new covenant, we live in forgiveness, fully committed to God in heart and mind.
* Jeff Iorg is president and CEO of the Southern Baptist Convention Executive Committee in Nashville.
Bible Studies For Life
Bible Studies For Life is a family of resources addressing key issues in the lives of adults, students, and kids. Visit www.biblestudiesforlife.com and use it to help you “Connect the Unconnected, Strengthen Families, and Disciple People with Wisdom.” Free session downloads are available, plus PDFs and videos that accompany this Bible studyresource.