The Realities of the New Covenant | Pastor Raph | Jun 15, 2025

The realities of the New Covenant through the lens of Scripture and pastoral experience. Drawing from Paul’s ministry in Corinth, we reflect on how his shift toward the Gentiles represented a Spirit-led mission that, while painful at times, bore great fruit. With references to Acts 18 and 2 Corinthians 3, we unpack the difference between the old covenant—marked by external law and condemnation—and the new covenant, which brings transformation through the Spirit. Paul contrasts a life governed by written code (γράμμα) with one filled by the indwelling guidance of the Holy Spirit (πνεῦμα), revealing how Jesus not only fulfilled the law but opened the way for intimate relationship with the Father.

We also connect these truths to real-life struggles: the longing for approval, the difficulty of pastoral decisions, and the challenge of embracing grace over effort. Through illustrations like a GPS vs. an old map or the touching vulnerability in Analyze This, we show that the New Covenant isn’t just theological—it’s deeply personal. It’s God placing His Spirit within us, writing His will on our hearts, and transforming us not by demand but by grace. As we behold His glory, we are changed “from one degree of glory to another.” The veil is lifted. The voice of the Father is clear. And the Spirit is powerfully at work.