The 4 Testaments

“Study to show yourself approved unto God...rightly dividing the word of truth. – 2Ti 2:15

In Christianity, the term “Testament” has two meanings, and not distinguishing which is which in a conversation or a teaching can lead to confusion and wrong conclusions – even wrong theology.

Encarta dictionary defines “Testament” as

“Either of the two major divisions of the Christian Bible, known as the Old Testament and the New Testament”

However, the WordNet Lexicon defines a “Testament” as, firstly, 

“One of the two distinct revelations of God’s purposes toward man; a covenant.”

This second definition, though less popular, is the actual meaning of “Testament” used by the Bible authors and not the first. The first definition is actually an organisational construct used to conveniently categorise the Bible books, the second is the spiritual covenant between God and Man.

These two definitions gives rise, in essence, to FOUR “testaments”: two “Old” and two “New”. The “Old Testament” under the first definition begins in Gen 1 and ends in Mal 4. But under the second definition, the “Old Testament” begins in Ex 20 where God made a covenant with Israel and was ended by the Death of Christ.

Furthermore, the “New Testament” under the first definition begins in Matthew 1 and ends in Revelation 22. Whereas under the second definition, the “New Testament” began (simultaneously) in Mt 27, Mk 15, Lk 23 and  Jn 19; and did NOT end in Rev 22 but continues up to this very day!

Many Christians are not aware of this reality. As a Believer, be conscious that you’re still living in the New Testament. There’s a direct line between you and Pentecost. The Acts of the Apostles did not end in Acts 28 (obviously, since people like Peter and John were still “acting” after that); the Acts continues to this day!

Beloved, we’ve been ordained as “ABLE MINISTERS OF THE NEW TESTAMENT” (2Co 3:6); Therefore let’s reflect it in our conduct, our belief systems, and our theology.

AMEN.

More Blessings await you today; you’ll not miss them in Jesus’ Name.
GREG ELKAN