Overview
The word "testament" refers to a covenant or agreement, often involving a will or binding promise. In Scripture, God established two primary testaments with His people. The Old Testament contains God's law and promises given through Moses and the prophets. The New Testament fulfills and supersedes the old through Jesus Christ's death and resurrection, establishing a better covenant sealed by His blood.
Key Scriptures
"For a testament is in force after men are dead, since it has no power at all while the testator lives" (Hebrews 9:17, NKJV). "And He took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to them, saying, 'This is My body given for you; do this in remembrance of Me.' In the same way, after the supper He took the cup, saying, 'This cup is the new testament in My blood, which is poured out for you'" (Luke 22:19-20, NIV).
Application
Christians should recognize that through faith in Christ's blood covenant, we inherit all of God's promises and are freed from the ceremonial requirements of the Old Testament law.