Deep Dive into Institutes of the Christian Religion by John Calvin - The Difference between the Two Testaments

The differences between the Old and New Testaments relate to the progressive revelation of God's plan by showing a change in the manner of dispensation of God's covenant and promises, rather than a change in their substance or foundation in Christ.In the Old Testament, God accommodated his revelation to the "childhood" of the church. Heavenly realities were often displayed through earthly types and benefits like the Land of Canaan. The period was characterized by shadows and images pointing to Christ, the substance yet to come. The law was primarily external, "of the letter," published without the spiritual working that changes hearts, leading to bondage and fear. God also largely confined his covenant to one nation, Israel.The New Testament represents a progression in this revelation. The gospel reveals heavenly grace more plainly and clearly. Christ, the very substance, is revealed and present. The covenant is now spiritual, written on hearts by the Spirit, ministering life and righteousness, bringing freedom and assurance. Significantly, the "wall" confining God's mercy is broken, leading to the calling of all nations.This development illustrates God's wise accommodation to different ages and human capacity, representing Christ appropriately in each era: as absent and coming in the Old, and as revealed and present in the New.Reformed Theologian GPT: https://chat.openai.com/g/g-XXwzX1gnv-reformed-theologianPatreon: patreon.com/edi_reformed