In our previous studies, we examined the Mosaic Covenant's establishment and the symbolism of the twelve pillars. Now we reach the climax of our series: discovering how this ancient covenant points directly to Jesus and the New Covenant sealed with His blood.
Exodus 24
Old Covenant
Blood of Oxen
Luke 22
New Covenant
Blood of Christ
1. The Central Act: A Covenant Ratified with Blood
Moses takes the blood of sacrificed oxen, sprinkles half on the altar (representing God) and half on the people, saying:
Jesus takes the cup of wine and says:
Similarity: Both covenants are formally established and sealed with blood.
Contrast/Fulfillment: The blood of animals is replaced by the blood of Christ Himself. His one-time, perfect sacrifice replaces the repeated, imperfect animal sacrifices (Hebrews 9:18-22).
2. The "Twelve" as Representatives
Moses builds twelve pillars representing the twelve tribes of Israel, the people of the Old Covenant.
The pillars stood as silent witnesses to the covenant between Yahweh and His people.
Jesus institutes the New Covenant with His twelve apostles present. He tells them:
Similarity: The "twelve" represent the entirety of the covenant people.
Contrast/Fulfillment: The twelve stone pillars (inanimate objects) are replaced by the twelve apostles (living witnesses). They become the foundation of the new, spiritual Israel (Ephesians 2:20).
3. Obedience to the Covenant Terms
The people unanimously pledge their obedience, declaring:
This covenant was based on law and external obedience.
The New Covenant, prophesied in Jeremiah 31:31-34, is based on internal transformation:
It is characterized by forgiveness of sins and the law written on hearts.
Similarity: Both covenants call for a faithful response from the people.
Contrast/Fulfillment: The Old Covenant revealed human inability to keep the law. The New Covenant provides the means for obedience through the Holy Spirit and the forgiveness of sins.
4. The Communal Meal in God's Presence
After the blood is sprinkled, Moses, Aaron, Nadab, Abihu, and the seventy elders of Israel go up and eat a communal meal in God's presence:
This sacred meal celebrated the newly established relationship between God and His people.
Jesus institutes the Lord's Supper as the new covenant meal:
Similarity: Both covenants are celebrated with a sacred meal in God's presence.
Contrast/Fulfillment: The temporary fellowship meal of Exodus becomes the ongoing sacrament of Communion, where believers continually remember and participate in Christ's sacrifice until He returns.
Summary: Old Covenant to New Covenant
| Feature | Exodus 24 (Old Covenant) | Luke 22 (New Covenant) |
|---|---|---|
| Covenant Blood | Blood of oxen (temporary, repeated) | Blood of Jesus Christ (eternal, once for all) |
| Mediator | Moses, the servant | Jesus, the Son |
| Representatives | 12 Stone Pillars (Tribes) | 12 Apostles (New Israel) |
| Basis | Law & Obedience Pledge | Grace & Internal Transformation |
| Ratifying Meal | Communal Meal on the Mountain | The Lord's Supper (Communion) |
| Result | Revealed sin, brought condemnation | Brings forgiveness, enables obedience |
Application for Today's Believers
Understanding this covenant fulfillment transforms how we approach our faith:
1. Communion becomes profoundly meaningful - When we take the bread and cup, we're not just remembering a historical event; we're participating in the fulfilled covenant meal that connects us directly to God's redemptive plan from Exodus forward.
2. Our identity is secure - Just as the twelve pillars represented all Israel, we are represented in Christ. Our standing before God isn't based on our ability to keep the law but on Christ's perfect obedience and sacrifice.
3. Obedience flows from transformation - The New Covenant doesn't abolish God's standards but empowers us to live them out from renewed hearts, by the Spirit's power.
As we conclude this series on the Mosaic Covenant, we see with clarity how the entire Old Testament points to Christ. The blood sprinkled in Exodus, the pillars representing the tribes, the covenant meal—all find their ultimate meaning and fulfillment in Jesus and the New Covenant established through His blood.
Reflection Question: How does understanding the connection between Exodus 24 and Luke 22 deepen your appreciation for Communion and your identity as part of God's covenant people?