In this sermon, which is a sidebar sermon within our Hebrews series, we turn to II Corinthians in order to see what Paul has to say about the proper understanding of the Old and New Covenants. It is our prayer that this sidebar will help us to better understand the upcoming argument in Hebrews 8.

As we begin a new series in the Book of the Prophet Jonah, we will look at the first three verses of this great book. Why was Jonah running from the presence of God? Why would a tested prophet run from this mission? In thinking about those questions, we will see that it is never right nor safe to withstand the living God.

Continuing the argument of the 8th chapter of Hebrews, we see that the Scriptures always testified to a greater priesthood. Not only was this seen in the naming of a greater priesthood -that of Melchizedek-, but also in the evidence presented of a greater Tabernacle. Moses was given the directions for building a Tabernacle which was a copy and shadow of a heavenly reality. The true heavenly tabernacle is the place of Christ's ministering for us.

Entering the eighth chapter of the Letter to the Hebrews, we find that the author of Hebrews summarizes the chief -or main- point of all that he has been saying. Inspired by the Spirit, he lays out the argument for the supremacy of the covenant and salvation that is offered in Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord-

Our author concludes his argument for the superiority of the priesthood of Christ. It is a priesthood which is uninterrupted, unchanging, undefiled, and empowered by indestructible life. It is able to save to the uttermost those who come to God through Him.

Returning to Hebrews 7, we are instructed that we have standing in the blessing of a greater Covenant than was offered at Sinai. This is because Jesus is both the Mediator of the Covenant, as well as its guarantor.

Our author, building upon the picture of Melchizedek, demonstrates that the Levitical priesthood -along with the Covenant which authorized it- was not God's final plan, but that it pointed to a greater and sufficient Covenant and mediator, Christ. It was always God's plan that Christ, and Him alone, would offer us a better hope-

Our journey through the Book of the Prophet Haggai concludes with a look at God's promise of blessing upon His people. Not only are these current blessings, but it includes a Messianic promise as well. As God once more declares His Davidic signet ring, He is signaling the coming of the true source of blessing for the people of God.

Entering the 7th chapter of the Letter to the Hebrews, the author instructs his hearers on Melchizedek who points to Christ as a type.

Continuing into the second chapter of the Book of the Prophet Haggai, we find the people discouraged at the prospect of a new Temple that was not as great as the one Solomon built. God sends Haggai to proclaim that this will not come to pass; "the glory of this latter Temple shall be greater than the former."