May 17, 2018 – Genesis 9:14-16

“When I send clouds over the earth, the rainbow will appear in the clouds, and I will remember my covenant with you and with all living creatures. Never again will the floodwaters destroy all life. When I see the rainbow in the clouds, I will remember the eternal covenant between God and every living creature on earth.” Genesis 9:14-16.

What is a covenant?  It’s a promise made by God – it is eternal!  The eternal covenant is between God and every living creature on earth to not destroy them again by sending flood waters.  God reminds us of His Promise every time His rainbow appears in the sky.

What happens when you make a promise?  Is it hard to keep?  What outward sign reminds the person you promised you will keep the promise?  When a man and woman marry, they exchange rings as a sign they promise to stay married.  Often they do not keep their promise?

When is the last time you saw a rainbow? There were more covenants God made with Adam, Noah, Abraham, and Moses.  In Matthew 5:17, Jesus said, “I have not come to destroy the law and Prophets but to fulfill them.” Ephesians 2:8-9 – God saved you by his grace when you believed. And you can’t take credit for this; it is a gift from God. Salvation is not a reward for the good things we have done, so none of us can boast about it.

We still see the rainbow. Then God sent Jesus to make a new covenant with us. A promise of peace, hope, love forever. What did Jesus tell his followers?  John 14:1-3. “Don’t let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God, and trust also in me.  There is more than enough room in my Father’s home. If this were not so, would I have told you that I am going to prepare a place for you?  When everything is ready, I will come and get you, so that you will always be with me where I am.”

Then God said to Noah, “Yes, this rainbow is the sign of the covenant I am confirming with all the creatures on earth.” Genesis 9:17.