Introduction

Introduce the topic of the New Covenant and its importance in shaping our identity as believers in Jesus.

II. Definition of the New Covenant

The New Covenant is a promise made by God to His people through Jesus Christ. (Jeremiah 31:31-34)

It involves God initiating a personal relationship with us, drawing us into a faithful commitment to Him, and leading us into a deeper understanding of His presence and purpose for our lives. (John 3:16; Ephesians 2:8-9)

This promise is fulfilled in our identity as believers in Jesus, and helps us to see ourselves not just as individuals, but as members of a larger community of faith that is bound together by God's love and grace. (1 John 3:1; Ephesians 2:19-22)

III. Importance of the New Covenant in shaping our identity

The New Covenant is not just a concept or doctrine, but a living, active relationship with God that has the power to shape and transform our lives. (2 Corinthians 3:18; Colossians 3:10)

It provides us with a sense of purpose and meaning that goes beyond our circumstances or achievements, and helps us to see ourselves as God sees us - loved, valued, and worthy. (1 John 3:1; Romans 8:1, 38-39)

By committing all of the spiritual requirements and struggles of our lives into God's hands, we can find a deeper trust and reliance on Him, which leads to a deeper love and commitment to Him. (Psalm 37:3-5; 1 John 5:3)

This trust allows us to fully embrace and enjoy the New Covenant relationship that God is creating with us. (Psalm 16:11; John 14:23)

IV. Supporting research and evidence

We do not endorse secular psychology or personality profiles to be used as biblical truth or supports in the scriptures relating to identity in Christ- we reference below information to show how people in the world address this idea:

Psychological research on self-esteem and self-worth has shown that our sense of identity is influenced by a range of factors, including our relationships, values, and beliefs. (Cite relevant studies)

Spiritual formation research has demonstrated the importance of cultivating a personal relationship with God in shaping our identity as believers. (Cite relevant studies)

V. Conclusion

The New Covenant is a powerful and transformative influence in our lives as believers in Jesus. It provides us with a sense of purpose, meaning, and worth that is rooted in God's love and grace.

By maintaining a strong understanding of the New Covenant and its impact on our identity, we can experience the many benefits that come with this relationship, including increased resilience, improved relationships with others, and a deeper love and commitment to God.

Our research aims to examine research integrity and learning through the lens of the Holy Spirit. It is important to note that this questionnaire is not intended to be a personality profile.

Column 1: Themes and subjects that are often mishandled or misused
The first column of the questionnaire asks you to reflect on your own perspectives and beliefs. If your responses do not align with the reality presented in the second column, we may be able to identify any misunderstandings or false information that may be influencing your perspective.

Column 2: Themes and subjects that should be approached with a healthy perspective and mindset The second column represents a healthy, balanced perspective that is grounded in biblical reality. It is based on discernment and an accurate understanding of our experiences.

WE USE THIS FORMAT TO HIGHLIGHT THE COMMON MISUSES OF BIBLICAL TEXT IF THOSE MISUSES BECOME THE MAIN GOAL OF A PERSON'S STUDY. THEY WOULD THEN CONTINUE BUIDLING ON INCORRECT CONCLUSIONS ABOUT PROMINENT THEMES OF NEW COVENANT.
 The two column approach can also help individuals to understand how to make the transition from Old Testament values to Christ-centered values.

• One way to approach this might be to first identify the root cause of the mishandling or misuse of the themes and subjects in column 1.

This could involve examining one's own beliefs and motivations, as well as seeking guidance from God and other trusted sources. Once the root cause has been identified, it may be helpful to take steps to address and correct it, such as through prayer, seeking counsel from others, or engaging in self-reflection and personal growth.

• Additionally, it may be helpful to focus on aligning one's beliefs and actions with those outlined in column 2, which represent a healthy and biblical perspective.

 This could involve seeking to better understand and apply the principles outlined in column 2 in one's own life, and seeking to build a stronger foundation of faith and trust in God. Ultimately, the key to unifying and integrating these two approaches is to seek a deeper understanding of God's will and to desire to align one's life with His principles.

HOW TO USE AND BENEFIT FROM TWO COLUMN APPROACH IN PERSONAL LIFE AND OTHER GOALS OF STUDY?

Column 2: Themes and subjects that should be approached with a healthy perspective and mindset

• A. Recognizing and addressing any co-dependencies or blind spots through comparison with other concepts

• B. Proper methodology in prayer, focusing on God's goodness and power rather than our own inadequacy

• C. Understanding our worth, value, and standing in Christ, rather than relying on our own merits and accomplishments

• D. Embracing and living out the love, redemption, and kindness of God

• E. Accepting and adapting to the new covenant realities of Christ rather than clinging to old ways of thinking.

1. Stating facts: This refers to presenting information in a clear and objective manner, without trying to exaggerate or minimize the truth.
RESPONSE TO MAKING CLAIMS DISPUTE/RESOLVE 

Column 1: Making claims based on one's own beliefs or interpretations of the Bible without considering the broader context or other perspectives

Column 2: Stating facts based on a thorough understanding of the context and using evidence to support one's claims

 New Covenant truth: We must be careful not to make               claims about scriptural truth without first seeking to                   understand it in its proper context and with the         

           guidance of the Holy Spirit.

2.  Diet and Exercise: This refers to the importance of taking care of one's physical health in order to maintain a strong and healthy body. 
RESPONSE TO SPIRITUAL WAREFARE DISPUTE/RESOLVE

Column 1: Believing that spiritual warfare is solely focused on defeating external enemies or forces, rather than also addressing internal struggles and personal growth

Column 2: Recognizing that spiritual warfare involves both external and internal battles, and seeking to grow and mature in one's faith as a means of overcoming these challenges

New Covenant Truth: As believers, we are called to engage in spiritual warfare against the forces of evil that seek to oppose God's kingdom. This requires putting on the armor of God and standing firm in our faith. While we are indeed engaged in a spiritual battle (Ephesians 6:12), we must be careful not to oversimplify or exaggerate the role of the enemy in our lives. We are called to stand firm in our faith and resist the devil, but we must also remember that God is sovereign and in control (James 4:7)

3. Sensation of feelings (crypto-diverse emotions): This refers to the range of emotions that one experiences and how they can influence one's perspective and actions.
RESPONSE TO BALANCE VS. CHEMICALS DISPUTE/RESOLVE 

Column 1: Relying on chemicals or external substances to achieve balance or peace, rather than seeking balance through healthy habits and practices

Column 2: Maintaining balance through diet, exercise, and other healthy habits, rather than relying on external substances or shortcuts

NEW COVENANT TRUTH 1: It is important to maintain a balance in our lives, rather than relying on external factors such as chemicals to cope with our emotions. This can be especially challenging in the context of the New Covenant, where we may be faced with intense feelings or challenges to our faith. However, by focusing on our relationship with God and seeking to align our will with His, we can find the strength and guidance we need to navigate these feelings and challenges in a healthy way. This allows us to experience the fullness of the New Covenant relationship and all that it has to offer, rather than being held back by unbalanced or unhealthy coping mechanisms.

New Covenant truth 2: While it is true that certain chemicals can have an impact on our well-being, we must be careful not to rely on them as a replacement for the balance and peace that comes from a relationship with God. This refers to the idea that there is a balance that needs to be struck between relying on one's own abilities and relying on God's power and grace. In the context of the New Covenant, this could mean recognizing that we are not self-sufficient, and that we need to rely on God for guidance, strength, and support in order to live out our faith. Or we would never get ahead, or beyond these self-created veils limiting the effect of truth on those areas creating instability. 

4. Biblical Structure: This refers to the way in which the Bible is organized and the importance of understanding its context in order to accurately interpret its teachings.

RESPONSE TO GENERATION TIES DISPUTE/RESOLVE 

Column 1: Believing that one is doomed to repeat the mistakes or patterns of one's ancestors, rather than recognizing the power of free will and choice

Column 2: Acknowledging the influence of one's ancestors and the importance of breaking negative patterns, but recognizing that one has the agency to make different choices and create a different legacy

 New Covenant truth: While it is true that our experiences and behaviors can be influenced by the actions of our ancestors, we must also recognize that we have the power to break free from unhealthy patterns and choose to live in accordance with God's will.

5. Fear and Torment: This refers to the negative emotions that can arise when one is overwhelmed by fear or anxiety. Not Knowing the source means we try to reconcile and redeem ourselves through our own efforts or by ignoring the root issues that need to be addressed.
RESPONSE TO RECONCILATION AND REDEMPTION DISPUTE/RESOLVE 
In handling the theme of reconciliation, it is important to approach it with the understanding that it is a process that requires both repentance and forgiveness. Without a proper understanding of this process, individuals may struggle with the assurance of their own forgiveness and restoration, leading to a state of fear and torment. 

Column 1: Focusing on external appearances or actions as a means of seeking reconciliation or redemption, rather than recognizing the need for internal transformation

Column 2: Seeking reconciliation and redemption through internal transformation and a change of heart, rather than simply trying to change one's behavior or appearance

Therefore, our proof of concept is, Column 1 Can be properly addressed and resolved through the healthy perspective and mindset of:
Column 2 In order to fully understand the importance of reconciling and redeeming relationships, we must first recognize the damaging effects of fear and torment on our hearts and minds. When we are trapped in a cycle of fear and torment, it can be difficult to see the hope and redemption that is offered to us through Christ. However, by grasping a hold of the truth of the New Covenant, we can find the freedom and healing that comes from being reconciled to God and to one another. When we seek to reconcile and redeem our relationships, we are able to let go of the fear and torment that once held us captive and instead find peace and joy in our relationship with God and with others. It is through this process of reconciling and redeeming that we are able to fully embrace the hope and love offered to us through the New Covenant."

6. Canon of Faith: This refers to the accepted list of texts that are considered to be authoritative and inspired by God.

RESPONSE TO COGNITIVE DISSONANCE OF THE WORD DISPUTE/RESOLVE 

Column 1: Allowing one's own beliefs or biases to distort or misinterpret the meaning of the Bible

Column 2: Seeking to understand the broader context and the original intent of the Bible, rather than allowing one's own preconceptions to influence one's interpretation

NEW COVENANT TRUTH 1: It is important for our beliefs and actions to be in alignment with the Word of God in order to avoid cognitive dissonance. This requires a commitment to living out our faith in a way that honors God. As we seek to understand and apply the Word of God, we may encounter ideas or teachings that conflict with our own beliefs or experiences. It is important to be willing to examine these conflicts and to allow the Word of God to shape our beliefs and actions, rather than trying to make the Bible fit our own understanding.

NEW COVENANT TRUTH 2: "Cognitive dissonance of the Word refers to the idea that one may hold conflicting beliefs or values that cause discomfort or inconsistency in one's thinking. In the context of the New Covenant, this could mean struggling to reconcile certain teachings or concepts with one's personal experiences or understanding. On the other hand, the Canon of faith refers to the recognized and accepted books of the Bible that are considered to be inspired by God and authoritative for Christian beliefs and practices. In the New Covenant, it is important to approach the Canon with a healthy perspective, recognizing that it is a source of truth and guidance for our lives, rather than allowing cognitive dissonance to cloud our understanding or undermine our faith."

7. What God promised:
This refers to the promises that God
has made to His people, as recorded in the Bible. This refers to the idea that one's faith may be based more on feelings or emotions rather than on a solid foundation of scriptural truth. In the context of the New Covenant, this could mean being aware of the potential for one's faith to be influenced by one's emotions or personal experiences, and seeking to ground one's faith in a deeper understanding of God's Word.

RESPONSE TO ATTAINING BY FEELINGS BASED FAITH: DISPUTE/RESOLVE

Column 1: Allowing one's own emotions or feelings to dictate one's faith or beliefs, rather than seeking to understand and follow the truth

Column 2: Recognizing that faith involves both emotion and reason, and seeking to align one's beliefs and actions with the truth rather than simply following one's feelings

New Covenant truth 2: While it is natural to have emotions and feelings as a part of our faith journey, we must not allow them to be the sole basis for our beliefs and actions. Instead, we must anchor our faith in the Word of God. 
New Covenant truth 3: While our emotions and feelings can play a role in our faith journey, they should not be the foundation of our faith. Instead, our faith should be rooted in the truth of God's Word and in the person of Jesus Christ. This means seeking to understand and follow God's Word, even when our feelings may be telling us something different.

8. Positional Standing in Christ: This refers to the fact that, as believers in Jesus, we are viewed as being in a right relationship with God and accepted by Him because of our faith in Jesus. 

RESPONSE TO ATTAINING BY FLESHLY DEEDS: DISPUTE/RESOLVE
Column 1: Seeking to earn or attain salvation through one's own efforts or good works
Column 2: Understanding that salvation is a gift from God that cannot be earned or attained through our own efforts or good works. Ephesians 2:8-9 states, "For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast." This emphasis on grace and faith, rather than works, is a central theme in the New Covenant.

9. Struggling: This refers to the challenges and difficulties that one may face in life and the importance of seeking God's guidance and strength to overcome them. 

RESPONSE TO BACKSLIDING: DISPUTE/RESOLVE:
Column 1: Falling away from one's faith or returning to old habits or behaviors. 

Column 2: Recognizing that while we may experience setbacks or struggles in our faith journey, God is faithful and will never abandon us. Hebrews 10:23 states, "Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for he who promised is faithful." By trusting in God's faithfulness and seeking His guidance and support, we can overcome any setbacks or struggles.

10. Giving Up: This refers to the temptation to give up on one's faith or to stop striving to grow and mature in one's relationship with God.
RESPONSE TO FAILING GOD: DISPUTE/RESOLVE:

 Column 1: Feeling as though one has let God down or failed to live up to His expectations.

Column 2: Understanding that God's love for us is unconditional and that He is always ready to forgive us when we ask for it. 1 John 1:9 states, "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness." By recognizing that we are not perfect and relying on God's grace and forgiveness, we can let go of any feelings of failure and find a deeper sense of peace and purpose in our relationship with Him.

11. Destiny/signs: This refers to the idea that God has a specific plan and purpose for one's life and that He may use various signs or indications to guide one in the right direction, but the correction is, we follow God where there are no signs and base our faith on His perfect plan, not destiny.
RESPONSE TO FAILING GOD: DISPUTE/RESOLVE

"To interpret signs and events as a means of trying to control our destiny or manipulate circumstances goes against the very nature of God's sovereignty."

Column 1: Doubting or denying God's sovereignty or control over all things.

Column 2: Trusting in God's sovereignty and recognizing that He is in control of all things. Psalm 135:6 states, "Whatever the Lord pleases, he does, in heaven and on earth, in the seas and all deeps." By understanding that God is in control, we can find peace and comfort in even the most difficult circumstances.
NEW COVENANT TRUTH 1: God is sovereign over all things, and His plans and purposes will ultimately be fulfilled. This means that we can trust Him in all circumstances, knowing that He is working for our good and His glory 
NEW COVENANT TRUTH 2: It is important to approach the themes of destiny and signs within the context of the Bible and with an understanding of God's sovereignty. If we mishandle or misuse the concept of God's sovereignty, it can lead to incorrect conclusions about destiny and signs. For example, if we place too much emphasis on specific signs or try to manipulate our circumstances to fit a certain perceived destiny, it can lead us away from relying on God and His plan for our lives. On the other hand, if we understand and trust in God's sovereignty, it can give us peace and hope as we navigate life's ups and downs and seek to follow His will for our lives. It is not necessarily required to fully understand or have a specific understanding of destiny and signs in order to have faith, but rather it is important to trust in God's sovereignty and His plan for our lives.
EXAMPLE: Understanding and accepting God's sovereignty (His ultimate control and authority) can help us find peace and purpose in difficult circumstances without dependence on material signs, external confirmations or up-in-the--air destiny-related focuses to discern if God is moving. God's purpose is being fulfilled, or not!.

12. Compelled by Agape to serve God: This refers to the fact that, as believers, we are motivated by God's love to serve Him and others.

13. Example of past patterns in history in the heart of God: This refers to the fact that God has consistently demonstrated His love and faithfulness throughout history and that we can trust Him to do the same in our own lives.
RESPONSE TO VIEW OF THE OLD TESTAMENT: DISPUTE/RESOLVE
Column 1: Believing that the Old Testament is no longer relevant or applicable to one's faith and relationship with God.

Column 2: Recognizing the Old Testament as an important part of the Biblical narrative and understanding that it can provide valuable insight and guidance in one's relationship with God. Hebrews 8:6-13 speaks of the New Covenant, stating that it is "a better covenant, which is established on better promises" and that "by calling this covenant 'new,' he has made the first one obsolete." This does not mean that the Old Testament is irrelevant, but rather that it points to the fulfillment of God's promise through the New Covenant in Jesus Christ.

14. Believe, receive and be assured of who you are in Christ: This refers to the importance of accepting and embracing the identity that God has given us as His children, and being confident in His love and acceptance of us.

RESPONSE TO SELF EFFORT, CONDEMNATION, UNBELIEF: DISPUTE/RESOLVE
Column 1: Believing that one must work hard to earn God's favor or love and allowing feelings of condemnation or disbelief to hinder one's relationship with Him.

Column 2: Trusting in the promise of the New Covenant and recognizing that our salvation is not based on our own efforts, but on the grace and love of God. Romans 8:1 states, "There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus." Rather than relying on our own efforts, we can find rest and assurance in the promise of the New Covenant and the fact that we are fully loved and accepted by God through Jesus Christ.
New Covenant truth: We are saved by grace through faith in Jesus, and not by anything we do. God's love and acceptance of us is not based on our performance or worthiness, but on the work of Jesus on the cross. We are not condemned, but have been set free through the death and resurrection of Jesus. It is important to have a firm belief in the truth of God's word and to not allow doubt to creep in.

EXAMPLE 1: This refers to the idea that we should not try to earn salvation or acceptance through our own efforts, but rather, we should put our trust in Jesus and His sacrifice for us. In the context of the New Covenant, this means recognizing that our worth and acceptance are not based on what we do, but on what Jesus has done for us.

EXAMPLE 2: When we allow feelings of guilt or shame to define our worth, we are not living in the truth of the New Covenant. We are loved and valued by God, and we should not allow our past mistakes or failures to dictate our sense of worth."

IV. Benefits of maintaining a strong understanding of the New Covenant and its impact on our identity

A greater awareness of Christ and His teachings in our lives

A greater sense of purpose and meaning in life

Increased resilience and strength to face challenges and hardships

Improved relationships with others based on Christ-like love and compassion

A deeper love and commitment to God as we trust and rely on Him to guide us through the spiritual requirements and struggles of life

The opportunity to fully embrace and enjoy the New Covenant relationship that God is creating with us, one that is rich in His love and grace.