In Hebrews 8, the author of Hebrews quotes the entire passage under consideration (Jeremiah 31:31-34). First, he introduces the quote with these inspired comments.
But as it is, Christ has obtained a ministry that is as much more excellent than the old as the covenant He mediates is better, since it is enacted on better promises. (Hebrews 8:6)
Verse 6 tells of Christ’s superiority in three ways:
- Christ has a better ministry.
- Christ is the Mediator of a better covenant.
- This better covenant is based on better promises.
Remember that Jeremiah had used the future tense, foreseeing the coming of a new covenant. But Hebrews comments in the present tense: Christ is the Mediator of a better covenant. This New Covenant is based on better promises. The writer of Hebrews shows that Jeremiah’s words have been fulfilled, and Christ’s better covenant is a present reality.
Hebrews uses words like “better” or “superior” some 13 times. “Better” implies a comparison with something that is not as good. In this case a “better covenant” means that the previous covenant was in some way lacking. Verse 7 addresses this thought:
For if that first covenant had been faultless, there would have been no occasion to look for a second. (Hebrews 8:7)
If the first covenant was perfect in every way, no other covenant would be needed. Scripture, however, does speak of a second and better covenant, which means that the first did not meet all needs.