The term “ratify” might not appear frequently in modern Bible translations, but its underlying concept is central to understanding God’s relationship with humanity. To ratify means to formally confirm or make valid an agreement or treaty. In the biblical context, this often refers to the solemn establishment and confirmation of covenants, emphasizing their binding nature and divine assurance. This article explores the concept of ratification within scripture through a Q&A format.

What is the Concept of Ratification in Scripture?

In scripture, the concept of ratification is primarily understood through the establishment of covenants. A covenant is a sacred, binding agreement between God and His people, or sometimes between individuals. When God “ratifies” a covenant, He is formally establishing its terms and making an unbreakable commitment to fulfill His promises. This act assures the participants of the covenant’s validity and the certainty of its provisions. It moves beyond a mere proposal to a state of absolute certainty and commitment.

For instance, after the Great Flood, God made a covenant with Noah, promising never again to destroy all life on Earth with a flood. This covenant was ratified by the sign of the rainbow (Genesis 9:12-16), a visible reminder of God’s unilateral and unbreakable promise. Similarly, the Abrahamic covenant, which promised a great nation and land, was also formally established through a dramatic ritual (Genesis 15:9-18).

How Did God Ratify His Covenants with Israel?

God ratified His covenants with the nation of Israel through specific, often dramatic, actions and rituals that underscored their seriousness and His divine authority. The most prominent example is the Mosaic Covenant at Mount Sinai. Here, after God delivered the Ten Commandments and other laws, Moses read the “Book of the Covenant” to the people. Their affirmation (“All that the Lord has spoken we will do, and we will be obedient”) was followed by a sacrificial ritual where Moses sprinkled blood on the people and the altar, declaring, “Behold the blood of the covenant that the Lord has made with you in accordance with all these words” (Exodus 24:7-8). This ritualistic act served to ratify the covenant, making it a binding agreement between God and Israel. The shedding of blood was a powerful symbol of life and death, signifying the grave consequences of breaking the covenant and the seriousness of God’s commitment.

What is the Significance of Christ’s Blood in Ratifying the New Covenant?

The ultimate act of divine ratification in scripture is found in the establishment of the New Covenant through Jesus Christ. The Old Testament pointed forward to a “new covenant” (Jeremiah 31:31-34), and Jesus Himself declared its inauguration during the Last Supper. He took the cup, saying, “This cup is the new covenant in my blood, which is poured out for you” (Luke 22:20). Just as the Old Covenant was ratified by the blood of animals, the New Covenant is ratified by the precious blood of Christ.

This signifies a covenant grounded in grace and forgiveness, where access to God is made possible through Christ’s atoning sacrifice. His death on the cross was the fulfillment of the sacrificial system and the ultimate confirmation of God’s promise of salvation. This New Covenant, once ratified by Christ’s blood, stands as an eternal and unchangeable testament to God’s love and redemptive plan for humanity. Read more about the New Covenant

How Does the Concept of Ratification Apply to Believers Today?

For believers, understanding the concept of biblical ratification provides profound assurance. It means that God’s promises, especially those found in the New Covenant, are not conditional on human perfect performance but are fully established and guaranteed by God Himself through Christ. When we accept Christ, we enter into this divinely ratified agreement, receiving forgiveness of sins, the indwelling Holy Spirit, and the promise of eternal life.

This understanding fosters confidence and security in our faith, knowing that God’s commitment to us is as firm as His own character. It calls us to live in faithful response to a God who has irrevocably bound Himself to His people. We are called to remember the sacrifice that ratified this covenant and live lives worthy of the calling we have received. Read more about God’s promises