Covenant Theology: The Revelation of Number 33

Covenantal theology is a framework that helps us understand the relationship between God and humanity through the lens of covenants. These agreements, or covenants, are pivotal in the biblical narrative, shaping the way we perceive divine promises and human responsibilities. One intriguing aspect of this theology is the significance of numbers, particularly the number 33. This post will explore the implications of number 33 within the context of covenantal theology, revealing its profound meaning and relevance.

An ancient scroll showcasing Hebrew text related to covenants.

The Revelation of Number 33: A Dream

Shortly before my baptism, I experienced a vivid dream that would forever change how I read Scripture. In this dream, I saw the number 33 displayed clearly before me in brilliant green light. Though I didn’t understand its significance at the time, something profound stirred within my spirit. When I awoke, I felt compelled to search for this number in the Bible, not knowing what I would find.

What followed was extraordinary. In the days and weeks after that dream, I began noticing the number 33 everywhere in countless everyday moments. It appeared with such frequency that it could not be coincidence. This divine prompting led me to years of careful research, examining every occurrence of this number throughout Scripture.

What I discovered was astounding: the number 33 appears at pivotal moments in biblical history, each marking the completion or fulfillment of a major covenant between God and humanity. This pattern reveals what I call “God’s Signature of Completion”, a divine fingerprint left at the most significant moments in redemptive history.

Understanding Covenantal Theology

Covenantal theology posits that God interacts with humanity through a series of covenants. These covenants are not merely contracts; they are sacred agreements that define the relationship between God and His people. The relevant covenants in the Bible include:

• The Abrahamic Covenant: God's promise to Abraham to make him the father of many nations.

• The Mosaic Covenant: The law given to Moses, establishing Israel as God's chosen people.

• The Davidic Covenant: God's promise to David regarding his lineage and the eternal kingdom.

• The New Covenant: Established through Jesus Christ, offering salvation to all.

  
  

Each of these covenants reveals different aspects of God's character and His plan for humanity. They also highlight the importance of faithfulness and obedience in maintaining a relationship with God.

The Significance of Numbers in the Bible

Numbers in the Bible often carry symbolic meanings. They can represent completeness, divine order, or specific theological concepts. For instance:

• Three often symbolizes divine perfection or emphasis (e.g., "Holy, holy, holy is Jehovah").

• Seven represents completion (e.g., God resting on the seventh day).

• Twelve signifies God's people (e.g., the twelve tribes of Israel).

  
  

The number 33 is less commonly discussed but holds significant meaning, particularly in the context of covenantal theology.

Number 33: God's Signature of Completion

The covenants we’ve outlined are well-known to students of Scripture. But what has been largely overlooked is how God marked their completion. In the following sections, I will demonstrate that the number 33 appears consistently at precise moments when major covenants reach their fulfillment, not scattered randomly, but concentrated at pivotal transition points in redemptive history. The Abrahamic land promise: 33 defeated kings. The Davidic kingship: 33 years reigning in Jerusalem. The New Covenant: Christ’s completion at age 33. This pattern is too specific, too concentrated at covenant fulfillment moments, to be coincidental. It is Jehovah’s signature, verifying that a divine promise has reached its appointed completion.

Jesus' Ministry and Death

One of the most notable associations with the number 33 is the age of Jesus at His death. This age marks the culmination of His earthly ministry, during which He fulfilled the New Covenant through His death and resurrection.

• Fulfillment of Prophecy: Jesus' life and death were the ultimate fulfillment of the covenants made with the patriarchs and prophets.

  • His sacrifice established a new relationship between God and humanity, one based on grace rather than law (Romans 6:14; Hebrews 8:6; Galatians 3:24–25)

  • Fulfilled the promise of a seed through whom all nations would be blessed (Galatians 3:16)

  • Completed the Law and became the final Passover sacrifice, establishing the new covenant nation of spiritual Israel (1 Corinthians 5:7)

  • Fulfilled the promise of kingship by establishing an eternal kingdom (Luke 1:32-33)

    
    

David’s Reign in Jerusalem: Kingship Established

David reigned for a total of 40 years.  In Hebron, he reigned over Judah for 7 years and 6 months, and in Jerusalem, he reigned for 33 years over all Israel and Judah. He consolidated his power and established Jerusalem as the capital of Israel. This event is crucial in understanding the Davidic Covenant, which promised that his lineage and throne would endure forever. (2 Samuel 7:12-16)

• Establishment of God's Kingdom: David's reign symbolizes God's kingdom on earth, a theme that resonates throughout the Bible and culminates in the New Covenant through Christ.

• Fulfillment of God's Promises: David's 33-year reign fulfilled God's promise to Abraham and Israel that Kings would descend from their line. (Genesis 17:6; Genesis 35:11)

  
  

Conquest of the Promised Land

Joshua 12 lists all the kings Israel defeated during the conquest of Canaan. The chapter records exactly 33 kings: 2 east of the Jordan under Moses and 31 west of the Jordan under Joshua. This marks the completion of the Abrahamic covenant section in which God promises Abraham's descendants the land of Canaan.

• Trust in God's Covenant: Joshua 21:43-45 declares: “Not one promise out of all the good promises that Jehovah had made to the house of Israel was broken; all of them came true.”

  
  

Theological Implications of Number 33

The consistent appearance of the number 33 at these pivotal moments is not random coincidence. It reveals profound truths about God's nature and His plan for humanity. This pattern invites us to consider what these convergences teach us about Jehovah's character and His method of fulfilling promises across generations. Here are some theological implications:

The Call to Faithfulness

The number 33 reminds us of the importance of faithfulness in our relationship with God. Just as Jesus faithfully fulfilled his mission, we are called to live out our faith through obedience to God’s commands, for Jesus said: “If you love me, you will observe my commandments.” (John 14:15)

• Living in Covenant Relationship: Our response to God's covenants should be one of commitment and trust, reflecting the faithfulness He has shown throughout history.

  
  

The Promise of Redemption

The association of 33 with Jesus' sacrifice highlights the theme of redemption. Through His death and resurrection, we are offered a new covenant that brings forgiveness and eternal life. (Matthew 26:28; Hebrews 9:15)

• Embracing the New Covenant: Understanding the significance of Jesus' age at His Death helps us appreciate the depth of God's love and the lengths He went to restore our relationship with Him.

  
  

The Hope of Restoration

The number 33 also symbolizes hope and restoration. Just as David's reign marked a new beginning for Israel, the New Covenant represents a fresh start for all who believe.

• Anticipating God's Kingdom: As we await the fulfillment of God's promises, we can find comfort in knowing that He is faithful to His word. “Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for he who promised is faithful” (Hebrews 10:23).

  
  

Practical Applications of Covenantal Theology

Understanding covenantal theology and the significance of number 33 can have practical implications for our daily lives. Here are some ways to apply these concepts:

Deepening Our Relationship with God

Recognizing the importance of covenants can encourage us to deepen our relationship with God. We can do this through:

• Prayer: Engaging in regular communication with God, expressing our desires and seeking His guidance. “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God” (Philippians 4:6).

• Study: Delving into Scripture to understand God's promises and how they apply to our lives. “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105).

  
  

Living Out Our Faith

Covenantal theology calls us to live out our faith in tangible ways. This can include:

• Service: Serving others as an expression of our love for God and our commitment to His covenant (Galatians 5:13).

• Community: Engaging with fellow believers to encourage one another in our faith journeys (Hebrews 10:24-25).

  
  

Sharing the Message of Hope

Understanding the significance of the New Covenant equips us to share the message of hope with others. We can:

• Preach: Share the good news of Jesus Christ and the redemption He offers. “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit” (Matthew 28:19).“He said to them, ‘Go into all the world and proclaim the gospel to the whole creation’” (Mark 16:15).

• Disciple: Mentor others in their faith, helping them understand the importance of living in a covenant relationship with God. “And what you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses entrust to faithful men who will be able to teach others also” (2 Timothy 2:2).“Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing” (1 Thessalonians 5:11).

  
  

Conclusion

Covenantal theology provides a rich framework for understanding our relationship with God. The revelation of number 33 serves as a powerful reminder of God's faithfulness, the significance of Jesus' sacrifice, and the hope of restoration. As we reflect on these truths, let us commit to living out our faith in obedience and sharing the message of hope with others. Embrace the call to deepen your relationship with Jehovah and recognize the transformative power of His covenants in your life. "You well know that Jehovah your God is the true God, the faithful God, keeping his covenant and loyal love to a thousand generations of those who love him and keep his commandments"(Deuteronomy 7:9).