5. This covenant was differently administered in the time of the law, and in the time of the gospel: under the law, it was administered by promises, prophecies, sacrifices, circumcision, the paschal lamb, and other types and ordinances delivered to the people of the Jews, all foresignifying Christ to come; which were, for that time, sufficient and efficacious, through the operation of the Spirit, to instruct and build up the elect in faith in the promised Messiah, by whom they had full remission of sins, and eternal salvation; and is called the Old Testament.

6. Under the gospel, when Christ, the substance, was exhibited, the ordinances in which this covenant is dispensed are the preaching of the Word, and the administration of the sacraments of baptism and the Lord’s Supper: which, though fewer in number, and administered with more simplicity, and less outward glory, yet, in them, it is held forth in more fullness, evidence and spiritual efficacy, to all nations, both Jews and Gentiles; and is called the New Testament. There are not therefore two covenants of grace, differing in substance, but one and the same, under various dispensations.

For further study see:

1. WSC Q20. Did God leave all mankind to perish in the estate of sin and misery?
2. WLC 30: Does God leave all mankind to perish in the estate of sin and misery?
3. WLC 31: With whom was the covenant of grace made?
4. WLC 32: How is the grace of God manifested in the second covenant?
5. WLC 33: Was the covenant of grace always administered after one and the same manner?
6. WLC 34: How was the covenant of grace administered under the Old Testament?
7. WLC 35: How is the covenant of grace administered under the New Testament?
8. WLC 36: Who is the Mediator of the covenant of grace?