The Greek word *diatheke* (G1242) is significant in understanding the concept of covenant and testament in the New Testament. Unlike the English term "covenant," which implies a bilateral agreement between two parties, *diatheke* translates more accurately to "testament" or "will," indicating a unilateral declaration of the disposition of property made in anticipation of one's death. This distinction is crucial, as it highlights a one-sided act rather than a mutual agreement. In Greek, there exists another word, *suntheke*, which denotes a bilateral agreement akin to the English "covenant," but it is not used by Paul in this context. Instead, Paul deliberately employs *diatheke*, creating challenges for translators in determining whether he intends "covenant" or "testament" in specific passages. The use of *diatheke* suggests an emphasis on God's unilateral actions in the covenant relationship. It underscores how much God has done on His own, without consulting the other parties involved, to tip the scales in favor of those entering the covenant, aiding them in keeping its terms and ultimately entering His Kingdom. This unilateral nature is evident in acts such as God giving His Son, Jesus Christ dying in our stead, granting grace, forgiving sins, providing access in prayer, giving faith, imparting His Spirit as a down payment of eternal life, empowering law-keeping, offering gifts for service, ensuring no trial is too great, and promising never to forsake His people while completing the work begun in them. Thus, *diatheke* emphasizes God's self-giving nature, enhancing the ability of His people to fulfill their covenant obligations.

The New Testament writers used the Greek word *diatheke* (G1242), which in normal Greek usage means testament or will, rather than *suntheke*, which signifies a bilateral agreement between two or more parties. *Diatheke* represents a unilateral declaration of intention, akin to a will, where a person dictates the disposal of their property according to their desires. The biblical writers likely chose *diatheke* to emphasize that the foundation of the New Covenant is entirely the work of God for the benefit of those who enter into it with Him. This choice underscores that God took it upon Himself to create a new agreement to address the fault in the people, specifically in their hearts, which prevented them from keeping the terms of the Old Covenant.

The Greek term *diatheke* (G1242) carries the dual meaning of both a testament, or will, and a covenant. In the context of Christ's actions, *diatheke* represents the New Covenant as well as a will that He established prior to His death for the forgiveness of sins. Christ, having qualified by being blameless, voluntarily offered Himself as a sacrifice to bridge the gap caused by sin, which separates humanity from God. Before His death, He made out this will, declaring that those who take advantage of His sacrifice will inherit what He Himself inherited, including being part of the Family of God, along with promises such as the Holy Spirit, eternal life, ongoing forgiveness, and all necessary gifts. Through this act, Christ not only became the sacrifice for sin but also the testator who, by dying, passed on these benefits to enable the removal of human flaws and to sustain a relationship with God. This framework of *diatheke* ensures that the terms of the New Covenant can be kept, allowing for transformation into His image and qualification to share in the inheritance of the promises.