The Spirit of Sheba in the Local Church - Part II
The Kingdom Concept of Covenant
by Dr. John Tetsola

Last month we saw how the “spirit of Sheba” fails to give itself wholly to the furtherance of another man’s vision because inwardly it never fully relinquishes its own. Sheba possessed something in him to enhance David’s ministry, but instead he broke covenant and betrayed David from an unsuspecting place. But there are some who will never break covenant. Men like Amasai who will protect and serve their leader with everything that’s in them because they understand the “kingdom” concept and responsibilities of covenant.

I will punish him for breaking my covenant and disregarding the solemn oath…

Ezekiel 17:19b NLT

Covenant is responsibility. It is a transaction between God and man, or between individuals wherein each party binds himself to fulfill certain conditions or obligations. In O.T. times, a breach of covenant was regarded as sin worthy of God’s punishment. Presently many believers hold a “church” concept of covenant which pales in comparison to the “kingdom” concept—God’s way of doing things. When God connects you to a leader or church, He brings you into the kingdom concept of covenant and oath making. And although you don’t actually make a solemn oath when joining a ministry or business, there is the kingdom principle and concept of covenant that takes place which involves loyalty—something Sheba failed to understand.

The Responsibilities of Covenant

…the spirit came upon Amasai, who was chief of the captains, and he said, Thine are we, David, and on thy side, thou son of Jesse: peace, peace be unto thee, and peace be to thine helpers; for thy God helpeth thee.

All these men of war, that could keep rank, came with a perfect heart to Hebron, to make David king over all Israel: and all the rest also of Israel were of one heart to make David king.

1 Chronicles 12:18, 38

Amasai understood the kingdom concept of covenant. Speaking on behalf of David’s helpers, he made solemn, covenant-making statements which revealed his affection and allegiance to the vision and purpose of God on David’s life. Notice the elements of Amasai’s covenant-making statements. FIRST, covenant was established with God’s leader - with the “David” of the house. “Thine are we David.” Put your personal agenda on the altar of God, and let your only agenda be to make David king. SECOND, covenant was established with the vision of the house. They came to connect with and serve David’s vision. “There’s no conflict of interest David. We are on your side because we know that God is with you.” FINALLY, covenant was established with the helpers of the vision. “Peace be to thine helpers.” Pledge to love one another and never give up on one another. The kingdom concept of covenant emphasizes the promise to love, to serve, and to protect the people and places in your life.

by Dr. John A. Tetsola