“For if that first covenant had been faultless, then should no place have been sought for the second.”
For if that first covenant had been faultless, there would have been no occasion to look for a second — the first covenant's inadequacy is evidenced by the fact that Scripture itself prophesies a new one; its obsolescence is inscribed in the Old Testament. This is not a condemnation of the Mosaic law's goodness but a recognition of its limited function: it could not effect the internal transformation of the human heart that the new covenant accomplishes.
Church Fathers on Hebrews 8:7
But (as I said) he sets down that which especially cheers them, in the words, “Which was established upon better promises.” Whence does appear? In that this the one was cast out, and the other introduced in its place: for it is therefore of force because it is better. For as he says, “If perfection were by” it, “what further need was there, that another priest should rise, after the order of Melchisedec?” Hebrews 7:11; so also here he used the same syllogism, saying Hebrews…
Nicene & Post-Nicene / Ante-Nicene Fathers translations · public domain
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