Why is eternal marriage called a "new" convenant?

[_DarkHelmet]

According to LDS theology, the NEW and everlasting covenant of marriage is actually a practice that dates back through the eternities into the pre-existence. our heavenly father was married in a temple somewhere for time and all eternity. Adam and Eve were the first temple married people on Earth. so how come god told Joseph Smith it was a new covenant in 1843?

[_Polygamy-Porter]

According to LDS theology, the NEW and everlasting covenant of marriage is actually a practice that dates back through the eternities into the pre-existence. our heavenly father was married in a temple somewhere for time and all eternity. Adam and Eve were the first temple married people on Earth. so how come god told Joseph Smith it was a new covenant in 1843?

Good point.

I dunno, marketing perhaps?

I think "New and Improved Everlasting Covenant®" would have been better.

[_Gazelam]

God's covenant of salvation is the fulness of the gospel. When men accept the gospel, they agree or covenant to keep the commandments of God, and He promises or covenants to give them salvation in His kingdom

The gospel is the everlasting covenant because it is ordained by Him who is Everlasting and also because it is everlastingly the same. In all past ages salvation was gained by adherence to its terms and conditions, and that same compliance will bring the same reward in all future ages. Each time this everlasting covenant is revealed it is new to those of that dispensation. Hence the gospel is the new and everlasting covenant.

All covenants between God and man are part of the new and everlasting covenant. (D&C 22; 132:6-7) Thus celestial marriage is "a new and an everlasting covenant" (D&C 132:4) or the new and everlasting covenant of marriage.

- Mormon Doctrine pg.530