Covenant Theology: Understanding God's Redemptive Plan

 

Summary

In our exploration of Reformed theology, we delve into the profound concept of covenant, a central theme that permeates both the Old and New Testaments. The term "Covenant Theology" is often used to describe Reformed theology, though I seldom use it, not due to opposition, but because it can be misleading. All Christians recognize the significance of covenants, as they are foundational to understanding Scripture. From the covenant with Noah, marked by the rainbow, to the covenant with Abraham, signified by circumcision, and the covenant at Sinai with Moses, covenants are integral to the biblical narrative. The New Covenant, instituted by Christ in the Upper Room, is pivotal in understanding redemption.

Reformed theology emphasizes the covenantal structure as a framework for understanding God's redemptive plan. We distinguish three primary covenants: the covenant of redemption, the covenant of works, and the covenant of grace. The covenant of redemption highlights the eternal agreement within the Trinity to bring about redemption. The Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are united in purpose, with distinct roles in the redemptive process. The covenant of works, established with Adam and Eve, was based on obedience to God's law, with blessings for obedience and judgment for disobedience. Adam's failure in this covenant brought judgment upon humanity.

The covenant of grace, initiated after the fall, promises redemption through a Savior. This covenant is evident throughout the Old Testament, with figures like Abraham and Moses, and is fulfilled in Christ. Salvation has always been by grace, through faith in the promised Redeemer. The distinction between the covenant of works and the covenant of grace is crucial for understanding the Gospel. While we are justified by works, it is not our works but the perfect works of Christ. He fulfilled the covenant of works on our behalf, and through faith, we receive the benefits of His obedience.

Key Takeaways:

- The concept of covenant is central to understanding Scripture, with covenants like those with Noah, Abraham, and Moses illustrating God's unfolding plan of redemption. These covenants are not just historical artifacts but are foundational to our faith, showing God's consistent and faithful interaction with humanity. [01:49]

- The covenant of redemption highlights the unity within the Trinity, with each Person playing a distinct role in the redemptive process. This eternal agreement underscores the harmony and purpose within the Godhead, ensuring the fulfillment of God's redemptive plan. [05:26]

- The covenant of works, established with Adam and Eve, was based on obedience to God's law. Adam's failure brought judgment upon humanity, illustrating the impossibility of achieving righteousness through our own efforts. This covenant reveals the need for a Savior and the insufficiency of human works. [09:38]

- The covenant of grace promises redemption through a Savior, evident throughout the Old Testament and fulfilled in Christ. Salvation has always been by grace, through faith in the promised Redeemer, demonstrating God's unchanging plan of salvation. [15:53]

- While we are justified by works, it is not our works but the perfect works of Christ. He fulfilled the covenant of works on our behalf, and through faith, we receive the benefits of His obedience. This distinction is crucial for understanding the Gospel and the nature of salvation. [20:09]

Youtube Chapters:

- [00:00] - Welcome
- [00:41] - Introduction to Covenant Theology
- [01:17] - Old Testament Covenants
- [01:49] - Covenant as Framework for Redemption
- [02:34] - Three Chief Covenants
- [03:19] - Understanding Covenants in Culture
- [04:41] - Covenant of Redemption
- [05:26] - Roles within the Trinity
- [06:08] - The Father's Role in Redemption
- [06:56] - Sending of the Holy Spirit
- [07:38] - Trinitarian Work in Redemption
- [08:18] - Unity in the Godhead
- [09:38] - Covenant of Works
- [11:06] - Grace in the Covenant of Works
- [15:03] - Covenant of Grace
- [17:06] - Salvation by Grace in Old and New Testaments
- [20:09] - Justification by Works of Christ

Study Guide

Bible Study Discussion Guide

Bible Reading:
1. Genesis 3:15
2. John 3:16
3. Romans 4:1-5

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Observation Questions:

1. What are the three primary covenants discussed in the sermon, and how do they differ from each other? [02:34]

2. How does the covenant of redemption illustrate the unity within the Trinity according to the sermon? [05:26]

3. What was the basis of the covenant of works with Adam and Eve, and what were the consequences of their failure? [09:38]

4. How is the covenant of grace evident throughout the Old Testament, and how is it fulfilled in Christ? [15:53]

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Interpretation Questions:

1. How does the covenant of redemption highlight the distinct roles of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit in the plan of salvation? [05:26]

2. In what ways does the covenant of works reveal the need for a Savior, and how does this understanding impact one's view of human efforts in achieving righteousness? [09:38]

3. How does the sermon explain the continuity of salvation by grace through faith from the Old Testament to the New Testament? [17:06]

4. What is the significance of Christ fulfilling the covenant of works on behalf of humanity, and how does this relate to the concept of justification by faith? [20:09]

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Application Questions:

1. Reflect on the unity within the Trinity as described in the covenant of redemption. How can this model of unity influence your relationships within your family or community? [05:26]

2. The covenant of works shows the impossibility of achieving righteousness through our own efforts. In what areas of your life do you find yourself relying on your own works rather than on God's grace? [09:38]

3. The covenant of grace promises redemption through a Savior. How can you actively remind yourself of this promise in your daily life, especially during challenging times? [15:53]

4. Considering that salvation has always been by grace through faith, how can you cultivate a deeper trust in God's promises, similar to the faith of Old Testament figures like Abraham and Moses? [17:06]

5. The sermon emphasizes that we are justified by the perfect works of Christ. How does this understanding affect your view of personal achievements and failures? [20:09]

6. How can you apply the concept of the covenant of grace in your interactions with others, especially those who may not share your faith? [15:53]

7. Reflect on the idea that the covenant of grace has been working since Genesis. How does this long-standing promise of grace encourage you in your spiritual journey today? [22:06]

Devotional

Day 1: Covenants as the Framework of Redemption
The concept of covenant is central to understanding Scripture, serving as a framework for God's unfolding plan of redemption. Throughout the Bible, covenants with figures like Noah, Abraham, and Moses illustrate God's consistent and faithful interaction with humanity. These covenants are not merely historical artifacts but foundational to our faith, showing how God has always been committed to redeeming His people. The New Covenant, instituted by Christ, is pivotal in understanding redemption, as it fulfills the promises made in the Old Testament and offers salvation to all who believe. [01:49]

Genesis 9:12-13 (ESV): "And God said, 'This is the sign of the covenant that I make between me and you and every living creature that is with you, for all future generations: I have set my bow in the cloud, and it shall be a sign of the covenant between me and the earth.'"

Reflection: How does understanding the covenants in the Bible deepen your appreciation for God's faithfulness in your life today?


Day 2: The Trinity's Unified Role in Redemption
The covenant of redemption highlights the unity within the Trinity, with each Person playing a distinct role in the redemptive process. This eternal agreement underscores the harmony and purpose within the Godhead, ensuring the fulfillment of God's redemptive plan. The Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are united in purpose, each contributing uniquely to the work of salvation. This unity within the Trinity serves as a model for believers, calling us to live in harmony and purpose as we participate in God's redemptive mission. [05:26]

Ephesians 1:9-10 (ESV): "Making known to us the mystery of his will, according to his purpose, which he set forth in Christ as a plan for the fullness of time, to unite all things in him, things in heaven and things on earth."

Reflection: In what ways can you reflect the unity and purpose of the Trinity in your relationships and community today?


Day 3: The Covenant of Works and Human Insufficiency
The covenant of works, established with Adam and Eve, was based on obedience to God's law. Adam's failure brought judgment upon humanity, illustrating the impossibility of achieving righteousness through our own efforts. This covenant reveals the need for a Savior and the insufficiency of human works. It serves as a reminder that our salvation is not based on our own merit but on the grace and mercy of God, who provides a way for redemption through Jesus Christ. [09:38]

Romans 5:18-19 (ESV): "Therefore, as one trespass led to condemnation for all men, so one act of righteousness leads to justification and life for all men. For as by the one man's disobedience the many were made sinners, so by the one man's obedience the many will be made righteous."

Reflection: What is one area of your life where you are relying on your own efforts rather than trusting in God's grace? How can you shift your focus to rely on Him today?


Day 4: The Covenant of Grace and God's Unchanging Plan
The covenant of grace promises redemption through a Savior, evident throughout the Old Testament and fulfilled in Christ. Salvation has always been by grace, through faith in the promised Redeemer, demonstrating God's unchanging plan of salvation. This covenant assures us that God's love and mercy are constant, inviting us to trust in His promises and live in the freedom that comes from knowing we are saved by grace. [15:53]

Jeremiah 31:33 (ESV): "For this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days, declares the Lord: I will put my law within them, and I will write it on their hearts. And I will be their God, and they shall be my people."

Reflection: How does the assurance of God's unchanging plan of grace impact your daily walk with Him? What steps can you take to live more fully in this truth?


Day 5: Justification by the Works of Christ
While we are justified by works, it is not our works but the perfect works of Christ. He fulfilled the covenant of works on our behalf, and through faith, we receive the benefits of His obedience. This distinction is crucial for understanding the Gospel and the nature of salvation. It reminds us that our righteousness is not earned but given, freeing us from the burden of trying to earn God's favor and allowing us to rest in the finished work of Christ. [20:09]

2 Corinthians 5:21 (ESV): "For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God."

Reflection: Reflect on the freedom that comes from knowing your righteousness is found in Christ's perfect work. How can this truth transform the way you approach your relationship with God and others today?

Quotes

"We continue now with our study of the heart of Reformed theology. I want to turn our attention today to the concept of covenant. One of the frequent nicknames that we will hear used to define Reformed theology is the term Covenant theology. To be candid with you, I almost never use that designation, not that I'm opposed to it for any particular reason, it's just that I think it can be a little bit misleading, because I think all Christians recognize that the concept of covenant is obviously front and center in both Testaments." [00:00:12]

"In fact, when we talk about the Old Testament and the New Testament, we are talking about the Old Covenant and the New Covenant, and we're all aware of the reality of covenant language that is sprinkled throughout the Scriptures. We hear about lots of covenants in the Old Testament--the covenant that God makes with Noah, it's the sign of the rainbow in the sky; and the covenant with Abraham with the sign of circumcision; and the covenant at Sinai with Moses; and we hear of Jeremiah speaking about a new covenant; and we know that in the Upper Room when our Lord is celebrating the Passover with His disciples the night before His execution He institutes the New Covenant, and speaks of the New Covenant that it be in His blood, and so on." [00:00:57]

"And so we have this repeated motif of covenant in Scripture, but the reason why Reformed theology is often called covenantal is that because it sees the structure or format of covenant in the Bible as being a crucial element in which the whole plan of redemption works out and becomes kind of a key to understanding and interpreting the whole of Scripture. And because of that Reformed theology stresses this central motif of covenant as the framework in which redemption is carried out." [00:01:49]

"The covenant of redemption is a theological concept that refers to the harmony and the unity of purpose that has been in existence from all eternity in terms of the mutual relationship and agreement of all three Persons of the Trinity. It's that God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit are all agreed from all eternity in terms of bringing forth the work of redemption. We distinguish among the persons of the Godhead in terms of the specific tasks that are performed by them in the outworking of redemption." [00:04:57]

"The Father sends the Son into the world. The son doesn't send the Father into the world. It is the Father who designs the plan of redemption and who initiates the work of redemption by sending His only begotten Son into the world to perform His redemptive work as our Savior and as our Mediator. And in the Nicene Creed in the 4th Century the creed confesses that after Christ performs His redemptive work then, and He ascends into heaven, then together the Father and the Son send the Holy Ghost into the world to apply the work of Christ to God's people." [00:06:25]

"The covenant of works in Reformed theology refers to the initial covenant that God makes with man qua man, with Adam and Eve in Paradise where Adam is representing not just himself and his wife but his progeny, all people. He is Adam; he represents mankind. And God creates Adam and Eve and puts them in a situation of probation. He makes promises of blessing to them in the event that they are obedient and promises of judgment upon them in the event that they are disobedient, and He puts them to the test, as it were, saying that if you eat of the tree of knowledge of good and evil you will surely die." [00:09:30]

"Now that means that the destiny of Adam and Eve and their progeny is determined by their response to the law of God, by their behavior, by their work. And hence it is called the covenant of works. God says if you do good works, you'll live; if you do bad works you die. It's that simple. Now some people don't like the distinction between the covenant of works and the covenant of grace because they say well you know, God didn't even have to make a covenant at all with Adam and Eve." [00:10:48]

"Now, it is because the first Adam failed in the covenant of works, and God would have had every moral right on that occasion to do exactly what the terms of the covenant promised. He could have destroyed them and the whole race and that would have been it. But instead He condescended to cover their nakedness and to promise them redemption through One who would act as their Savior. And so that God then at that point institutes the covenant of grace, which is given to Abraham, which is given to Moses, which is given throughout the Old Testament--the promise that God would redeem His people who were guilty according to the covenant of works that He would save His people through another way." [00:15:03]

"The difference is the difference between promise and fulfillment. The people in the Old Testament looked to the future promised Redeemer, put their trust in Him, and they were justified by faith in Him. We look backward to the work that is been accomplished by the Savior. We put our trust in Him. And salvation is basically the same now as it was then. What's different is we have a much deeper understanding of the particulars and the details of it and what is even more different is that it is a fait accompli, that the work of Christ has been already performed on the plain of history." [00:17:17]

"And this is crucial because we live in the day where people still entertain the idea that they can be saved in the presence of God by their own works, that they can still merit their way into the kingdom. We don't really believe that we are debtors who can't pay our debt. We forget that the terms of the covenant of works were pretty stiff. They demand perfection. And if you sin once, there's nothing you can do to make up for that, because once that blemish comes next to your name, what do you have to do to become perfect again." [00:18:40]

"And when I say we're justified by works and by works alone, what do I mean by it? I mean that the grounds of my justification and the grounds of your justification are the perfect works of Jesus Christ. We're saved by works, but they are not our own. That's why we say we're saved by faith and we're saved by grace, because the works that save us aren't our works; they are somebody else's works, Who submitted Himself at every point to the covenant of works." [00:20:06]

"The New Testament describes Jesus as the New Adam. He is the new humanity who accomplishes what Adam failed to accomplish. By one man's disobedience, the world is plunged into ruin, and by the other Man's obedience to the law of God in all of its demands and in perfect conformity Christ redeems His people by winning the blessings promised that God had promised to His original creatures in their behalf." [00:20:46]

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Transcript
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