Covenant Theology - What is it?

Covenant theology is a branch of theological study that

examines the Bible within the context of the Bible's covenants.
The two covenants typically of focus include the covenant of
works and the covenant of grace. A third covenant, the
covenant of redemption, is also frequently emphasized. These
two (or three) covenants are seen as extensions of the seven
covenants mentioned in Scripture (Adamic, Noahic, Abrahamic,
Palestinian, Mosaic, Davidic, and New).

Historically, Covenant theology is found in the writings of some

early church fathers, including Irenaeus and Augustine.
However, its popularity especially expanded during the
Protestant Reformation in Europe and has remained a central
system for understanding Scripture among Protestants since
that time. As a result, this form of theology has highly
influenced creeds from this era, particularly the Westminster
Confession of Faith.

During the late nineteenth century and throughout the twentieth

century, Dispensational Theology developed as an alternative,
largely as a result of a more detailed understanding of the end
times. Today, both systems of theology are often studied
among evangelicals, with Covenant theology more common
among those of a Calvinist or Reformed background.

But what exactly is Covenant theology? Simply explained, it

begins with the covenant of works that began in the Garden of
Eden. Adam and Eve were given one command, with a clear
consequence for disobedience.

When Adam and Eve failed to keep God's commandment, God

established the covenant of grace. This covenant of grace is
seen clearly in Jesus Christ, with salvation offered as a free gift
of grace by faith (Ephesians 2:8-9 ).

Other covenants are similarly broken by humans yet kept by

God's grace. Abraham failed God at times, yet God's grace was
sufficient. The Davidic Covenant was fulfilled despite David's
sins.

In the New Covenant, Jesus fulfills the law and offers salvation
to those who turn to Him. He does not fail as other humans had
but fulfills the covenant both as a human and as God. All the
earlier covenants find fulfillment in Jesus, who claims not to
abolish the law, but to fulfill it (Matthew 5:17 ).

Because of the focus on covenants, Covenant theology

stresses the covenantal nature of both baptism and the Lord's
Supper. These sacraments are seen as signs and seals of the
covenant of grace. Salvation is not acquired through these
acts, yet these sacraments hold a special role in God's
covenant work.

While much can be said and has been said regarding the
details and other examples of Covenant theology in Scripture,
it is clear this system of theology has had a profound impact in
the lives of many. Its focus on God's Word as divinely inspired,
of salvation by grace through faith alone in Christ alone, and its
focus on God's supremacy in offering redemption from sin and
providing the solution through the sacrifice of Jesus on the
cross have profoundly transformed many.