Understanding the Biblical Covenants: A Key to Unlocking Scripture
The biblical covenants are a crucial aspect of Scripture, providing the framework for understanding God’s plan of redemption. In their book, “Kingdom through Covenant,” Peter J. Gentry and Stephen J. Wellum present a comprehensive and unified work that explores the significance of the covenants in biblical theology.
The Importance of the Covenants
Gentry and Wellum argue that the progression of the covenants is the backbone of the Bible’s metanarrative. They contend that understanding the covenants is essential for grasping the whole counsel of God and avoiding theological mistakes. The authors emphasize that the covenants are not just a unifying theme or a center of biblical theology, but rather the foundation upon which the entire story of Scripture is built.
A Mediating Position
In their book, Gentry and Wellum propose a mediating position between dispensationalism and covenant theology, two dominant biblical-theological systems within evangelical theology. They suggest that their view, known as progressive covenantalism, better captures the unfolding of God’s plan in Scripture. This approach seeks to understand the covenants in their historical and literary context, recognizing the progression and development of God’s revelation throughout the Bible.
New Insights and Revisions
The second edition of “Kingdom through Covenant” features significant updates and revisions. The authors have engaged with critics and incorporated new research, leading to a more nuanced and refined understanding of the covenants. The book includes new material on the New Testament, exploring how the covenants reach their fulfillment in Christ and his people. The authors have also revised their discussion of the theological entailments of their position, providing greater clarity on areas such as Christology, ecclesiology, and eschatology.
A Call to Biblical and Theological Discussion
Gentry and Wellum’s work is a call to the church to engage in further biblical and theological discussion. They encourage readers to wrestle with the differences that divide Christians, seeking to attain a greater unity under the truth of God’s Word. By exploring the biblical covenants, the authors hope to promote a deeper understanding of God’s plan and a greater appreciation for the richness and complexity of Scripture.
About the Authors
Peter J. Gentry is professor of Old Testament interpretation at the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary and director of the Hexapla Institute. Stephen J. Wellum is professor of Christian theology at the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary in Louisville, Kentucky, and editor of The Southern Baptist Journal of Theology.
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