Rethinking the Covenants: A Path to Unity in Christ
Throughout the history of the church, Christians have grappled with the relationship between the biblical covenants. This ongoing debate has led to the development of different theological systems, most notably dispensationalism and covenant theology. While adherents of these views agree on the essential tenets of the faith, significant disagreements remain. These differences are not trivial and require careful consideration.
At the heart of the debate lies a fundamental question: how do we understand the nature of the covenants and their fulfillment in Christ? The answer to this question has far-reaching implications for our understanding of the Bible’s storyline, the law, and the relationship between Israel and the church.
A Progressive Covenantal Approach
In their book, Kingdom Through Covenant, Peter J. Gentry and Stephen J. Wellum propose a fresh approach to understanding the covenants. They argue that the Bible presents a plurality of covenants that progressively reveal God’s one redemptive plan for his people. This approach, which they term “progressive covenantalism,” offers a nuanced understanding of the covenants and their interrelationships.
According to Gentry and Wellum, each biblical covenant contributes to God’s unified plan, and to comprehend the whole counsel of God, we must understand each covenant in its own context. By examining the progression of the covenants, we come to know God’s glorious plan, how all God’s promises are fulfilled in Christ, and how we are to live as God’s people today.
A Path to Unity
Gentry and Wellum’s proposal offers a way forward for Christians who are seeking to resolve their theological differences. By engaging with their progressive covenantal approach, we can gain a deeper understanding of the covenants and their fulfillment in Christ. This, in turn, can help us to overcome our differences and find unity in our shared commitment to the gospel.
As we seek to understand the covenants and their role in the Bible’s narrative, we are reminded that our goal is not simply to resolve theological debates but to deepen our knowledge of God and his plan for humanity. By embracing a progressive covenantal approach, we can foster greater unity and cooperation among Christians, even as we continue to explore the rich complexities of the Bible’s teaching.
The Significance of the Covenants
The covenants are not merely a minor aspect of the Bible’s teaching; they are a central theme that underlies the entire narrative. Understanding the covenants is crucial for grasping the Bible’s message as a whole. As Thomas R. Schreiner notes, there are six major covenants in the Bible, and comprehending these covenants is essential for understanding the Bible’s message.
The covenants also play a vital role in shaping our understanding of the local church. As Nick Roark observes, biblical theology is a vital help for pastors who seek to faithfully declare the glorious truth that Jesus is the main point of the whole Bible. By embracing a progressive covenantal approach, pastors can deepen their understanding of the covenants and their role in the Bible’s narrative, leading to more effective ministry and a greater emphasis on the gospel.
Conclusion
The debate over the covenants is not a trivial matter; it is a fundamental aspect of Christian theology. By engaging with Gentry and Wellum’s progressive covenantal approach, we can gain a deeper understanding of the covenants and their fulfillment in Christ. This, in turn, can help us to overcome our theological differences and find unity in our shared commitment to the gospel. As we seek to understand the covenants, we are reminded that our goal is not simply to resolve theological debates but to deepen our knowledge of God and his plan for humanity.
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