#107 // Dr. Ryan McGraw | What Is Covenant Theology?
Jul 8, 2024
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Dr. Ryan McGraw, a Professor of Systematic Theology, delves into Covenant Theology, discussing God's promises, the Holy Spirit, and sacraments. He highlights the significance of covenant theology as a framework, exploring topics like excommunication, individualistic faith, and the roles of the Trinity in salvation. The conversation also covers the Covenant of Works, Covenant of Grace, sacraments, and growing closer to the triune God through Jesus Christ.
Covenant theology defines unity in Scripture, detailing covenants from early Christian thinkers.
Covenant of Redemption reveals divine initiative, roles in the Trinity, and Christ's fulfillment.
Covenant of Works, seen in Adam and Eve, emphasizes fellowship and communion.
Protestant and Catholic views on covenant theology balance faith and communal practices.
Deep dives
Overview of Covenant Theology
Covenant theology was discussed in the podcast, covering the definition and technical aspects within the covenantal framework. The theological implications were explored, emphasizing the unity of Scripture, the glory of the triune God, and guidance for living the Christian life.
Historical Perspective on Covenant Theology
The podcast delves into the historical significance of covenant theology over the past 2000 years. The discussion highlights how covenant theology illuminates the story of knowing God rightly throughout Scripture, showcasing examples from early Christian thinkers like Augustine, Aquinas, and John Owen.
The Covenant of Redemption
The concept of the Covenant of Redemption was detailed, focusing on the agreement between the Father and the Son for the salvation of the elect. It emphasized the divine initiative, outlining the eternal and temporal aspects of the covenant, highlighting the roles of each person in the Trinity and the conditions met by Christ.
The Covenant of Works
The Covenant of Works was explained, drawing from Genesis 2 and 3. While the term 'covenant' isn't explicitly used, the structure of a covenant is found with parties, conditions, promises, and sanctions. The covenant framework is identified through the arrangement established between God and Adam and Eve in the garden, emphasizing fellowship and communion with God.
Comparison between Protestant and Catholic Views
A comparison between Protestant and Catholic views, addressing the emphasis on relationship and outward religious practices. The discussion highlighted how covenant theology balances personal faith with communal responsibilities, fostering a holistic approach to faith expression and service within the church.
Understanding Christ's Nature
An exploration of Christ's nature, particularly during His crucifixion where He cried, 'My God, why have you forsaken me?' The explanation focused on the distinction between the humanity and deity of Christ, clarifying that Christ suffered in His humanity while remaining immutable in His divinity, shedding light on the profound mystery of the Incarnation.
The Significance of the Tree of Life in the Covenant of Works
The covenant of works as illustrated by Adam and Eve in the garden symbolizes their fellowship with God through the Tree of Life. Similarly, for believers, eternal life is found in knowing God through Jesus Christ. Obedience to God in the covenant of works was crucial, where walking with God signified life and access to the Tree of Life. The covenant highlights undeserved promises of eternal blessedness for humanity, emphasizing the importance of obedience to God.
Understanding the Covenant of Grace and Covenantal Theology's Implications
The covenant of grace contrasts with works-based salvation by emphasizing faith in Christ. The covenant of redemption is eternal and concerns what Christ did for the elect, while the covenant of grace focuses on the Spirit's work in believers. This covenant highlights the necessity of faith in Jesus for salvation, with the Spirit enabling belief and transformation in individuals. Through covenantal theology, believers are brought into a relationship with God through Jesus Christ, emphasizing grace and faith as essential components.
We discussed his new book, What Is Covenant Theology?: Tracing God’s Promises through the Son, the Seed, and the Sacraments. Dr. McGraw gave an overview definition to covenant theology and then discussed the specific and technical details within the covenantal theological framework. Finally, we talked about the theological implications of covenant theology in relation to the current working’s of the Holy Spirit and the Sacraments. I hope you enjoy!
