Progressive Covenantalism Q&A with Michael Carlino (S2E20)
Apr 25, 2024
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Expert Michael Carlino answers questions about Progressive Covenantalism, discussing the law and gospel distinction, creation and covenant, Adamic and Mosaic covenants, Christ's righteousness, Sabbath observance, and comparing Progressive Covenantalism with 1689 Federalism.
Progressive Covenantalism emphasizes covenant heads as types pointing to Jesus, not salvation providers.
Creation Mandate continues post-Fall with believers restoring image-bearing through Christ.
Genesis 1 establishes universal creational norms applicable to all humanity.
Debate over Sabbath interpretation reveals diverse theological perspectives and practical application complexities.
Deep dives
Interpreting the Covenant Heads in Progressive Covenantalism
Progressive Covenantalism sees other covenant heads as subsets of Adam, functioning as types pointing to Jesus. These covenant heads do not bring salvation but predict the last Adam. The covenant role of these figures carries the redemptive narrative forward until the fulfillment in Christ and restoration of believers to an Adamic role.
Understanding the Creation Mandate in Progressive Covenantalism
Progressive Covenantalism views the Creation Mandate as continuing today but not salvific. The promise of redemption is rooted in the new creation promise grounded in the eternal covenant of redemption. Believers are restored to image-bearing through Christ, fulfilling the Adamic role in relation to God and creation.
Establishing Creational Norms and Mandates
Genesis 1 establishes creational norms and mandates applicable to all humanity for all time. Concepts like the cultural and dominion mandates provide fundamental aspects of human nature that cannot be removed without compromising human dignity.
Disagreement on the Sabbath Interpretation
The debate over the Sabbath revolves around the varying interpretations and implications within different theological perspectives. While some emphasize a strict adherence to the Sabbath as a moral law for all, others argue for a more subjective view, leading to diverse applications and understanding of the Sabbath command.
Sabbath Rest and Practical Application
The practical application of Sabbath rest raises questions about the extent of adherence to Sabbath regulations and the interpretation of rest within different theological frameworks. The tension between observing Sunday gatherings and the subjective nature of Sabbath rest highlights the complexities and nuances within Sabbath interpretation among theologians and believers.
Interpretation of the Sabbath as Covenantal and Community - Genesis 1 and 2 Perspective
The episode delves into the interpretation of the Sabbath as covenantal and community-oriented rather than universally applicable. Emphasizing the covenant relationship on the seventh day of creation, it contrasts Genesis 1's broad view with the specific covenant realities in Genesis 2. The discussion highlights the importance of understanding the Sabbath within specific covenantal categories and its significance within the narrative of creation and the covenant with Adam.
Understanding Sabbath Rest in Light of New Covenant and Priesthood of Believers
Addressing the Sabbath command and its relevance in the context of the New Covenant and priesthood of believers, the episode examines how Jesus' teaching challenges legalistic Sabbath observance. It illustrates Jesus' authority over the Sabbath by emphasizing mercy over sacrifice and the disciples' guiltlessness in acts of necessity. The conversation underscores the freedom and responsibility believers have in interpreting Sabbath laws and practices through a Christ-centered lens.
In this episode, Caleb is joined by guest Michael Carlino to discuss, analyze, and consider key questions from the previous 8-week series: Comparing Baptist Covenant Theologies: 1689 Federalism and Progressive Covenantalism. Together, Caleb and Michael spend the majority of this episode answering questions from listeners about Progressive Covenantalism.