The Covenant of Works

In this episode, Nick Batzig and D.B. Cummings engage with Dr. Guy Waters, Professor of New Testament at Reformed Theological Seminary in Jackson, MS, on the Covenant of Works and its implications in covenant theology. They discuss the significance of imputation, the roles of Adam and Christ as representatives, and the forensic dimensions of justification. The conversation also delves into the active and passive obedience of Christ, the relationship between the Mosaic Covenant and the Covenant of Works, and the assurance of believers in their sanctification. Dr. Waters emphasizes the importance of understanding these theological concepts for a deeper grasp of the Christian faith.

Takeaways

• The Covenant of Works is foundational to understanding covenant theology.
• Imputation is a key concept in justification, linking Adam and Christ.
• The New Testament presents Adam and Christ as representative figures.
• Forensic justification emphasizes legal status before God, not personal transformation.
• Active obedience of Christ is essential for understanding justification.
• The Mosaic Covenant serves a different purpose than the Covenant of Works.
• Sanctification should not be viewed as earning favor with God.
• Christ's resurrection guarantees the believer's future resurrection.
• Covenant theology provides a framework for understanding the entire narrative of Scripture.
• The relationship between law and grace is crucial in understanding salvation.

Resources

Guy Prentiss Waters and Nicholas Reid ed. Covenant Theology: Biblical, Theology, and Historical Perspectives

Guy Prentiss Waters, "Romans 10:5 and the Covenant of Works?" in The Law is Not of Faith.

The Sabbath as Rest and Hope for the People of God

Reformed Theological Seminary (Lectures)

Ligonier Ministries (Articles)

Ligonier Ministries (Audio & Video Resources)

Geerhardus Vos Pauline Eschatology 

Covenant of Works, Covenant Theology, Justification, Active Obedience, Mosaic Covenant, Forensic Justification, Adam and Christ, Theological Education, RTS, Gospel Grammar