Theology of the covenant

The history of redemption is read in terms of covenant, continuity, and promise.

84%

Confidence

Supportive

Contrary

Neutral

What it is: The Presbyterian tradition reads biblical history through the language of divine covenants.

How the tradition understands it: The covenant of grace provides important structure to interpret the people of God, promises, sacraments, and continuity between Old and New Testaments.

Basis and context: Reformed confessional language and the covenant reading of Scripture strongly shape this doctrine.

Debates and variations: There are differences about details of covenant theology, but the covenant remains an important axis of classical Presbyterian tradition.

Supportive

Acts 2:39

presbyterian-church,bible,baptism,covenant

The promise is for you and for your children.

Reference: Acts 2:39.
Content: Peter extends the scope of the promise in familial and community language.
Use in debate: Important in Presbyterian arguments favorable to infant baptism in covenant context.

Colossians 2:11-12

presbyterian-church,bible,baptism,circumcision

Circumcision and baptism in typological parallel.

Reference: Colossians 2:11-12.
Content: The text relates spiritual circumcision and baptism in Christ.
Use in debate: Frequently used in covenant theology and Reformed infant baptism.

Genesis 17:7

presbyterian-church,bible,covenant,baptism

The promise of the covenant includes descendants and belonging.

Reference: Genesis 17:7.
Content: God speaks of establishing his covenant with Abraham and his descendants.
Use in debate: Much used in covenant theology and Presbyterian infant baptism.

Westminster Confession of Faith 7

presbyterian-church,westminster,covenant,pactist

Important chapter for the theology of the covenant.

Reference: Westminster Confession of Faith, chapter 7.
Content: The text articulates the language of covenant and its importance in the history of redemption.
Use in debate: Central confessional source of Presbyterian covenant theology.