Ask Pastor John A Little Introduction to Covenants
Nov 4, 2016
Don Carson, co-founder of the Gospel Coalition, discusses the foundational role of covenants in the Bible. He highlights the significance of key covenants like the Noahic and Abrahamic, illustrating their impact on humanity's relationship with God. The conversation explores the transition from the Sinai covenant to the Davidic covenant, leading to the New Covenant in Christ. Carson emphasizes how these covenants shape our understanding of salvation, grace, and the concept of baptism as a unifying seal.
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Covenant Seeds In Genesis
- Genesis 1–3 plants covenantal themes even though the word covenant isn’t used, implying a sovereign agreement linking worship, blessing, obedience, and judgment.
- Don Carson describes this as a proto covenant of works where God grants blessing on condition of obedience, foreshadowing later covenants.
Abrahamic Covenant As Divine Oath
- The Abrahamic covenant combines promises, a symbolic oath, and a sign across chapters 12, 15, and 17 pointing to a promised universal blessing through Abraham’s seed.
- In Genesis 15 God alone passes between cut animals, symbolizing he assumes the curse on behalf of the covenant people.
Genesis 15 Vision As Vassal Treaty Story
- Don Carson recounts Genesis 15’s vision where Abram falls into a deep sleep, sees a smoking fire pot and torch, and witnesses cut animals to explain covenant ritual.
- The scene illustrates ancient vassal treaty imagery and God alone passing between animals as divine commitment.
