Basic Covenant Theology (#15)
Michael Brown
in Covenant Theology
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Covenant of Works (con't)
In Romans 5.12-21 we are given a clear comparison between the Two Adams and what their actions did for those they represented. The fact that Christ is the Second Adam and we are, as Paul clearly says, saved by his merits, proves that Adam was originally in a covenant of works (CW) that was a meritorious arrangement. It is within this federal framework that Reformed theology teaches the active obedience of Christ for our salvation. Reformed theology emphasizes the significance of Christ's humanity in achieving redemption for those whom the Father gave to him before the foundation of the world. He came "in order to fulfill all righteousness" (Matt 3.15; 5.18) for his covenant heirs by his active obedience.
The priority of law in the CW establishes the fact that God cannot acquit the guilty, justify the wicked, and simply forgive sinners. In the context of the CW, the law must be perfectly satisfied, either personally or representatively. This is where Christ comes in to the picture. Whereas the First Adam brought condemnation and death to all those whom he represented by act of disobedience, the Second Adam brought justification and life to all those whom he represented by his act of obedience.
More to come...
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