As we turn to consider Adam, it is important to begin thinking about the concept of “covenant” in the Bible. The word covenant is used over 300 times in the Bible, so it is rather important. Most of all, it represents the way in which God interacts with man. A covenant is a relationship built on promises, where blessings result for obedience and curses result from disobedience. (for instance, a marriage covenant). The word covenant comes from the Hebrew word berith, which means “to cut.” The idea in ancient times was that people “cut a covenant.” Animals would be cut in two and their body parts laid opposite each other so that the blood would flow together. Then the two parties would walk through the blood and meet each other in the middle and make their covenant. In the act the parties covenanting were saying, “If I break my end of the covenant, let me become like these animals.” Usually a king or superior establishes a covenant with a vassal (or lesser) person. We see God establishing these covenants throughout the Bible [Noah (Gen 9), Abraham (Gen 15), David (1 Sam. 7), new covenant (Jer. 31)]. Though it is not mentioned directly in Genesis 1-2, the idea is certainly present (cf Hosea 6:7). When God created Adam, He entered into a covenant with him. This is sometimes called “The covenant of works” or “the covenant of life.” Essentially, God promised to give Adam life so long as he obeyed (works). Note how this corresponds to the idea of the kingdom of God. The King covenants with his subject, Adam, thus promising him life and happiness in His kingdom. But, when Adam ate the fruit of the tree, Adam broke his covenant. As a result, God cursed him with the penalty of death. We'll return later to discuss the whole notion of the covenant of grace.
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This week I will begin teaching some college level theology courses at Richland County Correctional. I'm looking forward to digging through the Scriptures with these men. For the last several weeks I have had opportunity to visit the prisoners there and attend their weekly Bible study. Out of the 60 or so guys who attend, 10 men qualify for the classes I will be teaching. I've been quite impressed with the caliber of these guys too. They throw around names like John MacAurther, Martin Lloyd-Jones, and Charles Spurgeon. A normal conversation will typically revolve around the sovereignty of God, the depravity of man, and the sufficiency of Christ for salvation too. To say that these guys are serious about studying the Bible is something of an understatement. I am looking for some people who would be interested in supporting this ministry financially. We are trying to find 40-50 people who are willing to give $20-50 a month so that time might be devoted to instruction, preparations, and grading. If you would be interested in doing so, or would simply like to make a one time contribution, please let me know. You can also visit my webpage to learn more about the ministry. |
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