About the Guest(s): Dr. J.V. Fesko is a minister in the Orthodox Presbyterian Church, with his ordination dating back to the winter of 1998. Spanning over two decades of ministry, Dr. Fesko has experience as a full-time pastor, church planter, academic dean, and professor of theology. Serving for ten years at Westminster Seminary California, he subsequently moved to teach systematic and historical theology at Reformed Theological Seminary in Jackson, Mississippi. As an author, Dr. Fesko has contributed extensively to Christian literature and theological discourse, focusing on subjects such as the covenant of works, law and gospel, and systematic theology. Episode Summary: In this insightful episode of Renewalcast, we dive deeply into the nuanced biblical and theological subject of the Covenant of Works with Dr. J.V. Fesko. The conversation is rich with exploration into the role of imputation in theology and the overarching narrative of law and gospel throughout the Scriptures. Dr. Fesko illuminates the understanding of the Covenant of Works, detailing its essential elements from Genesis and its implications for Christian doctrine and salvation. Using a blend of historical perspective and scriptural exegesis, he argues for the covenant’s necessity in grasping the complete narrative of the Bible. The discussion also delves into the contrast between the covenants of works and grace and the implications for Christian life. Key Takeaways:
- The Covenant of Works covers the biblical narrative from Genesis 1-3 and emphasizes human obedience in God's creation plan.
- Understanding the Covenant of Works is crucial to avoid misinterpreting the doctrine of imputed righteousness and the nature of justification.
- Scripture supports the concept of the Covenant of Works through various passages that reveal covenantal language and themes.
- Noteworthy theologians such as Karl Barth, John Murray, and Herman Hoeksema have critiqued or redefined the Covenant of Works, influencing contemporary theological thought.
- The future publication, "Jesus and the Covenant of Grace," is anticipated as a continuation of Dr. Fesko's exploration into covenant theology.
Notable Quotes:
- "He who does not understand the covenant of works will likely make errors in the covenant of grace." - J.V. Fesko
- "You can't throw a rock in the Bible without hitting a covenant." - J.V. Fesko
- "If we don't distinguish rightly between the covenant of works and covenant of grace or law and gospel, we will mistakenly try to lay hold of our salvation by our obedience rather than by Christ's obedience." - J.V. Fesko
- "Because they get into the original languages and they see all of this covenantal terminology…they begin integrating the category of covenant and combining it with the categories of law and gospel." - J.V. Fesko
- "Adam's perfect lawkeeping and suffering is accredited to those who are in him, to those who are united to him who have believed in him, who have been chosen by God to be united to the Son." - J.V. Fesko
Resources: During the conversation, Dr. J.V. Fesko referenced his book "Adam and the Covenant of Works." He discusses the book's focus and the plan for a forthcoming work tentatively titled "Jesus and the Covenant of Grace." For more from Dr. Fesko and his teachings, viewers are encouraged to seek out his publications and his work within the Reformed Theological Seminary. Dive into the full episode for an enriching experience that weaves together the threads of theology, biblical narrative, and Christian life. Stay vigilant for more episodes like this one on the Renewalcast that bring such depth to the ever-transforming word of God.
