Written by Paul J Bucknell on February, 16, 2024
CCW00 A Critique of the Covenant of Works: A theological and biblical analysis of the Covenant of Works and Genesis 2:16-17
15 Then the Lord God took the man and put him into the garden of Eden to cultivate it and keep it. 16 The Lord God commanded the man, saying, “From any tree of the garden you may eat freely; 17 but from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil you shall not eat, for in the day that you eat from it you will surely die” (Gen 2:15-17, NASB (unless otherwise stated).
The Covenant of Works, an essential part of the Reformers’ covenantal theology, lacks the biblical support to play an integral part in this systematic theology. They strive for continuity but confuse more than clarify. While we support the truths behind the theological presentation, we suggest a more honest treatment and robust presentation of Genesis 2:16-17.
Section 1 briefly introduces the Covenant of Works, while Section 2 presents evidence against the Covenant of Works. The last section explores alternative biblical themes that provide deeper insights into Genesis 1-3, especially 2:15-17. These models better highlight the dangers and benefits of theological frameworks.
1. A Brief Introduction to the Covenant of Works
2. Evidence Against the Covenant of Works (1-9) (10/10)
3. Five Alternate Biblical Themes for Genesis 2:15-17 (1-2) (3-5)
