The Covenant of Works

The sermon by Jeffrey Johnson delves into the concept of the Covenant of Works as a foundational element in understanding the Bible, the law, death, and the Gospel. Johnson argues that the Covenant of Works is not just an Old Testament concept but is integral to the entire biblical narrative.Understanding the Law: Johnson begins by explaining that the Covenant of Works is essential for understanding the moral law. He cites the Garden of Eden as the first instance where this covenant was established. Adam and Eve were given the freedom to eat from any tree except the Tree of Knowledge. The law was delivered in a covenant form, and God does not enter into any relationships outside of law and covenant law.Understanding Death: Johnson argues that death cannot be understood outside the context of the Covenant of Works. He counters the argument that the term "covenant" is not explicitly mentioned in Genesis by stating that the concept is inherently present. He emphasizes that the Covenant of Works is conditional and was broken when Adam and Eve ate the forbidden fruit, leading to spiritual and physical death for humanity.Understanding the Gospel: Johnson contends that the Covenant of Works is foundational for understanding the Gospel and salvation. He points out that just as we are condemned in Adam, we are made righteous in Christ. Christ did not come to abolish the law but to fulfill it. He obeyed the law and also suffered its penalty on our behalf, redeeming us from the curse of the law.Christ's Fulfillment: Johnson concludes by highlighting how Christ is currently fulfilling the original mandates given to Adam and Eve. Christ is subduing the earth and bringing many sons and daughters to glory, not through procreation but through regeneration.The sermon ends with a prayer asking God to help us appreciate the glorious truth of what has been done for us in Jesus Christ. Johnson mentions that in the next sermon, he will discuss the covenant God made with Abraham as another administration of the Covenant of Works.Overall, Johnson argues that the Covenant of Works is not just an archaic or Old Testament concept but is vital for understanding the law, death, and ultimately, the Gospel of Jesus Christ.