Reformed Theology on Old and New Covenants

Reformed theologians understand the relationship between the Old and New Covenants as intimately connected through the overarching framework of the Covenant of Works and the Covenant of Grace. The Covenant of Works, established with Adam in the Garden, is a covenant of law, where obedience to God's commands would result in life. However, due to Adam's disobedience, this covenant was broken, and humanity fell under the curse of sin. In contrast, the Covenant of Grace is a covenant of promise, where God graciously provides salvation to sinners through faith in Jesus Christ. Paul writes in Romans 8:28 that "all things work together for good to them that love God," highlighting God's sovereign grace in redeeming His people.

The Old Covenant, given to Israel through Moses, is seen as a administration of the Covenant of Grace, preparing the way for the coming of Christ, the mediator of the New Covenant. The Old Covenant contained promises, types, and shadows of the salvation that would be fulfilled in Christ, while the New Covenant is the fulfillment of those promises, where believers are united to Christ by faith, and receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. This understanding emphasizes the continuity and progression of God's redemptive plan, from the Old Covenant to the New, highlighting the gracious and sovereign character of God.

The distinction between the Covenant of Works and the Covenant of Grace is crucial in understanding the relationship between the Old and New Covenants, as it underscores the reality that salvation has always been by grace, through faith, and not by human works or merit. This truth addresses the heart of the gospel, pointing to the sufficiency of Christ's work and the free offer of salvation to all who repent and believe, demonstrating the rich and nuanced nature of Reformed theology.