The Ordinance of Covenanting

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

25353

Title

The Ordinance of Covenanting

Language

en

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

A solemn theological treatise by John Cunningham, this work argues that Covenanting is a divine duty and privilege for believers. It explores the nature, manner, and obligations of making covenants with God through vows and oaths, emphasizing adherence to Christ's covenant and the rejection of unscriptural civil oaths.

Summary up to 500 words

In 'The Ordinance of Covenanting,' John Cunningham presents a comprehensive theological and practical defense of the practice of Covenanting within the Reformed Presbyterian tradition. The work defines covenanting as a solemn act of adherence to God's covenant, involving personal vows and social engagements undertaken by the church or nation. Cunningham argues that this practice is not merely optional but is commanded by God's moral law, serving as an essential means for believers to acknowledge Christ's mediation and renounce sin. The text establishes a robust scriptural and historical foundation for covenanting, tracing its lineage from the covenant with Noah and the rainbow to the New Testament. A central theme is the distinction between the internal Covenant of Grace, in which believers are already accepted through Christ, and the external exercise of covenanting. Cunningham clarifies that while the internal interest in the covenant is by faith alone, the formal exercise of covenanting—through vows and oaths—is a distinct duty that renews and ratifies one's commitment to God. He defines the vow as a voluntary, solemn promise made to God alone, and the oath as a devotional exercise that implies adoration and an appeal to God's truth. Cunningham details the nature of both personal and social covenanting. Personal covenanting involves an individual's adherence to God, approving of salvation through Christ and dedicating oneself to His service. Social covenanting extends this engagement to the church body or the nation, representing a federal engagement among members to uphold truth, renounce error, and maintain unity. The work asserts that such covenants create binding obligations on all parties, including future generations, ensuring the preservation of religious liberty and the advancement of the gospel. A significant portion of the book addresses the contemporary political context of the era. Cunningham urges believers to refuse oaths of allegiance to governments that support error or tyranny, specifically citing the British Constitution and its support for Popery as unscriptural. He argues that true covenanting binds the conscience to God alone, fostering spiritual growth and moral integrity. He warns against the dangers of unscriptural civil powers and encourages the church to stand steadfast in truth, even amidst persecution. Ultimately, the book serves as both a theological instruction and a call to action, urging Christians to actively engage in God's covenant to defend their faith against the encroachment of liberalism and tyranny.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

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Categories

• Religion