The past, present, and future events in the redemptive history of humans are a progressive story of God’s covenants with humans. Covenants found both in the Old Testament and New Testament unlock the meaning and significance of the death of Christ. The person and work of Christ were the fulfilment of all Biblical covenants. Jesus expounded his death in covenantal terms and fulfillments. His blood inaugurated the New Covenant. Without his bloodshed, there would have been no New Covenant.
Characteristics of covenant theology
1. Covenant
Theology is also called federal theology. The Latin word “foedus” means
covenant. Covenant theology is not a systematic set of doctrines. In that
sense, it is not a theology. It is a framework for biblical interpretation.
Covenant theology brings together all covenants in the scripture, into a
coherent account. It explains the significance of the scriptural covenants in
redemptive history.
2. Covenant theology explains the relationship between God and humanity in terms of divinely initiated covenants. It explains almost all themes and issues related to human redemptive history. Covenants expound on unity and progress, as well as the temporary discontinuity in the process of fulfilling the promise. It reveals the final fulfilment of redemption and salvation.