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The Mystery of Christ, His Covenant, and His Kingdom
What is this book good for? It establishes a clear linear understanding of the biblical text in its purpose of driving the reader to see how faithfully God executes His purpose in creation. The covenantal framework from Adam to Christ, from creation to consummation is a most apt way of seeing the flow of the entire biblical text. One is lifted into the journey to see the entire scope of divine providence work out the divine decree from generation to generation, book to book, event to event, person to person.
228 pages, Paperback
Published January 1, 2019
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 151 reviews
November 19, 2019
I often tell people that I am a credobaptist because of covenant theology, not in spite of it, as people often assume. This book is a well-written, clear and precise layout of covenant theology from a reformed baptist perspective. It's excellent.
Strengths of the book:
-The book is divided into four parts, and it's the first part, "Methodology and Hermeneutics" that alone is worth the price of the book. Why? Because Renihan starts at the foundation, discussing things that almost every other book on covenant theology leaves out. (Most books on covenant theology don't define or discuss things like typology, moral and positive law, or even things like the difference between Federal Headship and the Mediator of a covenant and how we go about identifying such. I lament how so many tend to broad-brush or presuppose the methodology and hermeneutics rather than carefully defining and defending them.) This is huge, because the entire issue of continuity vs. discontinuity from OT to NT, from the old covenants to the new covenant, are governed by and depend on one's definition and use of typology! These things are not just secondary issues in the discussion. My personal opinion is that if more care was given to define and discuss these things, there'd be many more who adhere to Reformed Baptist Covenant Theology because of the inherent, internal consistency in comparison with other formulations. Nevertheless, to those who are well-versed in covenant theology, one need only read Part One of the book to see what conclusions will be drawn in Part 2-4.
-Renihan is a very clear writer: he always gives you a clear thesis up front, and he summarizes each argument and chapter at the end. This makes the book readable and helpful. He also really knows how to turn a phrase and make statements stick in the mind.
-A considerable time is spent demonstrating how the Abrahamic Covenant and the Mosaic Covenant are really inseparable --one being the extension of the other (with the Davidic in there as well). This is a very important argument, with far-reaching implications. And Renihan supports his argument with a plethora of scripture quotations. In fact, that's another strength of the book - it is saturated with scripture and exegesis.
-He also carefully defines concepts like 'kingdom' and how kingdom and covenant are to be understood in relation to one another. (Covenant defines/structures the kingdom). This too is something that far too many books on CT just broad-brush, assume, or presuppose.
-He demonstrates how the old covenants of promise (plural covenants, singular promise, Eph. 2:12) were decidedly Christ-centered. This is perhaps the thesis of the book as a whole. And this, I believe, is the greatest strength of Baptist Covenant Theology, in contrast to the Westminster Confession's formulation (even if we lay aside the implications of baptism that flow out of it).
-Each covenant, from Adam to Christ, is carefully discussed, defined, and set in relation to the mystery of Christ revealed in the gospel. In this way, the book can be a helpful reference to pick up when needed to brush up on a particular covenant.
Weaknesses of the book:
-He doesn't actually talk about baptism in much detail (OK, that's beyond the scope of the book, and the implications are clear, but it would've been nice to see more here). This can be a strength though, because you can hand this book to a Presbyterian friend and say: here it is, without horns.
-The print and pages aren't the highest of quality (not the author's fault of course). And the formatting is set out much like a series of academic lectures. Although each section is carefully organized, some of the paragraphs are very long, with little breaks between them, and some of the scriptural citations are no different in format making it a hard to follow. Some of this makes the book, at times, a little dry and academic --which will frustrate some lay-readers. By and large, like I said above, the book is very readable - but some sections could be improved upon.
-Although it's beyond the purpose of the book as an entry-level introduction, I wish he would've cited more liberally from protestant-reformed history, particularly from presbyterians and paedobaptists. Most of the content finds much support in Protestant-Reformed tradition, and it would be nice to show the reader (the one on the fence, perhaps) that this isn't just a Baptized presentation. Now, on the other hand, Renihan DOES cite a large number of Particular Baptists, which is good. But at the same time, most people do not have access to the PB material he cites, and so it's not going to be helpful for them if they wish to do additional research.
All in all, my favorite professor in seminary, David VanDrunen endorsed this book --even as a Presbyterian minister in the OPC. He said, I 'will from now on look to [this] book as a prime resource for Reformed Baptist covenant theology.' This, I believe, shows how this is a valuable resource for both Presbyterian-Reformed and Baptists alike. I lament how many of my Presbyterian friends strongly oppose our theology, but who've never read or engaged any serious treatment of RB covenant theology. You can't reject what you don't know. Here's a great place to learn more about the diversity in the Reformed tradition of covenant theology.
I highly recommend this for: the layman, those not familiar with RB covenant theology, a group study.
Strengths of the book:
-The book is divided into four parts, and it's the first part, "Methodology and Hermeneutics" that alone is worth the price of the book. Why? Because Renihan starts at the foundation, discussing things that almost every other book on covenant theology leaves out. (Most books on covenant theology don't define or discuss things like typology, moral and positive law, or even things like the difference between Federal Headship and the Mediator of a covenant and how we go about identifying such. I lament how so many tend to broad-brush or presuppose the methodology and hermeneutics rather than carefully defining and defending them.) This is huge, because the entire issue of continuity vs. discontinuity from OT to NT, from the old covenants to the new covenant, are governed by and depend on one's definition and use of typology! These things are not just secondary issues in the discussion. My personal opinion is that if more care was given to define and discuss these things, there'd be many more who adhere to Reformed Baptist Covenant Theology because of the inherent, internal consistency in comparison with other formulations. Nevertheless, to those who are well-versed in covenant theology, one need only read Part One of the book to see what conclusions will be drawn in Part 2-4.
-Renihan is a very clear writer: he always gives you a clear thesis up front, and he summarizes each argument and chapter at the end. This makes the book readable and helpful. He also really knows how to turn a phrase and make statements stick in the mind.
-A considerable time is spent demonstrating how the Abrahamic Covenant and the Mosaic Covenant are really inseparable --one being the extension of the other (with the Davidic in there as well). This is a very important argument, with far-reaching implications. And Renihan supports his argument with a plethora of scripture quotations. In fact, that's another strength of the book - it is saturated with scripture and exegesis.
-He also carefully defines concepts like 'kingdom' and how kingdom and covenant are to be understood in relation to one another. (Covenant defines/structures the kingdom). This too is something that far too many books on CT just broad-brush, assume, or presuppose.
-He demonstrates how the old covenants of promise (plural covenants, singular promise, Eph. 2:12) were decidedly Christ-centered. This is perhaps the thesis of the book as a whole. And this, I believe, is the greatest strength of Baptist Covenant Theology, in contrast to the Westminster Confession's formulation (even if we lay aside the implications of baptism that flow out of it).
-Each covenant, from Adam to Christ, is carefully discussed, defined, and set in relation to the mystery of Christ revealed in the gospel. In this way, the book can be a helpful reference to pick up when needed to brush up on a particular covenant.
Weaknesses of the book:
-He doesn't actually talk about baptism in much detail (OK, that's beyond the scope of the book, and the implications are clear, but it would've been nice to see more here). This can be a strength though, because you can hand this book to a Presbyterian friend and say: here it is, without horns.
-The print and pages aren't the highest of quality (not the author's fault of course). And the formatting is set out much like a series of academic lectures. Although each section is carefully organized, some of the paragraphs are very long, with little breaks between them, and some of the scriptural citations are no different in format making it a hard to follow. Some of this makes the book, at times, a little dry and academic --which will frustrate some lay-readers. By and large, like I said above, the book is very readable - but some sections could be improved upon.
-Although it's beyond the purpose of the book as an entry-level introduction, I wish he would've cited more liberally from protestant-reformed history, particularly from presbyterians and paedobaptists. Most of the content finds much support in Protestant-Reformed tradition, and it would be nice to show the reader (the one on the fence, perhaps) that this isn't just a Baptized presentation. Now, on the other hand, Renihan DOES cite a large number of Particular Baptists, which is good. But at the same time, most people do not have access to the PB material he cites, and so it's not going to be helpful for them if they wish to do additional research.
All in all, my favorite professor in seminary, David VanDrunen endorsed this book --even as a Presbyterian minister in the OPC. He said, I 'will from now on look to [this] book as a prime resource for Reformed Baptist covenant theology.' This, I believe, shows how this is a valuable resource for both Presbyterian-Reformed and Baptists alike. I lament how many of my Presbyterian friends strongly oppose our theology, but who've never read or engaged any serious treatment of RB covenant theology. You can't reject what you don't know. Here's a great place to learn more about the diversity in the Reformed tradition of covenant theology.
I highly recommend this for: the layman, those not familiar with RB covenant theology, a group study.
October 1, 2023
Utterly convincing.
January 23, 2025
An excellent work on Particular Baptist covenant theology. Renihan writes humbly and doxologically. While not an "easy" read by any means it can and does serve to draw ones heart and affections to the Lord who saves.
The strength of this work I believe is found in the beginning chapters which I will likely reread here soon. He seeks to frame the discussion through a discussion of hermeneutics and different theological disciplines. Questions of how things like types and anti-types are discussed and I need to think through that more.
To try and boil down Renihan's argument I'd put it this way. Each covenant must be taken on its own and understood in its own context. But each of the Old testament covenants are building towards the New covenant. He describes the Abrahamic, Mosaic and Davidic covenants as "pregnant" with the new covenant. These three are primarily focused on establishing a people, a nation and a kingdom that would bring about the Christ into the world to bless all nations. All of these covenants are fulfilled and done away with in Christ as he establishes the new covenant. Each one of these (additionally the covenant of works with Adam) operates with a Federal Head meaning that you are only a part of the covenant if you are authentically connected to the federal head. This connection can either be biological in the case of Adam and Moses but can be by faith (or spiritual birth) in relation to Abraham and Christ.
This book argues a positive case and doesn't spend much time engaging different views. This is both a strength and a weakness taken from different angles. For me trying to figure out my own convictions it wasn't the most helpful but for someone more settled this would be the primary source to get it all clearly articulates.
I've said before and still feel as though the Baptist has his eyes wide open when it comes to specific texts but then squints at the whole Bible while the Paedobaptist squints at certain texts but has their eyes wide open to the breadth of scriptures teaching.
The strength of this work I believe is found in the beginning chapters which I will likely reread here soon. He seeks to frame the discussion through a discussion of hermeneutics and different theological disciplines. Questions of how things like types and anti-types are discussed and I need to think through that more.
To try and boil down Renihan's argument I'd put it this way. Each covenant must be taken on its own and understood in its own context. But each of the Old testament covenants are building towards the New covenant. He describes the Abrahamic, Mosaic and Davidic covenants as "pregnant" with the new covenant. These three are primarily focused on establishing a people, a nation and a kingdom that would bring about the Christ into the world to bless all nations. All of these covenants are fulfilled and done away with in Christ as he establishes the new covenant. Each one of these (additionally the covenant of works with Adam) operates with a Federal Head meaning that you are only a part of the covenant if you are authentically connected to the federal head. This connection can either be biological in the case of Adam and Moses but can be by faith (or spiritual birth) in relation to Abraham and Christ.
This book argues a positive case and doesn't spend much time engaging different views. This is both a strength and a weakness taken from different angles. For me trying to figure out my own convictions it wasn't the most helpful but for someone more settled this would be the primary source to get it all clearly articulates.
I've said before and still feel as though the Baptist has his eyes wide open when it comes to specific texts but then squints at the whole Bible while the Paedobaptist squints at certain texts but has their eyes wide open to the breadth of scriptures teaching.
March 27, 2024
I feel about this book the way I feel about Steve Wellum’s books: good, mostly solid, but slightly uninspiring and sometimes a bit dull.
Renihan argues for a Reformed Baptist understanding of the covenants in which there is:
- a Triune covenant of redemption in eternity
- a covenant of works in Eden
- a bilateral covenant with Abraham (individuals can be cut out the covenant depending on their obedience but the promise to the descendant seed remains unilateral)
- a reduplication of the covenant of works at Sinai, which has a 'do this and live' form.
- a new covenant, the spiritual antetype of all previous covenants which were physical types. All the OT saints were saved by faith in the author of the new covenant, and their reception of land blessings was dependent on their obedience to their shadowy old covenants.
It's hard to assess his case as he doesn't state where the dividing lines are with new covenant advocates like Gentry & Wellum or with full blown Reformed covenant theology with infant baptism. You feel the lack in this book because contrast is the mother of clarity.
The strongest part was his demonstration that God's dealings with Adam constitute a covenant of works.
❎ I was a bit perturbed by the following statement:
This seems to contradict his earlier statement that “The words of the covenant are the Ten Commandments. Therefore, the law, both moral and positive, is the foundation of this covenant.”
My question is: how can an unbeliever fulfil the first commandment?
The bar on necessary consequences in covenant theology should have been clarified it's left as sounding like the laws of logic don't apply to this area of theology.
Renihan argues for a Reformed Baptist understanding of the covenants in which there is:
- a Triune covenant of redemption in eternity
- a covenant of works in Eden
- a bilateral covenant with Abraham (individuals can be cut out the covenant depending on their obedience but the promise to the descendant seed remains unilateral)
- a reduplication of the covenant of works at Sinai, which has a 'do this and live' form.
- a new covenant, the spiritual antetype of all previous covenants which were physical types. All the OT saints were saved by faith in the author of the new covenant, and their reception of land blessings was dependent on their obedience to their shadowy old covenants.
It's hard to assess his case as he doesn't state where the dividing lines are with new covenant advocates like Gentry & Wellum or with full blown Reformed covenant theology with infant baptism. You feel the lack in this book because contrast is the mother of clarity.
The strongest part was his demonstration that God's dealings with Adam constitute a covenant of works.
❎ I was a bit perturbed by the following statement:
For God to place blessed life in Canaan before Israel was a kind and gracious gift from God. It was a blessing. And for God to make it available through civic obedience is likewise gracious. The obedience demanded was an obedience an unbeliever could render.
This seems to contradict his earlier statement that “The words of the covenant are the Ten Commandments. Therefore, the law, both moral and positive, is the foundation of this covenant.”
My question is: how can an unbeliever fulfil the first commandment?
The bar on necessary consequences in covenant theology should have been clarified it's left as sounding like the laws of logic don't apply to this area of theology.
May 30, 2024
This was a bit of a mixed bag for me.
On the one hand, there were some great insights about the nature of biblical covenants and the relationship between Israel, Christ, and the church (ch 13 made a significant impression).
On the other hand, I am not persuaded by the way he relates the Abrahamic Covenant and the Mosaic Covenant in the Old Testament (his view of the relationship between the Abrahamic Covenant and the New Covenant in the New Testament is much better, but I would argue it should have influenced his understanding of the Abrahamic Covenant in the OT more than it did).
I was also surprised by how little attention was given to the relationship between baptism and the New Covenant in the latter part of the book.
On the one hand, there were some great insights about the nature of biblical covenants and the relationship between Israel, Christ, and the church (ch 13 made a significant impression).
On the other hand, I am not persuaded by the way he relates the Abrahamic Covenant and the Mosaic Covenant in the Old Testament (his view of the relationship between the Abrahamic Covenant and the New Covenant in the New Testament is much better, but I would argue it should have influenced his understanding of the Abrahamic Covenant in the OT more than it did).
I was also surprised by how little attention was given to the relationship between baptism and the New Covenant in the latter part of the book.
January 30, 2024
What a journey!
Having read bits and pieces of the book, but not all of it taken together, I knew this would be a good one.
If you’re looking to understand the Bible’s unity, the storyline of redemption, the covenants of the Lord, the mystery of Christ, and the kingdom of God…look no further.
People may still have certain questions after this book.
But Renihan has to be commended for such a wide sweeping, exegetically convincing, theologically deep, historically minded, and devotionally oriented treatise that is genuine parts Biblical theology, Covenant Theology, and Systematic theology.
Accessible as a survey, but also deep enough as a study
Having read bits and pieces of the book, but not all of it taken together, I knew this would be a good one.
If you’re looking to understand the Bible’s unity, the storyline of redemption, the covenants of the Lord, the mystery of Christ, and the kingdom of God…look no further.
People may still have certain questions after this book.
But Renihan has to be commended for such a wide sweeping, exegetically convincing, theologically deep, historically minded, and devotionally oriented treatise that is genuine parts Biblical theology, Covenant Theology, and Systematic theology.
Accessible as a survey, but also deep enough as a study
January 15, 2021
I've only recently come to learn of the idea of 1689 Federalism, but the way it understands the Bible felt like the way I had always read it and systematized. Renihan's work here lays out the core of Covenant Theology in a way that any reader can understand. After reading several polemical books, I kept expecting him to veer off into why this interpretation is better than NCT, Presbyterian CT, or anything else, but it is to the reader's benefit that he does not. The straightforward and amicable tone used is winsome and instructive.
This really is the kind of book that I will recommend to anyone who will read it. A consistent biblical hermeneutic is so important in this day and age, and once you've seen the way Renihan lays it out, you'll find yourself spotting the mystery of Christ painted across all of God's Holy Scriptures.
This really is the kind of book that I will recommend to anyone who will read it. A consistent biblical hermeneutic is so important in this day and age, and once you've seen the way Renihan lays it out, you'll find yourself spotting the mystery of Christ painted across all of God's Holy Scriptures.
December 22, 2019
Renihan writes to set out the covenantal framework of the English Particular Baptists, not as a polemic against other federalist perspectives or against dispensationalism, but as a simple articulation of Biblical truth. Studying the unfolding narrative of divine redemption in the mystery of Christ, the book walks through passage after passage, building the hermeneutic framework for a comprehensive, systematic understanding of 1689 Federalism. I recommend this book to anyone seeking to understand the covenantal hermeneutic of the late Reformation, to a 1689 Baptist who wants a better understanding of their theological heritage, or to a paedobaptist seeking a clearer grasp of the other side's thinking. A glorious book to honor a glorious Christ!
March 11, 2020
This is an excellent book describing and defining Reformed Baptist Covenant Theology through the deliberations of the writers of the 1689 Second London Baptist Confession. Thank you Pastor Renihan for such a clear, exegetical and pastoral work. I profited greatly from this work and highly recommend it. In Christ Alone!
December 24, 2022
4.5
Should be included in a reformed Baptist starter pack alongside a Spurgeon t-shirt and a pack of cigars.
Should be included in a reformed Baptist starter pack alongside a Spurgeon t-shirt and a pack of cigars.
June 10, 2025
This is such a helpful, Christ-exalting book! It is an explanation of Baptist Covenant Theology (1689 Federalism view) that traces the mystery of Christ throughout the biblical covenants, showing how from eternity past in the Covenant of Redemption it was God’s plan to save a people to Himself through the perfect obedience of Christ. Renihan demonstrates how that plan was revealed in shadows and types throughout the course of redemptive history in the Old Covenant of Works to find its final fulfillment in Christ’s perfect carrying of the Covenant of Redemption, mediated to His people in the New Covenant of Grace.
Praise God for providing Christ as the true and better Prophet, Priest, and King of a better covenant based on better promises (Hebrews 8:6)!
Praise God for providing Christ as the true and better Prophet, Priest, and King of a better covenant based on better promises (Hebrews 8:6)!
May 4, 2025
I knew this book would be good, but I didn't know it would be this good.
A must-read for anyone seeking to understand the 1689 Federalism view of Reformed Baptist Covenant Theology.
(I found the christocentric typology drawn out in ch. 9 and the distinction between Israel and the Church in ch. 13 to be especially helpful.)
A must-read for anyone seeking to understand the 1689 Federalism view of Reformed Baptist Covenant Theology.
(I found the christocentric typology drawn out in ch. 9 and the distinction between Israel and the Church in ch. 13 to be especially helpful.)
July 1, 2023
A good summary of Baptist Covenant theology, a few quips towards the Presbyterian views on entrance into the covenant community. A well rounded book overall that focuses on the sufficiency and centrality of Christ in all of Scripture as He is hidden in the OT and revealed in the NT. Thankful for the gospel presented in this book as showing Christ as not just achieving a salvation for believers, but also for establishing a rule and a reign now in this present age, the age in which we live and wait for the coming consummation of Christ. Recommend!
January 3, 2025
Incredibly helpful in clarifying my understanding of covenant theology and increasing my appreciation for God’s design and purposes of the covenants for his people. I also appreciated the author began with a very thorough Methodology and Hermeneutics section. Again, the discussion on Federal Headship, typology, and even the connection to the sacraments and church discipline in the last chapter were very beneficial. Would highly recommend for any Christian.
June 4, 2024
Good intro to Reformed Baptist Covenant Theology (specifically, 1689 Federalism).
July 18, 2025
The definitive book on Reformed Baptist Covenant Theology. Excellent.
May 5, 2020
Renihan states from the outset that he is of the conviction that the study of Covenant Theology should be approached devotionally, and I couldn’t agree more. He reflects this conviction throughout the book as he constantly draws the reader’s attention to the glorious covenanting God of Adam, Noah, Abraham, Moses and David.
For so long I’ve heard Christians lament that the Old Testament seems so dark, closed and distant to them. Studying the way in which the whole of the Bible, indeed the whole of salvation history (history in general) is connected by the covenants God has entered with his people will remedy this sad reality.
This book, while short, packs a wealth of teaching and insight into it’s few pages. Being a novice, there are things that have been perplexing and difficult for me to understand as I’ve studied covenant theology from the Reformed Baptist perspective. The meaning of and relationship between terms like “New Covenant”, “Covenant of Redemption” and “Covenant of Grace” have been difficult for me to fully grasp. But after reading Renihan’s lucid and pedagogically skilled work I feel a much clearer understanding of these things.
I can’t recommend one part of this book over another as they are all splendid and equally necessary to understanding the whole. Still, the section on Typology and on the relationship between Biblical and Systematic Theology are especially invaluable when it comes to the proper hermeneutical approach.
The final sections regarding the church as the Kingdom of Christ and the inaugurated eschatological kingdom were also simply glorious. Here Renihan really gets practical in his teaching on the local church as the Kingdom of Christ.
All in all a must read for anyone seeking a fuller understanding of the Sovereign God’s dealings with humanity.
For so long I’ve heard Christians lament that the Old Testament seems so dark, closed and distant to them. Studying the way in which the whole of the Bible, indeed the whole of salvation history (history in general) is connected by the covenants God has entered with his people will remedy this sad reality.
This book, while short, packs a wealth of teaching and insight into it’s few pages. Being a novice, there are things that have been perplexing and difficult for me to understand as I’ve studied covenant theology from the Reformed Baptist perspective. The meaning of and relationship between terms like “New Covenant”, “Covenant of Redemption” and “Covenant of Grace” have been difficult for me to fully grasp. But after reading Renihan’s lucid and pedagogically skilled work I feel a much clearer understanding of these things.
I can’t recommend one part of this book over another as they are all splendid and equally necessary to understanding the whole. Still, the section on Typology and on the relationship between Biblical and Systematic Theology are especially invaluable when it comes to the proper hermeneutical approach.
The final sections regarding the church as the Kingdom of Christ and the inaugurated eschatological kingdom were also simply glorious. Here Renihan really gets practical in his teaching on the local church as the Kingdom of Christ.
All in all a must read for anyone seeking a fuller understanding of the Sovereign God’s dealings with humanity.
October 4, 2025
Really helpful overview of the covenants of Scripture, and how they progress the unfolding story of Scripture- the mystery of Christ's present and future kingdom. If you are ever confused about the covenants of Scripture, the relationship between certain covenants of Scripture, or how they progress the story of Scripture, this is a great resource. It will certainly help you understand your Bible better!
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October 17, 2025The content is great but the tone of the book is the reason that it is 5 stats.
"In light of the humility that covenant theology ought to instill in its students, the way in which believers have turned it into a battlefield is unacceptable...The mystery of Christ and His covenant is not a weapon of war, means of mischief, or source of schism. It is the gospel for the nations."
"In light of the humility that covenant theology ought to instill in its students, the way in which believers have turned it into a battlefield is unacceptable...The mystery of Christ and His covenant is not a weapon of war, means of mischief, or source of schism. It is the gospel for the nations."
October 8, 2019
This is an excellent positive presentation of Reformed Baptist Covenant Theology.
April 22, 2022
Very very great book, exegetical of every covenant throughout scripture, and uses typology to show how each covenant works and leads into the new covenant! Had many amazing points on the OT covenants shadowing the new covenant in Christ. Chapter on the covenant of redemption was the climax of how each covenant worked together in order to bring in the covenant of Grace after Christ had fulfilled the covenant of redemption, through his perfect life, atoning death in the cross, and resurrection from the dead!
However, i was left very confused on how the OT saints were regenerated through the Holy spirit in order to believe, there was a small section written on it which basically just stated they are saved the same way which is stated in the book of Hebrews and that is a truth we all know. With this 1689 federalism view on covenant theology, though it makes sense, and i have found much more clarity on every covenant the disunity with the covenant of grace starting in the New covenant leaves me a bit confused on some areas regarding the OT saints.
Regardless amazing book highly recommend!!
However, i was left very confused on how the OT saints were regenerated through the Holy spirit in order to believe, there was a small section written on it which basically just stated they are saved the same way which is stated in the book of Hebrews and that is a truth we all know. With this 1689 federalism view on covenant theology, though it makes sense, and i have found much more clarity on every covenant the disunity with the covenant of grace starting in the New covenant leaves me a bit confused on some areas regarding the OT saints.
Regardless amazing book highly recommend!!
September 28, 2025
Excellent Book! Well written and easy to understand. This was a big help to me in understanding Covenant Theology (1689 Federalism). There are several other views in Reformed circles as well, New and Progressive Covenantalism, to name a couple.
The author did a great job in presenting his position from a biblical perspective, showing the history of Covenants from creation to Christ. He covered the eternal covenant between Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, showing the timeline and successive unfolding (step by step) of the Father's redemptive plan.
It's important to note that the word covenant is found close to 300 times (I think 293 to be exact) in the Bible. By contrast, the word dispensation is found fewer than five times. With that many mentions, the study of God's covenants justifies our attention.
The layout of the book is simple, easy to follow, and progressive. It is over 210 pages long.
If you are interested in getting your feet wet regarding Covenant Theology, this is a great place to start.
The author did a great job in presenting his position from a biblical perspective, showing the history of Covenants from creation to Christ. He covered the eternal covenant between Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, showing the timeline and successive unfolding (step by step) of the Father's redemptive plan.
It's important to note that the word covenant is found close to 300 times (I think 293 to be exact) in the Bible. By contrast, the word dispensation is found fewer than five times. With that many mentions, the study of God's covenants justifies our attention.
The layout of the book is simple, easy to follow, and progressive. It is over 210 pages long.
If you are interested in getting your feet wet regarding Covenant Theology, this is a great place to start.
June 4, 2025
A profound look at God's Redemptive Covenants
This book offers a rich and cohesive exploration of God's redemptive plan to save His chosen people. The author, Renihan, excels at summarizing the various covenants God established throughout the Old Testament and seamlessly connecting them to the New Covenant.
Renihan's ability to present these complex theological concepts in such a unified manner is truly commendable. Readers will find themselves gaining a much deeper and clearer understanding of God's unfolding covenantal faithfulness and the central role of Christ's redemptive work within that grand narrative.
This is an excellent resource for anyone seeking to enhance their comprehension of God's covenants and how they culminate in the salvation offered through Jesus Christ.
This book offers a rich and cohesive exploration of God's redemptive plan to save His chosen people. The author, Renihan, excels at summarizing the various covenants God established throughout the Old Testament and seamlessly connecting them to the New Covenant.
Renihan's ability to present these complex theological concepts in such a unified manner is truly commendable. Readers will find themselves gaining a much deeper and clearer understanding of God's unfolding covenantal faithfulness and the central role of Christ's redemptive work within that grand narrative.
This is an excellent resource for anyone seeking to enhance their comprehension of God's covenants and how they culminate in the salvation offered through Jesus Christ.
December 17, 2025
Disclaimer: I an aware of Samuel Renihan’s recent confession. This review is focused on the book itself and its theological truths, not on the later events involving the author.
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This book has helped me so much in my thinking pertaining to covenant theology as well as the gospel as a whole. The beauty of God’s covenants throughout the entirety of the WORLD is breathtaking!!! Renihan heavily quotes Scripture, showing the intentionally of God’s design as it unfolds to the revelation of Christ. Just the emphasis the author puts on promise, fulfillment, and mystery honors the Christ-centeredness throughout the covenants and Scripture. A must read for any and all of those who hold to the 1689 principles.
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This book has helped me so much in my thinking pertaining to covenant theology as well as the gospel as a whole. The beauty of God’s covenants throughout the entirety of the WORLD is breathtaking!!! Renihan heavily quotes Scripture, showing the intentionally of God’s design as it unfolds to the revelation of Christ. Just the emphasis the author puts on promise, fulfillment, and mystery honors the Christ-centeredness throughout the covenants and Scripture. A must read for any and all of those who hold to the 1689 principles.
October 4, 2024
Fantastic Book! I highly recommend every Baptist read this concise and biblical explanation of Baptist Covenant Theology. I’m thoroughly convinced this is the biblical understanding of the covenants.
January 22, 2020
It makes sense.
October 17, 2025
Good introduction to Baptist covenant theology. Instead of debating other views this book just centers on understanding Scripture from this classic baptist perspective
May 17, 2023
Every Calvinistic Baptist should read this book.
January 14, 2021
What is the kingdom of Christ? What is the kingdom of the world? What was the kingdom of David? How does God relate to man? How has God related to man in the past? How are these things related? How should we respond?
In this book Samuel Renihan aims to answer these questions biblically. His method and approach are shaped by 17th century baptists - the authors of the 1689 London Baptist Confession and the result is excellent.
Here is an explanation of the Old and New Covenants that neither divorces them (dispensationalism) nor blurs them together (presbyterian covenant theology).
I believe the conclusions presented in this book are biblical, true and very helpful.
The book also includes useful points of application both to what the responsibilities of all mankind are to God and each other AND the responsibilities of governments AND what the church is, who should be in the church, how to run a church etc.
The content deserves a 5/5.
However the structure of the book and the style of writing could be improved.
Part 1 of the book is a very heavy section on methodology and approach. This is excellent material however it is very dense. It’s full of 17th century quotes and may be off putting to all but the keenest of readers.
Part 2 on the Kingdom of Creation (Genesis 1-9) is much more accessible and is also well applied including some hints on how later covenants will build on the covenants with Adam and Noah.
Part 3 the kingdom of Israel (Abraham, Moses and David) is very easy/light reading however loses some value by largely omitting discussion of how Abraham, Moses and David relate to Christ - this material is not missing from the book - it comes in at the end, however leaving it out here left these chapters feeling severely lacking.
Part 4 the kingdom of Christ returns to the dense feel of Part 1 not through the use of so many quotations but rather through the sheer amount of content in relatively few pages. This section covers:
the Covenant of Redemption (pre-creation agreement between Father, Son and Spirit) AND
the Covenant of Grace (salvation in Christ) AND
the work of Christ on earth (the fulfilment of the Covenant of Redemption and inauguration of the covenant of Grace) AND
how the the kingdom of Israel pointed forward to this AND
how some in the kingdom of Israel were saved for eternity through faith that looked forward to Christ
The book could be a lot more accessible if Part 1 was re-worked to explain things slightly more simply AND if a lot of the fulfilment material in Part 4 was moved into Part 3. Also taking the Covenant of Redemption to the start to explain the destination before setting out could make the work as a whole easier to follow.
In this book Samuel Renihan aims to answer these questions biblically. His method and approach are shaped by 17th century baptists - the authors of the 1689 London Baptist Confession and the result is excellent.
Here is an explanation of the Old and New Covenants that neither divorces them (dispensationalism) nor blurs them together (presbyterian covenant theology).
I believe the conclusions presented in this book are biblical, true and very helpful.
The book also includes useful points of application both to what the responsibilities of all mankind are to God and each other AND the responsibilities of governments AND what the church is, who should be in the church, how to run a church etc.
The content deserves a 5/5.
However the structure of the book and the style of writing could be improved.
Part 1 of the book is a very heavy section on methodology and approach. This is excellent material however it is very dense. It’s full of 17th century quotes and may be off putting to all but the keenest of readers.
Part 2 on the Kingdom of Creation (Genesis 1-9) is much more accessible and is also well applied including some hints on how later covenants will build on the covenants with Adam and Noah.
Part 3 the kingdom of Israel (Abraham, Moses and David) is very easy/light reading however loses some value by largely omitting discussion of how Abraham, Moses and David relate to Christ - this material is not missing from the book - it comes in at the end, however leaving it out here left these chapters feeling severely lacking.
Part 4 the kingdom of Christ returns to the dense feel of Part 1 not through the use of so many quotations but rather through the sheer amount of content in relatively few pages. This section covers:
the Covenant of Redemption (pre-creation agreement between Father, Son and Spirit) AND
the Covenant of Grace (salvation in Christ) AND
the work of Christ on earth (the fulfilment of the Covenant of Redemption and inauguration of the covenant of Grace) AND
how the the kingdom of Israel pointed forward to this AND
how some in the kingdom of Israel were saved for eternity through faith that looked forward to Christ
The book could be a lot more accessible if Part 1 was re-worked to explain things slightly more simply AND if a lot of the fulfilment material in Part 4 was moved into Part 3. Also taking the Covenant of Redemption to the start to explain the destination before setting out could make the work as a whole easier to follow.
January 20, 2023
This is a really good read on Reformed Baptist covenant theology. The book covers a vast array of topics but it's not exhaustive. I would not consider this to be an introductory work, but it is very accessible. If you have read other Reformed Baptist covenant theology books you won't be surprised by the author's conclusions and the resources he uses in his analysis of the divine covenants (Nehemiah Coxe, Meredith Kline, 2LBCF, and others). Although Renihan's purpose was not to deal with opposing views, I think that could've benefitted the book in certain areas. In the end, the book is Christ-centered, and readers will come away with much learning and praise to our covenant God.
A few areas that I thought were strengths of the book:
- Emphasis on covenant membership being connected to the federal head (therefore taking you to certain conclusions on baptism and the Lord's Supper)
- The covenant of redemption being fulfilled in the new covenant (covenant of grace)
- The importance of hermeneutics and scriptural context when analyzing the covenants
- Typology and the connection between type and anti-type
- Emphasis on the distinction between law and gospel in scripture
- Abrahamic/Mosaic/Davidic covenants being viewed in the context of the nation of Israel
- Blessings of the new covenant and how much better the new covenant is (discontinuity vs old)
- The church as the Kingdom of Christ and the inaugurated eschatological kingdom
A few areas that I thought were strengths of the book:
- Emphasis on covenant membership being connected to the federal head (therefore taking you to certain conclusions on baptism and the Lord's Supper)
- The covenant of redemption being fulfilled in the new covenant (covenant of grace)
- The importance of hermeneutics and scriptural context when analyzing the covenants
- Typology and the connection between type and anti-type
- Emphasis on the distinction between law and gospel in scripture
- Abrahamic/Mosaic/Davidic covenants being viewed in the context of the nation of Israel
- Blessings of the new covenant and how much better the new covenant is (discontinuity vs old)
- The church as the Kingdom of Christ and the inaugurated eschatological kingdom
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