1. The distinction between the 'Covenant of Redemption' and the 'Covenant of Grace'. Terms explained and biblical basis.
2. Erroneous tendencies to merge the Covenant of Redemption and the Covenant of Grace by some within historic Calvinism.- Boston, Kuyper, Kersten, Hoeksema and Calvinistic Baptists. The view that only the elect are ever in the covenant. Effect of this view, as the identity of the elect infants unknowable. A look at Heb.8:7-12. Practical effects of 'presumptive regeneration', and 'presumptive unregeneration'.
3. The biblical view and its implications in practice. Covenant made effectual with the elect, but made conditionally with all the children of believers. Not Arminianism. Calvin on Gen.17:7. Practical effects: - No presumptions; God's Word stands; assurance concerning covenant children dying in infancy; children to be treated according to their God-given status in the church, charitably (Eph.6:1-2) but without assumptions. The church on earth mixed in adult and child membership and preaching to reflect this fact. Paedo-communion rejected and reason. Covenant family a unity.
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“ An Excellent Message! ” This is an excellent message explaining the Westminster Confession's exposition of the Bible concerning the status of covenant children. It will be particularly helpful for some Dutch Reformed Christians who believe what the Westminster Confession teaches, but have been somewhat confused, because the Three Forms of Unity do not present this doctrine as clearly as the Westminster Standards. It will also be helpful for anyone who has been tossed about by the so called "Federal Vision" theology (which unnecessarily attempted to re-explain the Westminster Standards in new terms and categories which has resulted schism and confusion). Thank you Rev Silversides for this message.
Conyngham Paul (8/26/2009)
from Pennsylvania
“ A Must Listen ” Wow! One of the best/most important sermons I've ever heard. If you claim to be reformed, you must listen to this. If you have questions about circumcision and baptism, you must listen to this!!! Yeah, its long, but time will fly.
Fiona (12/27/2005)
from UK
“ An Excellent Address ” Having once taken the Baptist view of the covenant, can I encourage those who still do to prayerfully listen to this address. The Scriptures clearly teach and warn against covenant breaking, both in the Old Testament and in the New - else how are we to understand the breaking off of the branches on the vine in John 15 and of the olive tree in Romans 11? Hebrews chapter 4 warns the New testament church of the same sin committed under the Old, namely that they should not 'fall after the same example of unbelief.' The unity of the Scriptures of truth are so gloriously set forth with this view and God's glory shines here. 'Let thy work appear unto thy servants, and thy glory unto their children.' Psalm 90:16
