Archive for June 15th, 2011
Having dilated as far as is thought expedient, on the solemn and awful subjects of the apostasy, depravity, and original corruption of all mankind; we now proceed to a more pleasant theme–a gospel doctrine. The subject of this essay may be the doctrine of redemption, by the blood of Christ. This is a subject which claims the most lively, ardent and grateful attention. The gospel and the Holy Ghost sent down from heaven, are the things “which the angels desire to look into.” And if all that appertains to the great work of redemption by Jesus Christ, be exhibited; it will amount to an exhibition of the whole gospel of divine grace.
Introductory to a discussion of this doctrine, we may notice, that from the scriptures, there appears to have been an eternal covenant between the persons of the sacred Trinity , called the covenant of redemption. This covenant is clearly manifested by its effects. The several parts performed by each of the three persons of the Godhead, suggests the idea of an eternal compact, or agreement, as respected the marvelous work of redemption. The great objects to be accomplished, and which have employed the counsels of the Three in One, from eternity, were, to provide an adequate atonement for sin, and an actual deliverance of the elect from the curse of the divine law. For this purpose, the Father is represented, as sitting on the throne of justice, claiming satisfaction for the violation of his law, and finding a ransom; and as giving to his Son the promise of a seed to serve him for a reward of his sufferings as a Mediator. The Father also, “sent forth his son, made of a woman, made under the law, to redeem them that were under the law. God gave his only begotten Son, and “delivered him up for us all.” The Son, on his part, freely undertook the arduous work. “Lo I come! in the volume of the book it is written of me, I delight to do thy will, O God; and thy law is within my heart.” Cheerfully did he engage to assume our nature, and lay down his life for us. All this being insufficient to win the hearts of sinners, an important work was also assigned to the Holy Ghost. To him it belonged, not only to guide and comfort all the saints, and keep them, by his power, through faith unto salvation; but also to reprove the world of sin, of righteousness and of judgment. His was also the great and glorious work of regeneration. “According to his mercy he saves us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost.” The wonderful order and arrangement of the great works appertaining to redemption, make it evident, that they are, and have been, covenant transactions of the sacred Trinity, established from eternity.
There are several passages of scripture, which, in a general view, evidently allude to the covenant of redemption. Particularly in the 89th Psalm; the things which are said of David, have more particular reference to the Savior, of whom David was an illustrious type. “I have made a covenant with my chosen, I have sworn unto David, my servant; thy seed will I establish forever, and build up thy throne to all generations. Then thou speaks in vision to thy Holy one, and said, I have laid help upon one that is mighty; I have exalted one chosen out of the people. I have found David my servant; with my holy oil I have anointed him. Also I will make him my first born, higher than the kings of the earth. Mt mercy will I keep forevermore, and my covenant shall stand fast with him.” These high honors belong to him only, who is the Prince of peace; and they are the fruits and rewards of his faithfulness in the character of a Mediator.