Digital Logos Edition
The Economy of the Covenants between God and Man is considered to be Herman Witsius’ most significant work. In a reflection on what is known as covenant theology, Witsius examines how the idea of covenant provides a unified theological framework for the Scriptures.
In volume two, Witsius focuses on elements of grace and salvation in the Old Testament, all the while examining Christ’s fulfillment of the law and instigation of a new covenant of grace. His invaluable Old Testament insight puts it in context with the New Testament, presenting a holistic view of the entire Bible. A discussion of sacraments in conjunction with the idea of covenant gives the greater understanding of how thoroughly integrated the idea of covenant really is.
The Logos edition of The Economy of the Covenants between God and Man, vol. 2 integrates completely with your digital library. Scripture references link directly to your favorite English translation and your original-language texts, instantly connecting you to a wealth of resources. With networked passage guides, word studies, and commentaries, you’ll be able to delve into God’s Word like never before.
“VIII. These three things are the natural consequences of adoption. 1st, a persuasion of the greatest love of the adopter. 2dly, An obedience of love, agreeably to the laws of the family, into which the adopted is received, and to the nature and will of the new parent. 3dly, An expectation of the inheritance. The Spirit, therefore, who produces these things in the elect, is justly called the Spirit of adoption.” (Page 3)
“First, it is necessary, that our spirit be very exactly instructed from the word of God, about the marks, by which a child of God may be known and distinguished.” (Page 8)
“If any should ask me of what kind, whether of works or of grace? I shall answer, it is formally neither; but a covenant of sincere piety, which supposes both.” (Page 191)
“There are many more mysteries in this secret intercourse with our heavenly Father, which believers sometimes see, taste, and feel, and which no pen of the learned can represent as they deserve. And it is not fit that the spirit of man should be unacquainted with these things, since it is admitted as a witness of his state: for though this is not the lot of all the children of God, nor the case at all times, nor indeed frequently, yet they, whose lot it has at any time been, are certainly the children of God.” (Pages 10–11)
“We are not to think that God, by these words, required Israel to perform prefect obedience in all parts and degrees, as the condition of the covenant. For in that case the whole of this proposal would be nothing but an intimation of an inevitable curse; seeing it is absolutely impossible for sinful man to give such a perfect observance, even though he is regenerated and sanctified.” (Page 186)
Herman Witsius . . . was a masterful Dutch Reformed theologian, learned, wise, mighty in the Scriptures, practical . . . on paper he was calm, judicious, systematic.
A writer not only eminent for his great talents and particularly solid judgments, rich imagination, and elegance of composition, but for a deep, powerful, and evangelistic spirituality, and savor of godliness.
Herman Witsius (1636–1708) was born in Holland. He became a pastor in 1656 and a professor of divinity in 1675. Fluent in Greek, Latin, and Hebrew, he authored several theological books.