by Vavasor Powell
in ePub, .mobi & .pdf formats
Vavasor Powell’s Christ and Moses Excellency, or Zion and Sinai’s Glory is a remarkable Puritan work that seeks to articulate the superiority of Christ over Moses, and the Gospel over the Law. This volume is a profound theological exploration of the Covenant of Grace and the Covenant of Works, setting forth the biblical distinctions between the two while demonstrating the excellency of Christ as the fulfillment of the Law and the great Mediator of the New Covenant. Powell methodically unfolds the subject in a way that is both instructive and devotional, making it a valuable resource for serious students of Scripture and Reformed theology.
The book is divided into three primary sections. The first section focuses on the nature and distinction of the two covenants—how the Gospel of Christ stands in contrast to the Law of Moses, and how Sinai (the giving of the Law) relates to Zion (the glory of the Gospel). Powell meticulously addresses common questions regarding the Law’s role, its limitations, and how it serves as a schoolmaster to lead sinners to Christ. The second section takes up the doctrine of the promises within the two covenants, explaining their significance for believers. Here, Powell excels in clarifying how the promises of God are secured in Christ and not in man’s obedience to the Law. His insights into the application of these promises will be particularly helpful for those who wrestle with assurance of salvation or struggle with distinguishing between law and grace.
One of the most compelling aspects of this book is the Alphabetical Guide to Promises in the third section. Powell provides a systematic way for believers to locate and apply the promises of Scripture to their lives, which serves as both a small concordance and a practical tool for personal devotion and pastoral ministry. This aspect of the book reflects Powell’s pastoral heart—his desire to equip Christians with Scripture so that they may find comfort, guidance, and strength in the Gospel.
Powell does not shy away from engaging in robust theological discourse. He tackles weighty subjects such as the intent, extent, and efficacy of Christ’s death, the role of the Mosaic Covenant, and the relationship between Israel and the Church. His theological precision is sharpened by his Puritan commitment to sola Scriptura, making this work a treasure trove for those engaged in covenant theology. The book is also deeply practical, as Powell continually brings doctrine down to the level of application, urging his readers to respond to the grace of God with faith and obedience.
Though written in the 17th century, Christ and Moses Excellency remains relevant today, particularly in discussions concerning the continuity and discontinuity between the Old and New Testaments, the nature of law and grace, and the assurance of faith in Christ alone. It serves as an antidote to both legalism and antinomianism, directing the reader to find true righteousness in Christ rather than in works of the Law.
Why You Should Read This Book
If you are looking for a book that:
- Clearly explains the distinction between the Law and the Gospel
- Offers a systematic treatment of covenant theology
- Provides a practical way to search for and apply biblical promises
- Strengthens assurance of salvation through Christ alone
- Delivers a rich Puritan theological perspective, steeped in deep scriptural exegesis
Then Powell’s Christ and Moses Excellency is a must-read. His work will challenge, edify, and encourage you in your walk with Christ.
About the Author
Vavasor Powell (1617–1670) was a Welsh Puritan preacher, evangelist, and theologian known for his fervent commitment to Reformed and Puritan theology. A fiery advocate for the Gospel, Powell preached extensively throughout Wales, working tirelessly to bring the truths of Scripture to the people. He was a strong proponent of the sovereignty of God in salvation and a vocal critic of legalism and formalism in religion. Though he suffered persecution and imprisonment for his nonconformity to the established Church of England, Powell remained steadfast in his mission to preach Christ. His writings, though less known today, remain a rich resource for theological precision and spiritual devotion.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
PREF. To the Courteous and Christian Reader.
1. PT. I. Christ and Moses Excellency, or, Zion and Sinai’s Glory.
2. PT. II. Wherein, Most of the material Questions concerning the Law, are briefly handled and cleared.
3. PT. III. Treating upon the Promises which belong to the Two Covenants.
4. PT. IV. An Alphabetical Way to Find Informing and Assuring Promises.