by John Cotton
in ePub, .mobi & .pdf formats
John Cotton's A Treatise of the Covenant of Grace is a profound theological exploration of one of the most central themes in Scripture: God’s unchanging promise to redeem His elect through Jesus Christ. Written by one of the leading Puritan theologians, this work offers a rich, detailed examination of the Covenant of Grace as it is dispensed by God to His people, effectually securing their salvation.
The treatise opens with a careful study of the coherence of the covenant within Scripture, highlighting its roots in God's promises to Abraham and tracing its fulfillment through Christ. Cotton expounds on the covenant's unmerited nature, emphasizing that it is solely God who initiates, sustains, and fulfills it, reflecting His absolute sovereignty and grace. For Cotton, the Covenant of Grace is a profound demonstration of God’s unchanging faithfulness, a theme he explores with both theological depth and pastoral warmth.
Through its twelve chapters, the book addresses critical questions about the covenant: What does it mean for God to give Himself to His people? How is Christ the Mediator and Surety of the covenant? How does the Holy Spirit apply the benefits of the covenant to the elect? Cotton explores these themes with biblical precision, highlighting the unity of the Godhead in the work of salvation and drawing attention to the transforming power of union with Christ.
Particularly compelling is Cotton’s explanation of how the Covenant of Grace contrasts with the Covenant of Works. He outlines the ways in which God’s promises are unconditional, resting not on human effort but entirely on Christ’s finished work. Cotton’s reflections on the implications of this covenant for assurance, sanctification, and the believer’s relationship with God are both deeply theological and immensely practical.
For readers hungry to delve into the riches of Puritan theology, A Treatise of the Covenant of Grace is a treasure trove of insight. Cotton’s writing challenges the mind while nourishing the soul, making this book an essential resource for pastors, theologians, and any Christian desiring to grow in their understanding of God’s redemptive purposes. Whether you’re studying covenant theology or seeking to deepen your faith, this work will draw you closer to the heart of the gospel: the unsearchable riches of God's grace in Christ.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
PREF. I. A Brief Tribute to the Author.
PREF. II. The Stationer to the Reader.
1. CHAP. I. The Coherence of the Text.
2. CHAP. II. In the Covenant, these three things are implied.
3. CHAP. III. From Union with Christ, there springeth Communion with him in spiritual blessings.
4. CHAP. IV. The difference between the Sanctification which floweth from the Law and Gospel.
5. CHAP. V. Of what use are Promises, if not to bring us unto Christ; which it seems they do not, if Christ must first be given?
6. CHAP. VI. To what use serveth the Law, if God giveth himself to his people, without respect to any work?
7. CHAP. VII. If the Lord giveth himself, and his Holy Spirit, what need is there of any gifts of holiness to work and act by?
8. CHAP. VIII. How doth God the Father give himself?
9. CHAP. IX. How doth God the Son give himself to Abraham and his seed?
10. CHAP. X. How God the Holy Ghost doth give himself to Abraham and his seed?
11. CHAP. XI. That God received Abraham and his seed to be a peculiar people unto himself.
12. CHAP. XII. The Lord Jesus Christ, to be the Mediator and Surety of the Covenant between God and Abraham.