Renewing Your Mind Podcast Summary: "Signed, Sealed, Delivered"

Release Date: June 23, 2025
Host: Ligonier Ministries
Guest: Dr. JV Fesco, Author of "Signed, Sealed, Delivered"

Introduction

In the June 23, 2025 episode of Renewing Your Mind, hosted by Ligonier Ministries, listeners are welcomed into an engaging discussion on covenant theology with esteemed author and Reformed Theological Seminary professor, Dr. JV Fesco. The episode, titled "Signed, Sealed, Delivered," delves deep into the intricacies of biblical covenants, their historical significance, and their profound impact on the Christian faith.

Understanding Covenant Theology

Dr. JV Fesco begins by clarifying the essence of covenant theology, emphasizing its foundational role in understanding God's relationship with humanity. He states:

"Covenant theology reminds us that we're in a covenantal relationship with our triune God and with one another, forming the body of the Church of Jesus Christ." [00:00]

The host introduces the overarching theme, highlighting how covenants are a pervasive element throughout the Bible, used over 300 times in the ESV translation. Dr. Fesco underscores that these covenants are not arbitrary but are essential for grasping God's redemptive plan.

Historical Background and Key Covenants

Dr. Fesco outlines the major covenants that structure redemptive history:

1. Covenant of Works: Established with Adam in the Garden of Eden (Genesis 1:28; Genesis 2:15-17), this covenant set forth God's commands, with blessings for obedience and curses for disobedience.

2. Covenant of Redemption: A pre-temporal agreement within the Trinity, where the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit harmonize their roles in the plan of salvation. Dr. Fesco references Luke 22:29, where Jesus declares, "I covenant to you a kingdom, as my Father covenanted to me a kingdom." [06:03]

3. Covenant of Grace: Encompassing all God's gracious dealings with humanity, this umbrella includes the Noahic, Abrahamic, Mosaic, Davidic, and New Covenants, all unified under God's promise of salvation through Christ.

The Covenant of Redemption and Assurance

A significant portion of the discussion centers on the Covenant of Redemption and its role in providing believers with assurance. Dr. Fesco explains how this eternal covenant underpins the certainty of salvation, despite life's uncertainties:

"The promises of salvation rest on the bedrock of God's unchanging plan, much like precious jewels locked away in a safe." [06:03]

He shares a personal anecdote illustrating his own moments of doubt and how the unchanging nature of God's covenant offers steadfast assurance:

"Even in moments of doubt, I know that Your Word is a firm foundation for my salvation." [08:36]

This testament underscores that assurance is grounded not in personal feelings but in the immutable promises of God.

Adam vs. Jesus: The Last Adam

Dr. Fesco draws a parallel between Adam and Jesus, highlighting the theological concept of Jesus as the Last Adam. He explains:

"Adam is a rough sketch, a foreshadow of Jesus, who faithfully fulfills what Adam failed to do." [05:53]

By fulfilling the original mandate given to Adam—to "fill the earth and subdue it"—Jesus not only atones for sins but also completes humanity's vocation. Dr. Fesco references 1 Corinthians 15:45 and Romans 5:12-14 to illustrate how Jesus rectifies Adam's transgression and restores the intended relationship between God and humanity.

Practical Implications for the Church and Believers

The conversation transitions to the practical applications of covenant theology within the church. Dr. Fesco emphasizes the communal aspect of covenants, countering the prevalent notion of rugged individualism:

"Covenant theology reminds us that we're part of a covenantal community, united to Christ and to one another." [19:14]

He discusses the vital role of the church as the body of Christ, where each member is interwoven into a cohesive whole. This unity fosters ethical and moral obligations, reinforcing the importance of collective faith and support.

Addressing Common Questions and Misconceptions

Listeners unfamiliar with covenant theology might perceive it as a human-imposed framework rather than a biblical principle. Dr. Fesco counters this by illustrating how covenant theology naturally emerges from Scripture:

"When you read Genesis 1:28 and Genesis 2:15-17 alongside Hosea 6 and Romans 5, you see the biblical pattern of covenant—blessing and curse, obedience and transgression." [16:54]

He reassures skeptics that covenant theology is deeply rooted in biblical narrative, not a man-made construct, by highlighting scripture's consistent use of covenantal language and themes.

Encouragement for Pastors and Teachers

Dr. Fesco offers practical advice to pastors and teachers aiming to integrate covenant theology into their ministries. He encourages them to:

• Trace the Covenant Lines in Scripture: Just as he traces lines in drawings with his daughter, believers should trace the covenantal threads throughout the Bible to maintain doctrinal integrity. [21:51]

• Emphasize Replication of God's Promises: By aligning preaching and teaching with the covenantal revelations in Scripture, leaders can help congregations grasp the depth of God's saving plan through Christ.

He stresses that understanding and teaching covenant theology enhances the clarity and impact of the Gospel message.

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In his closing remarks, Dr. Fesco paints a vivid picture of the ultimate fulfillment of God's covenants—the Great Wedding Feast of the Lamb. He reflects:

"Christ’s faithfulness as the Last Adam assures us that we will be presented before the throne of God spotless, because of his unbreakable covenant." [23:53]

This vision reinforces the hope and encouragement that covenant theology provides, reminding believers of the secure and eternal relationship established through Christ.

Final Exhortation

The host wraps up the episode by reiterating the significance of covenant theology as a source of encouragement for Christians. He invites listeners to engage further by requesting Dr. Fesco's book and teaching series, emphasizing the practical and transformative nature of understanding covenants in the Christian walk.

"When I was first taught Covenant Theology, it was like a light bulb turning on, deepening my appreciation for the Gospel. This topic is far from merely academic." [25:08]

Key Quotes:

• “Covenant theology reminds us that we're in a covenantal relationship with our triune God and with one another, forming the body of the Church of Jesus Christ.” — Dr. JV Fesco [00:00]

• “The promises of salvation rest on the bedrock of God's unchanging plan, much like precious jewels locked away in a safe.” — Dr. JV Fesco [06:03]

• “Adam is a rough sketch, a foreshadow of Jesus, who faithfully fulfills what Adam failed to do.” — Dr. JV Fesco [05:53]

• “Covenant theology reminds us that we're part of a covenantal community, united to Christ and to one another.” — Dr. JV Fesco [19:14]

• “Christ’s faithfulness as the Last Adam assures us that we will be presented before the throne of God spotless, because of his unbreakable covenant.” — Dr. JV Fesco [23:53]

This episode of Renewing Your Mind offers a comprehensive exploration of covenant theology, revealing its biblical foundations and practical implications. Whether you're well-versed in theological concepts or encountering them for the first time, Dr. JV Fesco's insights provide valuable perspectives to deepen your understanding of God's redemptive covenants.