The concept of Covenant with God in Christianity
Covenant with God, according to Christianity, encompasses various agreements that define the relationship between God and His people. This includes the sacred agreements made with Israel, Abraham, and Noah, emphasizing mutual commitments and obligations for obedience. Protestantism highlights the formal agreement of salvation through Christ, while the Catholic Church focuses on the sacred nature of commands and promises. Early Christianity interprets the covenant as both spiritual and a unique relationship between God and His chosen people, particularly the Jews.
Synonyms: Promise to god, Divine promise, Spiritual covenant
In Finnish: Liitto Jumalan kanssa; In German: Bund mit Gott; In Spanish: Pacto con Dios; In Malay: Perjanjian dengan Tuhan; In Swedish: Förbund med Gud; In Dutch: Verbond met God; In French: Alliance avec Dieu
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Christian concept of 'Covenant with God'
From: Expositions of Holy Scripture
(1) A sacred agreement or relationship between God and His creations, indicating mutual commitments.[1] (2) The relationship and commitments made between God and His followers, indicating His promises and expectations.[2] (3) An agreement reflecting the relationship between God and David's lineage, highlighting the assurance of God’s unwavering support.[3] (4) The mutual agreement between God and individuals that defines responsibilities and commitments on each side.[4] (5) The agreement established between God and His people, reflecting mutual commitment and belonging.[5]
From: A Dictionary of the Bible (Hastings)
(1) A sacred agreement that binds the relationship between God and the people of Israel, central to their faith and identity.[6] (2) The solemn agreement made between God and Abraham, highlighting promises of land and descendants.[7]
From: A Cyclopedia of Biblical literature
(1) The solemn agreement entered into by Abraham and God, reinforcing the promises made to him regarding his descendants and land.[8] (2) The agreement made between God and the Israelites that included various rights and privileges for their servants.[9]
From: Bible cyclopedia, critical and expository
(1) The promise made by God not to curse the ground again due to human wickedness, following Noah's sacrifice.[10]
From: The Existence and Attributes of God
(1) The relationship established between God and His people, based on promises that reflect His infinite wisdom and trustworthy character.[11] (2) The formal agreement wherein God’s authority is recognized, establishing the terms by which he governs creation.[12] (3) The formal agreement between God and humanity, emphasizing promises of salvation and relationship through Christ.[13] (4) The agreement or relationship established between God and humans, where obedience and adherence to divine principles are expected.[14]
From: Ante-nicene Fathers
(1) An agreement or promise made between God and individuals concerning their faithfulness and obedience.[15] (2) A sacred agreement between God and His chosen people, specifically the Jews, which signifies their unique relationship and the expectations placed upon them.[16]
From: Gospel of Thomas Commentary
(1) The relationship and agreements formed between individuals and God, which can be spiritual rather than based on physical attributes.[17]
From: Summa Theologica (English translation)
(1) A sacred agreement made between God and His people, often involving promises and commands.[18]