Oud en Nieuw Verbond: contingentie en coherentie in de verbondsgeschiedenis

Abstract

In this article the relationship between the different covenants in the Old and New Testament is discussed. This relationship is described as an inter­-relationship between the different phases of the history of the covenant, applying contingency and coherence (see Beker, 1980) as terms which adequately describe the historical nature of the covenant. The conclusion arrived at is that the one and same covenant of grace throughout its whole history is characterized by contingency and coherence, which prevents one from contrasting the Old and New Covenant as is usually done in the tradition of Reformed theology. Each phase of the history of the covenant has its own characteristics which are historically determined, but which at the same time transmit an eternal message of salvation.