One Position, Two Administrations: Exploring the Theological Overlap Between 1689 Federalism and Progressive Covenantalism
Abstract
This thesis examines the common ground between 1689 Federalism andProgressive Covenantalism, which warrants a closer identification between the two than
currently exists. I demonstrate that Progressive Covenantalism carves out a place on the
continuity/discontinuity spectrum whereas 1689 Federalism connotates emphasizes a
particular relationship between the Old and New covenants while placing the same
emphasis as PC on the newness of the New Covenant. Therefore, 1689 Federalists should
view themselves as a subset of Progressive Covenantalism rather than as a variety of
Covenant Theology.
Chapter 1 summarizes the history of both systems and details the thesis and
methodology used to advance the argument. Chapter 2 presents the published interactions
between the two systems to-date, highlighting the problems of mischaracterization and
misunderstanding that have unnecessarily divided them. Chapter 3 presents the extent of
the priorities shared by each system. Chapter 4 focuses on the central point that is said to
divide PC and 1689 Federalism: the Law. Broad and narrow priorities are compared and
reflected upon. Chapter 5 concludes with several suggested benefits to be gained through
a closer alignment between PC and 1689 Federalism.