The Covenant Concept

This book defines the nature of covenants in a religious/historical setting. In Part 1, "Introduction to the Covenant Concept," the term "covenant" is defined and an attempt is made to amplify our understanding of the covenant concept by examining the ideas of covenant ratification and renewal. Part 2 opens up the idea of Dispensationalism, and shows the relationship between the covenant concept and the early gospel dispensations of Adam, Enoch, and Noah. Part 3 is devoted to a comprehensive examination of the Covenant of Abraham. Part 4, "Moses and the Two Covenants at Sinai," brings us squarely within the purview of Old Testament history. Part 5 deals with the covenant concept in the New Testament era. Finally, Part 6, "The Covenant Concept in the Dispensation of the Fulness of Times," completes the picture, brings us up to date, and makes the whole study relevant to our lives today.

The sources used were deliberately limited to those reference books which should be easily accessible to the Latter-day Saint reader. The primary sources and guides were the standard works of the Church; they are quoted freely and liberally and in sufficient length to identify and maintain the context. The book also includes numerous yet carefully selected quotations, mostly from prophets and apostles, to clarify and amplify and give authority to this work.

This work may thus be viewed as an approach to gospel study and may offer a new perspective and a fresh interpretation of familiar concepts and principles. It can be an effective aid in personal study, a resource for family and group discussions, and a guide for those struggling to understand exactly what our Heavenly Father expects of his children today.