Covenant and Gentile Righteousness

Study Notes

Provisional Economy and Threats of Paganism

Polytheism and idolatry pose continual threats to the covenant community, risking a return to pagan practices.
The covenant with Noah is valid during the period of the Gentiles, lasting until the Gospel is universally proclaimed.

Honoring Gentile Figures

The Bible recognizes significant Gentile figures who exemplified sanctity: Abel, Melchisedek (a Christ figure), Noah, Daniel, and Job.
These individuals exemplify the righteousness expected under the covenant with Noah, anticipating the unification of God's children.

God's Call to Abraham

God calls Abram to leave his homeland, renaming him Abraham, symbolizing his role as "father of a multitude of nations."
The promise to Abraham states that "in you all the nations of the earth shall be blessed," highlighting his significance in salvation history.

The Chosen People of Israel

Abraham's descendants are designated as the chosen people, tasked with stewarding the promises to the patriarchs and preparing for the unification of all nations in the Church.
They serve as the foundational root, facilitating the incorporation of the Gentiles once they believe in God.

Honor of Patriarchs and Prophets

Patriarchs, prophets, and other notable figures from the Old Testament are honored as saints in Church traditions across the world.

Formation of Israel as God’s People

God shaped Israel as His people by liberating them from Egyptian slavery and establishing the covenant of Mount Sinai.
Through Moses, God provides the law to direct the Israelites in recognizing Him as the true God and looking towards the promised Savior.

Israel's Unique Role

Israel is designated as the "priestly people," the first to receive God's word and referred to as "elder brethren" in faith.
The role of prophets is crucial in cultivating hope for salvation and a new everlasting covenant, soon to be written in the hearts of people.

Hope for Universal Salvation

Prophets project a vision of radical redemption for Israel, emphasizing purification from infidelity and inclusion of all nations in salvation.
The message of hope particularly resonates with the poor and humble, and numerous holy women (e.g., Sarah, Rebecca, and Mary) maintain this hope for Israel's salvation, with Mary regarded as the purest figure among them.

Description

Explore the significant themes of covenant and the call of Abraham in this quiz. Delve into the roles of Gentile figures in the Bible and their righteousness in the context of God's promises. Understand the continuity of God's covenant throughout the biblical narrative.