Sure foundation: Christology, covenant theology and hermeneutics in John Owen’s discourses on Hebrews
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Date
10/07/2017Author
Tweeddale, John W.
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Abstract
John Owen’s (1616–1683) four-volume commentary on the epistle to the Hebrews
represents the apex of his literary career and exemplifies many of the exegetical
methods of the post-Reformation. This thesis is the first detailed analysis of his
introductory discourses, or “exercitations,” on Hebrews. Owen’s exercitations on the
Messiah in particular are an ideal source for this examination, since they serve as the
prolegomena for his exposition proper. More specifically, this thesis evaluates the
hermeneutical function of Christological and covenantal patterns that arise from
Owen’s argument concerning the fulfilment of the messianic promise in the person
and work of Christ. Therefore, this study is a descriptive analysis of the text and
context of Owen’s discourses on the Messiah.
The topics considered in each chapter are based upon hermeneutical questions that
are pertinent to Owen’s promise-fulfilment scheme in general and to the relationship
of Christology and covenant theology in particular. Chapter 1 examines scholarship
on Owen’s commentary and suggests possible reasons for its neglect. Chapter 2
places Owen’s exercitations and exposition within the context of his life and times,
and explains the central argument of his work. Chapters 3 and 4 provide the
conceptual basis for this study, as they introduce two essential components of
Owen’s discourses on the Messiah. Chapter 3 establishes the importance of federal
theology for Owen by examining his exegesis of Genesis 3:15, and its relationship to
the covenant of redemption and covenant of grace. Chapter 4 considers the problem
posed by a Christological reading of the Old Testament for those like Owen who are
committed to the literal sense of Scripture. Chapters 5 and 6 consider aspects of
continuity and discontinuity between the Old and New Testaments, and seek to
illustrate the connection between Owen’s exercitations and exposition. Chapter 5
considers the nature of faith in the Old Testament, noting especially the importance
of the Abrahamic covenant for what Owen calls “the oneness of the church.” In
contrast, chapter 6 provides an extended analysis of the role of the law in the Mosaic
covenant, considering in particular the highly problematic question of the
recapitulation of the covenant of works and the nature of the old and new covenants.
The conclusion summarises the findings of this study.