McGraw gives us a Covenant Theology 101 basic course in this book. He walks us through three basic types of covenants (redemption, works, grace). This knowledge shows us how understanding the covenants is important in the life of every Christian. It is not a simplistic book. McGraw beautifully explains what Covenant Theology is in a way that is straight forward, thoroughly biblical, and wonderfully engaging.

The Bible is the Metanarrative of God. A metanarrative is a grand story that is self-legitimizing. From Genesis 1:1 to Revelation 22:21 we see one overarching story of God and His love for us. A biblical covenant is a binding agreement between God and His people. Covenants are how God has related to humans since the Garden of Eden. Covenants can help us connect the dots for this grand Metanarrative of God. Understanding the concept of Covenant Theology can guide us as we study His Word. It is important to know scripture and to know what we believe based on the Word of God. It is crucial that we take every thought captive and know what the Truth is. Covenant Theology or the study of the Covenants of God can help us clarify that Truth.

There are several important covenants that we see as we read the Bible.

• Noahic covenant – made after the flood with Noah. This is where we see the rainbow promise that God would never flood the earth again.
• Abrahamic – instated with Abraham promised that God would make a people from him to bless the entire world.
• Mosaic – pertains to the giving of the Law (the 10 Commandments and all the Levitical laws and ceremonies)
• Davidic – covenant with David and promised there would be a king on the throne from the tribe of Judah forever.
• New and Final Covenant through Jesus promising salvation to all who would believe and it was sealed with the indwelling of the Holy Spirit.

Even if you are fully aware of the covenants I just listed above, this book is a great resource for even the most experienced Christian. I have been a Christian for many many years. I was able to gain more clarity on in regard to the different kinds of covenants McGraw discussed. My understanding of the importance of why we need to be in a covenant relationship with God was deepened and solidified. Without God’s willingness to reach out to us and bring us into a covenant relationship with Him we would ultimately be separated from Him for eternity. His desire to be in a covenant relationship with us, when reciprocated, saves us! As we know God better we desire to be with Him more and more. He longs for us to be in a relationship with Him willingly. Covenants are a crucial part of that process.

I would recommend this book if you are interested in understanding more about covenants and the bigger picture. I believe it can bring you to a fuller understanding of His sovereign plan for mankind. This book be would be a great resource for a small group study or even a full church study. There are thoughtful questions at the end of each chapter to aid in discussion. I enjoyed my time in this study. This resource can serve to deepen my own private study time. I believe what I have learned can spark important conversations with fellow Christians and help me engage more meaningfully in Bible study groups in our church.

At the end of this book McGraw gives a great list of where to go next to find out more and continue your study of this topic. I plan to take him up on a few of his recommendations for 2026.

For a quick overview on the definition of covenants I really like The Bible Project’s page on covenants and their importance between God and humans. Take a look and then head over to Crossway.org to get your copy of this book. If you enjoy reading e-books Crossway will be having a great sale on digital and audio books in January. You might get yourself a copy during their sale. Get on their email list for all the great deals and discounts. While you are there grab a few of their other great books and Bibles. You won’t be disappointed!