Our Biblical Approach
Let Scripture lead. Let Christ remain central.
The Bible tells one unfolding redemptive story. We read each passage first in its own context, then in relation to the covenantal and canonical developments that culminate in Christ.
This approach leads us to the convictions commonly called New Covenant Theology. The name describes our approach; Scripture remains the authority by which its conclusions must be tested.
Scripture and authority
We affirm Scripture as the inspired and authoritative Word of God. Historic traditions, confessions, and theologians are useful witnesses, but none is infallible or a replacement for the biblical text.
Context before conclusions
Begin with the author’s intended meaning, the surrounding argument, the historical setting, and the passage’s literary genre. Distinguish what the text says from an inference drawn from it.
More about language and interpretation
Where an interpretation depends on Greek or Hebrew, the language claims should be verified. A word’s origin alone does not establish its meaning in a passage.
Promise and fulfillment in Christ
Trace the development of biblical promises and covenants with attention to continuity and change. Show fulfillment in Jesus Christ where Scripture establishes the connection, rather than treating every detail of an Old Testament passage as a hidden prediction.
Passages for further study
Luke 24:25–27 and 44–47 are starting passages for studying Christ and the Scriptures. Galatians 3 and Hebrews 7–10 are starting passages for studying promise, covenant, and fulfillment. Read the passages in their surrounding arguments.
Covenants and Christian obedience
Our New Covenant Theology perspective understands Christ as the fulfillment of the Old Testament’s promises and institutions. Hebrews 8:6–13 is central to examining the relationship between the Mosaic covenant and the New Covenant.
Explore obedience and covenant questions
Christian obedience is considered through Christ and New Covenant instruction, including Galatians 6:2 and 1 Corinthians 9:20–21. Questions about continuity and change require textual argument, not a slogan or an assumed system.
Questions about Israel, the church, inheritance, and covenant membership likewise require careful study of each passage and New Testament exposition. Our resources should state their reasoning and acknowledge interpretive difficulties.
How we handle disagreement
Classic Covenant Theology, Dispensational Theology, and New Covenant Theology include differences within their own traditions. A fair comparison identifies common ground, uses representative sources, states the strongest relevant arguments, and examines the specific biblical texts.
Read our comparison standard
We explain our conclusion and its reasons while distinguishing certainty from inference. Disagreement is an invitation to careful study, not a reason to caricature another Christian’s position.
Teaching with humility
The aim is faithful service in the local church: clarity, mutual care, correction, and obedience to Christ. Completing an Academy course is not a measure of spiritual maturity, and these resources do not replace local pastoral oversight.
Reviewing study tools
Check quotations and sources before teaching. Treat the Interpreter’s responses as study support that requires review, rather than independent authority.
Common questions
Must I agree with New Covenant Theology to use the resources?
No. We welcome Christians from across evangelical traditions. Examine the passages, consider our reasons, and adapt teaching responsibly within your local church’s oversight.
How should I approach a disputed interpretation?
Read the passage in context, distinguish textual observations from theological inference, and consult reliable representatives of the positions being compared. Check that the conclusion follows from the evidence.
Does church history settle a biblical question?
History helps us understand how Christians have read and practiced their faith. It is a witness to study, not an infallible authority that replaces Scripture.