Topical Encyclopedia In the biblical narrative, covenants play a crucial role in defining the relationship between God and humanity. While many covenants in Scripture are divine promises of blessing and redemption, there are also warnings against false covenants that lead to destruction. One such concept is the "covenant with death and hell," which symbolizes a false sense of security rooted in human pride and rebellion against God.Biblical Context The phrase "covenant with death and hell" is primarily derived from the book of Isaiah. In Isaiah 28:15 , the prophet rebukes the leaders of Jerusalem for their misplaced trust: "For you said, 'We have made a covenant with death; we have fashioned an agreement with Sheol. When the overwhelming scourge passes through, it will not touch us, because we have made lies our refuge and falsehood our hiding place.'" This passage highlights the leaders' reliance on deceit and falsehood as a means of protection, rather than trusting in God. Their "covenant" is not a formal agreement but a metaphorical expression of their alliance with destructive forces, believing they can escape divine judgment through their own schemes. Carnal Security The concept of carnal security refers to a false sense of safety based on worldly or fleshly means rather than spiritual truth. It is the belief that one can achieve peace and protection through human effort, wealth, alliances, or deceit, without regard for God's will or righteousness. In Isaiah 28:18 , God declares the futility of such covenants: "Your covenant with death will be dissolved, and your agreement with Sheol will not stand. When the overwhelming scourge passes through, you will be trampled by it." This serves as a stark warning that any security founded on human pride and rebellion is ultimately doomed to fail. Theological Implications From a theological perspective, the "covenant with death and hell" serves as a caution against idolatry and self-reliance. It underscores the biblical truth that true security and salvation can only be found in a covenant relationship with God, characterized by faith, obedience, and trust in His promises. The New Testament echoes this theme, emphasizing the futility of relying on worldly wisdom or power. In 1 Corinthians 3:19 , Paul writes, "For the wisdom of this world is foolishness in God’s sight." Believers are called to reject carnal security and instead place their trust in the redemptive work of Jesus Christ, who offers a new and everlasting covenant through His sacrifice. Practical Application For Christians today, the warning against covenants with death and hell serves as a reminder to examine the foundations of their security. It challenges believers to forsake reliance on material wealth, political power, or deceptive practices, and to seek refuge in God's truth and grace. In a world that often promotes self-sufficiency and independence, the biblical call is to humble oneself before God, acknowledging that true peace and protection come from Him alone. As Proverbs 3:5-6 advises, "Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight." In conclusion, the concept of covenants with death and hell serves as a powerful metaphor for the dangers of carnal security. It invites believers to place their trust in the eternal covenant offered through Christ, ensuring that their hope and security are anchored in the unchanging promises of God. Torrey's Topical Textbook Isaiah 28:15,18Because you have said, We have made a covenant with death, and with hell are we at agreement; when the overflowing whip shall pass through, it shall not come to us: for we have made lies our refuge, and under falsehood have we hid ourselves: Torrey's Topical Textbook Library The Blood of the Testament The Strait Gate; Ephesians ii. 11, 12 The Commandments CHAP. I. -II. 3 (II. 1). The Necessity of Diligently Seeking the Saints' Rest. Songs of Deliverance Homilies on Galatians and Ephesians. The Excellencies of the Saints' Rest. A Mystery! Saints Sorrowing and Jesus Glad! Resources How should Christians view the Book of Mormon? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the Edenic covenant? | GotQuestions.org Should the Old Testament instead be called the First Testament? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Covenants of God's Promises to Man Covenants of the Contract of Marriage Covenants of the United Determination of a People to Serve God Covenants: (With Death and Hell) Carnal Security Covenants: (With Stones and Beasts, of the Earth) Peace Covenants: Agreements Between Two Parties Covenants: Conditions of Clearly Specified Covenants: Conditions of Conformed by Oath Covenants: Conditions of Witnessed Covenants: Conditions of Written and Sealed Covenants: Designed For: Establishing Friendship Covenants: Designed For: Establishing Peace Covenants: Designed For: Mutual Protection Covenants: Designed For: Procuring Assistance in War Covenants: Designed For: Promoting Commerce Covenants: Designed For: Selling Land Covenants: Followed by a Feast Covenants: God often Called to Witness Covenants: Made by Passing Between the Pieces of the Divided Sacrifices Covenants: Names Given to Places where Made Covenants: Pillars Raised in Token of Covenants: Presents Given As Tokens Covenants: Ratified by Joining Hands Covenants: Salt a Sign of Perpetuity In Covenants: The Jews: Condemned for Making, With Idolatrous Nations Covenants: The Jews: Forbidden to Make, With the Nations of Canaan Covenants: The Jews: Frequently Made With Other Nations Covenants: The Jews: Regarded, As Sacred Covenants: Violated by the Wicked Covenants: when Confirmed, Unalterable Related Terms |
    |