I have a problem, a problem which only the Reformed can solve. I appeal to them to help me. During years of engaging with the works of covenant theologians over the law, I have tried time and again to get them to think about Scripture unfettered by one or another of the Reformed Confessions.1 But I always come up against the same brick wall. Whenever I read a work on the law – or some topic connected to the law – by a covenant theologian, I always meet the same three adjectives – moral, ceremonial and judicial, or their equivalents. It seems as though covenant theologians cannot think about, read or write the word 'law' without calling upon these three adjectives. Do they have a box of them to hand? It reminds me of somebody curling up on the settee on a Friday night, switching on the TV, and, from time to time, while their eyes are still glued to the screen, a skilful hand instinctively dips into a box of chocolates to select a favourite – Turkish Delight, Caramel, or Brazil Nut. When the programme gets exciting, threatening or whatever, pop another chocolate in the mouth and chew the faster. |