New Covenant Theology (Paperback)

~ Tom Wells (Author), Fred Zaspel (Author) "In the preface we listed five reasons why a discussion of NCT seems appropriate..." (more)
Key Phrases: new covenant theology, new covenant believer, covenant theologians, Lord Jesus, Jesus Christ, Grand Rapids (more...)

Editorial Reviews

Product Description

“Wells does a fine job of analyzing some of the historical and broadly theological issues, while Zaspel concentrates on a careful exegesis of key New Testament texts—especially the pivotal Matthew 5:17-20. The combination is impressive and persuasive. … Their careful biblical argument needs to be taken into account as the task of reforming our traditions in light of the witness of Scripture goes forward.” From the Foreword by Douglas J. Moo

“If there is any hope of a meeting of minds, let alone of a resolution of the issues, it takes time, patience, intellectual humility, a willingness to be corrected, and thoughtful and empathetic listening combined with accurate and understated articulation of each party’s understanding. And those are the values of this book. … perhaps, in the mercy of God, we will discover, in time, that some genuine steps have been taken toward theological agreement.” D. A. Carson

“Tom Wells and Fred Zaspel have moved us along the road … of profitable discussion. They have shown unity with their contending brethren on many points while making clear the leading principles of NCT and setting in bold relief some of the major implications of those principles. Some of us who may not agree with all aspects of the position as articulated here, nevertheless hope that this book gains a wide and respectful reading.” Tom Nettles

About the Author

Tom Wells is a resident of West Chester, OH (Cincinnati area) where he has been a pastor of The King’s Chapel for 28 years. He has spent his entire adult life in Christian ministry, including evangelistic work and various Bible teaching roles. He is the author of a number of books including A Vision for Missions, Christian, Take Heart, God is King, and Faith the Gift of God. In earlier years he was the regular speaker on several radio ministries originating in Cincinnati and Dallas, Texas. Pastor Wells has been married for 41 years and he and his wife, Luann, have three children.

Fred G. Zaspel is Senior Pastor of Cornerstone Church of Skippack, PA, following many years as Senior Pastor of Word of Life Baptist Church in Pottsville, PA. He is also adjunct Lecturer in Religious Studies at Pennsylvania State University, Schuylkill Campus. He holds two M.A. degrees, a Th.M., and is currently a Ph.D. candidate. He lives in Orwigsburg, PA, with his wife and their two children.

Product Details

• Paperback: 324 pages
• Publisher: New Covenant Media (March 21, 2002)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1928965113
• ISBN-13: 978-1928965114
• Product Dimensions: 8.4 x 5.4 x 0.8 inches
• Shipping Weight: 15.2 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.5 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (4 customer reviews)
• Amazon.com Sales Rank: #146,160 in Books (See Bestsellers in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

10 of 10 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Excellent, makes you think about your own presuppositions, April 19, 2005

By	theologicalresearcher "theologicalresearcher" (Canada) - See all my reviews

This book will make those who adhere to covenant theology or classical dispensationism re-examine their own theological systems. Wells and Zaspel do an excellent job challenging us to read the Scriptures in the light of proper exegesis without being so influenced by our creeds, historic attachments, and denominational affiliations. All the major issues pertinent to New Covenant Theology are examined. The book outlines New Covenant Theology very well and gives sound arguments for its plausibility. The book includes discussions on NCT in general, the Mosaic Law, the Sermon on the Mount, the relationship between the covenants, and hermeneutics. Some very strong essays include Zaspel's chapters on the varied interpretations of the Sermon on the Mount (Chapter 5) and the Sabbath (Chapter 13), and Wells' essays on creeds and how they effect our interpretation (Chapter 15) and the relationship between the covenants (Appendix 2). While still being within the circle of traditional Protestantism, these two authors stepped up one level by writing this book. Excellent book for the laity and seminarian on understanding this "new" system that is gaining popularity within evangelical Protestantism.

10 of 11 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars A Major Contribution, May 18, 2002

By A Customer

This book should be read by all who have an interest in the importance of the two major covenants. Though the authors have intended to answer the critics of what is developing into a theology of the new covenant they have also kindly provided to this reader a better understanding of the basic differences between covenant theology and new covenant theology. After reading this book I will never approach the comunion table and drink of the blessed cup thinking that in some way that the blood of Christ is the blood of the covenant engraved upon stones. How could a good many commentators within the ranks of covenant theology lead us to believe that our Messiah is merely a new administrator (as was Moses) to the same over arching covenant with two administrations? The book is not without its faults. Much more attention needs to be given to texts such as Isaiah 42:6 and 49:8. Messiah is much more than just a mediator. He is the Word made flesh. Perhaps in the next book by Tom Wells and Fred Zaspel?

14 of 18 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Insightful explanation of biblical theology, May 8, 2002

By	Gontroppo "Music and Theology Lover" (Bathurst, NSW Australia) - See all my reviews

This is a book every Christian should read. It makes you think about what the New Testament tells us about Jesus, and what he says about himself. It shows clearly how Jesus is above all who came before him. Over and over, he says and does the things that only God does. Thus it would be an excellent book for a person who is unsure of Christ's divinity.

The book also makes you think about the relationship of the Old Testament to the New, and the Christian's relation to Old Testament [and New Testament] teaching. Do Christians have to obey the Old Testament law, or only "the law of Christ?" What does the NT mean by "the law of Christ?" These are issues all Christians must consider.

The book provides a penetrating overview of the Gospel of Matthew, showing how Matthew's aim is to present Jesus as the One who fulfills all the promises of the Old Testament. This helpful introduction to Matthew is followed up by informative exegesis of Matthew 5:17-20, which is a key passage in our understanding of the Christian's relationship to the law, the Old Testament and Christ.

New Covenant Theology aims to be a middle ground between the Covenant Theology of Christians of Reformed persuasion and the Dispensational Theology which is subscribed to by Christians of both Reformed and Arminian points of view.

You will definitely be inspired by reading this book, whether or not you agree with the authors' conclusions.