Bible Dictionary
Works, Covenant of
The covenant of works is understood as God’s covenant with Adam as representative of humanity, requiring perfect obedience. It is distinguished from the covenant of grace, which rests on God’s gracious provision rather than human obedience.
Definition
The covenant of works is the covenant understood to have been entered into by God with Adam as representative of the human race. It is called a covenant of works because perfect obedience was its condition, distinguishing it from the covenant of grace.
Biblical Usage
The supplied material connects this doctrine with the biblical covenantal relationships associated with Adam and with later covenant passages. It does not provide further details concerning its specific commands or consequences.
Scripture References
Related Figures
Historical Bible Dictionaries
Easton's Bible Dictionary
Entered into by God with Adam as the representative of the human race (comp. Gen. 9:11, 12; 17:1-21), so styled because perfect obedience was its condition, thus distinguishing it from the covenant of grace. (See COVENANT OF WORKS.)