Raising a covenant family
Den Hartog presents a theological vision of Christian marriage as a covenant reflection of the triune God's life, emphasizing that a covenant family is built on spiritual union in Christ rather than mere attraction. The article argues that married couples have a solemn calling to establish and maintain a godly home characterized by genuine friendship, tender affection, and mutual service, with the ultimate purpose of raising children in the fear of the Lord and advancing Christ's kingdom. This practical-theological treatment connects the doctrine of God's covenant to the daily realities of Christian family life.
The covenant family is God's gift to those who marry in the Lord. It has as its highest calling to reflect the beauty, holiness, and blessedness of the personal covenant life that exists within the triune being of God -- Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. The covenant family exists where husband and wife are bound together in the love of Christ in the unity of faith. The covenant family is created by God through the work of regeneration in the hearts of the two so married. The purpose to raise a...
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