SD 8.6
Savoy Declaration
8.6. Of Christ the Mediator
Although the work of redemption was not actually wrought by Christ, till after his incarnation; yet the virtue, efficacy and benefits thereof were communicated to the elect in all ages, successively from the beginning of the world, in and by those promises, types and sacrifices wherein he was revealed and signified to be the Seed of the woman, which should bruise the serpent's head, and the Lamb slain from the beginning of the world, being yesterday and today the same, and for ever.
Proof texts
- Gal. 4:4, 5 — [4] But when the fullness of time had come, God sent forth his Son, born of woman, born under the law, [5] to redeem those who were under the law, so that we might receive adoption as sons.
- Gen. 3:15 — [15] I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your offspring and her offspring; he shall bruise your head, and you shall bruise his heel.”
- Rev. 13:8 — [8] and all who dwell on earth will worship it, everyone whose name has not been written before the foundation of the world in the book of life of the Lamb who was slain.
- Heb. 13:8 — [8] Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.
For discussion
- The Assembly cited Gal. 4:4, 5 in support of this answer. Read it in context — how does it bear on what is claimed here?
- 4 passages are cited here. Which does the most work, and is anything claimed that the proofs do not obviously carry?
- WCF 8.1 treats the same ground. What does it add, and why might it put things differently?
- 1689 8.1 treats the same ground. What does it add, and why might it put things differently?