ectypal.net

If specific terms such as pactum salutis, foedus naturale, foedus creationis, and foedus operum are thought necessary to formulating a theology of the covenant and to establishing essential unity between the Reformers and their successors in this respect, then a dividing line would need to be drawn. Heidelberg would have to be regarded as the cradle of covenantal or federal theology, as Ursinus and Olevianus were almost certainly the first to use these terms. On the other hand, if the terms foedus legale and foedus gratia are a sufficient terminological base on which to establish unity and continuity between the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries, then there is plenty of supportive evidence, as they are to be found in the writings of practically all the Reformers. Calvin’s writings in particular are permeated with this kind of terminology in a manner which probably exceeded his use of most other theological terms. Beza also was familiar with such terms, and even used the phrase “doctrine of works” synonymously with foedus legale.