Theonomism and General Equity Confessionalism

Part Two: Theonomism and General Equity Confessionalism

The term “Theonomy” is frequently encountered in contemporary Reformed discourse, and at first glance one might assume it simply denotes a sincere commitment to obeying God’s law. However, upon closer examination, it becomes clear that what is commonly labeled as Theonomy represents a broader, systematic theological and ecclesiological position. For the purposes of this discussion, I shall refer to this comprehensive system as Theonomism. Recognizing that this term may be unfamiliar to many, I endeavor here to elucidate its meaning with clarity and academic modesty, all for the glory of Christ.

What Is “Theonomism”?

1. A Broader Worldview

Theonomism is not merely an affirmation of the biblical command to love and obey God’s law—a principle universally cherished among devout Christians. Rather, it posits that the civil statutes given to ancient Israel retain normative force today and should, in principle, serve as the basis for modern civil legislation. In this view, the civil laws of the Old Testament are not simply historical relics but continue to reveal God’s unchanging moral standards for society.

2. Beyond Merely Loving God’s Law

Proponents of Theonomism sometimes imply that dissent from their position equates to a lack of proper reverence for Scripture. However, the real point of contention lies not in one’s love for God’s Word but in the hermeneutical question: How should the biblical law be applied under the New Covenant? Specifically, Theonomism asserts that the particularities of the Mosaic judicial code are universally binding, whereas its critics maintain that only the underlying moral principles are timeless. In coining the term “Theonomism,” I wish to underscore that this is an entire school of thought—an “ism” complete with its own conclusions regarding government, society, and the role of the church—that extends far beyond the simple exhortation that “the Bible says we should love God’s commands.”

“General Equity” in the 1689 Confession

I would also like to introduce a related concept, which I term General Equity Confessionalism. This interpretative framework concerns the application of the Old Testament, particularly its civil or judicial laws, in light of New Covenant revelation. Consider the following points:

1. The 1689 London Baptist Confession of Faith

In Chapter 19 of the 1689 Confession, one finds a principle common to other Reformed confessions: God’s moral law is eternal and binding, whereas the specific civil laws given to Israel are not automatically transferred to modern civil societies. Rather, these judicial laws are said to have “expired” along with the particular state of that ancient people, continuing only insofar as the “general equity” of those laws is reflected in contemporary society.

2. Retaining the Moral Principle (General Equity)

The Confession teaches that while the precise judicial measures of ancient Israel are not perpetually binding, the underlying moral principles—the “general equity”—remain relevant. These principles, which mirror God’s holy character, continue to guide our understanding of justice and righteousness.

3. Not Enforcing Ancient Civil Codes Identically

Adherents of General Equity Confessionalism hold that modern civil society is not obligated to reproduce every detail of Israel’s theocratic legal system. Instead, we are called to discern and apply the timeless moral truths that undergird those ancient statutes, adapting them appropriately to our contemporary context.

When I refer to myself as a General Equity Confessionalist, I am affirming a commitment to the 1689 Confession’s nuanced approach: God’s moral law remains undiminished, yet the specific civic and penal regulations of the Old Testament must be understood in light of Christ’s fulfillment and the distinctive mission of the church in a new era.

A Humble Word of Caution

It is important to stress that my purpose is not to suggest that proponents of Theonomism lack a proper reverence for Scripture, nor do I claim that General Equity Confessionalism possesses an infallible interpretative key. On the contrary, sincere and diligent scholars may study the same biblical passages and, exercising rigorous exegetical methods, arrive at divergent conclusions regarding the application of Old Testament law in modern society. In our pursuit of truth, we must maintain intellectual humility and a spirit of mutual charity. To that end, I wish to emphasize several points:

• Love for God’s Law Is Universal

Virtually all Christians affirm that God’s moral law is good, holy, and just. This shared commitment should serve as common ground rather than a battleground.

• Disagreement on Implementation

The substantive debate centers not on whether God’s law is to be cherished, but on whether the Old Testament civil code, in its entirety, remains operative or whether only the underlying moral principles should be applied in today’s context.

• Room for Respectful Discussion

Differences in interpretation need not devolve into personal accusations or acrimonious rhetoric. A respectful and charitable dialogue is essential if we are to collectively honor God’s Word and faithfully interpret it for our times.

By introducing the concepts of Theonomism and General Equity Confessionalism, I hope to foster a more nuanced and constructive discussion. It is all too easy to misinterpret disagreement as a lack of reverence for God’s law; yet, in truth, all sincere Christians desire to honor and apply God’s commands faithfully. This commitment should be particularly evident among Reformed believers as we seek to navigate the complexities of biblical interpretation in our contemporary context.

Suggested Readings (Reiterated)

• 1689 London Baptist Confession, Chapter 19 (on the Law)

• Greg L. Bahnsen, Theonomy in Christian Ethics

• Rousas John Rushdoony, The Institutes of Biblical Law

• Meredith G. Kline, “Comments on an Old-New Error,” Westminster Theological Journal 41 (1978)

• John M. Frame, The Doctrine of the Christian Life

• Westminster Confession of Faith, Chapter 19 (parallel to the 1689)

Exploring these resources—some supporting Theonomism and others challenging it—can help you see how believers over the centuries have wrestled with the question of how exactly God’s law applies today. Above all, let’s keep love for God, His Word, and each other at the forefront as we navigate these important but sometimes complex theological waters.