Proposal
This paper explores the implications for the doctrine of rewards in light of the covenant of grant motif (the Davidic Covenant) in the prologue of Hebrews 1:1-4. The thesis of this paper posits that the Davidic covenant, as a covenant of grant or reward, is reflected in Hebrews 1:1–4. In the introduction, the Messianic Son is legally granted His eternal dynasty and inheritance, gifts that exemplify how a Suzerain rewards His vassal for loyalty and obedience. The Son is granted this recompense as the legal heir due to His obedience.
This paper examines Hebrews 1:1–4 to support this argument. The Davidic covenant, understood as a covenant of grant or reward, forms the foundation of the prologue and the exposition in Hebrews 1. In the prologue, the author introduces God’s ultimate revelation as “Son,” followed by seven assertions concerning Him, three focusing on His exaltation. This emphasis underscores the Son’s exalted state as a crucial aspect of His identity. This Son is the Davidic King, appointed as heir who will rule over the world to come by fulfilling the Davidic covenant. His appointment was based on His faithfulness and obedience in confronting sin, which led to His reward and exaltation as the Messianic King and High Priest (Heb. 1:5). Following the principles of a covenant of grant, God rewarded David’s Son by making Him both King and Priest.
This paper’s main contribution is its exploration of the Davidic covenant as a covenant of grant or reward and its connection to the exaltation of the Messianic Son in Hebrews 1:1-4. While significant literature exists on biblical covenants, there is still a gap in understanding the implications of the covenant of grants for the doctrine of rewards. This paper addresses that gap by demonstrating how the author of Hebrews employs the covenant motif to emphasize the reward the Messianic Son receives for His obedience.
In conclusion, this paper will propose a new way of understanding the exaltation of the Messianic Son in light of the Ancient Near Eastern covenants or grants and their implications for the doctrine of rewards.