We Christians, especially in Reformed and Presbyterian circles, often use familiar church language without realizing how unfamiliar it may sound to others. Over the next few weeks, we’re going to pause and define some of our “Christianese” to clear up any confusion. We begin with the term “Redemptive History,” which describes God’s intentional plan to save His people, unfolding through real events in human history that fulfill His purpose in Christ. This grand narrative offers believers deep assurance, reminding us that every moment in history is part of God’s redemptive work for His glory and our salvation.

Read More

When hardship strikes, how do you respond? Do you turn inward, backward, outward—or upward to the Lord? In the darkest moments of His life, Jesus sang—and His song leads us in how we, too, can respond to suffering with praise.

Read More

Many played a role in Jesus’ crucifixion, but the blame ultimately rests with each of us. The 17th-century Dutch theologian Jacob Revius captured this sobering truth in his poem He Bore Our Griefs, turning the spotlight from Roman soldiers and Jewish crowds to his own guilt—and ours. His words remind us that it was not merely their sin, but ours, that nailed Jesus to the cross. Yet, Jesus willingly died for us because He loves us with an everlasting love.

Read More

We all know what a fair-weather friend is—someone who stays close when life is easy but disappears when hardship comes. Unfortunately, some have experienced not just fair-weather friends but also fair-weather family—relatives who support and encourage them only until they choose to follow Christ. Yet, Scripture assures us that true friendship is not broken by adversity. The ultimate example of this is Jesus, the friend who never forsakes us, even in our darkest moments.

Read More

Have you considered who your true king is? Is it Jesus, or like Israel in the Old Testament, have you rejected His kingship for the sake of autonomy? In reality, true autonomy is a myth; everyone serves something, and we must reflect on where our time, energy, money, and emotions are directed to determine who or what we truly worship. By examining our lives, we can identify our idols and be challenged to devote ourselves fully to Jesus, the only one worthy of our complete worship and service.

Read More

First-century Christians demonstrated a remarkable commitment to and love for one another, transcending natural differences like geography and ethnicity. Paul emphasized mutual encouragement and financial support among churches. This global unity in faith is a call for modern Christians to think and act with a broader perspective, praying for and supporting churches worldwide, reflecting the unity Jesus prayed for.

Read More

Scripture teaches that all things, including all people, were created by God and are upheld by His power. Even those who deny God's existence rely on Him for their very ability to do so. Recognizing that everyone bears God's image, Christians are called to appreciate the inherent dignity and worth of all people, including even those who oppose or reject God.

Read More

Scripture emphasizes God's abundant provision and concern for each of His creatures. Despite the vast number of animals that fill the earth, the Bible reveals that God’s love for humans surpasses His love for animals, as seen in His provision and sacrificial love through Jesus Christ. Every animal, from the largest elephant to the smallest sparrow, serves as a reminder of God's greater love and redemption for humanity, His treasured creation.

Read More

Scientists estimate the universe contains between two hundred billion and two trillion galaxies, each with about one hundred billion stars, meaning each person on Earth could claim twenty-five quadrillion stars. Remarkably, the same God who created and sustains all these stars loves us so much that He gave His only Son to die for our sins, a love far more awe-inspiring than the vastness of the universe.

Read More

Mountains serve as powerful illustrations of many biblical truths. Just as mountains provide refuge, elevation, and an immovable presence, so too does God's Word offer unshakable promises and protection. Despite the powerful imagery of mountains, Scripture reminds us that God's steadfastness surpasses even the mightiest natural formations. While mountains may shift, God's promises and presence remain unshakeable and eternal, offering believers unparalleled security and comfort.

Read More

Just as the sand shifts beneath your feet when waves retreat at the ocean’s edge, so too can the myriad of online voices claiming to teach truth lead to spiritual instability and confusion. It is crucial for Christians to ground their beliefs in the solid foundation of Scripture, rather than the often unreliable and misleading theological teachings found on the internet.

Read More

The Lord’s Supper serves as a means of grace, providing spiritual nourishment and communicating the benefits of Christ’s death, thereby sustaining and enriching our union with the risen Lord Jesus. It also bears witness to the power of God’s love and the certainty of Christ’s return, reminding us of His resurrection and future coming in glory. Finally, the Lord’s Supper celebrates our union with one other in Christ. What a feast He has prepared for us!

Read More

Hospitality, like muscle work, requires effort and can be challenging. True Christian hospitality extends beyond just welcoming friends; it involves being a friend to strangers. By following Christ's example and being attentive to the needs of others, both within and outside the church, we fulfill our responsibility to show genuine hospitality.

Read More

Do you approach God's Word with reverence, whether reading it privately, hearing it preached, or listening to it read aloud? Guard against complacency, for each encounter with Scripture is an encounter with God Himself. Embrace His Word eagerly, seeking spiritual nourishment and growth in godliness. Approach the Word with humility, recognizing your need for grace. Prepare yourself earnestly through prayer to attentively receive His Word.

Read More

Virtue encompasses excellence of character and moral goodness. In the ancient Greco-Roman context, it also denoted a dedication to the gods, implying a person’s resemblance to his or her god. Peter's teachings echo this notion, suggesting that the pursuit of virtue entails a gradual conformity to Christ's character. This uncommon virtue should be a prevailing trait in the life of every believer.

Read More

Amidst the turmoil of worry and anxiety, our minds struggle to find rest. The key to stillness lies in entrusting our cares to the Lord, letting go of what we cannot control, and finding comfort in the knowledge that our heavenly Father is our strength and help. Be still, and remember His loving presence that guides us through the chaos of life.

Read More

In the face of death's somber reality, our culture's attempts to desensitize us often fall short, leaving us with a lingering fear. However, a biblical perspective offers a profound contrast, turning death from a fearful unknown into an immediate and joyful reunion with our Savior, a true home-going to be forever in His presence. It gives believers profound comfort and hope in the midst of sorrow, knowing that death is not the end but a passage to our eternal home with the Lord.

Read More

The sacrament of baptism, one of the most joyous occasions in the life of the church, prompts reflection on the Larger Catechism's call to continually "improve" upon our own baptism. How are we to understand this exhortation? Witnessing a baptism should inspire gratitude for the spiritual blessings and covenant assurances it symbolizes, while also fostering humility and a renewed commitment to living in accordance with the grace bestowed through baptism.

Read More

The significance of the passive voice in Ephesians 5:18, "be filled with the Spirit," indicates that God Himself is the active agent in filling the believer with the Spirit. This divine initiative underscores God's sovereignty in the process and gives us confidence that it will be accomplished. At the same time, the use of the permissive passive voice instructs believers to actively submit themselves to the Spirit's work, living in such a way that allows the Spirit to act.

Read More

In Ephesians 5:17-21, five participles shed light on what it means to be filled with the Spirit: addressing one another, singing, making melody, giving thanks, and submitting. These five participles paint a picture of a life marked by worship toward God and love toward others, embodying the greatest commandments. While three participles focus on worshiping God with praise and gratitude, the remaining two highlight relational aspects within the body of Christ, collectively exemplifying what it means to be continually filled with the Spirit.

Read More