Messages

Regular engagement with the Word of God is an essential component in the process whereby the master craftsman of our souls re-shapes and re-constructs us toward maturity in the image of Christ

Selections from our Study of
"Ephesians: Fulfilling first Love"

How can we study God's Word so that it retains its control over us rather than subjecting it to our own control?

An introductory summary to the method of Reading Ephesians through the lens of the Lord's Prayer

Selections from our Study of
"Catechisms Old and New"

The New City Catechism

Produced in 2017 by The Gospel Coalition and Redeemer Presbyterian Church, the New City Catechism is a contemporary attempt to provide a systematic foundation for Christian thinking. Its 52 questions and answers summarize more extensive earlier examples of the Q&A approach to christian teaching.

In our appropriation of this resource (generally, every other Sunday) we will begin with the NCC, cross-reference the Westminster Shorter Catechism as well as the Heidelberg Catechism, and use these doctrinal summary statements as a platform for diving into a few of the the most relevant biblical texts. Bring your Bible (we can provide copies of the various catechisms for you upon request) and your own related questions.

The goal of this series of studies is to help us construct and maintain a viable "infrastructure" for thinking about following Christ. Listening to his voice in the Bible, navigating the spectrum of doctrines and beliefs within the Christian tradition, and responding with genuine humility to the alternative belief systems of our contemporary Canadian context require a deeply rooted appreciation for the complexity-in-simplicity of his kingdom principles.

Deuteronomy: The "Catechism" of the Old Testament

Alternating with our study of Christian doctrine outlined in the New City Catechism, we are currently studying the book of Deuteronomy. Described by some commentators as "the catechism of the Old Testament," this important book of the Bible provides a soul-searching explanation of the ten commandments. Remember what God has done and said, Moses explains to the survivors of the wilderness wanderings, in order that you can take possession of the promised land, and live under the blessing of God's holy ("a consuming fire") presence.

In our approach to this book (every other Sunday) we will usually study a chapter at a time. Our focus will be on the primary emphasis of each chapter relative to the book's collective function as an explanation and reminder of 'the ten words of God'. As a "compassionate and gracious God," he purposes to maintain a covenant relationship with Israel.

By working through the Old Testament's most systematic presentation of life in the presence of God, we hope to develop a depth of appreciation for both his holiness and his compassion,which we might not otherwise be able to maintain.