Remembering Which Way's Up

As we continue to examine the key biblical footings on which our church stands (by means of the current sermon series, “Walking in the Truth”), let me encourage you to read and reflect on our GBC Statement of Faith.  It’s a very helpful summary of Bible teaching, and reading it (whether on your own or with family / friends) can help you keep your bearings amidst the bombardment of loud messages in today’s ever-active media.

And here’s another way to review the key truths of the Christian faith:  get to know the New City Catechism.  This list of fifty-two questions and answers (accompanied by related Scriptures) is an excellent tool for explaining or reaffirming our faith.  What’s more, the NCC is handy—you can download the free mobile app and use it on the go.

Maybe the word “catechism” makes you think of childhood rote memory drills—and let me say that the NCC is very fitting to use with children.   But this summary of doctrine is appropriate for all ages.  Just recently I read it cover to cover (it took about half an hour), and I was so encouraged to have my frame of mind recalibrated around the axis of God and the purpose of his Gospel!  All in all, a great way to help us remember which way’s up and what’s for real amidst the flurry of distractions around us.

Here’s the first question and answer in the New City Catechism:  “What is our only hope in life and death?  That we are not our own but belong, body and soul, both in life and in death, to God and to our Savior Jesus Christ.”

And here’s the last question and answer:  “What hope does everlasting life hold for us?  It reminds us that this present fallen world is not all there is; soon we will live with and enjoy God forever in the new heaven and the new earth, where we will be fully and forever freed from all sin and will inhabit renewed, resurrection bodies in a renewed, restored creation.”

For the other fifty, you’ll have to go check it out yourself.

God bless you on our journey of walking in the truth!

~Pastor Peter