Margaret Rodger Memorial Presbyterian Church

Question 92. What is sanctification?

Sanctification is God’s work in us by which we grow in conformity to the image of Jesus Christ, and bring forth the fruits of the Spirit. The process of sanctification is never completed in this life.

Rom 8:29-30 For those whom he foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, in order that he might be the firstborn within a large family. And those whom he predestined he also called and those whom he called he also justified; and those whom he justified he also glorified.

Gal 5:22 The fruit of the spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.

Phil 3:12-14 Not that I have already obtained this or have already reached the goal; but I press on to make it my own, because Christ Jesus has made me his own. Beloved, I do not consider that I have made it my own … I press on toward the goal for the prize of the heavenly call of God in Christ Jesus.

1 Cor 6:20 For you were bought with a price; therefore glorify God in your body.

Question 91. What is justification?

We often try to justify ourselves before others and before God by our own efforts, virtues, or success. Justification means that we are put right with God not because of any goodness we can achieve but by the goodness of Christ. God justifies the ungodly. We receive the grace of justification by union with Christ through faith.

Job 9:2 But how can a mortal be just before God?

Rom 3:23-25 For there is no distinction, since all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God; they are now justified by his grace as a gift through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus whom God put forward as a sacrifice of atonement by his blood, effective through faith.

Eph 2:8 For by grace you have been saved through faith, and this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God.

See also: Rom 3:26-28, 4:5, 5:1,9, 8:30,33; Gal 2:16; Titus 3:7; Jas 2:18-26.

Question 86. Is Jesus Christ the only way to salvation?

Yes. Jesus Christ, is the Way, the Truth, and the Life through whom we come to God. When we witness to others we point not to a religion or an institution but to a person, Jesus Christ. Decisively and uniquely, God has spoken his word in him and we are compelled to share this good news.

Jn 14:6 Jesus said to him, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”

Acts 4:11-12 This Jesus is ‘the stone that was rejected by you, the builders; it has become the cornerstone.’ There is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given among mortals by which we must be saved.

Rom 1:16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel; it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who has faith, to the Jew first and also to the Greek.

Question 85. What do we affirm when we speak of “the communion of saints”?

As believers we have communion with God the Father and with his Son Jesus Christ through the Holy Spirit. In Jesus Christ we are “saints”; that is, we share in holy things, such as Holy Communion, and we are united with all the saints past, present and future. Indeed, we are surrounded by a “great cloud of witnesses” who inspire us to run with determination the race that is set before us.

1 Jn 1:3 We declare to you what we have seen and heard so that you also may have fellowship with us, and truly our fellowship is with the Father and with his Son Jesus Christ.

Heb 12:1 Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight and the sin that clings so closely, and let us run with perseverance the race that is set before us.

See also: 2 Cor 12:13; Eph 2:19-22, 4:4; Rom 1:11-12.

Question 84. Who may participate in the Lord’s Supper?

All those who love the Lord Jesus and belong to any Christian church may participate. We come to the Lord’s table not because any individual goodness gives us a right to come, but because Christ welcomes us. He loved us, gave himself for us, and invites us to receive his body and blood to our spiritual nourishment and growth in grace. Baptized children may participate if they have their parent’s permission, the session’s approval, and have received instruction in the meaning of the Lord’s Supper. Acts 2:42 They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers. 1 Cor 11:8-29 Examine yourselves, and only then eat of the bread and drink of the cup. For all who eat and drink without discerning the body, eat and drink judgment against themselves. See also: Lk 12:39.

Question 83. What is the Lord’s Supper?

The Lord’s Supper, Holy Communion, or the Eucharist is eating bread and drinking wine in remembrance of Christ’s body broken and his blood shed for us, in anticipation of his joyous return. The cup is a sharing in Christ’s blood and the bread a sharing in his body. The real presence of Christ does not come through some change in the bread and wine or through Christ being in or under the elements, but rather we are lifted up into the presence of Christ by faith in the power of the Holy Spirit. 1 Cor 10:16 The cup of blessing that we bless, is it not a sharing in the blood of Christ? The bread that we break, is it not a sharing in the body of Christ? Lk 24:35 Then they told what had happened on the road, and how he had been made known to them in the breaking of the bread.

Question 82. In which name are we baptized?

Jesus said, “Go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit” (Matthew 28:19). Baptism is by use of water and in the name of the Holy Trinity. Acts 8:16-17 For as yet the Spirit had not come upon any of them; they had only been baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. Then Peter and John laid their hands on them, and they received the Holy Spirit. Acts 19:5 On hearing this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. See also: Mt 28:19; Jn 3:5; Acts 2:38, 8:16; Rom 6:3; Gal 3:27.

Question 81: Who may be baptized?

Those who believe, repent of their sins and commit themselves to Christ, may be baptized. Children of believing parents are also members of the covenant of grace and share in the hope of the gospel. They are to be received into the Christian community by baptism, nurtured in the faith, and confirmed by their own profession of faith when they grow older. It is the duty of parents and those who present children for baptism to confess the faith in which they are to be baptized and to promise to bring them up in that faith.

Acts 2:39, Acts 16:33, For the promise is for you, for your children, and for all who are far away, everyone whom the Lord our God calls to him. Then he and his entire family were baptized without delay. Acts 16:15; 1 Cor 1:16, 7:14; Gen 17:7.

Question 80: What is baptism?

Baptism is a sign and seal of our union with Christ and his body, the church. Through it, by faith and the work of the Spirit, we are washed and cleansed from sin, share in the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, receive the gift of the Holy Spirit, and are commissioned to Christ’s service. Baptism assures us that we belong to God. Our great comfort in life and in death is that we belong to our faithful Saviour Jesus Christ (Heidelberg Catechism, answer 1).

Matt 3:16 And when Jesus had been baptized, just as he came up from the water, suddenly the heavens were opened to him and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and alighting on him.

Rom 6:4-5 Therefore we have been buried with him by baptism into death, so that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, so we too might walk in newness of life. For if we have been united with him in a death like his, we will certainly be united with him in a resurrection like his.

1 Cor 6:11 But you were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and in the Spirit of our God.

Jn 3:5 “Very truly, I tell you, no one can enter the kingdom of God without being born of water and the Spirit.”

See also:          Mt 3:13-17; Mk 1:9-11; Lk 3:21-22; 1 Pet 3:20-21; 1 Cor 10:1-2, 12:13; Gal 3:27-29; Col 2:12; Titus 3:5.

Question 79: What is a sacrament?

In obedience to our Lord’s command and example, we observe two sacraments, baptism and holy communion. Sacraments are visible expressions of the gospel and are given as means of entering and sustaining the Christian life. By baptism we are initiated into the Christian community and begin our Christian pilgrimage. Through the Lord’s Supper we receive food for our journey and are strengthened in faith. In baptism and the Lord’s Supper there is a sacramental union between the sign and the thing signified. Water signifies forgiveness and new life in Christ; bread and wine, the body and blood of the Lord. The grace effective in the sacraments comes not from any power in them but from the work of the Holy Spirit. Rightly received, in faith and repentance, the sacraments convey that which they symbolize. Mt 28:19 Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. 1 Cor 11:24-26
“This is my body that is for you. Do this in remembrance of me … This cup is the new covenant in my blood. Do this, as often as you drink it in remembrance of me.” For as often as you eat this bread and drink the cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death until he comes. Rom 6:3-5; Col 2:12; 1 Cor 6:11; Jn 3:5; Titus 3:5; 1 Pet 3:20-21; Mt 26:26-29; Mk 14:22-25; Lk 22:14-20; Jn 6:51-58.

Question 78. Who are the needy?

All of us stand in need of God’s grace and healing. But in particular, the needy are those identified in Jesus’ parable of the Last Judgement (Matthew 25:31ff); the hungry, the thirsty, the stranger, the naked, the sick and those in prison. In these and others in need, we encounter our living Lord. The church proclaims the good news of salvation not only by word but also by action. Js 1:27 Religion that is pure and undefiled before God, the Father, is this: to care for orphans and widows in their distress, and to keep oneself unstained by the world. Ps 41:1 Happy are those who consider the poor; the Lord delivers them in the day of trouble. Mt 25:40 “Truly I tell you, just as you did it to one of the least of these who are members of my family, you did it to me.” Lk 4:18 “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me because he has anointed me to bring good news to the poor.” See also: Ps 10:12, 12:5, 35:10; Prov 30:14, 31:9; Lk 6:20; Gl. 2:10; Jas 1:27, 2:6.

Question 77. Why does the Presbyterian Church also have a diaconal order?

The early church had deacons as well as presbyters. The word comes from the Greek “diakonia” which refers to the church’s ministry of service. Today members of the Order of Diaconal Ministries are designated to various ministries in the life of the church. In addition, some congregations have a deacons’ court to care for the sick, the suffering and the needy. 1 Tim 3:13 For those who serve well as deacons gain a good standing for themselves and great boldness in the faith that is in Christ Jesus. Phil 1:2 To all the saints in Christ Jesus who are in Philippi with the bishops and deacons. Rom 16:1 I commend to you our sister Phoebe, a deacon of the church at Cenchreae. See also: 1 Tim 3:8-12; Acts 6:1-6.

Question 76. Why does the Presbyterian Church have elders?

The Greek word for elder is “presbyter” from which the Presbyterian Church derives its name. Elders were chosen in ancient Israel to join with the priests and Levites to govern the people. Paul appointed and ordained presbyters and instructed Titus to appoint elders in every city. Elders are elected and ordained to share with the minister in the leadership, pastoral care, and oversight of the congregation. Their rule is exercised not individually but corporately through church courts: sessions, presbyteries, synods and General Assembly. Num 11:16 So the Lord said to Moses, “Gather for me seventy of the elders of Israel, whom you know to be the elders of the people and officers over them;” Acts 14:23 And after they appointed elders for them in each church, with prayer and fasting they entrusted them to the Lord in whom they had come to believe. 1 Tim 5:17 Let the elders who rule well be worthy of double honour, especially those who labour in preaching and teaching. Titus 1:5 … appoint elders in every town, as I directed you. See also: Ex 3:16, 4:29, 12:21; 2 Chr. 19:8-10; Acts 11:30, 15:4, 6,23; 16:4, 20:17;Rom 12:8; 1 Cor 12:27-28; Jas 5:14-15; 1 Pet 5:1-5; 2 Jn 1; Rev 4:4,10.

Question 75: Why are they called “ministers of word and sacrament”?

The word ‘minister’ means ‘servant’. As servants of God, ministers are called in Christ’s name, to present God’s message, celebrate his sacraments, and care for God’s people. To this office Christ calls both men and women. The church’s task is to confirm the validity of this call, to educate and examine candidates for the office and work of the ordained ministry. 2 Cor 6:4. But as servants of God we have commended ourselves in every way: through great endurance, in afflictions, hardships, calamities. 1 Cor 4:1 Gal 3:28

Think of us in this way, as servants of Christ and stewards of God’s mysteries. There is no longer Jew or Greek, there is no longer slave or free, there is no longer male and female; for all of you are one in Christ Jesus. Mt 8:18-20; Mk 16:14-20; Acts 16:10; 1 Cor 9:16; 2 Tim 3:14-17.

Question 74: Why then does the church have ministers?

While all believers have the same status before God and the same task to share the gospel, not all have the same office or function. Christ has given his church ministers of word and sacraments to equip it for its ministry in the world and to build up his body.  Eph 4:11-12, 2 Cor 4:4 2 Cor 5:18-19

The gifts he gave were that some would be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, some pastors and teachers, to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ. Therefore, since it is by God’s mercy that we are engaged in this ministry, we do not lose heart. All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ, and has given us the ministry of reconciliation; that is, in Christ God was reconciling the world to himself, not counting their trespasses against them, and entrusting the message of reconciliation to us.

Question 73: What is the ministry of the church?

The Lord continues his ministry in and through the church. All Christians are called to participate in the ministry of Christ. As his body on earth we all have gifts to use in the church and in the world to the glory of Christ, our King and Head. Mt 16:18 1 Cor 12:27-28, 1 Cor 7:7

And I tell you, you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not prevail against it. Now you are the body of Christ and individually members of it. And God has appointed in the church first apostles, second prophets, third teachers, then deeds of power, then gifts of healing, forms of assistance, forms of leadership, various kinds of tongues.

But each has a particular gift from God, one having one kind and another a different kind. Lk 4:18-19; Rom 12:4-8; Eph 4:11-12; 1 Pet 2:4-5,9.

Question 72: How is the church “the fellowship of the Holy Spirit”?

As the church is related to God and to Jesus Christ, it is also related to the Holy Spirit. The Spirit’s work is to create fellowship or community. Christian fellowship means oneness and solidarity: the strong have responsibility for the weak, the rich for the poor, the healthy for the ill, and the joyful for those who weep. Acts 2:42 Rom 8:9, 1 Jn 4:13

They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and fellowship, to the breaking of bread and prayers. But you are not in the flesh; you are in the Spirit, since the Spirit of God dwells in you. Anyone who does not have the Spirit of Christ does not belong to him. By this we know that we abide in him and he in us, because he has given us of his Spirit. Eph 2:19-22, 4:4-5; Rom 12:15; 1 Cor 12:12-27; 1 Jn 3:24.

Question 71: What does it mean that the church is the “body of Christ”?

It means that Christ indwells his church as its head, and that believers are “in Christ”. We belong to Christ and to one another. By baptism we are joined to Christ and in the Lord’s Supper we share in his body and blood. The church is his body even though it clearly has many flaws and failings. Col 1:18 He [i.e. Christ] is the head of the body, the church. 1 Cor 12:13 For in the one Spirit we were all baptized into one body – Jews or Greeks, slaves or free – and we were all made to drink of one Spirit. 1 Cor 10:16-17 The cup of blessing that we bless, is it not a sharing in the blood of Christ? The bread that we break, is it not a sharing in the body of Christ? Because there is one bread, we who are many are one body for we all partake of the one bread.1 Cor 1:2, 12:12-27; Rom 6:3-11; Eph 1:1; Phil 1:1.

Question 70: How is the church related to the “people of God” of the Old Testament?

The biblical image of the “people of God” connects the community of the Old Testament with the community of the New Testament. The church continues and renews the ancient covenant people through Christ’s fulfillment of a new covenant prophesied by Jeremiah. All believers are the people of God. Jer 31:31, 33; 1 Cor 11:25

The days are surely coming, says the Lord, when I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel and the house of Judah . But this is the covenant that I will make says the Lord: I will put my law within them, and I will write it on their hearts; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people. This cup is the new covenant in my blood. Heb 8:8-13, 10:16; Lk 22:20; 2 Cor 3:6; Rom 9:4, 11:27; 1 Pet 2:4-10.

Question 69: How does the Bible speak of the Church?

The New Testament uses many images, including Bride of Christ, flock, the elect, salt, light, yeast, branches of a vine, living stones, people of God, body of Christ, and fellowship of the Holy Spirit. These all emphasize the union of Christ and his church. Mt 5:14 Lk 12:32, Jn 15:5 1 Pet 2:9

You are the light of the world. “Do not be afraid, little flock, for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom.” I am the vine, you are the branches. But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s own people that you may proclaim the mighty acts of him who called you of darkness into his marvelous light. 2 Cor 11:2, 13:13; Mt 5:13, 13:33; Jn 10:1-16; Eph 1:4-6; 1 Pet 2:4; 1 Cor 12:13.

Question 68: Why does the Apostles’ Creed emphasize belief “in the holy catholic church”?

It does so to emphasize that the church is essential to Christian belief and practice. The church is holy in that it is set apart by God to be a chosen people in the world. The church is catholic in that it is universal, including all people of all time who affirm the Christian faith. To belong to a congregation is to belong to the holy catholic church. 1 Tim 3:15 Eph 4:4-5, 1 Pet 1:15-16.

The household of God, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and bulwark of the truth. There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to the one hope of your calling, one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all. As he who called you is holy, be holy yourselves in all your conduct for it is written, “You shall be holy for I am holy.” Eph 1:32; 1 Cor 3:17, 12:12-31; 1 Pet 2:4-10; Ex 19:6; Lev. 11:44; 1 Cor 1:2; Rom 1:7; Eph 1:1; Phil 1:1.

Question 67: Should Christians read the Bible?

Yes. The regular reading and study of scripture, together with the hearing of the word in public worship, are some of the richest joys of Christian commitment Eph 6:17 Heb 2:12 Ps 119:105

Take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. Indeed, the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing until it divides soul from spirit, joints from marrow; it is able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart. Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path. Ps 82:6; Jn 10:34-36. Isa 55:11

So shall my word be that goes out from my mouth; it shall not
return to me empty, but it shall accomplish that which I purpose,
and succeed in the thing for which I sent it. Ps 19; Jn 6:63, 68; Acts
2:42; Rev 1:3.

Question 66: How do we interpret the Bible?

Both Old and New Testaments were written within and accepted as scripture by communities of faith. Those who seek to understand the Bible need to stand within the church and listen to its teaching. The Bible is understood in the light of the revelation of God’s work in Christ. We interpret scripture properly as we compare passages, seeing the two Testaments in light of each other, and listening to commentators past and present. Relying on the Holy Spirit, we seek the application of God’s word for our time. Jn 5:39 Acts 16:14

“You search the scriptures because you think that in them you have eternal life; and it is they that testify on my behalf.” A certain woman named Lydia, a worshiper of God, was listening to us; she was from the city of Thyatira and a dealer in purple cloth. The Lord opened her heart to listen eagerly to what was said by Paul … She and her household were baptized.

Question 65: What authority does the Bible have in the Church?

The Bible is the primary rule of faith and life. It is the standard of all teaching in the church by which we test any word that comes to us from tradition, world, or inner experience. To it no other writings are to be added. 2 Tim 3:16 Jn 10:34-36

All scripture is inspired by God and is useful for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, so that everyone who belongs to God may be proficient, equipped for every good work. Jesus answered, “Is it not written in your law, ‘I said, you are gods?’ If those to whom the word of God came were called ‘gods’ – and the scripture cannot be annulled – can you say that the one whom the Father has sanctified and sent into the world is blaspheming because I said, ‘I am God’s Son’?” Ps 82:6; Acts 2:42; Eph 6:17; 1 Pet 1:23.

Question 64: What does it mean to call the Bible the Word of God?

It means that God speaks to us through the Bible and calls us to faith and obedience. At the same time the Bible is also a human word and its writing was conditioned by the language, thought, and setting of its time.

2 Tim 3:14- 15 1 Jn 1:3-4, Eph 2:19-20

But as for you, continue in what you have learned and firmly believed, knowing from whom you learned it and how from childhood you have known the sacred writings that are able to instruct you for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus. We declare to you what we have seen and heard so that you also may have fellowship with us; and truly our fellowship is with the Father and with his Son Jesus Christ. We are writing these things so that our joy may be complete. So then you are … members of the household of God, built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets with Christ Jesus himself as the cornerstone. Gen 1:3; Ps 147:15-20; Jer 1:4-8, 2:1; Ezek 3:16, 6:1, 7:1; Hos 1:1; Mic 1:1; Jn 1:1-18; Acts 2:42.

Question 63: Did the Holy Spirit inspire the Bible?

Yes. The Bible itself testifies to the Spirit’s inspiration of its writings. The Holy Spirit also guided the church in the selection of the canon, and leads us by an inner witness to accept the scriptures as God’s written word to us. Holy Scriptures are necessary, sufficient and reliable for our salvation, revealing Jesus Christ, the living Word. 2 Tim 3:16-17 2 Pet 1:20-21, 1 Cor 2:11-13

All scripture is inspired by God and is useful for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, so that everyone who belongs to God may be proficient, equipped for every good work. First of all you must understand this, that no prophecy of scripture is a matter of one’s own interpretation, because no prophecy ever came by the human will, but men and women moved by the Holy Spirit spoke from God.

So also no one comprehends what is truly God’s except the Spirit of God. Now we have received not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit that is from God, so that we may understand the gifts bestowed on us by God. And we speak of these things in words not taught by human wisdom but taught by the Spirit, interpreting spiritual things to those who are spiritual. Ps 12:6; Prov 30:5-6; 2 Sam 22:31; Jn 1:1-18; Acts 4:25; Heb 1:1-2, 3:7-11; Rev 1:1-3.

 

Question 62: How can we tell when the Holy Spirit is present?

The evidence for the presence of the Holy Spirit is seen not only in the spectacular and the unusual but also in what the Bible calls “the fruit of the Spirit”: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control” (Galatians 5:22-23).

Acts 19:6 1 Cor 14:18-19, 1 Cor 13:1

When Paul had laid his hands on them, the Holy Spirit came upon them, and they spoke in tongues and prophesied. I thank God that I speak in tongues more than all of you; nevertheless, in church I would rather speak five words with my mind, in order to instruct others also, than ten thousand words in a tongue. If I speak in the tongues of mortals and of angels, but do not have love, I am a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal.     1 Cor 12:31; 1 Cor 13-14.

 

Question 61: How should we regard the gift of speaking with tongues and of healing?

Scripture regards them as gifts of the Spirit and gives instruction for their exercise. The Apostle Paul counselled that their public use be orderly. What is important is that these gifts witness to Jesus Christ, build up the Christian community, and be motivated by and received with love and understanding. 1 Cor 7:7 1 Pet 4:10, 1 Cor 12:8-10, 1 Cor 14:39-40, 1 Thess 5:19

To one is given through the Spirit the utterance of wisdom, and to another the utterance of knowledge according to the same Spirit, to another faith by the same Spirit, to another gifts of healing by the one Spirit, to another the working of miracles, to another prophecy, to another the discernment of spirits, to another various kinds of tongues, to another the interpretation of tongues. So my friends, be eager to prophesy, and do not forbid speaking in tongues; but all things should be done decently and in order. Do not quench the Spirit. Mk 9:29, 16:17; Acts 2:4, 10:46, 19:6; 1 Cor 12-14; Jas 5:14-16.

 

Question 60: What does the Holy Spirit give to the church?

A variety of gifts is given to individuals in the church. These gifts fall into three main groups: those concerned with preaching and teaching, those concerned with service, and those concerned with leadership (1 Corinthians 12:28). Each Christian has his or her own gift and is called to exercise it in the service of Christ.

1 Cor 12:4-7 Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit; and there are varieties of services, but the same Lord; and there are varieties of activities but it is the same God who activates all of them in everyone. To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good.

But each has a particular gift from God, one having one kind and another a different kind. Like good stewards of the manifold grace of God, serve one another with whatever gift each of you has received.

1 Cor 12:1-31; Rom 12:4-8; Eph 4:7-16.1 Cor 7:7 1 Pet 4:10

 

Question 59:  What is the significance of Pentecost?

Beginning with Pentecost, God’s Spirit came to dwell with the church in a new and ever- present way. All Christians share in the Spirit, “being baptized into one body” (1 Corinthians 12:13). By the Holy Spirit, Christ’s Church comes alive, is sustained, and guided. And the Spirit also works freely in the world bringing goodness and justice. 1 Cor 12:13 Eph 4:4 1 Thess 1:5 Acts 9:31

For in the one Spirit we were all baptized into one body – Jews or Greeks, slaves or free – and we were all made to drink of one Spirit. There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to the one hope of your calling. Because our message of the gospel came to you not in word only, but also in power and in the Holy Spirit with full conviction. Meanwhile the church throughout Judea, Galilee, and Samaria had peace and was built up. Living in the fear of the Lord and in the comfort of the Holy Spirit, it increased in numbers. Jn 7:39; Acts 4:8, 6:10, 8:29, 10:19, 13:2-4, 15:28; 1 Cor 3:16, 12:1-31; Gal 3:3-5.

 

Question 58:  When was the Holy Spirit given to the Church?

The Holy Spirit was bestowed on the Church on the day of Pentecost. Luke speaks of a strong driving wind and tongues like flames of fire to describe the experience of receiving the Spirit (Acts 2:2-3). The fainthearted disciples were given courage and power to understand and proclaim the gospel of salvation. Acts 2:1-4; Joel 2:28 Acts 1:8

When the day of Pentecost had come, they were all together in one place. And suddenly from heaven there came a sound like the rush of a mighty wind, and it filled the entire house where they were sitting. Divided tongues, as of fire, appeared among them, and a tongue rested on each of them. All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other languages, as the Spirit gave them ability.

Then afterward I will pour out my spirit on all flesh; your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, and your young men shall see visions. But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.

Acts 2:1-42, 4:31, 13:9, 15:28, 19:6, 20:21-23,28; Rom 8:26, 12:11; Eph 6:18-20.

Question 57: What do we believe when we confess our faith in the Holy Spirit?

We believe the Holy Spirit is the Spirit of the triune God and is one with the Father and the Son. The Holy Spirit brooded over the waters of creation (Genesis 1:2), and gave life to all living things (Psalm 104:30); raised up and inspired leaders and prophets of Israel (Judges 6:34; Ezekiel 11:5); conceived Jesus Christ in the womb of the Virgin Mary (Luke 1:35); witnesses to Jesus Christ (John 15:26); convicts of sin (John 16:7-11) and enables us to confess him as Lord (1 Corinthians 12:3b). The Spirit is the counselor who opens our hearts to Jesus Christ and the comforter who has been promised by him to be with us always, “leading us into all truth” (John 16:12) Num 11:25 Lk 4:18-19,21

Then the Lord came down in the cloud and spoke to him, and took some of the spirit that was on him (Moses) and put it on the seventy elders; and when the spirit rested upon them, they prophesied. “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has anointed me to bring good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim release to the captives and recovery of sight to the blind, to let the oppressed go free, to proclaim Church

the year of the Lord’s favour.”… Then he [Jesus] began to say to them, “Today this scripture has been fulfilled in your hearing.” And when he [the Spirit] comes, he will prove the world wrong about sin and righteousness and judgment: … When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth; for he will not speak on his own, but will speak whatever he hears, and he will declare to you the things that are to come. Gen 41:38; Num 11:29; Jdg 3:10; Job 33:4; Ps 33:6; Isa 11:2, 42:1, 5, 61:1-2; Ezek 37:1-14; Joel 2:28; Mt 12:28; Mk 1:8; Jn 1:32-33, 3:5-6, 14:16-26; Acts 10:38; Rom 8:4; 2 Cor 3:17, 13:14; Gal 5:22-23; 1 Thess 1:5; Heb 2:4; Rev 2:7, 22:7.

Question 56: What is the third part of the Apostles’ Creed?

“I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy catholic church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting.”

Question 55:  Are those who do not believe, then not chosen?

Though we know that there are some who do not believe and who reject God, God’s love continues to invite them to faith. God wills the salvation of all and excludes no one from the reach of his love. 1 Tim 2:3-4 Jn 3:17-18, Rom 11:32 This is right and is acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour, who desires everyone to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth. “Indeed, God did not send the Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him. Those who believe in him are not condemned; but those who do not believe are condemned already, because they have not believed in the name of the only Son of God. For God has imprisoned all in disobedience so that he may be merciful to all. Ezek 18:32; Jn 6:37,39, 12:32; Rom 5:18; 1 Cor 15:22; 2 Cor 5:19; Eph 1:10; Titus 2:11; Heb 10:31; 2 Pet 3:9; 1 Jn 2:9;

Question 54: What is predestination?

Predestination is God’s decision from eternity to move savingly towards us in Jesus Christ in whom and by whom we are chosen. As such, it is gospel, good news. We are chosen for a purpose, to be like Christ and to serve God. Rom 8:29 Eph 1:4 Jn 15:16

For those whom he foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, in order that he might be the firstborn within a large family. And those whom he predestined he also called; and those whom he called he also justified; and those whom he justified he also glorified. Just as he chose us in Christ before the foundation of the world to be holy and blameless before him in love. You did not choose me but I chose you. And I appointed you to go and bear fruit, fruit that will last, so that the Father will give you whatever you ask in my name. Gen 12:1-2, 25:19-23; Deut 7:6-11; Ps 139; Isa 41:8; Am 3:2; Gal 1:15,15; Eph 1:3-14; Rom 9:10-18, 11:2,28-36; 1 Pet 1:2, 2:9; 2 Pet 1:3-10.

Question 53: How do we receive God’s gift of salvation?

God’s gracious gift is received through faith alone. “If we confess with our lips that Jesus is Lord, and believe in our hearts that God raised him from the dead, we will be saved” (Romans 10:9).

Rom 3:28 For we hold that a person is justified by faith apart from works prescribed by the law. Rom 1:16-17

For I am not ashamed of the gospel; it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who has faith to the Jew first and also to the Greek. For in it the righteousness of God is revealed through faith for faith, as it is written, “The one who is righteous will live by faith.” Eph 2:8

For by grace you have been saved through faith.

Rom 1:5, 3:30, 4:13-25, 10:9-13; Acts 16:30,31; Gal 3:8-9; Jas 2:24-26.

Question 52: Why do we say that salvation is by God’s grace alone?

God “chose us in Christ before the foundation of the world” (Ephesians 1:4). We do not earn or deserve to be saved; this is God’s gracious gift.

Eph 1:4-6 Eph 2:8-9 Rom 3:24

Just as he chose us in Christ before the foundation of the world to be holy and blameless before him in love. He destined us for adoption as his children through Jesus Christ, according to the good pleasure of his will to the praise of his glorious grace that he freely bestowed on us in the Beloved. For by grace you have been saved through faith, and this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God – not the result of works so that no one may boast. They are now justified by his grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus. Deut 7:6-9, 32:10; Isa 49:14-18; Rom 5:15-21.

Question 51: What does it mean to confess that “he will come to judge the living and the dead”?

Confident that our Judge is none other than our Saviour, we confess that Christ will come again in God’s good time and judge us. We do not know when, nor do we know how Jesus will come. We must keep alert, watch, and pray, “Amen. Come, Lord Jesus!” (Revelations 22:20) Mk 13:32-33 1 Thess 5:2 Acts 10:42 2 Tim 4:1-2

“But about that day or hour no one knows, neither the angels in heaven, nor the Son but only the Father. Beware, keep alert; for you do not know when the time will come.” For you yourselves know very well that the day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night.

… He is the one ordained by God as the judge of the living and the dead. In the presence of God and of Christ Jesus, who is to judge the living and the dead, and in view of his appearing and his kingdom, I solemnly urge you: proclaim the message; be persistent whether the time is favorable or unfavorable, convince, rebuke and encourage, with the utmost patience in teaching. Mt 25:21-46; Jn 5:28-29; Acts 1:11; Heb 9:27:10:30; 2 Pet 3:7; Rev 1:7.

Question 50: What does it mean to confess, “he ascended into heaven and is seated on the right hand of God”?

Jesus’ ascension means his exaltation to glory with God the Father in heaven. To say he sits at God’s right hand signifies that Jesus “has been given all authority in heaven and earth” (Matthew 28:20). In his ascended glory, Jesus fulfills his promise to be with us always. He prays for us, and with the Father, sends his Spirit to empower the church for mission and is preparing a place for us. The Lamb who was slain is ascended, glorified and is worthy of worship.

Heb 4:14 Jn 14:16 Jn 14:2 Rev 5:12

Since, then, we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus, the Son of God, let us hold fast to our confession. And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Advocate to be with you forever.

In my Father’s house there are many dwelling places. If it were not so, would I have told you that I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you to myself so that where I am there you may be also. “Worthy is the Lamb that was slaughtered to receive power and wealth and wisdom and might and honour and glory and blessing!” Acts 2:2-11; Lk 14:51; Jn 6:62, 20:17; Eph 4:8-10.

Question 49: Why is Jesus’ resurrection so important?

It means that death is not final and that we too will have life after death. In a way beyond our imagining, God will raise us up and care for us eternally. 1 Cor 6:14 2 Tim 1:10, 1 Cor 2:9:

And God raised the Lord and will also raise us by his power. … our Saviour Jesus Christ, who abolished death and brought life and immortality to light through the gospel. But, as it is written, “What no eye has seen, nor ear heard, nor the human heart conceived, what God has prepared for those who love him”. Jn 14:19; Acts 10:42; Rom 14:8-9; 2 Cor 6:9; 13:4; 1 Pet 1:3.

Question 48: What do we confess in saying, “on the third day he rose again from the dead”?

Jesus was raised by the mighty act of God. The loving Father did not forsake the Son. Jesus appeared to Mary Magdalene and “the other Mary” at the tomb (Matthew 28:9), to the disciples in and near Jerusalem (Luke 24:31, 36) and in Galilee (Matthew 28:17), and also to over five hundred persons at one time (1 Corinthians 15:6). The resurrection is God’s victory over death, and the core of our faith; “if Christ be not raised, we are of all people most to be pitied”

(1 Corinthians 15:19). Acts 2:24 1 Cor 15:3-4 Jn 20:19-20

But God raised him up having freed him from death, because it was impossible for him to be held in its power. For I handed on to you as of first importance what I in turn had received: that Christ died for our sins in accordance with the scriptures, and that he was buried and that he was raised on the third day in accordance with the scriptures. When it was evening on that day, the first day of the week, and the doors of the house where the disciples had met were locked for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood among them and said, “Peace be with you.” After he said this, he showed them his hands and his side. Then the disciples rejoiced when they saw the Lord.

Mt 28:1-10; Mk 16:1-8; Lk 24:1-12, 13-35; Jn 20 and 21; Acts 1:3-5.

Question 45: Why does the Apostles’ Creed emphasize that Jesus “suffered under Pontius Pilate?”

First, it locates God’s saving act in history. Secondly, it teaches us that the Judge was judged in our place, so that through him we might stand acquitted before God. Thirdly, it reminds us of the complicity of people of authority in the death of Jesus. Mt 27:26 Gal 3:13 2 Cor 5:21 Lk 18:32-33

So he [Pilate] released Barabbas for them and after flogging Jesus, he handed him over to be crucified. Christ redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us – for it is written “Cursed is everyone who hangs on a tree”. For our sake he made him to be sin for us who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God. “For he will be handed over to the Gentiles; and he will be mocked and insulted and spat upon. After they have flogged him, they will kill him, and on the third day he will rise again.” Mk 15:15; Lk 23:24-25; Jn 19:16.

Question 44: What does Jesus ministry teach us about God?

In his ministry of healing the sick, feeding the hungry, freeing people from bondage to demons and proclaiming the reign of God, Jesus revealed a loving God who is concerned with all of life. In sharing meals with outsiders, showing mercy to sinners and even forgiving those who nailed him to the cross, Jesus revealed a God who embraces all and whose salvation extends to the ends of the earth Mt 4:23

Acts 10:38 Mt 9:11 Lk 23:34

Jesus went throughout Galilee, teaching in their synagogues and proclaiming the good news of the kingdom and curing every disease and every sickness among people. How [Jesus] went about doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the devil, for God was with him.

When the Pharisees saw this, they said to his disciples, “Why does your teacher eat with tax collectors and sinners?” Then Jesus said, “Father, forgive them; for they do not know what they are doing.”

Mt 8:13; Mk 7:31-37; Lk 5:17, 9:2; Jn 5:15; Mt 15:32-39; Mk 8:1-10; Jn 6:1-14; Lk 19:1-10.

Question 43: How did Jesus fulfill the office of king?

Jesus was a servant king. His royal power was shown in his mastery over sickness, sin and death, yet revealed in weakness, lowliness, and the apparent defeat of the cross. As the exalted and resurrected Son of God, he reigns as King over all creation. Jn 18:36 Mt 2:1-2

Mt 27:37 Rev 19:16 Jesus answered, “My kingdom is not from this world.” Wise men from the East came to Jerusalem, asking, “Where is the child who has been born king of the Jews? For we have … come to pay him homage.” Over his head they put the charge against him, which read, “This is Jesus, the King of the Jews.” On his robe and on his thigh he has a name inscribed, “King of kings and Lord of lords.”

See also: Lk 19:38, 23:28; Mk 15:26; Jn 19:19; Rev 17:14.

Question 42: How does scripture describe Jesus’ death for our sins?

Biblical descriptions include atonement by a priest, the sacrifice of a lamb, the ransom of a slave, punishment in our place, payment of a debt, and victory over the powers of evil. These express God’s great love for the world, reveal the enormity of our sin, and emphasize the cost of our Lord’s sacrifice and the sure achievement of his reconciling work.

Heb 9:11-12

Jn 1:29 Mk 10:45 2 Cor 5:21 See also:

But when Christ came as a high priest … he entered once for all into the Holy Place, not with the blood of goats and calves, but with his own blood, thus obtaining eternal redemption. The next day [John] saw Jesus coming toward him and declared, “Here is the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world!” The Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many. For our sake [God] made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God atonement: Heb 10:10; Rom 3:25; Gal 3:13; Heb 9-10; sacrifice: 1 Cor 5:7; Eph 5:2; Heb 9-10; punishment in our place: 1 Pet 2:24; Rom 5:18-21; payment: 1 Cor 6:20, 7:23; victory: 1 Cor 15:16-17; Col 2:13-15.

 

Question 41: How did Jesus full-fill the office of priest?

A priest is one who acts before God on behalf of the people. Jesus became both priest and sacrifice for us. In his obedient life and death on the cross, Jesus offered himself once for all, the innocent one for the guilty.

Heb: 4:14

1 Cor 5:7 Phil 2:7-8

Since, then, we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus, the Son of God, let us hold fast to our confession. For our paschal lamb, Christ, has been sacrificed. And being found in human form, he humbled himself and became obedient to the point of death – even death on a cross.

Heb 2:17, 5:1-10, 7:1-28, 8:1-13, 9:1-10,23, 10:1-8; Jn 1:29; Gal 1:4; Eph 5:2; Rom 3:25.

Question 40: How did Jesus fulfill the office of prophet?

A prophet is one who speaks for God. Jesus is himself God’s Word to a needy and broken world. He proclaimed and lived God’s love and justice, spoke God’s truth, and announced God’s coming reign.

Lk 7:15-16

Mk 1:14-15

Lk 4:24

The dead man sat up and began to speak, and Jesus gave him to his mother. Fear seized all of them; and they glorified God, saying, “A great prophet has risen among us!” and “God has looked favorably on his people!” Now after John was arrested, Jesus came to Galilee, proclaiming the good news of God, and saying, “The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God has come near; repent and believe the good news.” And he said, “Truly I tell you, no prophet is accepted in the prophet’s hometown.”

See also: Lk 4:16-23, 13:31-35; Jn 7:40-41, 17:6-8; 1 Thess 2:15

Question 39: How did Jesus bridge that distance?

By assuming, fulfilling, and transforming the ancient offices of prophet, priest and king, Jesus reconciled us to God. As prophet, he speaks most clearly the word of God; as priest, he offered himself for us; as king, he rules over us.

Rom 5:10 For if while we were enemies we were reconciled to God through the death of his Son, much more surely, having been reconciled will we be saved by his life.

Col 1:21-22  And you who were once estranged and hostile in mind, doing evil deeds, he has now reconciled in his body through death, so as to present you holy and blameless and irreproachable before him.

See also:  Col 1:20; 2 Cor 5:18-19.

 

Question 38:  How can Jesus be both truly God and truly human?

Jesus’ divine-human unity is a mystery.   He was fully divine and fully human.  His humanity and divinity were neither mixed nor divided but joined in one person.  How this can be, eludes our comprehension.  Yet only someone who is truly God and truly human can be our mediator bridging the distance between God and ourselves.

1 Tim 2:5-6 For there is one God; there is also one mediator between God and humankind, Christ Jesus, himself human who gave himself a ransom for all.

1 Tim 3:16 Without any doubt, the mystery of our religion is great:  He was revealed in flesh, vindicated in spirit, seen by angels, proclaimed among Gentiles, believed in throughout the world, taken up in glory.

See also: 2 Cor 5:17-19; Jn 17:20-24.

Question 37: What is the significance of affirming that Jesus is truly human?

Jesus was human in every respect in order that from within our humanity our sin may be redeemed.  Tried and tested as we are, yet without sin, Jesus is able to help all those who are being tested.

Heb 2:14-18 Since, therefore, the children share flesh and blood, he himself likewise shared the same things so that through death he might destroy the one who has the power of death, that is, the devil … For it is clear that he did not come to help angels, but the descendants of Abraham.  Therefore, he had to become like his brothers and sisters in every respect, so that he might be a merciful and faithful high priest in the service of God, to make a sacrifice of atonement for the sins of the people.  Because he himself was tested by what he suffered, he is able to help those who are being tested.

Phil 2:5-8 Let the same mind be in you that was in Christ Jesus, who though he was in the form of God did not regard equality with God as something to be exploited, but emptied himself, taking the form of a slave, being born in human likeness and being found in human form, he humbled himself and became obedient to the point of death – even death on a cross.

See also: Mt 4:2; Lk 4:2; Mk 11:12; Jn 19:28; Heb 4:15.

 

Question 36: What is the significance of confessing that Jesus is truly God?

Jesus, God’s only Son, with the Father and the Holy Spirit, is worthy of worship.  He is the revelation of God and the Saviour of the world.  God alone can reveal God to us and save us from sin.

Jn 1:18 No one has ever seen God.  It is God the only Son, who is close to the Father’s heart, who has made him known.

Jn 3:16-17 For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him may not perish but may have eternal life.  Indeed, God did not send the Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him.

Heb 1:5-6 For to which of the angels did God ever say, “You are my Son; today I have begotten you?” Or again “I will be his Father and he will be my Son”? And again, when he brings the first born into the world he says, “Let all God’s angels worship him.”

See also: Jn 14:8-10; Rom 11:33-35; Phil 2:9-11; Jude 3:24-25; Rev 4:11, 5:12-14, 7:11-12, 22:9.

Question 35: What do we affirm in saying Jesus was “conceived by the Holy Spirit and born of the Virgin Mary”?

The conception of Jesus was a miraculous event in which the Word was made flesh.  God became a human being without the agency of a human father.  The mystery of the incarnation affirms that Jesus was truly God and truly man.  To say, “conceived by the Holy Spirit”, is to emphasize the divinity of Christ; to say, “born of the Virgin Mary”, is to emphasize the humanity of Christ.

Mt 1:18-20 Now the birth of Jesus the Messiah took place in this way.  When his mother Mary had been engaged to Joseph, but before they lived together, she was found to be with child from the Holy Spirit.  Her husband Joseph planned to dismiss her quietly.  But … an angel of the Lord appeared to … him in a dream and said, “Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary as your wife, for the child conceived in her is of the Holy Spirit.”

Lk 1:30-35 The angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favour with God.  And now you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you will name him Jesus …” Mary said to he angel, “How can this be, since I am a virgin?”  The angel said to her, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you; therefore the child to be born will be holy; he will be called the Son of God.”

See also: Jn 1:13; Gal 4:4.

Question 34: What do we affirm when we say Jesus is God’s only Son?

To call Jesus the Son of God is to say that he is truly God, one with the Father and the Spirit, not created but eternal. To see Jesus is to see God incarnate.  To know the Son is to know the Father.

Jn 1:1-3, 14 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.  He was in the beginning with God.  All things came into being through him. … And the Word became flesh and lived among us, and we have seen his glory, the glory as of a father’s only son, full of grace and truth.

Jn 14:9 “Whoever has seen me has seen the Father.”

Mt 11:27 All things have been handed over to me by my Father; and no one knows the Son except the Father, and no one knows the Father except the Son and to anyone to whom the Son chooses to reveal him.

Col 1:15, 19 [Christ] is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation; for in him all things in heaven and on earth were created. … For in him all the fullness of God was pleased to dwell.

Jn 10:30 The Father and I are one.

See also: Jn 1:18, 3:31-36; Rom 1:1-3; Phil 2:5-11; Heb 1:1-4; Rev 1:8, 22:12-17.

 

Question 33: Whom did God send as Messiah?

God sent his only Son, Jesus of Nazareth, to be the Messiah, or Christ (both words mean ‘anointed one’), the fulfilment of God’s promise to Israel.  He is the one promised by God, anointed to save us from sin and death.

Mt 1:16 And Jacob the Father of Joseph the husband of Mary, of whom Jesus was born, who is called the Messiah.

Jn 1:41 He first found his brother Simon and said to him, “We have found the Messiah” (which is translated Anointed).

Jn 3:17 “Indeed, God did not send the son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him.”

See also: Jn 4:1-42; Acts 10:34-43, 13:15-41, 26:2-23; 1 Tim 1:15-16.

 

 

Question 32: How did God keep these promises?

God led the people out of exile and brought them back to their own land.  A suffering and persecuted people, they looked for the coming of God’s anointed one, the Messiah, to restore and renew their life and hope.  His coming would continue the story of salvation which began in creation and unfolded throughout Israel’s history.  The Promised One would fulfill the covenant and begin a new chapter in the story of salvation.

Ezek 37:14 I will put my spirit within you, and you shall live, and I will place you on your own soil; then you shall know that I, the Lord, have spoken and will act, says the Lord.

Isa 11:1-4 A shoot shall come out from the stump of Jesse, and a branch shall grow out of his roots.  The spirit of the Lord shall rest on him. …  His delight shall be in the fear of the Lord.  He shall judge by what his eyes see, or decide by what his ears hear; but with righteousness he shall judge the poor, and decide with equity for the meek of the earth;

Heb 8:6 But Jesus has now obtained a more excellent ministry, and to that degree he is the mediator of a better covenant, which has been enacted through better promises.

See also: Ezek 34:11-14; Isa 9:2-7; Heb 7:22, 8:7-13, 10:1-18, 12:24.

 

Question 31: How then did God keep covenant with Israel?

God sent prophets to them announcing a message of comfort and hope, a promise of return and reconciliation.  Jeremiah proclaimed the hope of a new covenant where the law would be written on people’s hearts.  Isaiah spoke of a Servant of the Lord who would free the captives and suffer for their sins.  Ezekiel prophesied that Israel would be resettled on its

own soil; God’s Spirit would dwell in their hearts and they would know that God is God.

Isa 40:1-2 Comfort, O comfort my people, says your God.  Speak tenderly to Jerusalem, and cry to her that she has served her term that her penalty is paid, that she has received from the Lord’s hand double for all her sins.

Jer 31:31-33 The days are surely coming, says the Lord, when I will make a new covenant … this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days. … I will put my law within them, and I will write it on their hearts; and I will be their God and they shall be my people.

Isa 53:5 But he was wounded for our transgressions, crushed for our iniquities; upon him was the punishment that made us whole, and by his bruises we are healed.

See also:  Isa 42:1-2, 49:1-6, 52:13-53:12, 65:17-25, 66:12-13; Ezek 36:8-11, 24-27, 37:1-14.

 

Question 30: Did the people turn back to God?

No. They continued to break the covenant and the law. The people hardened their hearts to the message of the prophets, rejected their summons and even acted violently against them. In a severe judgment, God handed them over to enemies who devastated the city of Jerusalem, destroyed the temple and took many of the people into exile in a foreign land.

Jer 7:25-26 From the day that your ancestors came out of the land of Egypt until this day, I have persistently sent all my servants the prophets to them, day after day; yet they did not listen to me, or pay attention, but they stiffened their necks.

2 Chr 36:15-16 But they kept mocking the messengers of God, despising his words, and scoffing at his prophets, until the wrath of the Lord against his people became so great that there was no remedy.

See also: Ex 33:3,5; 2 Chron 24:19; Isa 63:10; Jer 9:7-11, 25:4-14, 44:4-6; Ezek 20:8-21; Acts 7:51-53.

Question 29:  Did God break the covenant with Israel?

No.  Though grieved and angered by the people’s sin, God continued to love Israel and remained faithful to the covenant.  In grace and patience, God gave kings to rule in justice, priests to offer atoning sacrifices and prophets to proclaim God’s Word.  The people were called to repent and to return to God.

Isa 65:1-2 I said, “Here I am, here I am,” to a nation that did not call on my name, I held out my hands all day long to a rebellious people, who walk in a way that is not good, following their own devices.

Hos 11 2-3 The more I called them, the more they went from me; they kept sacrificing to the Baals and offering incense to idols.  Yet it was I who taught Ephraim to walk, I took them up in my arms; … I was to them like those who lift infants to their cheeks.  I bent down to them and fed them.

Ezek 16:59-60 Yes, thus says the Lord God:  I will deal with you as you have done, you have despised the oath, breaking the covenant; yet I will remember my covenant with you in the days of your youth, and I will establish with you an everlasting covenant.

Hos 14:1 Return, O Israel, to the Lord your God, for you have stumbled because of your iniquity.

See also: Ezek 14:6, 18:30-32; Isa 44:22; Jer 3:11-14, 21-22.

 

Question 28:  Did Israel keep its covenant with God?

Israel often broke the covenant with God.  No sooner had the people been liberated from Egypt, than they fashioned a golden calf and worshipped it.  In the promised land they often abandoned the worship of God for other gods and were led astray into sin.  They also failed to act justly, to love mercy and to walk humbly with their God.

Ex 32:1-4 The people gathered around Aaron, and said to him, “Come, make gods for us …”  So all the people took off the gold rings from their ears, and brought them to Aaron.  He took the gold from them, formed it in a mould, and cast an image of a calf; and they said, “These are your gods, O Israel who brought you up of the land of Egypt!”

Hos 11:1-2 When Israel was a child, I loved him, and out of Egypt I called my son. The more I called them, the more they went from me; they kept sacrificing to the Baals, and offering incense to idols.

See also: Deut 9:6-14, 32:10-43; Ps 106:19-23; Isa 46:3-13; Hos 13:1-6; Jer 2:1-8, 11, 31:31-33; Mic 6:1-8; Acts 7:35-53; 1 Cor 10:1-7.

 

Question 27:  How did God keep the covenant with Israel?

When the people of Israel became slaves in Egypt God heard their cry and freed them. Through Moses, God led the people through the wilderness, fed and cared for them and gave them the gift of the law to guide them.  At last, God brought Israel to the promised-land and raised up judges, kings and priests to be leaders among them so that they would live as faithful people.

Ex 2:23-24 The Israelites groaned under their slavery, and cried out … God heard their groaning, and God remembered his covenant with Abraham, Isaac and Jacob.

Ex 3:8 “Indeed, I know their sufferings, and I have come down to deliver them from the Egyptians, and to bring them up out of that land to a good and broad land, …”

Ps 105:40 They asked, and he brought quails, and gave them food from heaven in abundance.  He opened the rock, and water gushed out; it flowed through the desert like a river.

See also: Ex 12, 13:17,21-22, 16:4-5,13-35; Num 9:1-23, 11:1-35; Deut 1:30-33;

Ps 107:1-9; 1 Chron 16:8-36; Isa 48:21.

Question 26:  How did God respond to sin?

God responded to sin in judgment by condemning it and in grace by establishing a covenant with humanity, promising after the flood never again to destroy all life.  Then God chose the people of Israel to become partners in a covenant promising to Abraham and Sarah, our forebears in faith, to be Israel’s God.  In return, they promised to be God’s people, to love, worship and serve God alone.

Gen 6:5-8 The Lord saw that the wickedness of humankind was great in the earth, and that every inclination of the thoughts of their hearts was only evil continually … So the Lord said, “I will blot out from the earth the human beings I have created”.

Gen 17:1-2 The Lord appeared to Abram, and said to him, “I am God Almighty; walk before me and be blameless.  And I will make my covenant between me and you.”

Jer 11:4 Listen to my voice, and do all that I command you.  So shall you be my people, and I will be your God.

See also: Gen 6-8, 12:1-3, 15:18-21, 17:3-27; Lev 26:12; Jer 30:22.

Question 25:  What is the effect of sin?

The effect of sin is spiritual death, that is, it has marred but not destroyed the image of God in us.  It infects and distorts all our relationships with others  and with ourselves. While we have not lost our distinctive human capacities they are subject to the corruption of sin.  We are enslaved by our sin and are helpless to save ourselves.

Rom 6:23 For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Jn 8:34 Jesus answered them, “Very truly, I tell you, everyone who commits sin is a slave of sin.”

Col 2:13-14 And when you were dead in trespasses and the un-circumcision of your flesh, God made you alive together with him, when he forgave us all our trespasses, erasing the record that stood against us with its legal demands. He set this aside, nailing it to the cross.

See also Rom 3:9-19, 5:15-21, 6:16, 7:14-25; 1 Cor 15:56; Eph 2:1; 1 Jn 1:9-10; Jas 1:15.

Question 24: What is sin?

Sin is turning against God.  It is breaking or failing to fulfil the laws of God; the missing of God’s intention for our lives.  Sin is exposed by the perfect life of Christ:  our pride by his humility, our sloth by his obedience, our falsehood by his truth.  The power of sin is present in all of life, including the societies in which we live.  As sinners, we participate in the indifference, injustice, and violence of our world.

Ps 51:4 Against you, you alone, have I sinned, and done what is evil in your sight, so that you are justified in your sentence and blameless when you pass your judgment.

Isa 59:2 Rather, your iniquities have been barriers between you and your God, and your sins have hidden his face from you so that he does not hear.

Rom 3:22-23 For there is no distinction, since all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.

Jn 3:19 And this is the judgment, that the light has come into the world, and people loved darkness rather than light because their deeds were evil.

See also: Gen 3:1-7, 4:7, 6:5-8; Rom 1:18-2:11; Deut 11:26-28; Isa 58:1-7; Rom 5-6; Jas 2:10.

Question 23.  What comfort is it that God rules?

We can be patient when things go against us, thankful in all circumstances, and confident that nothing can separate us from God’s love.

Rom 5:3 But we also boast in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces  character, and character produces hope.

1 Thess 5:18 Give thanks in all circumstances.

Rom 8:38-39 For I am convinced that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor rulers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Jas 5:8 You also must be patient.  Strengthen your hearts, for the coming of the Lord is near.

Question 22:  If God rules why is there evil and suffering?

Evil and suffering are a mystery and fill us with anguish.  History reveals the grim march of human cruelty through the ages including our own.  We behave horribly to one another, nation to nation, race to race, religion to religion, person to person.  Disease and disaster also add to the toll of suffering.  In such a world only a God who has entered into our sufferings can help.  As we ponder our Saviour upon the cross, we know that God is with us in our pain.

Job 7:11 “Therefore I will not restrain my mouth; I will speak in the anguish of my spirit; I will complain in the bitterness of my soul.”

Ps 10:1-2 Why, O Lord, do you stand far off?  Why do you hide yourself in times of trouble.  In arrogance the wicked persecute the poor.

Mk 8:31 Then he began to teach them  that the Son of Man must undergo great suffering.

Heb 2:18 Because he himself was tested by what he suffered, he is able to help those who are being tested.

See also: Ps 13:1-2, 42:11; Rom 8:22-23; 2 Cor 1:5-11; Phil 3:10; 1 Pet 4:1-2, 5:1;

2 Tim 3:10-12; Jas 5:13.

 

Question 20: What do we believe about God’s providence?

The story of salvation as told in the Bible reveals a God who continually maintains and nourishes all creation. From the beginning God has actively upheld and preserved the existence of the universe, provided for all creatures and cared for humankind.

Gen 22:8, 14 Abraham said, “God himself will provide the lamb for a burnt offering, my son.” … So Abraham called that place “The Lord will provide”; as it is said to this day, “On the mount of the Lord it shall be provided.”

Job 10:12 You have granted me life and steadfast love, and your care has preserved my spirit.

Acts 17:24-28 The God who made the world and everything in it … gives to all mortals life and breath and all things … For “In him we live and move and have our being …”.

See also: Ps 23; Ps 121; Mt 6:25-33, 10:29-31; Col 1:16-17; Heb 1:3.

 

Question 19: What responsibility do people have for the care of the earth?

We are not owners but stewards of God’s good earth. We are to care for it by not exhausting its resources or polluting its atmosphere, soil or water. We are to protect the earth, share its resources and conserve it for future generations.

Gen 2:15 The Lord God took the man and put him in the garden of Eden to till it and keep it.

Ps 24:1 The earth is the Lord’s and all that is in it, the world, and those who live in it.

Isa 24:5-6 The earth lies polluted under its inhabitants; for they have transgressed laws, violated the statutes, broken the everlasting covenant. Therefore a curse devours the earth, and its inhabitants suffer for their guilt.

See also: Gen 1:26; Ps 89:11; Rom 12:2.

 

 

Question 15: What does it mean to confess that God is “almighty”?

We affirm that God is mighty in all things. After speaking of God as great and powerful, Jeremiah exclaims, “Nothing is too hard for you” (Jeremiah 32:17). The prophet connects God’s power with God’s steadfast love. God is a God of love and this love is powerful beyond measure. God’s great love was revealed in Jesus’ death on the cross and God’s power was shown in raising him from the dead (Romans 4:24).

Jer 32:17-18 Ah Lord God! It is you who made the heavens and the earth by your great power and outstretched arm! Nothing is too hard for you. You show steadfast love to the thousandth generation.

Jer 32:27 See, I am the Lord, the God of all flesh; is anything too hard for me?

Ps 106:8 Yet he saved them for his name’s sake, so that he might make known his mighty power.

1 Cor 1:18 For the message about the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God.

See also: Jn 3:16; Rom 1:16, 6:9, 8:11; Gal 1:1; Col 2:12.