Introduction to Reformed Theology

Explore the doctrine of Predestination. Divine election does not mean that history doesn’t matter but that its roots go back to eternity in the will of God. Election gives us hope and assurance. Consider that the doctrine of election is an invigorating word. Election does not undercut the free exercise of our will. Find that election is the deepest extension of the gospel word.

Reflect on the nature of worship. Christ is the true reality of the temple and he dwells with us. God shows us how we can be near Him. God wants to be worshipped according to the name of Jesus. The Word and the Sacraments make up the two great things in worship. Explore that the Word takes many shapes and forms. Consider the Sacraments of baptism and the Lord’s Supper. Realize the dynamic of worship is to point away from ourselves to our Savior.

Jesus Christ is Lord of his Church. Consider that the Bible is only the fundamental, infallible authority. Human authorities disappoint and are not the ultimate authority. Consider that Sola Sciptura, Tradition, and Creeds and confessions guide our rightful reading of the Scripture. God extends his message of reconciliation through ambassadors of his gospel message. God provides leaders to point us to His Word. Consider that Jesus Christ is the final authority and Lord of the Church but miraculously works through means.

The Bible values culture and community. Consider that Christians in the past have had poor responses to the culture. The Bible calls Christians to engage culture in every facet and Christians are called to seek the peace of the city. Consider that Christian churches are called to a particular task. They are to teach Gods word and equip God’s people for ministry of various forms. We work to seek the peace of the city in light of knowing that we are promised that Jesus will return and there will be a New Jerusalem. We are given the joy and privilege of being ambassadors and witness for Christ.

Consider that the one Covenant God is interested in being with people. The notion of relational intimacy with God is what we mean when we speak of the covenant of God. There are ordered boundaries in God’s covenant with us. God eventually provides covenant peace through Jesus Christ. It is Jesus Christ who reveals both sides of the covenant to us. Jesus truly is Emmanuel God with us.

Who is God? Explore the answer through the account of Moses and the burning bush. God revealed a deep truth about His character to Moses. I AM who I AM – God cannot be identified or compared with anything else. God is closer to us than we are to ourselves. Jesus Christ is the Word become flesh and is sympathetic to our needs. Consider the mystery of the gospel that God is radically different yet is close to us.

Explore the shape of the gospel. The gospel moves through justification, sanctification and finally to glorification in which we are conformed to His image. The metaphor of marriage is used as God’s relationship to His people. He sought us out when we were unworthy and unfaithful. The metaphor of adoption is also used. We do not have a claim or natural right to become God’s children but the inheritance is ours through Christ Jesus. In both metaphors there is a declarative moment and an ongoing lifestyle. Consider the process of sanctification. Find that grace costs us nothing and grace changes everything.

What is Reformed Theology? What does the Bible teach? What is the vocation and calling we have as God’s people? We cherish Reformational teaching as it emphasizes being Christ centered and mission focused. Consider that we are to learn from the witness of those who have gone before us and seek to be faithful and dependent on the same Christ and same grace. Explore what it means to be Reformed.

Consider that we live dependently on the Word of God. Consider that we do theology by grace alone. God renews our minds by the work of His two hands. By His incarnate Son and indwelling Spirit we come to know God. Consider the two shapes of prophetic ministry – to tear down that which is evil and false and then and only then to build and to plant, renew and remake. Theology is done by grace alone and we receive the Word of God with confidence and consistent hope.