Reformed Theology and a Welcoming Community

Last week at Classis (the regional gathering of RCA elders and ministers) we discussed the topic of what it means to be both missional and Reformed.  The delegates were split into small groups to discuss different aspects of this topic.  One question for discussion was on how the delegates see a distinctly Reformed approach active [...]

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Canons of Dort vs. Pietism

The movement of Christian pietism has long tried to split the Church between true and false believers.  Canons of Dort point 1, article 16 clearly speaks to this (though it preceded the movement):

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The Reformed Church in America is Growing!

News from the General Synod is that the RCA is growing.  In fact, 10,000 people have been added to the denomination.  Surely, this is in part due to the recent church planting and revitalization initiative.  

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Heidelberg Catechism & Christ’s Ascension

Q. What do you mean by saying, “He ascended to heaven”? 
A. That Christ was taken up from the earth into heaven before the very eyes of his disciples and remains there on our behalf until he comes again to judge the living and the dead.
Q. But isn’t Christ with us until the end of the world [...]

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RCA Integrity Newsletter

RCA Integrityhas put together their first newsletter. There are some interesting articles here, maybe something for later discussion. (Click on “newsletter” to go to the page.)

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RCA Synod 2007: Missional Structures, Final Comments

     Synod 2007 has begun, so instead of going into a more detailed discussion of the report on Missional Structures, I will just mention a couple of points in conclusion. 

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RCA Synod 2007: On Missional Structures and Fourth Mark

     In my last post I discussed the use of words and the definition of mission. Another point that is link to that post is Recommendation 17 of the Commission that recommends that the church consider making “mission” the fourth mark of the church. For those who are unfamiliar with the Marks of the Church, [...]

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RCA Synod 2007: On Missional Structures and Use of Words

     Unfortunately, things came up as I was preparing for graduation and moving that prohibited me from posting while my thought were fresh, but I will try to make some comments that are in line with the comments I have already made.
     It is exciting that the RCA’s leadership is pressing the denomination to plant churches and [...]

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RCA Synod 2007: On Missional Structures

This summer at General Synod the RCA will vote to allow for “open space” in hopes to open communication across the denomination, especially on the topics of church planting and revitalization, according to our Call.   Of course, this “open space” is suppose to be done within the parameters of our Book of Church Order.  There is also [...]

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A Hopeful Sign?

     The other week I had a conversation with a friend, and he was asking if there are many churches being planted in the RCA in the East.  And I proceded to explain that in general the more “liberal” areas or churches really don’t have a need to plant churches.  If there is “salvation outside of the [...]

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