It’s clear to me that many fail to grasp just how small the American Reformed church is compared to both other denominations and the general population.
Good point. I've heard a lot about the danger of various oddities (Two Kingdoms, paedocommunion, the manosphere) and wondered why they were worth bringing up at my church, however bad they might be somewhere out there.
I had a conversation at church one time which got onto some form of economics. At some point the guy I was talking to responded "So you think we could just make more pie?" We weren't discussing pie. It was a pretty down to earth conversation up to that point about things actual affecting us. He was referencing an illustration about the difference between communism and capitalism, but even with a hunch that it was what he meant it really put a stop to the whole conversation. I don't think most people even know they're doing this.
Lots of sound wisdom in this article. Thank you for your teaching.
I would also like to acknowledge what Sam said about R.C. Sproul and Ligonier Ministries. I can't think of a better source today for rock solid teaching for ministers, faith leaders and believers that is founded in systematic reformed theology. In this age, I think every reformed church would benefit from a study of R.C.'s classic book on sanctification - Pleasing God.
Man, this is right on target. But I do think that periodically addressing some Du jour issues, particularly with the college age demo that spends a lot of time online, can be profitable.
We joined a CREC church through personal connections and shared interests (homeschooling, Classical Christian education, homesteading, ...). I knew little of their theology and found the liturgy intimidating. Now, a few years and a lot of R. C. Sproul later, I am fully committed to this "niche" view, but I didn't start there.
One point to think of, though: Barna estimates that about 8% of self-identified Christians have a Biblical Worldview. But I definitely don’t think it’s evenly distributed. My guess is the CREC is near 100% (otherwise why would you join?). I would bet PCUSA is more like 5-10% and PCA is about 50% (OPC 60% 🤷?).
Outside of the church who is aware of justification and sanctification? This post shows clearly that we need to share the gospel in clear simple language that everyone understands.
Good point. I've heard a lot about the danger of various oddities (Two Kingdoms, paedocommunion, the manosphere) and wondered why they were worth bringing up at my church, however bad they might be somewhere out there.
Good point
I had a conversation at church one time which got onto some form of economics. At some point the guy I was talking to responded "So you think we could just make more pie?" We weren't discussing pie. It was a pretty down to earth conversation up to that point about things actual affecting us. He was referencing an illustration about the difference between communism and capitalism, but even with a hunch that it was what he meant it really put a stop to the whole conversation. I don't think most people even know they're doing this.
Lots of sound wisdom in this article. Thank you for your teaching.
I would also like to acknowledge what Sam said about R.C. Sproul and Ligonier Ministries. I can't think of a better source today for rock solid teaching for ministers, faith leaders and believers that is founded in systematic reformed theology. In this age, I think every reformed church would benefit from a study of R.C.'s classic book on sanctification - Pleasing God.
Man, this is right on target. But I do think that periodically addressing some Du jour issues, particularly with the college age demo that spends a lot of time online, can be profitable.
We joined a CREC church through personal connections and shared interests (homeschooling, Classical Christian education, homesteading, ...). I knew little of their theology and found the liturgy intimidating. Now, a few years and a lot of R. C. Sproul later, I am fully committed to this "niche" view, but I didn't start there.
Classical Christian education and homesteading are pretty niche.
Very good I can't wait to hear more
One point to think of, though: Barna estimates that about 8% of self-identified Christians have a Biblical Worldview. But I definitely don’t think it’s evenly distributed. My guess is the CREC is near 100% (otherwise why would you join?). I would bet PCUSA is more like 5-10% and PCA is about 50% (OPC 60% 🤷?).
I wouldn't agree that the CREC is 100%, but it is definitely high. And I would put PCA much higher than 50%.
Outside of the church who is aware of justification and sanctification? This post shows clearly that we need to share the gospel in clear simple language that everyone understands.
Many Catholic Churches exist that you can join after joining the RCIA course. Never too late to convert!
Repudiate Trent, and we can go from there.