The Fall Season is upon us. The time when students are returning to school and to their studies. Much has changed and continues to change in our world, and for some that now even includes their theology.
The word "theology" comes from two Greek words that combined mean "the study of God." Christian theology is simply an attempt to understand God as He is revealed in the Bible. When we do this, we come to know Him as Saviour, Lord, Creator of all things, Sustainer of all things, and Judge of all things. He is the Alpha and Omega, the beginning and end of all things. Proper, biblical theology is a good thing; it is the teaching of God's Word.
All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right. God uses it to prepare and equip his people to do every good work.
— 2 Timothy 3:16-17 (NLT)
To study theology is to meet and know God, so we may glorify Him through our love and obedience. As a by-product, our lives are immeasurably enriched by the comfort and hope He imparts to those who know, love, and obey Him. Poor theology and a superficial, inaccurate understanding of God will only make our lives worse instead of bringing the comfort and hope we long for. Knowing God is crucially important.
We are cruel to ourselves if we try to live in this world without knowing God. Reject theology and you doom yourself to life with no sense of direction. Without theology, we waste our lives and lose our souls. All Christians should be consumed with theology "the intense, personal study of God" in order to know, love, and obey the One with whom we will joyfully spend eternity.
So we encourage you to avail yourselves of all the online ministries we are offering this Fall for children, youth, young adults and adults in your pursuit of the biblical study of God.
Join us this Sunday for a new message series: Time To Return. As much changes in our world, our theology cannot. A recent survey indicated that Christians are drifting in their theology. It’s time to return to our study of God as He is revealed in the Bible, our only trustworthy source of understanding who God is and our call to serve Him. We will address the theological question of whether Jesus was just a man, a myth or truly the Messiah in my message, Who do you say I am? and then celebrate the truth by sharing Communion together. We look forward to your presence with us in person or online!
Every Blessing,
Pastor Barry Risto
Lead Pastor