Why is the cross a Christian symbol? The cross was a means of capital punishment by the Roman Empire. Jesus was put to death on a cross, where He bore the punishment for our sins. For the people of Jesus’ day it was a symbol of condemnation and death. Because Jesus condemned and died in … [Read more…]
What is the symbol Chi Rho? Chi C and Rho R are the first two letter in the Greek word Christ Crivstos. Christ means “anointed one.” The Hebrew for anointed is Messiah. This symbol reminds us that Jesus is the promised Messiah, the one God sent to save us. Why do we have this symbol … [Read more…]
What is the symbol INRI? The letters are the first letters of the Latin accusation written and placed over Jesus when He was crucified. They were written in Aramaic, Greek, and Latin. The Latin is “Iesus Nazarenus Rex Iudaeorum” which means “Jesus of Nazareth King of the Jews.” Why do we have this symbol in … [Read more…]
What is a funeral? A funeral is a burial service, often taking place in the sanctuary, then in the cemetery. Christian funerals are the laying to rest of a loved one, awaiting the resurrection of the dead. Why do we have funerals in Church? Death is a result of sin in the world. Jesus died … [Read more…]
What is Marriage? Marriage is the uniting of one man and one woman by God, making them one flesh. Marriage is defined by the marriage covenant of salvation between Christ and the Church (see Ephesians 5:21-33) Why do we have weddings in Church? God instituted marriage and He unites man and wife in the wedding … [Read more…]
Why do we have an Order of Baptism in our hymnal? One of the great gifts God has given His Church is the gift of Baptism. Jesus instituted Baptism during His earthly ministry for our welfare. He placed the blessings of His death and resurrection in Baptism. The Order of Baptism in our worship reminds … [Read more…]
From the Word “But He was wounded for our transgressions; He was crushed for our iniquities; upon Him was the chastisement that brought us peace, and with His stripes we are healed.” Isaiah 53:5 We don’t like to admit that there are things we can’t do. Human nature calls us to brag about the things … [Read more…]
From the Word “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! According to His great mercy, He has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead” 1 Peter 1:3 What a journey! We have been to the manger and the … [Read more…]
Why and when do we have white paraments? White is the color of purity, holiness, and virtue. These are all attributes of God, and the gift God gives His holy people by grace through faith in Jesus. Jesus purifies His people by taking our sins on the cross and dressing us in His righteousness. The … [Read more…]
What is Easter? Easter is the celebration of the resurrection of Jesus from the dead. Christians celebrate Jesus’ victory over death. Every Sunday is a celebration of the resurrection of Jesus, but Easter is the day of the church year when we celebrate it in all its fullness. What does it mean to our worship? … [Read more…]