COVENANTER

Today we’re exploring what it means to be both confessional and covenantal. To be confessional is to adhere to a historic Confession of Faith—specifically, the Westminster Confession—and to publicly declare our beliefs through Scripture, creeds, and catechisms. To be covenantal is to understand the Bible as a story primarily governed by covenants, principally the Covenant of Works (which Adam failed to keep) and the Covenant of Grace (which Christ perfectly fulfilled).

This week, we’ll discuss the term “Reformed Tradition,” which is a biblical, historic, and orthodox expression of the Christian faith that emphasizes God’s sovereignty, the authority of Scripture, and the centrality of the Church in His redemptive plan. Rooted in the Protestant Reformation of the 16th century, it draws from the teachings of early church fathers and sees itself as a recovery of biblical doctrine.

We Christians, especially in Reformed and Presbyterian circles, often use familiar church language without realizing how unfamiliar it may sound to others. Over the next few weeks, we’re going to pause and define some of our “Christianese” to clear up any confusion. We begin with the term “Redemptive History,” which describes God’s intentional plan to save His people, unfolding through real events in human history that fulfill His purpose in Christ. This grand narrative offers believers deep assurance, reminding us that every moment in history is part of God’s redemptive work for His glory and our salvation.

When hardship strikes, how do you respond? Do you turn inward, backward, outward—or upward to the Lord? In the darkest moments of His life, Jesus sang—and His song leads us in how we, too, can respond to suffering with praise.

Many played a role in Jesus’ crucifixion, but the blame ultimately rests with each of us. The 17th-century Dutch theologian Jacob Revius captured this sobering truth in his poem He Bore Our Griefs, turning the spotlight from Roman soldiers and Jewish crowds to his own guilt—and ours. His words remind us that it was not merely their sin, but ours, that nailed Jesus to the cross. Yet, Jesus willingly died for us because He loves us with an everlasting love.

We all know what a fair-weather friend is—someone who stays close when life is easy but disappears when hardship comes. Unfortunately, some have experienced not just fair-weather friends but also fair-weather family—relatives who support and encourage them only until they choose to follow Christ. Yet, Scripture assures us that true friendship is not broken by adversity. The ultimate example of this is Jesus, the friend who never forsakes us, even in our darkest moments.

Have you considered who your true king is? Is it Jesus, or like Israel in the Old Testament, have you rejected His kingship for the sake of autonomy? In reality, true autonomy is a myth; everyone serves something, and we must reflect on where our time, energy, money, and emotions are directed to determine who or what we truly worship. By examining our lives, we can identify our idols and be challenged to devote ourselves fully to Jesus, the only one worthy of our complete worship and service.

First-century Christians demonstrated a remarkable commitment to and love for one another, transcending natural differences like geography and ethnicity. Paul emphasized mutual encouragement and financial support among churches. This global unity in faith is a call for modern Christians to think and act with a broader perspective, praying for and supporting churches worldwide, reflecting the unity Jesus prayed for.

Scripture teaches that all things, including all people, were created by God and are upheld by His power. Even those who deny God's existence rely on Him for their very ability to do so. Recognizing that everyone bears God's image, Christians are called to appreciate the inherent dignity and worth of all people, including even those who oppose or reject God.

Scripture emphasizes God's abundant provision and concern for each of His creatures. Despite the vast number of animals that fill the earth, the Bible reveals that God’s love for humans surpasses His love for animals, as seen in His provision and sacrificial love through Jesus Christ. Every animal, from the largest elephant to the smallest sparrow, serves as a reminder of God's greater love and redemption for humanity, His treasured creation.

Scientists estimate the universe contains between two hundred billion and two trillion galaxies, each with about one hundred billion stars, meaning each person on Earth could claim twenty-five quadrillion stars. Remarkably, the same God who created and sustains all these stars loves us so much that He gave His only Son to die for our sins, a love far more awe-inspiring than the vastness of the universe.

Mountains serve as powerful illustrations of many biblical truths. Just as mountains provide refuge, elevation, and an immovable presence, so too does God's Word offer unshakable promises and protection. Despite the powerful imagery of mountains, Scripture reminds us that God's steadfastness surpasses even the mightiest natural formations. While mountains may shift, God's promises and presence remain unshakeable and eternal, offering believers unparalleled security and comfort.