ekklesia-ec

Sermon text: Psalm 103:1–5

Having studied the theological convictions that drove the first American missionaries to the far corners of the globe with the gospel, we turn now to Adoniram Judson and his mission to the pagan people of Burma.  

Having studied Edwards for two weeks, we move now to one of his friends — the young missionary, David Brainerd — and to the decline of the missionary spirit in the 1800s. 

This week, we study a few major points of Jonathan Edwards' theology: His understanding of the "religious affections", his explanation of God's goal in creating the world, and his big God theology. 

Sermon Text: 1 Corinthians 1:10–18 Main Idea: The crucifixion of Christ and baptism in the name of Christ serve the church’s unity. Application Questions: As part of your personal devotions or in your discipleship group, meditate on and discuss what the cross of Christ accomplished. Use the table in the sermon notes to find a list of those accomplishments. If we are truly united with other believers, in what ways are you acting in accord with that reality, or not? What does your baptism signify?  In what ways are you tempted to rebuild the old life of sin and enslavement to the Law that was torn down by the blood of Jesus's cross?

While the Spirit of God moved through Whitefield in England, he was moving powerfully through Jonathan Edwards to revive the church in New England as well. This week, we study the life of Edwards and the impact of the Great Awakening for the church in the 1700s and today.

Tens of thousands of Englishmen — colliers and politicians alike — and thousands more of Georgians and New Englanders flocked to hear an old, true message proclaimed by a faithful preacher. The message was new birth by the Spirit as a result of faith in Christ alone. The preacher was George Whitefield. This week, we study his life and ministry.

The Great Awakening burned out at least some of the moral rot that pervaded England in the 18th century and reinvigorated the church in the New World. But where did that infection come from in the first place? This week, we study the state of affairs that preceded the Great Awakening.

What convictions drove these Puritan pilgrims? What was the theological foundation beneath their unyielding hope, pious living, and ardent zeal? This week, we discuss the Puritans' theological commitment to God's word, covenantal thinking, and hope for the future. 

This week, we discuss the Massachusetts Bay Colony and its early leaders, including John Cotton and John Winthrop.