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an invitation from God through a group of Christians to carry out in their name and on their behalf a portion of the work God has given the church to do.

an adjective describing one who has received an invitation from God through a group of Christians to carry out in their name and on their behalf a portion of the work God has given the church to do.

an individual who has received and accepted an invitation from God through a group of Christians to carry out in their name and on their behalf a portion of the work God has given the church to do.

the developed teachings or theological system of the reformer John Calvin (1509-1564) as presented in the various Reformed confessions of the 16th and 17th centuries and briefly summarized with the acrostic T.U.L.I.P ? Total depravity, Unconditional election, Limited atonement, Irresistible grace, Perseverance of the saints.

the area around the altar in a church building from which the presiding minister leads the worship service. The chancel is also called the sanctuary or apse.

a movement arising in the mid 20th century that emphasizes the experience of the so-called Baptism in the Holy Spirit and consequent charismatic gifts like speaking in tongues, faith-healing, and prophesying. This movement is separate from Pentecostalism in that it has arisen in the form of small groups within non-pentecostal churches. (see Pentecostalism)

the imposition of pain or penalty for the purpose of improving or correcting. The pain and problems that Christians suffer in this life serve as chastisement from God. They remind us of our sins and frailties, and our dependence on God for everything.

the truth that the teachings of Scripture are accessible to every reader or hearer of average intelligence. Although there are some things in the Bible that are difficult to understand (2 Peter 3:16), the basic message of Scripture is clear enough to make the simple wise (Psalm 19:7) and to enlighten our sinful minds (2 Peter 1:19).

the scriptural practice of inviting to partake of the Lords’ Supper with only  those who are communicant members of churches that are one with us in all that we teach and believe (1 Corinthians 10:17, Romans 16:17, 2 John 10-11, 1 Corinthians 11:27-29).

a formal prayer used in a worship service. The collect follows this pattern: (1) the addressing of God, (2) an attribute of God or the basis for approaching God, (3) the petition or request, (4) the reason for the petition, (5) the doxology or expression of praise to God.