Christianese 101: A Lexicon for New Believers

By David S. Smith

The lexicon of the church is confusing to those who are not a part of the culture. Given the great commission and our call to "make disciples" (Matt 28), I have thought a lot about how to explain some of the terms long time church attenders are very familiar with in a way that invites new believers into the conversation that has been going on for centuries.

This devotional includes definitions of words often used in Scripture and church culture. All of the definitions are taken from the online version of Miriam-Webster's dictionary or dictionary.com. The explanations are shared for further understanding of context in Scripture and culture. The goal is to ensure what is common for some is understood by all.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Resource Publications
• Release date: May 4, 2018
• ISBN: 9781532648540

David S. Smith

David S. Smith. The Bronze Butterfly is Davids first novel. It explores a series of events that turn the world on its head and perhaps reverse history in a way that some may feel is uncomfortable. The story is observed throughout the world under the close scrutiny of the television camera. The final outcome is for you to decide but the journey is fun. This is Davids third book and follows his collection of 60 short stories, The Stonnall Brigade and his first book Lily that is an account of his mothers life growing up in Birmingham from the First World War to the end of the second. His varied career has included marketing regional newspapers, running a theatre ticketing agency, a computer company and fashion magazines. He went on to launch his own advertising and marketing business before entering into the world of politics becoming Leader of Lichfield District Council and later Council Chairman. He was responsible for the construction and development of the Lichfield Garrick Theatre and made a significant contribution to the economic development of the district. David received an honorary doctorate from the University of Staffordshire in 2006. He also played a major role both regionally and nationally when he was Chairman of the West Midlands Regional Assembly. As a member of Staffordshire County Council his major interests are in Regional Development and the environment. David is married with a son and a daughter and has five grandchildren.

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Introduction

The lexicon of the church is confusing to those that are not a part of the culture. Given the great commission and our call to make disciples. . . (Matt. 28), I have thought a lot about how to explain some of the terms long time church attenders are very familiar with in a way that invites new believers into the conversation that has been going on for centuries.

This devotional includes definitions of words often used in scripture and church culture. All of the definitions are taken from the online version of Miriam-Webster’s dictionary or dictionary.com. The explanations are shared for further understanding of context in scripture and culture. The goal is to ensure what is common for some is understood by all.

A friend of mine once said the creation of culture begins with a common language. The culture of Christianity is one wrought with history and tradition. Given the number of conversions occurring around the world daily, I believe it is important to introduce everyone to the words that mean so much to our faith. Consider this work that introductory resource, one that will assist you in your journey towards a closer walk with God.

Welcome to the conversation!

Saved

To rescue from harm, danger, or loss; To set free from the consequences of sin; redeem; To keep in a safe or healthy condition:

Saved. It is another term for being born again. There are layers to this term, however. It can be used in all tenses; past present and future.

In the past tense, the word Saved means that God provided a way for you to be free from the consequences of sin. It means you have access to relationship with God through Christ because of the Cross. Once you are born again (see ‘Born Again’).

In the present tense, this word means God, through the work of the Holy Spirit, is constantly doing the work of saving you from one thing or another. The bible speaks of the work of the spirit like this:

When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth, for he will not speak on his own authority, but whatever he hears he will speak, and he will declare to you the things that are to come. (John 16:13)

The future tense of this word is eschatological. That just means it refers to the end times. When we die, the bible speaks of places where our souls will live forever. The person that is born again will live in heaven with God. The person that does not accept the sacrifice of Christ, will spend eternity separated from God.

The significance of this word is paramount. Whether referred to in the past, present or future, there is a need for understanding and acceptance of the meaning of the word and work done to make that meaning available to believers in Christ.

Prayer: Lord, thank you for saving me. Thank you for making a way for me to be free from the consequences of