Explore the Faith! A Glossary of Christian Words, Beliefs and Practices: A Christian Response to America’s Mental Health Crisis, #5

By Roger Ball

Explore the Christian Faith! Learn the Facts!

The idea behind this glossary is that you don't look up words and ideas you've never heard before. This handy guide was designed to introduce new believers, or curious explorers, to the common words, practices and beliefs of the Christian faith. Made for casual browsing, the entries are brief, straightforward and easy to understand—perfect for inquiring minds.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Roger Ball
• Release date: Feb 14, 2024
• ISBN: 9798224348213

Roger Ball

Roger Ball is a Reformed Christian writer who lives on the Florida Spacecoast. He writes on Christian theology, apologetics, psychology and worldview.

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Explore the Faith! A Glossary of Christian Words, Beliefs and Practices

Roger Ball

© 2021 by Roger Ball

ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

Scripture quotations are from The ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

INTRODUCTION

If you are a new Christian believer, allow me to welcome you to your new life in Christ. There are a million things to learn. I pray this eBook will help you on your journey. The idea behind this glossary is that you don't look up words, practices, or beliefs you've never heard before. Designed for casual browsing, the definitions are brief and limited; they are by no means exhaustive. Further study is recommended for a more in-depth understanding.

RECOMMENDED REFERENCES FOR FURTHER STUDY

It might sound strange but I highly recommend Wikipedia. Despite what you may have heard, when it comes to Christian beliefs and practices, Wikipedia is very accurate. It is an excellent resource for further study and the reference section of most entries contains some of the most extensive listings you’ll find anywhere. Other websites I would recommend include: www.gotquestions.org, www.reformedanswers.org, and www.monergism.com.

I would also highly recommend, The Westminster Confession of Faith. This resource is a formal compilation of the best doctrinal beliefs and practices held during the Protestant Reformation. Many churches use this confession, or adaptations, to establish orthodox teaching and practice within the church. Definitely worth checking out! Try to find one that lists the Scripture references that were used to formulate each confessional statement. There are several free downloadable copies available online.

There are also many excellent Christian reference books available, such as The Westminster Dictionary of Theological Terms, and the Evangelical Dictionary of Theology (Elwell’s).

Also, if you are looking for sound teaching to get you started in biblical studies, I highly recommend Ligonier Ministries. This is the teaching ministry of the late Dr. R.C. Sproul. In addition to the Renewing Your Mind daily radio broadcast, this ministry has created a first-rate audio series for new or young believers titled, From Dust to Glory. This series provides an overview of both the Old and New Testaments and is specifically designed for Christians making their maiden voyage through the Bible. I know of no better resource for any Christian wanting to learn the contents of the Bible for the first time.

PLEASE NOTE

There are three main branches of the Christian faith: Protestantism, Roman Catholicism, and Eastern Orthodoxy. The words, practices, and beliefs covered in this book include those of Protestant Christianity. The rites and traditions of Roman Catholicism and Eastern Orthodoxy are not included except where they may overlap. I have also taken the liberty to include some of the more common false teachings and heretical positions within today’s church. I decided to include them because you will probably hear these terms with some frequency.

A

Adoption

The act of God’s grace by which we become sons and heirs through the redeeming work of Jesus Christ.

Alms

Greek, mercy. Any offering, charity, or gift given to the poor or church ministry.

Admonition

A