Salvation knowledge of Jesus is a great place to start, but not to stay. Hebrews 6:1 says, “…let us move beyond the elementary teachings about Christ and be taken forward to maturity…” That is, once we learn the basics about repentance from sins there’s still more to learn. This is what Jesus was getting at in Matthew 28:19-20 when he said that new believers, after being water baptized, need to be taught the Word of God. After you have knowledge of salvation, you need knowledge of how to live the Christian life. In the book of Acts they moved beyond knowledge of salvation, further proclaiming and explaining more adequately the word of the Lord. Here are two examples:
- In Acts 8:25 we read, “After they had further proclaimed the word of the Lord and testified about Jesus, Peter and John returned to Jerusalem…” Philip had preached the salvation message but Peter and John needed to come and give further instructions Christian living.
- In Acts 18:27 we read how Aquila and Priscilla, “…explained to him (Apollos) the way of God more adequately.” Apollos had received instruction in salvation, but further instruction was needed on living the Christian life.
At New Day we will further proclaim the word of the Lord and explain the way of God more adequately through something we’re calling New Day University (coming February 2015). New Day University is a series of four classes intended to orient new believers to the Christian faith.
- In Discover 101 you’ll discover our story, our mission and our strategy. I (Mike) will teach this class. It will take place on the first Sunday of every month.
- In Explore 201 you’ll explore three core disciplines that result in spiritual growth: Bible reading, prayer and giving. Andrew, our Executive Pastor will be teaching this class. It will take place on the second Sunday of every month.
- In Connect 301 you’ll learn how to connect deeper in the life of our church through relationship (by joining a growth group) and responsibility (by serving). Peter, our associate pastor, will be teaching this class. It will take place on the third Sunday of every month.
- In Share 401 you’ll learn how to effectively share your faith with family and friends. Tracey, our family ministries pastor will be teaching this class. It will take place on the fourth Sunday of every month.