In one of my recent pastoral reports to the session, I took a step beyond the typical updates and chose to share something a bit more personal. I described myself as a dogmatic Christian, not to set myself apart, but rather to foster a deeper understanding of who I am as your pastor. I recognize that no two pastors are exactly alike; each brings a unique perspective, and I am aware that people’s experiences with pastors can be quite varied. By sharing this part of my identity, I hoped to offer you some insight into my own approach to ministry and faith.
For this month’s messenger, I would like to take a moment to explain more fully to everyone what I mean when I describe myself this way. My intention is to clarify the perspective I bring to my pastoral work so that you can better understand the principles that guide me and, in turn, know what to expect from your experience with me as your pastor.
Before I go any further, I want to clarify what I mean when I use the word “dogmatic.” This term can carry two very different connotations. In our culture, one meaning of “dogmatic” is often viewed negatively, referring to someone who is rigid, stubborn, or unwilling to listen to others. However, there is also a positive meaning, which is the one I intend here.
In its positive sense, being dogmatic means standing firmly on the principles of God’s Word. When I use this term to describe myself, I am emphasizing my commitment to holding fast to biblical truths and allowing them to guide my ministry. This kind of dogmatism is not about being inflexible or closed-minded; rather, it is about steadfastness in faith and a clear dedication to letting scriptural principles shape my actions and decisions.
Some may sum up this approach with a single word: “stick-to itiveness.” It reflects a resolve to remain true to core beliefs and values, even when faced with challenges or differing opinions. My intention in describing myself this way is to assure you that my ministry is rooted in a deep and unwavering faith, grounded in the teachings of God’s Word.
In Christianity, dogma refers to the essential body of biblical doctrines that are declared by the church and accepted by those who follow Christ. These foundational teachings are delivered from the pulpit, taught by Christian leaders, and received by the community of believers. To be considered orthodox, Christian dogma must always align with the teaching of God’s Word.
As a church, we participate together in these central expressions of our faith. We do so when we read scripture as one body, when we join our voices in the Lord’s Prayer, when we partake in communion and recite the Apostles Creed honoring the life, death, and resurrection of the Lord Jesus Christ. Through these corporate practices, we reaffirm our shared commitment to the core convictions that define the Christian tradition.
There are, as you well know, three fundamental dogmas that every Christian is taught and must hold fast to. These central truths set Christianity apart from every other belief system. First, we confess the deity of Christ, as affirmed in John 1:1 and 1:14. Second, we uphold Christ’s substitutionary death and resurrection, as proclaimed in 2 Corinthians 5:21. Third, we trust in salvation from sin by grace through faith alone, as set forth in Ephesians 2:8-9. It is important to recognize that all other religious traditions teach that salvation is attained or preserved by means of human effort; by contrast, the Christian faith rests solely on the grace of God.
God’s Word teaches us that as we draw nearer to the last days, deception will become increasingly prevalent. The distinction between truth and error will often be so subtle that discerning when the foundational dogmas of God’s inerrant Word are being compromised can be quite challenging.
We live in times when contradictions to Christian doctrine can slip by unnoticed. This occurs because these concepts are frequently, although unintentionally, developed with great care and tend to mirror human insight.
Two prominent examples of beliefs that challenge the central teachings of Christianity are “Gnosticism” and the modern concept of “manifesting.” Both perspectives place a strong emphasis on human knowledge and the pursuit of unlocking one’s inner divinity. Instead of relying on Christ and the salvation offered through Him, these belief systems promote the idea of self-salvation—replacing dependence on God with trust in one’s own understanding and abilities.
Such approaches ultimately divert our focus from the foundational doctrines of the Christian faith. By elevating personal enlightenment and self-empowerment over the redemptive work of Christ, they undermine the core truth that salvation is found in Christ alone, not through our own efforts or wisdom. While these philosophies may seem appealing or sensible, it is important to recognize that they originate solely from human reasoning and not from the teachings of Christ.
Despite their widespread popularity today, these notions directly oppose the core dogmas of Christ’s teaching. Their subtlety and apparent wisdom can make them difficult to identify, yet they stand in stark contrast to the foundational truths upon which the Christian faith is built. As we encounter these ideas, it is crucial to remain discerning and steadfast, ensuring that our beliefs are anchored in the Word of God rather than human invention.
It is always my hope that, whenever you encounter someone interpreting these foundational beliefs through the lens of a different religious perspective or relying on human wisdom, you will understand my motivation for offering gentle correction. My intention is never to be demanding, but rather to lovingly redirect our focus to the pure Word of God, leading us away from ideas rooted in human reasoning. In everything, my prayer is that our faith would remain rooted and grounded in the truth of Scripture and that our unity would be strengthened as we hold firmly to these foundational doctrines. (Ephesians 3:16-19)
Love in Christ,
Pastor John
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“We love because he first loved us” (1 John 4:19, NIV). This month, let’s share God’s love in simple ways — a kind note, a prayer, a helping hand. Look for ways to bless someone around you!
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The Look Of Love
What does love look like? It has the hands to help others. It has the feet to hasten to the poor and needy. It has eyes to see misery and want. It has the ears to hear the sighs and sorrows of men. That is what love looks like.
—St. Augustine
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ANNOUNCEMENTS
Bible Study Wednesday Evenings – 6pm in the Community Building
Choir Practice – Thursday’s at 1pm
You may reach Pastor John at #607-651-4760 or at his.ship@gmail.com
Monday, February 2nd – Groundhog Day
Thursday, February 12th – Presbyterian Women Meeting – 11am Thursday, February 12th– Session Meeting – 6pm Saturday, February 14th – Happy Valentine's Day! Sunday, February 15th – Barnes Kasson Service – 3pm Monday, February 16th – President's Day Wednesday, February 18th – Ash Wednesday Wednesday, February 18th – Men's Breakfast – 8am Tuesday, February 24th – Newsletter Deadline
E-Mail Carolyn White with any praises, joys, or prayer requests (whisperpines@frontiernet.net) throughout the week.
Our church is currently seeking a new treasurer, as Julie has expressed her desire to step away, when a replacement is available. Any interested persons should inform Pastor John or a Session member.