Kerux

A Calvin Theological Seminary Publication by Students & Alumni

Kerux

What is Creation? Part I

According to the Oxford dictionary, creation is the action or process that brings something into existence. But what does this mean for Christians for the doctrine of creation? In this first part, I will share my thoughts on the doctrine of creation – what it is and what it is … ∞

BAPTISM: GOD’S WORK IN US

I came upon this devotional published by Nathan Nass on a page (Upside Down Savior: https://upsidedownsavior.home.blog/2023/09/19/baptism-gods-work-in-us) when looking for devotionals. The devotional expresses the idea of baptism as a sacrament – (God working in us rather than we working our salvation by ourselves). I felt compelled to publish it on … ∞

Do you have a hero?

Growing up I remember being asked the question: “Who is your hero”, and we would beasked to draw a picture. Two strange things came from that: my immaculate fridge artdid a disappearing act, and I don’t know where it went. I’m sure it’s somewhere special,and the second strange thing is … ∞

No Montages Allowed

         I can’t see. I feel my heart beat in my jaw. It’s hard to breathe. My mind races, trying to put clues together from what I had seen earlier. A deafening yell interrupts my thoughts, “Deal with the situation!” Suddenly, everything is bright; the bag has been pulled off … ∞

THE CHURCH AND HYMNS

Hymns and the church have a rich history that goes back many centuries. Hymns are an important component of worship services in churches all around the world. The church uses hymns for a number of significant purposes. Here are some main explanations for why hymns are respected and used in … ∞

“Is that a want, or a need?”

I remember having many conversations with my parents growing up. I would frequentlyhave desires and wants growing up: from wanting to get McDonalds, to wanting a toyfrom the local dollar store. I always framed these wants as something I “needed”.Clearly, there is a stark contrast between the meaning of one … ∞

Books & The Book

A basic, forgetful object so many overlook. Filled with old trees, tar, old bones, and pitch, formed together to make words, to convey a message, sometimes worth reading, sometimes not. The covers, some beautiful, some repulsive, all purposeful. Pages filled with words and pictures, jokes and stories, songs of the … ∞

Balancing Act

There is a difference between balancing school and work for some of us who have families or already work in ministerial or other positions; there can be a disconnect between these areas of our lives if we do not tend to each other equally. This is something I learned the … ∞

Proverbs: Smart Wisdom

Hey there! It’s great to be back at it writing for Kerux once again. Over the course of lastsummer I endeavored to start a podcast with the goal of bringing dead churches back tolife. One of the series I’ve been writing for has been on the need for true wisdom … ∞

IS GRACE OPPOSED TO DISCIPLINE?

Introduction Before we can consider whether grace and discipline are incompatible, we must first define the terms. Grace is a beautiful word that implies generosity, favor, and friendliness. “For it is by grace you have been saved through faith, and this is not from yourselves; it is the gift of … ∞

Forgiveness

Who is forgiveness really for? Is it for the sinner or the wounded? I have been contemplating this a lot lately as I deal with my personal grief over losing a parent. Also, the feelings of resentment and other feelings that are kept bottled up inside Is the act of … ∞

New Beginnings, Old Calvinists: The Importance of looking to Christians of the past to prepare ourselves for our future.

As you embark on your journey this year in seminary, whether its your first year or (like me) your last, you’re standing at the threshold of a new chapter in your life. The decision to pursue theological education is a significant one, filled with excitement, anticipation, and perhaps a touch … ∞