– New Apostolic Church International

1628 Results for articles of faith

New ideas and developments

22.05.2026

… The Chief Apostle specifically addressed the Tenth Article of Faith, which accepts the authority of the state as long as it does not contradict any divine commandments. …

… include all those who seek to exercise power in the name of Jesus, who religiously justify violence and war, who prioritise wealth over salvation, who condemn and exclude people, and who profit from faith …

Closeup image of globe and wooden cubes with wifi icon. Internet and global network concept

One faith, many voices

11.05.2026

… Argentina, Croatia, the Philippines: the first reports on the news channel come from these countries—at least at the time the article was written. Next up are […] …

… One faith, many voices …

New creation rather than calling it a day

17.11.2025

… The Ninth Article of Faith speaks of a future in which God will dwell among people—and that wounded histories will not simply be erased but healed. …

Spotlight 09/2025: Out of love and for the Lord

17.06.2025

… The return of Christ return is the goal of our faith. It lives in our hearts, and we are preparing for it. Our annual […] …

… In his article on our annual motto, District Apostle Michael Ehrich (Southern Germany) gives two or three good reasons. New Apostolic Christians are forward-looking. …

In the picture (1): Testifying with the camera

15.07.2024

… Here is the first article of a series. …

… They can also picture and testify of faith. But, please, no cameras in divine services! But why not? Maybe we should have them, but then with the corresponding know-how. …

Spotlight 6/2023: Powerful words, strong faith

17.04.2023

… Faith, boldness, discipleship, loyalty, truthfulness, and love. These are the key words that District Apostle Kububa Soko from Zambia associates with our 2023 motto. …

… In his Spotlight article he explains what exactly this means for our everyday life. …

… Spotlight 6/2023: Powerful words, strong faith …

The sacraments (66): Here and there in a good dozen articles

01.11.2022

… Sacraments for the dead, this is a special feature of our New Apostolic faith. This is an aspect in our sacrament series that we could not have done without. …

… In fourteen articles we examined the doctrine, how it is practised, and explored its history. In conclusion, here is an overview. …

… The sacraments (66): Here and there in a good dozen articles …

July 29, 2020: Thoughts on the Bible text

29.07.2020

… Let us hold fast to the original teaching and the Articles of Faith which express the gospel and the nature of Christ in a binding way! …

June 17, 2020: Thoughts on the Bible text

17.06.2020

… This is our shared New Apostolic faith. …

… Our faith is based solely on Jesus Christ At times, brothers and sisters can favour certain ministers and direct their faith towards them. …

… Differences and commonalities Our shared confession of faith, as expressed in the Ten Articles of Faith, helps us to promote unity within the congregation and not to stumble over things that are of a secondary …

nacworld.net — reading what you want

11.09.2018

… The articles provide information about District Churches all around the globe, from Germany to Japan, as well as the homepage of the New Apostolic Church International and the International Youth Convention …

… Since 2008, Church members, along with Christians from other denominations, have been exchanging thoughts on their faith and daily lives. …

Stammapostel Jean-Luc Schneider feiert den...

Pentecost 2017 in Vienna: An appeal for greater enthusiasm

05.06.2017

… Rather, it is a question of explaining to our children and young people that their faith will help them become inwardly strong. “Preaching and lots of talking will not suffice. …

… You can read more articles on Pentecost on the website of the New Apostolic Church magazine nac.today. …

community is online: issue 2016/04

01.10.2016

… Promoting faith And it is only by learning more about this doctrine that knowledge can be deepened and that the faith of the New Apostolic Christian can be strengthened. …

… The articles of ‘community’ are translated into several dozen languages, and the various language editions are then distributed to all continents. …

… The textbook on faith offers many answers and fulfils various needs. …

Retirements and ordinations in East Africa

24.04.2015

… A total of 33 Apostles and approximately 17,500 other ministers work in this region de/news/news-display/article/18968/ . …

… The current Church leader thanked him with all his heart for the long years in which he had served the Lord and the souls entrusted to his care in love and faithfulness, and went on to wish him a richly …

New Apostles for the District Church of Zambia

27.01.2015

… You can also read our detailed articles on the following websites: » New Apostolic Church Cape » nac.today …

… The New Apostolic Church is well represented in Zambia: approximately one fifth of all Christians in this gigantic country in Southern Africa profess the New Apostolic faith. …

Media offer 2015: nac.today, THE news magazine (Part 3 of 7)

18.12.2014

… Organization and faith The news magazine of NACI is divided into five categories: organization, faith, society, panorama, and history. …

… What’s more, messages on new articles also appear on Facebook and twitter. …

… The category “Faith” will focus on the content of divine services, on doctrinal statements, and on ways how our doctrine can be conveyed. …

Mit Liebe ans Werk - das neue Leitwort für 2014! (Grafik: NAK NRW)

“Labour in love!” – The new motto for 2014

02.01.2014

… Faith in Jesus Christ is exhibited through works produced by love, said the Church leader. …

… Schneider based his divine service on the same Bible text from Galatians 6: 2 that he had already released to all District Apostles around the world weeks before, on which he had also written a detailed article …

… Chief Apostle Schneider: “Our neighbours are also those who do not share our faith.” …

No summer lull at nacworld: new functions, increased convenience, and exciting doctrinal topics

06.08.2013

… Anyone can now access the Catechism at nacworld.net/catechism, read its contents, and even use the contents in nacworld articles. …

… With a single click, nacworld members can access the homepage or navigate quickly to the member page, group page, articles section, chat room, or news page. …

… Nacworld news is structured into five different areas: International news Regional news News related to charity News concerning faith and doctrine News about miscellaneous topics Five days after the …

Anniversary brochure “One faith—One goal. 150 Years New Apostolic Church”

Commemorative publication marking the 150-year anniversary of the New Apostolic Church

15.07.2013

… “It can be attributed to the courage of witnesses of faith, both past and present, that such a Church has developed, which is today represented all around the world. …

… In an article entitled “Unity in doctrine, diversity in life”, Chief Apostle Wilhelm Leber and the then Chief Apostle Helper Jean-Luc Schneider answered the questions of the brochure’s editors. …

… This is and remains our goal of faith,” writes the Chief Apostle in conclusion. …

Pentecost 2012: A meeting of Apostles

26.05.2012

… I seek to conscientiously live my New Apostolic faith without arrogance. …

… His summary: “I stand for a New Apostolic faith without complexes or arrogance.” …

… Please also read our article on the OF-Online website and the website of the New Apostolic Church North Rhine-Westphalia . …

So sah in 2010 der Layoutvorschlag für den Katechismus aus (Foto: NAKI)

Work on the content of the Catechism is complete

17.03.2012

… This final consultation meeting was also attended by members from the project group The New Apostolic Faith (PG TNF). …

… Written in faith for believing people Since the New Apostolic Church is represented in nearly all countries of the world and still teaches a uniform doctrine, it has become necessary to publish a uniform …

… This was followed by some published articles on our understanding of church and the sacraments. …

Topic of the autumn District Apostle Meeting: “Burnout is a chameleon”

05.10.2011

… All festivities in the anniversary year will occur under the motto “One Spirit – One faith”. Other events are currently still in the planning stages. …

… The District Apostles provided the following reasoning: From the perspective of our faith, man has been created in the image of God and is part of both the visible and the invisible creation. …

… Further information articles are planned for the congregations on this topic. …

Part 1 of the church concept as an article in “Our Family”

New Apostolic Church publishes new church concept

01.03.2011

… Part one in a series of articles on the new church concept has in the meantime also been published at Our Family-Online . …

… The purpose and function of the New Apostolic doctrine of faith are derived from its goal. …

… Introduction by way of articles and seminars The ministers of the New Apostolic Church have received the new church concept in a Special Edition of the “Divine Service Guide”. …

Das Auftakt-Einführungsseminar fand in Lehrte statt

Training for the New Apostolic Catechism has begun

26.01.2011

… Updated doctrinal topics in particular will be published in articles of the Church magazine “Our Family”, as well as in Special Editions of the “Divine Service Guide” for ministers and on the Church’s …

… The Chief Apostle goes on to express his wish that as many members as possible may recognise the significance of this work and utilise it to promote and enrich their faith. …

Members of the project group Ecumenism: apostle Rolf Wosnitzka, bishop Paul Imhof, apostle Volker Kuehnle, bishop Hanspeter Nydegger (until 2008) and district elder Peter Johanning (Photo: NAKI)

The New Apostolic Church and ecumenism

16.11.2010

… An article published in our May 2001 edition of “Our Family” already dealt with this subject: The New Apostolic Church and ecumenism. …

… In this ecumenical dialogue we, as the New Apostolic Church, introduce our conviction of faith that Christ will return as our bridegroom, a conviction which has largely retreated into the background in …

Der diesjährige Gottesdienst für Amtsträger wurde mit erweiterter Liturgie gefeiert

Divine service for European ministers 2010: Serving means making yourself available to the Lord!

13.09.2010

… In his sermon the Church leader explained how important it is that all ministrations and works in the house of God be defined by love and faith. …

… Using a Bible text from Revelation 2: 19, he pointed to a particular progression that had struck him as he studied the text: “I know your works, love, service, faith, and your patience; and as for your …

… Serving the Lord implies making ourselves available to Him out of love and faith. The idea of doing “greater works” is to be understood more in qualitative terms, said the Chief Apostle. …

So könnte er aussehen, der neue Katechismus der Neuapostolischen Kirche (Foto: NAKI)

Catechism of the New Apostolic Church to be completed shortly

08.06.2010

… “I encourage everyone to engage in conversation about our doctrine and in faith-based dialogue. In the process there will certainly be various opinions and interpretations. …

… Beyond that, the “Our Family” Church magazine will further explain and expand upon the Articles of Faith and other subject matter from the Catechism starting in August 2010. …

The creed of the New Apostolic Church has been revised

06.06.2010

… The Fifth Article of Faith summarises our doctrinal understanding with regard to the other ministries. The Sixth Article of Faith presents our new understanding of Holy Baptism with water. …

… The basic structure of the Articles of Faith remains unchanged however. …

… The Ninth Article of Faith explains the future hope of New Apostolic Christians in greater detail. …

This letter contains the earliest evidence that Cardale was accepted as Apostle in Irving's congregation

175 Years Ago: The Call of John Bate Cardale and the Contemporary Idea of Apostleship

21.12.2007

… Here the Work Group “History of the New Apostolic Church” (HNC) presents a study on which the article is based. …

… To commemorate this event, an article has been published in the German edition of our church periodical “Our Family” of 20 December 2007, entitled “175 Years Ago: The First Apostle in the Time of Perfection …

… We arrive at a conclusion in which we see the events described as part of that plan of salvation and believe that God made use of faithful men and guided their thoughts as people of their own age in such …

Apostles’ Council 1851: No Agreement to Restore the Twelvefold Unity of Apostles

22.08.2007

… In the previous article of this series we have looked at Apostle Carlyle’s views of the work to be done by apostles in the future. …

… On 4 April 1851 he lectured to the faithful at Buchwaeldchen (Silesia) on these hopes, but also utters his concern regarding the state the work of apostles has reached. …

Funeral for Bishop Kenneth Speranza

06.03.2007

… In this connection the Chief Apostle admonished the congregation to stand strong in oneness of faith and serve each other as the Lord Jesus did when he washed the feet of His disciples. …

… your conduct be worthy of the gospel of Christ, so that whether I come and see you or am absent, I may hear of your affairs, that you stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith …

… Please, read our article on the website of the NAC USA . …

Conversation Cafe - Building Relationships

19.02.2007

… Catharines, Ontario a new initiative has been implemented to introduce the new apostolic faith to the Chinese community. …

… Also read our article on the website of the NAC Canada . …

“Setting the course for the future of the Church”

01.12.2006

… Now and again the question arises as to whether homosexuals are also able to reach the goal of our faith. What are your thoughts on this? …

… Therefore if someone sincerely practises his faith as a homosexual, I am convinced that he will have just as much chance of attaining worthiness as anyone else. …

… Excerpts from the interview with Chief Apostle Wilhelm Leber Topic: Homosexuality In October’s issue of the Our Family magazine we published an article in which you responded to questions from South African …

New Apostolic Church publishes a series of articles on the "Testimony" (Part 3)

20.10.2006

… The New Apostolic Church publishes a series of articles on the "Testimony". On 20 October the third of five articles appears in the German edition of the official church periodical "Unsere Familie". …

… New Apostolic Church publishes a series of articles on the "Testimony" (Part 3) …

… Faithful Christians are advised to practise obedience towards existing authorities, even if those authorities sap the foundations of their rule by acknowledging the doctrine of the sovereignty of the people …

Our Family interviews Chief Apostle Wilhelm Leber: "This method of handling it seemed the most sensible to us"

20.02.2006

… There are various ways in which the members can be informed: they can read the official positions on these subjects at www.nak.org, and in addition, there are two articles that will appear in the Our Family …

… In extensive detail, he also elaborates on his expectations of this new work on the principles of our faith, and explains how he envisions its presentation. …

… Chief Apostle Leber: I would like it to portray a sound basis for our faith. The manual Questions and Answers was written in the context and depth of its time. …

Tsunami disaster: warm thanks to all contributors!

23.02.2005

… We have reported on this in several articles. …

… They extend their heartfelt thanks to all brethren in faith who have involved and dedicated themselves so warm-heartedly on behalf of those in need! …

The Youth Care Project Group: An understanding minister to talk to...

26.07.2004

… While the approval procedure for all these articles requires quite some time, it is nonetheless imperative. …

… This means enthusing them about the values of our faith and helping them mature into personalities with a strong faith. …

… Understanding faith - Faith in practice - Life help: the new youth strategy, more accurately known as "Youth care in the New Apostolic Church," is divided up into these three subject headings. …

A call to repentance: 450,000 souls took part in the Pentecost divine service with Chief Apostle Fehr!

04.06.2004

… Already on the Saturday prior to the Pentecost service there was a workshop on the subject of the "Word of Life" 1 , during which the apostles were made aware of generally applicable rules for drafting articles …

… The divine service on Pentecost Sunday was transmitted by satellite to Argentina, Brazil, Europe, Canada, the USA, and South Africa, reaching a total of approximately 450,000 brethren in faith. …

Position of the New Apostolic Church on sexual conduct

02.06.2004

… This shall help the Brothers and Sisters-in-faith to decide in self-responsibility before God and themselves. …

… At the beginning of next year, detailed articles will be published in the youth magazine "spirit" and on the internet. …

For Confirmation 2004: ... and surrender myself to Thee, O Triune God!

04.04.2004

… We refer our German-speaking readers to the comprehensive Article on the subject of confirmation, which was published in our church magazine "Unsere Familie." …

… their loyalty to God: "I renounce Satan, and all his work and ways, and surrender myself to Thee, O Triune God, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, in belief, obedience, and the earnest resolution to remain faithful …

… It is a beautiful tradition in the New Apostolic Church that the chief apostle writes a special Confirmation Letter to the young brethren in faith on this occasion. …

The Creed in ten articles

… How the New Apostolic Church develops the early church creeds is explained in the Seven Articles of Faith that follow. …

… The Creed in ten articles …

… To this day, they document the interdenominational fundamentals, which the New Apostolic Church professes in its first three Articles of faith. …

In detail: the publications

… All these variants have a common core: an editorial by the Chief Apostle, one of his central divine services, and articles that explain the doctrine of our faith. …

2.4 The New Apostolic Creed

Catechism

… It is the task of the apostolate to interpret Holy Scripture and the early church creeds in a manner that is authoritative for our faith. An important result of this is the New Apostolic … closely related to the early church creeds. The first three Articles of Faith largely correspond to the Apostolicum. … …

2.4.9 The Ninth Article of Faith

Catechism

… … heaven and that He will take to Himself the firstfruits of the dead and living who have hoped for and were prepared … earth and dwell with His people. The Ninth Article of Faith represents an eschatological clarification of the corresponding statements in the Second and Third Articles of Faith (the return of Christ, the resurrection of … …

6.4 Belief in the one, holy, universal, and apostolic church

Catechism

… Salvation is accessible in the church of Jesus Christ, which has been established by the Lord … of Christ remains concealed, and can only be grasped in faith. In its historical manifestation, however, it can be … Thus the church is an object of faith. The first three Articles of Faith profess belief in God, the Father, the … …

12.2.2.1 Age of confirmation and prerequisites

Catechism

… The age of confirmation varies. It depends on the religious maturity … on their own and assume responsibility for their life of faith. Adolescents are brought up in the faith in their … essential principles of our doctrine, in particular the ten Articles of Faith, increasingly appreciate the value of … …

Index

Catechism

… … of the … of … of the … of … of … of … of the … of the early … of the … of … of … plan of … of the … of … of … of … of … on of … of … of … of … of … of … of the … of the … of … of … of … …

1.1 The self-revelation of God in creation and history

Catechism

… 1.1 The self-revelation of God in creation and history …

1.1.1 God reveals Himself as the Creator

Catechism

… The self-revelation of God in the visible creation is accessible to all human beings. Since the beginning of time, man has observed the grandeur of nature and … author. Occupying oneself with this question is to lead to faith: God is the Creator and Protector of the material … …

1.2.1 Content and structure of Holy Scripture

Catechism

… 1.2.1 Content and structure of Holy Scripture …

1.2.2.1 The origin of the Old Testament canon

Catechism

… 1.2.2.1 The origin of the Old Testament canon …

1.2.4.1 The origin of the New Testament canon

Catechism

… 1.2.4.1 The origin of the New Testament canon …

1.2.5.1 Interpretation of Holy Scripture through the Holy Spirit

Catechism

… 1.2.5.1 Interpretation of Holy Scripture through the Holy Spirit …

1.4.1 Belief in God, the Father

Catechism

… … has revealed Himself in all time periods and in a variety of ways (see … that allow mankind to recognise God are the works of creation (Romans 1: 18-20). For example, believers praise … lives in obedience to Him. The old covenant centred on faith in God, the Creator, Preserver, and Liberator, who had … …

2.1 Biblical creeds

Catechism

… … own confessional statements. Professing Yahweh as the God of Israel was linked to His historical act of salvation for His people, that is their deliverance from … there were statements in which Christians expressed their faith at baptism or in divine service. An example of this … …

2.2.1 The Apostles' Creed

Catechism

… … Creed originated in the early post-apostolic period. Some of its essential statements are based upon the sermon preached by Apostle Peter in the house of Cornelius (Acts 10: 37-43). The basic tenets of the Apostolicum were compiled in the second century and … …

2.4.1 The First Article of Faith

Catechism

… 2.4.1 The First Article of Faith …

3.1 The nature of God

Catechism

… 3.1 The nature of God …

3.1.1 One God in three persons

Catechism

… The trinity of God is a mystery. The Trinitarian formula, "In the name of God, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit," does not … the Apostles, Jesus allowed them to recognise the trinity of God by stating that they were to baptise "in the name of … …

3.2.1 References to the triune God in the Old Testament

Catechism

… The first reference to the activity of the triune God is recorded in the first account of creation (Genesis 1: 1-31; 2: 1-4). There it states: "And the Spirit of God was hovering over the face of the waters" (Genesis 1: … …

3.3.1 God, the Creator

Catechism

… … earth" (Genesis 1: 1). This statement from the first verse of Holy Scripture expresses a basic truth which we profess in the First Article of Faith. It is God who has created the heavenly worlds and … …

3.3.1.1 The invisible creation

Catechism

… … in human terms, since these are based on the human sphere of experience (that which is visible). Nevertheless, Holy … the immortal soul of man (see … as well as the realm of the dead (see … The Devil, the adversary of God and the enemy of mankind, as well as his followers … …

3.3.1.1.1 The angels

Catechism

… The term "angel" is the translation of the Hebrew word malak or the Greek angelos. Here and … both words are used in the respective Hebrew or Greek texts of Holy Scripture with the general meaning of "messenger, emissary"[4] , but they are mainly used in … …

3.4.1 The only begotten Son of God

Catechism

… 3.4.1 The only begotten Son of God …

3.4.11.1 The significance of Jesus Christ's resurrection for salvation

Catechism

… 3.4.11.1 The significance of Jesus Christ's resurrection for salvation …

3.4.6.1 Messiah–Christ–Anointed One

Catechism

… … In translation this means "the Anointed One". In some of the Psalms, the kings of Israel are described as "the anointed" [of God] (Psalm … defining difference: while today many people of the Judaic faith still await the arrival of the Messiah, Christians … …

3.4.7.1 Jesus Christ–the King

Catechism

… When the angel of the Lord announced the birth of Jesus to the virgin Mary, he said: "He [Jesus] will be great, and will be called the Son of the Highest ... And He will reign over the house of Jacob … …

3.4.8.1 The conception and birth of Jesus

Catechism

… 3.4.8.1 The conception and birth of Jesus …

3.4.9.1 Jesus institutes Holy Communion

Catechism

… … gathered together with the twelve Apostles for the feast of the Passover. As they were seated at the table, the Son of God instituted Holy Communion: "And as they were eating, … thanks, and gave it to them, saying, 'Drink from it, all of you. For this is My blood of the new covenant, which is … …

3.5.1 The Holy Spirit as a divine person

Catechism

… … God speaks and acts as a person. Personhood is part of God's nature (see … (Romans 8: 16), and that He intercedes before God on behalf of those who pray (Romans 8: 26). The activity of the Holy Spirit is clearly revealed in the incarnation … …

3.5.1.1 The Holy Spirit in unity with the Father and the Son

Catechism

… The Creed of Nicaea-Constantinople (see … from the Father and the Son. According to the words of Jesus, the Father and Son are senders of the Holy Spirit in equal measure: "But when the Helper … …

3.5.3.1 The Spirit of God

Catechism

… 3.5.3.1 The Spirit of God …

3.5.4.1 The Helper and Comforter

Catechism

… Jesus Christ is the Helper and Advocate of His own (Matthew 28: 20; 1 John 2: 1). In His farewell discourses before His capture and crucifixion, the Son of God promised yet another Comforter, namely the … and Helper who will remain with the church. He testifies of Jesus Christ and glorifies Him (John 16: 14). After the … …

3.5.5.1 The outpouring of the Holy Spirit on Pentecost

Catechism

… 3.5.5.1 The outpouring of the Holy Spirit on Pentecost …

Professions of the New Testament

Catechism

… Professions of the New Testament …

1.1.2 God reveals Himself in the history of Israel

Catechism

… 1.1.2 God reveals Himself in the history of Israel …

1.2 Holy Scripture

Catechism

… Over the course of many centuries, human experiences of God's revelation and His acts in the course of the … which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. All Scripture is given by … …

1.2.2 The Old Testament

Catechism

… The Old Testament contains accounts of the creation, individual events from the time after the fall into sin, as well as the origin and history of the people of Israel. Beyond that, it contains works of Judaic wisdom … …

1.2.2.2 The books of the Old Testament

Catechism

… 1.2.2.2 The books of the Old Testament …

1.2.4.2 The books of the New Testament

Catechism

… 1.2.4.2 The books of the New Testament …

1.2.5.2 Jesus Christ–the centre of Scripture

Catechism

… 1.2.5.2 Jesus Christ–the centre of Scripture …

1.4.2 Belief in God, the Son

Catechism

… With the incarnation of God, the Son, the Old Testament promises pointing to the coming of the Messiah were fulfilled. Jesus Christ gives the … who had made a covenant with the people of Israel. The faith that is now required also entails keeping the word of … …

2.2 The origin of the early church creeds

Catechism

… 2.2 The origin of the early church creeds …

2.2.2 The Creed of Nicaea-Constantinople

Catechism

… 2.2.2 The Creed of Nicaea-Constantinople …

2.4.2 The Second Article of Faith

Catechism

… 2.4.2 The Second Article of Faith …

3.1.2 God, the One

Catechism

… Belief in God as the One God is one of the fundamental professions of both the Old and New Testaments. God Himself spoke to … 13). This profession is also firmly rooted in Christian faith, from the earliest apostolic congregations until the … …

3.2 God–Father, Son, and Holy Spirit

Catechism

… … can be recognised as the triune God. This self-revelation of God constitutes the basis for the doctrine of the Trinity. God's actions in history and creation are executed as the respective works of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. God reveals … …

3.2.2 References to the triune God in the New Testament

Catechism

… … New Testament does not contain a fully formulated doctrine of the Trinity, it nevertheless records events and … show the divine Trinity and its activity in the history of salvation. One example of the presence of the triune God … you were called in one hope of your calling; one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is above … …

3.3.1.1.2 The significance of the invisible realm for the life of human beings

Catechism

… 3.3.1.1.2 The significance of the invisible realm for the life of human beings …

3.3.1.2 The visible creation

Catechism

… … attests that God created the visible world in six "days of creation". These are not to be understood as specific measures of time. The Bible relates how all that which is perceptible … human beings was called into existence: God is the Creator of all discernable reality. It was at His word that heaven … …

3.3.2 Man in the image of God

Catechism

… 3.3.2 Man in the image of God …

3.4.11.2 The appearances of the Risen One

Catechism

… 3.4.11.2 The appearances of the Risen One …

3.4.2 The incarnate Word

Catechism

… … 1: 1-18 contains fundamental statements about the being of God and His revelation in the world. It speaks of the beginning and the source which defines all things and … This logos is the true power which marked the beginning of creation. Here, Word and God are directly correlated: "In … …

3.4.6.2 Lord

Catechism

… … the designation "Lord" is mostly used when speaking of the God of Israel. In the New Testament, this majestic title is also … "Jesus is Lord"), which is among the oldest professions of early Christianity. Here the term "Lord" is not to be … …

3.4.7.2 Jesus Christ–the Priest

Catechism

… The foremost tasks of the priests in the old covenant included bringing … The high priest's task was to bring his own sins, the sins of the priests, and the sins of the people before God. For this purpose he would enter … …

3.4.8.2 Jesus' baptism in the Jordan

Catechism

… … counted among the sinners (2 Corinthians 5: 21). This act of baptism–which was an expression of repentance–makes it clear that Jesus Christ abased … clear that Jesus Christ, who is without sin, took the sins of others upon Himself and ultimately opened the way to … …

3.4.9.2 Jesus in Gethsemane

Catechism

… … the Last Supper, Jesus and the Apostles went to the Garden of Gethsemane. The human nature of the Son of God became evident in His dread of the impending … …

3.5.1.2 The Holy Spirit and the incarnation of the Son of God

Catechism

… 3.5.1.2 The Holy Spirit and the incarnation of the Son of God …

3.5.2 The Holy Spirit as a power–the gift of the Holy Spirit

Catechism

… 3.5.2 The Holy Spirit as a power–the gift of the Holy Spirit …

3.5.3.2 The activity of the Holy Spirit in the prophets of the Old Testament

Catechism

… 3.5.3.2 The activity of the Holy Spirit in the prophets of the Old Testament …

3.5.4.2 The Spirit of truth

Catechism

… 3.5.4.2 The Spirit of truth …

3.5.5.2 The activity of the Holy Spirit in the sacraments

Catechism

… 3.5.5.2 The activity of the Holy Spirit in the sacraments …

Concerning the term

Catechism

… … and was originally used in reference to the instruction of those who were being prepared for baptism with water. The content of the Christian faith and how it is to affect one's lifestyle is set forth … …

1.1.3 God reveals Himself in His Son

Catechism

… … in Jesus Christ is the historical self-revelation of God that surpasses everything before it (John 1: 14; 1 … The gospel according to Luke expressly places the birth of the Son of God in a historical framework: "And it came to pass in … …

1.2.3 The later writings of the Old Testament

Catechism

… 1.2.3 The later writings of the Old Testament …

1.2.5.3 Personal use of the Holy Scriptures

Catechism

… 1.2.5.3 Personal use of the Holy Scriptures …

1.3 Present-day revelations of the Holy Spirit

Catechism

… 1.3 Present-day revelations of the Holy Spirit …

1.4.3 Belief in God, the Holy Spirit

Catechism

… … (Psalm 51: 11; Ezekiel 11: 5). According to the words of the Lord, the Holy Spirit's activity in the New Testament … 26). Here too, the only appropriate response for mankind is faith, namely faith in the Spirit, who presently guides into all truth and … …

2.3 The early church creeds and their significance for the New Apostolic Church

Catechism

… The doctrine of the New Apostolic Church is based on Holy Scripture. The early church creeds express the fundamentals of the Christian faith as attested in the Old and New Testaments. The early … …

2.4.3 The Third Article of Faith

Catechism

… 2.4.3 The Third Article of Faith …

3.1.3 God, the Holy One

Catechism

… … 50: 29; Habakkuk 1: 12). The holiness which is part of God's nature, being, and rule, refers to the fact that He … 3). His word and His will are equally holy. The nearness of God, the presence of the Holy One, which has been repeatedly experienced … …

3.2.3 The development of the doctrine of the Trinity

Catechism

… 3.2.3 The development of the doctrine of the Trinity …

3.3 God, the Father

Catechism

… … the Father in unsurpassed fashion through the incarnation of God, the Son: "And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth. ... No one has seen … …

3.3.3 Man's fall into sin

Catechism

… … with Him. Through His commandment that they should not eat of the tree of knowledge of good and evil, He identified Himself to mankind as their … …

3.4.11.3 The resurrection body of Jesus Christ

Catechism

… 3.4.11.3 The resurrection body of Jesus Christ …

3.4.3 Jesus Christ, true Man and true God

Catechism

… … that Jesus Christ is true Man and true God–the doctrine of Hypostatic Union–was enshrined at the Council of Chalcedon in AD 451. This doctrine of the dual nature of Jesus transcends the horizon of human … …

3.4.6.3 Son of Man

Catechism

… 3.4.6.3 Son of Man …

3.4.7.3 Jesus Christ–the Prophet

Catechism

… … speaks to mankind. According to Mark 1: 15, the Son of God began His activity with the words: "The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand. Repent, and believe in the gospel." The Lord taught with the full power of divine authority, which comes to expression in the words: … …

3.4.8.3 Jesus' temptation in the wilderness

Catechism

… … the temptation and rejected the Devil. This event is of significance for the history of salvation: Adam succumbed to temptation and fell into … The gospels are not biographies, but rather testimonies of faith. … …

3.4.9.3 Jesus before the high council

Catechism

… The high council pronounced Jesus guilty of blasphemy and condemned Him to death. The fact that He claimed to be the Son of God was interpreted as blasphemy. During Jesus' trial … Peter denied that he knew Jesus and that he was a disciple of Jesus (Luke 22: 54-62). Christ also suffered on account … …

3.5.3 Evidence of the Holy Spirit's activity in the time of the Old Testament

Catechism

… 3.5.3 Evidence of the Holy Spirit's activity in the time of the Old Testament …

3.5.4.3 The power from on high

Catechism

… … Lord promised His Apostles: "Behold, I send the Promise of My Father upon you; but you tarry in the city of Jerusalem until you are endued with power from on high" (Luke 24: 49). Thereby He announced the sending of the Holy Spirit, as God had already promised through the … …

3.5.5.3 The activity of the Holy Spirit in the Apostle ministry

Catechism

… 3.5.5.3 The activity of the Holy Spirit in the Apostle ministry …

Structure and content

Catechism

… The Catechism of the New Apostolic Church starts off with some remarks on the self-revelation of God and Holy Scripture (Chapter 1). This is followed by … of God (Chapter 3). Some central positions of Christian faith, which are valid across denominational borders, come … …

1.1.4 God reveals Himself in the time of the church

Catechism

… 1.1.4 God reveals Himself in the time of the church …

1.2.4 The New Testament

Catechism

… The New Testament contains the records of the mission and activity of Jesus and His Apostles handed down in the gospels and the … the doctrine, which the Apostles proclaimed by commission of their Sender. In the Revelation of Jesus Christ, the … …

1.4 Faith as mankind's response to the revelations of God

Catechism

… 1.4 Faith as mankind's response to the revelations of God …

1.4.4 Faith and the sermon

Catechism

… Jesus Christ made it clear that faith in Him and His gospel is brought about by accepting the word of His ambassadors, His Apostles: "As You sent Me into the … Me through their word" (John 17: 18, 20). The preaching of the gospel generates faith: "So then faith comes by … …

2.4.4 The Fourth Article of Faith

Catechism

… 2.4.4 The Fourth Article of Faith …

3.1.4 God, the Almighty

Catechism

… The profession in the First Article of Faith–"I believe in God the Father, the Almighty, Creator of heaven and earth"–attests that God can do anything, … …

3.2.4 The unity of the three divine persons

Catechism

… 3.2.4 The unity of the three divine persons …

3.3.4 Man as an entity consisting of body, soul, and spirit

Catechism

… 3.3.4 Man as an entity consisting of body, soul, and spirit …

3.4 God, the Son

Catechism

… Professing Jesus Christ as the Son of God is one of the fundamentals of Christian faith. The statement in the Second Article of Faith–"I … …

3.4.4 References to Jesus Christ in the Old Testament

Catechism

… … find the first reference to a coming Redeemer in the curse of the serpent immediately following the fall into sin (Genesis 3: 15). The author of the epistle to the Hebrews sees a reference to Jesus Christ in the acts of the royal priest Melchizedek, who brought Abraham bread … …

3.4.6.4 Immanuel–Servant of God–Son of David

Catechism

… 3.4.6.4 Immanuel–Servant of God–Son of David …

3.4.8.4 Jesus' teaching activity

Catechism

… The focus of Jesus' preaching was on the kingdom of God–the rule of God which was to manifest itself in … death and the Devil. Mankind shares in this victory through faith (1 Corinthians 15: 57). Jesus called disciples to … …

3.4.9.4 Jesus before Pilate and Herod

Catechism

… The Jews led Jesus to the residence of Pontius Pilate, the Roman governor, a place which devout … before Pilate, Jesus made it clear that His kingdom was not of this world and that He did not pursue any worldly claims … The worldly powers thus united against the Lord. The Son of God was scourged by the Romans. The people demanded He be … …

3.5.4 Jesus Christ's promise to send the Holy Spirit

Catechism

… … Father, Jesus Christ announced to His Apostles the coming of the Holy Spirit as the Comforter and the "Spirit of truth". He also promised the Holy Spirit as a divine … departure from this world was a prerequisite for the coming of the Holy Spirit as a Helper (John 16: 7). Likewise, the … …

Functions

Catechism

… The Catechism of the New Apostolic Church takes into account earlier portrayals of the New Apostolic faith, but goes beyond previous publications of our Church … …

1.2.5 The significance of Holy Scripture for doctrine and faith

Catechism

… 1.2.5 The significance of Holy Scripture for doctrine and faith …

2.4.5 The Fifth Article of Faith

Catechism

… 2.4.5 The Fifth Article of Faith …

3.1.5 God, the Eternal

Catechism

… … You are God" (Psalm 90: 2). God is the Creator and Lord of time. Unlike the material world, which is subject to … grants time and can also take it away. The eternal nature of God transcends the horizon of human experience. It is infinite, however, it is not … …

3.4.5 Jesus Christ–the Redeemer

Catechism

… The name "Jesus" means "The Lord saves". When the angel of the Lord heralded the birth of Jesus, he announced His name at the same time: "and you … 1: 21). Thereby it already becomes clear in the assignment of His name that Jesus is the promised Saviour and … …

3.4.8.5 Jesus' miracles

Catechism

… … four gospels handed down to us in writing give account of the miraculous deeds of Jesus as real events that attested to His Messianic … heal. These miracles of healing were closely linked to the faith of the people whom He healed. Casting out … …

3.4.9.5 Jesus' crucifixion and sacrificial death

Catechism

… … To the women who wept over Him the Lord said: "Daughters of Jerusalem, do not weep for Me, but weep for yourselves … these words He was referring to the impending destruction of Jerusalem. Two criminals were executed together with … God is distant, but on the other hand, also profess their faith in His power and grace. Jesus here addressed these … …

3.5 God, the Holy Spirit

Catechism

… Holy Scripture provides abundant testimony of the Holy Spirit, the Spirit of God. It testifies that understanding God is only possible … Holy Spirit" (1 Corinthians 12: 3). The Third Article of Faith attests: "I believe in the Holy Spirit." This … …

3.5.5 The Holy Spirit and the church

Catechism

… The epistles of the New Testament express that the Holy Spirit was … Helper and Comforter. The church is described as the "house of God", "dwelling place of God", or "temple of the living God" (1 Timothy 3: 15; … …

2.4.6 The Sixth Article of Faith

Catechism

… 2.4.6 The Sixth Article of Faith …

3.1.6 God, the Loving One

Catechism

… … new covenant, God reveals Himself as the Loving One. Out of love He elected the people of Israel and freed them from Egyptian captivity. However, … not only revealed Himself as the Loving One to the people of Israel in this historical act, but ultimately to all … …

3.4.6 Majestic titles of Jesus

Catechism

… 3.4.6 Majestic titles of Jesus …

3.4.8.6 Jesus' parables and images

Catechism

… … used many parables and in so doing employed a wide range of imagery from the daily lives of His listeners. In Matthew 13: 34-35 we read: "All these … I will utter things kept secret from the foundation of the world.'" In His parables Jesus talked about the … …

3.4.9.6 Old Testament references to Jesus' suffering and sacrificial death

Catechism

… Isaiah 53 describes the suffering servant of God who is abased. This refers to Jesus Christ, who was "despised and rejected by men, a Man of sorrows and acquainted with grief" (verse 3). His … healed" (verses 4-5). This is a reference to Christ's path of suffering and His sacrificial death. After the death of … …

2.4.7 The Seventh Article of Faith

Catechism

… 2.4.7 The Seventh Article of Faith …

3.1.7 God, the Gracious and Righteous One

Catechism

… God is the Gracious One. His grace is part of His righteousness. He shows mankind grace, compassion, … righteous, sinners receive forgiveness, and those in need of salvation are granted salvation, that is … (Deuteronomy 32: 4). Statements like "For the wages of sin is death ..." (Romans 6: 23) or "Even so, Lord God … …

3.4.7 The ministries of Christ–King, Priest, and Prophet

Catechism

… 3.4.7 The ministries of Christ–King, Priest, and Prophet …

3.4.8.7 Jesus and the law

Catechism

… … 5-7), Jesus took position on the law in the presence of His disciples and the people. In the so-called antitheses … heard that it was said "but I say to you ...")–by way of which He clarified the law and led His listeners to the proper understanding of the will of God upon which it was based–He introduced … …

3.4.9.7 Jesus' references to His suffering and death

Catechism

… … Peter's confession to Jesus: "[You are] the Christ of God", the Lord revealed to His disciples: "The Son of Man must suffer many things, and be rejected by the … day" (Luke 9: 22). Shortly after the events on the Mount of Transfiguration, Jesus taught His disciples: "The Son of … …

2.4.8 The Eighth Article of Faith

Catechism

… 2.4.8 The Eighth Article of Faith …

3.1.8 God, the Perfect One

Catechism

… … Himself: "I AM WHO I AM" (Exodus 3: 14). The perfection of God is closely linked to His goodness: everything that … by the fact that there is absolutely no difference of any kind between His will and His actions, between His … in Jesus Christ, "the author and finisher of our faith" (Hebrews 12: 2) because He is perfect in His speech … …

3.4.8 New Testament references to the person and activity of Jesus Christ

Catechism

… 3.4.8 New Testament references to the person and activity of Jesus Christ …

3.4.8.8 Jesus and His Apostles

Catechism

… … the gospel, Jesus selected twelve Apostles from the ranks of His disciples (Luke 6: 12-16; Mark 3: 14). They were His closest followers, and He had a special relationship of trust with them. When the other disciples left Him … that He is the Christ. To them He gave an example of humble service when He washed their feet (John 13: 4 et … …

3.4.9.8 References to Jesus' sacrificial death in the letters of the Apostles

Catechism

… … References to Jesus' sacrificial death in the letters of the Apostles …

3.4.9 Jesus' passion and sacrificial death

Catechism

… … the Lord rode into Jerusalem on a donkey, the prophecy of Zechariah 9: 9 was fulfilled. With the cleansing of the temple, Jesus made it clear that the house of the Lord is holy. The disputes with the Pharisees and … …

3.4.9.9 The cross

Catechism

… The core of the gospel is Jesus Christ who, through His death on the … His resurrection, created eternal salvation. Thus the cross of Christ became the epitome of God's reconciliatory actions toward sinful mankind. The … …

2.4.10 The Tenth Article of Faith

Catechism

… 2.4.10 The Tenth Article of Faith …

3.4.10 Jesus Christ's activity in the realm of the dead

Catechism

… 3.4.10 Jesus Christ's activity in the realm of the dead …

3.4.11 The resurrection of Jesus Christ

Catechism

… 3.4.11 The resurrection of Jesus Christ …

3.4.12 The ascension of Jesus Christ

Catechism

… 3.4.12 The ascension of Jesus Christ …

3.4.13 Jesus Christ as the head of the church

Catechism

… 3.4.13 Jesus Christ as the head of the church …

3.4.14 Jesus Christ as the head of the creation

Catechism

… 3.4.14 Jesus Christ as the head of the creation …

3.4.15 The promise of Jesus Christ's return

Catechism

… 3.4.15 The promise of Jesus Christ's return …

1 The revelations of God

Catechism

… 1 The revelations of God …

2 The Creed

Catechism

… A creed summarises the essential content of a doctrine of faith. Those who profess a creed fulfil one of the … …

3 The triune God

Catechism

… … is triune from eternity is attested by the self-revelations of God within the history of salvation, which makes clear that the Father, the Son, … revealed Himself as God, the Father, whereas the activity of the Son and the Holy Spirit was still largely concealed … …

4 Mankind in need of redemption

Catechism

… 4 Mankind in need of redemption …

6 The church of Jesus Christ

Catechism

… 6 The church of Jesus Christ …

7 Ministry

Catechism

… … or official position which is assigned to a specific area of responsibility. In the broader sense, "ministry" is an … lead, and provide order to a community. The exercise of a ministry [1] incorporates both administrative and … through ordination by an Apostle (cf. Fifth Article of Faith: "I believe that those designated by God for a … …

8 The sacraments

Catechism

… Sacraments are fundamental acts of God's grace. They are holy acts that are performed upon a … him to attain salvation, be adopted into the fellowship of life with God, and be preserved in it. Receiving the … of salvation,dispenser (the mediator of the sacrament),faith (on the part of the recipient), so that the sacrament … …

9 Life after death

Catechism

… … can be found in Holy Scripture. Beyond that, the doctrine of the afterlife is based on revelations of the Holy Spirit. …

10 The doctrine of future things

Catechism

… 10 The doctrine of future things …

11 From the history of Christianity

Catechism

… 11 From the history of Christianity …

12 Divine service, acts of blessing, and pastoral care

Catechism

… 12 Divine service, acts of blessing, and pastoral care …

13 New Apostolic Christians and their life of faith

Catechism

… 13 New Apostolic Christians and their life of faith …

4.1 Evil–the powers opposed to God

Catechism

… The origin of evil within the order of creation cannot be rationally grasped or explained. Paul … good or divine (2 Corinthians 11: 14). Only through faith in the gospel do the ultimate nature of evil, its … …

4.2 The fall into sin

Catechism

… The doctrine of sin and mankind's need for redemption is based on Holy Scripture's account of the fall into sin (see also … "And the Lord God commanded the man, saying, '... but of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil you shall not … …

4.3 Sin and guilt

Catechism

… … between these two concepts is clearly shown in the words of the Son of God when He defended His disciples who, by the interpretation of the Pharisees, had broken the law and thus committed a … …

4.4 God's plan of salvation

Catechism

… 4.4 God's plan of salvation …

4.6 God's blessing

Catechism

… … existence is dependent on God's blessing points to an image of mankind that derives from belief in God as the almighty Creator and Sustainer of all creation. On their own, human beings are not capable … having fallen prey to sin. By grasping the gifts of God in faith and allowing the Lord to lead them, human beings can … …

4.7 The functions of the law

Catechism

… 4.7 The functions of the law …

4.8 The law and the gospel

Catechism

… Strict adherence to the Mosaic Law and the study of its content were of central importance in the old covenant (see … the Old Testament, for example in Isaiah 61: 1: "The Spirit of the Lord God is upon Me, because the Lord has anointed Me … …

5.1 Living in faith according to God's commandments

Catechism

… Belief in God has a decisive effect on the life of an individual as a whole. Believers strive to live up to the will of God through their thoughts and actions. They recognise in … Old Testament, there were men and women who allowed their faith to determine their actions. Hebrews 11 lists some … …

5.2 God's commandments–an expression of His love

Catechism

… 5.2 God's commandments–an expression of His love …

5.3 The Ten Commandments

Catechism

… The Ten Commandments comprise the core of the Mosaic Law, the five books of Moses (Torah). They bring to expression the kind of conduct that is pleasing to God and the kind that … …

6.1 Concerning the term "church"

Catechism

… … meanings. On the one hand it can mean a Christian house of God as a place of assembly for the believers. On the other hand it can refer to a gathering of people of Christian faith, that is a local parish. Beyond that, the term can … …

6.2 Biblical foundation

Catechism

… On the one hand, the purpose of the church of Jesus Christ is to make salvation and eternal fellowship … …

6.3 The church of Jesus Christ–a mystery

Catechism

… 6.3 The church of Jesus Christ–a mystery …

6.5 The church of Jesus Christ and the churches as institutions

Catechism

… 6.5 The church of Jesus Christ and the churches as institutions …

7.1 Ministry and duties

Catechism

… … issued through ordination for service in the church of Christ. It is exercised in the power of the Holy Spirit. The spiritual ministry is assigned by … responsible and accountable to his sender in the fulfilment of his ministerial mandate. Ministry is always linked to … …

7.2 Source of ministry in the church

Catechism

… 7.2 Source of ministry in the church …

7.3 Biblical foundation

Catechism

… … concerning ministry. It nevertheless makes a number of different statements about the content and nature of the ministry. …

7.4 The Apostle ministry

Catechism

… … ministry is mandated to prepare believers for the return of Jesus Christ. The Fourth Article of Faith describes the significance of the Apostle ministry … …

7.5 The development of the ministries from the Apostle ministry

Catechism

… 7.5 The development of the ministries from the Apostle ministry …

7.6 The ministries in the New Apostolic Church

Catechism

… … the New Apostolic Church has understood itself as a church of ministry. It is a church that is led by the apostolate. All other ministries come forth out of the Apostle ministry. Concerning this, the Fifth Article of Faith states: "I believe that those designated by God for a … …

7.7 Ordination

Catechism

… … spiritual ministry is performed by the Apostle in the name of the triune God through laying on of hands and prayer (see … to God and follow Christ, and promises obedience of faith. In principle, being designated for a ministry is … …

7.8 The exercise of a ministry

Catechism

… 7.8 The exercise of a ministry …

7.9 Tasks of the ministries

Catechism

… 7.9 Tasks of the ministries …

8.1 Holy Baptism with water

Catechism

… Holy Baptism with water is the first and fundamental act of grace of the triune God bestowed on a human being who believes in … Him as their Lord. Accordingly the Sixth Article of Faith states: "I believe that the Holy Baptism with water is … …

8.2 Holy Communion

Catechism

… The Seventh Article of the New Apostolic Creed states: "I believe that Holy Communion was instituted by the Lord Himself in memory of the once brought, fully valid sacrifice, and bitter … a significant position in the consciousness and life of the faithful. …

8.3 Holy Sealing

Catechism

… … sacrament through which the believer, through the laying on of hands and the prayer of an Apostle, receives the gift of the Holy Spirit and … to become a firstling. Accordingly, the Eighth Article of Faith states: "I believe that those baptised with water … …

9.1 The immortality of the soul

Catechism

… 9.1 The immortality of the soul …

9.2 Death

Catechism

… Holy Scripture provides various interpretations of the term "death". First of all, the term describes a person's physical death, the end of his earthly existence. Once death has occurred, the soul … …

9.3 The afterlife of the soul

Catechism

… 9.3 The afterlife of the soul …

9.4 The beyond

Catechism

… … to all realms, events, and conditions that exist outside of the material world. In a narrower sense this term refers to the realm of the dead (Hebrew: Sheol, Greek: Hades), and will, in the … 18: 10-11).The Old Testament describes the realm of the dead as a predominantly dark place (Job 10: 21-22) … …

9.5 The condition of souls in the beyond

Catechism

… 9.5 The condition of souls in the beyond …

9.6 Help for the departed

Catechism

… … His sacrifice, it has been possible for the condition of the souls in the beyond to change for the better. Thus … …

10.1 The return of Jesus Christ

Catechism

… 10.1 The return of Jesus Christ …

10.2 The marriage of the Lamb

Catechism

… 10.2 The marriage of the Lamb …

10.3 The great tribulation

Catechism

… For as long as the Lord's work of salvation is on this earth, the earthly creation remains under the special protection of God (Revelation 7: 3). After the return of Christ, a time will begin in which both mankind and the … …

10.4 The coming of the Lord with power and great glory

Catechism

… 10.4 The coming of the Lord with power and great glory …

10.5 The first resurrection

Catechism

… … is those who will be caught up to God at the return of Christ, and the martyrs from the great tribulation–are … Paul makes reference to the "order" in the resurrection of the dead: "But now Christ is risen from the dead, and has become the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep. ... For as in Adam all die, … …

10.6 The continuation of the plan of salvation

Catechism

… 10.6 The continuation of the plan of salvation …

11.1 The early Christian congregations

Catechism

… … the great commission given by Jesus Christ, it is the task of the Apostles to go into all the world in order to proclaim the gospel and make disciples of all human beings. To start with, the Apostles turned to … that the first congregation came into being. On account of persecution many believers fled from Jerusalem (Acts 8: … …

11.2 Christianity after the death of the early Apostles

Catechism

… 11.2 Christianity after the death of the early Apostles …

11.3 The reoccupation of the Apostle ministry in the Catholic Apostolic Church

Catechism

… 11.3 The reoccupation of the Apostle ministry in the Catholic Apostolic Church …

12.1 Divine service

Catechism

… Divine service is the activity of God upon human beings and a work of human beings for God. …

12.2 Acts of blessing

Catechism

… 12.2 Acts of blessing …

12.3 The church funeral

Catechism

… The death of a loved one causes pain and grief for the bereaved. In … they feel the consolation expressed in the loving care of those around them. The funeral service, a divine service … the word proclaimed is also directed at the immortal soul of the deceased, which is now commended to the grace of … …

12.4 Pastoral care

Catechism

… The accounts of Jesus' conduct allow us to understand the significance of pastoral care. Without regard for the person, He turned … and taught. Jesus came for all human beings, but not all of them accept Him. His own have been entrusted to Him by … …

12.5 Church holy days

Catechism

… … holy days refer to particular events in God's plan of salvation. These events are commemorated with reverence … Church celebrates the following holy days, the importance of which is emphasised by a special divine service. Regional … …

13.1 Prayer

Catechism

… In many religions, prayers are an expression of devotion to a higher being. Praying is generally considered an expression of devoutness. Christians understand prayer as an … of the soul" clearly expresses the necessity of prayer for faith. Faith without prayer is not a living faith. Prayer … …

13.2 Willingness to offer and sacrifice

Catechism

… 13.2 Willingness to offer and sacrifice …

13.3 Marriage and family

Catechism

… … It is based upon a free and voluntary public expression of fidelity by both partners. Mutual love and fidelity are indispensable factors in the success of a marriage. God's blessing is an important and valuable … …

13.4 Discharging one's obligations at work and in society

Catechism

… … beings find themselves result in various necessary modes of conduct. For Christians, the basis for fulfilling these … creates, establishes, and maintains order. The imposition of obligations and the demand for compliance with them are essential characteristics of the Mosaic Law. Even in the new covenant, man is not … …

13.5 The New Apostolic Church as part of society

Catechism

… 13.5 The New Apostolic Church as part of society …

4.1.1 Evil as a power opposed to God

Catechism

… … human beings become sinners. Throughout the history of man, the power of evil has manifested itself again and again. For example, … see evil manifested in the Old Testament in Cain's murder of his brother, in the godlessness of Noah's time, and in … …

4.1.2 Evil as a person

Catechism

… … as a person. Holy Scripture refers to the personification of evil as "the Devil" (Matthew 4: 1), "Satan", or "unclean … 1: 13, 23). The accounts in 2 Peter 2: 4 and Jude 6 speak of angels who have sinned. These spiritual beings fell prey … "a murderer from the beginning", and a "liar and the father of it" (John 8: 44). The question of the serpent to Adam and … …

4.2.1 The consequences of the fall into sin for mankind

Catechism

… 4.2.1 The consequences of the fall into sin for mankind …

4.2.2 The consequences of the fall into sin for the creation

Catechism

… 4.2.2 The consequences of the fall into sin for the creation …

4.3.1 Sin

Catechism

… … Old nor the New Testament offers a self-contained "doctrine of sin" or a systematic and exhaustive "catalogue of sins". God Himself always defines what is right by … Scripture describes the following as "sins": any violation of the Ten Commandments (Exodus 20: 20), the breaking of … …

4.3.2 Guilt

Catechism

… … an individual who has committed a sin. The magnitude of guilt incurred can only be measured by God. The extent of such guilt may vary: the knowledge and motivation of the sinner with regard to his actions are decisive … …

4.4.1 Hope for salvation in the Old Testament

Catechism

… In the old covenant, the hope of salvation revolved mainly around deliverance from earthly affliction and captivity. In this respect, the people of Israel experienced God's salvation through their … as to how human beings can be freed from situations of guilt with respect to other human beings (Exodus 21: … …

4.4.2 Jesus Christ–Saviour and Mediator of Salvation

Catechism

… 4.4.2 Jesus Christ–Saviour and Mediator of Salvation …

4.4.3 The preparation of the bridal congregation

Catechism

… 4.4.3 The preparation of the bridal congregation …

4.5.1 Election in the Old Testament

Catechism

… … which is linked to a responsibility resulting from it. Out of all His creatures, God elected man and gave him the task of making the earth subject to him. The special position man has been granted is clear from the Wisdom of Solomon 2: 23: "For God created man to be immortal, and … …

4.5.2 Election in the New Testament

Catechism

… … (Matthew 28: 19-20; Luke 6: 13). The Lord elects the people of the new covenant from among both Jews and Gentiles. Those … In 1 Peter 2: 9 we read as follows concerning the people of the new covenant: "But you are a chosen generation, a … His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvellous … …

4.5.3 God's free election by grace

Catechism

… Election is a gift of God that is either accepted in faith or rejected in unbelief.No one can earn election … cannot be explained by reason. Divine election is a mystery of God that can only be grasped in faith. God grants … …

4.6.1 God's blessing in the creation

Catechism

… … the creation God blessed all creatures and laid the law of increase into the life He had created. He entrusted the … shall not cease" (Genesis 8: 22). Although the blessing of God which originally covered the creation was hampered in its effect through the curse of sin, it was not completely removed: "For the earth which … …

4.6.2 God's blessing in the old covenant

Catechism

… The promise of blessing given to Israel was part of the covenant God made with His chosen people. This … God alone and to obey His commandments. Whenever the people of Israel acted otherwise, curse would follow. This decision … …

4.6.3 God's blessing in the new covenant

Catechism

… … His miracles, and through His conduct. He placed His hands of blessing upon children. He forgave sinners. His ultimate … the cross as an expiatory sacrifice for the reconciliation of all mankind. He thereby took upon Himself the curse which … through a life defined by the fear of God, obedience of faith, and selflessness. Another thing associated with … …

4.7.1 The term "law"

Catechism

… … foremost, to the written Mosaic Law, that is the five Books of Moses (the Torah). Essential elements of the Mosaic Law include the Ten Commandments and the double commandment of love (see … …

4.7.2 The law as a guide to righteous conduct

Catechism

… The function of the law given by God is to instruct mankind in the … in life, which provides human beings with concrete rules of conduct. Thus the law leads man to do good works and … "God's word"–that is the law–means above all to remain faithful to God and not worship idols. A person's humbleness … …

4.7.3 The law as a guide for recognising sin

Catechism

… The correct understanding of the law given by God is revealed in the light of the gospel. Apostle Paul wrote in his epistle to the … As such it has always pointed to Jesus Christ: "But before faith came, we were kept under guard by the law, kept for … …

4.8.1 The law of Christ–grace

Catechism

… 4.8.1 The law of Christ–grace …

4.8.2 The relationship between faith and works

Catechism

… Human beings are justified through faith in Jesus Christ. Thus the works they perform do … that a man is justified by faith apart from the deeds of the law" (Romans 3: 28). Nevertheless, faith and works … be separated from one another: good works are an expression of a living faith. Where they are lacking, faith is dead. … …

5.2.1 Love for God

Catechism

… … God and his neighbour is rooted in God. Love is the nature of the Creator and therefore eternal: divine love has … all created things and will never end. All things are of Him, through Him, and to Him (Romans 11: 36). Out of … the desire to reciprocate this love (1 John 4: 19). Just as faith is man's response to God's revelation, so man's love … …

5.2.2 Love for our neighbour–love for our fellow human being

Catechism

… … The Mosaic Law primarily defines neighbours as members of the people of Israel. It was only within this framework that the … also extended to protect foreigners living in the country of the Israelites (Leviticus 19: 33-34). The Son of God … …

5.2.3 Love for our neighbour–love in the congregation

Catechism

… … be especially manifest in the congregation: "Let each of us please his neighbour for his good, leading to … you have love for one another" (John 13: 34-35). The love of Christ's followers for one another is thus also an … within the congregation as incompatible with the "faith of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Lord of glory". No … …

5.3.3 The Second Commandment

Catechism

… You shall not take the name of the Lord your God in vain, for the Lord will not hold him … …

5.3.4 The Third Commandment

Catechism

… … Third Commandment is an exhortation to set aside one day of the week in order to worship God, gratefully remember His deeds of salvation, and occupy oneself with His word. …

5.3.5 The Fourth Commandment

Catechism

… … which the Lord your God is giving you. The provisions of the Ten Commandments that apply to interpersonal … Commandment. The Commandment does not contain any kind of prohibition, but rather demonstrates the mode of conduct that is pleasing to God. It is directed at people … …

6.2.1 Old Testament references to the church of Jesus Christ

Catechism

… 6.2.1 Old Testament references to the church of Jesus Christ …

6.2.2 The beginning of the church of Christ

Catechism

… 6.2.2 The beginning of the church of Christ …

6.2.3 Images for the church of Jesus Christ in the New Testament

Catechism

… 6.2.3 Images for the church of Jesus Christ in the New Testament …

6.4.1 Distinguishing features of the church

Catechism

… 6.4.1 Distinguishing features of the church …

6.4.2 The manifestation of the church of Christ in history

Catechism

… 6.4.2 The manifestation of the church of Christ in history …

6.4.3 The church of Jesus Christ and ministry

Catechism

… 6.4.3 The church of Jesus Christ and ministry …

6.4.4 The church of Jesus Christ and the sacraments

Catechism

… 6.4.4 The church of Jesus Christ and the sacraments …

6.4.5 The church of Jesus Christ and the future

Catechism

… 6.4.5 The church of Jesus Christ and the future …

7.10 Appointments

Catechism

… An appointment is the assignment of a firmly defined task. It is not to be equated with an ordination. The appointment can be limited in terms of both duration and location. In association with a … "appointment" is understood as an appointment to the task of congregational rector, district rector, District Apostle … …

7.3.1 Old Testament references

Catechism

… From the perspective of the New Testament, the ministry–in the present-day … however, there are already references to the ministry of the New Testament in the old covenant: in the king, in … his function, the priest thus stands above the patriarch of faith. All of Israel had been called by God as a "kingdom … …

7.3.2 Foundation of the ministry in the New Testament

Catechism

… 7.3.2 Foundation of the ministry in the New Testament …

7.4.1 Characteristics of the Apostle ministry

Catechism

… 7.4.1 Characteristics of the Apostle ministry …

7.4.2 Equipping and sending of the Apostles

Catechism

… 7.4.2 Equipping and sending of the Apostles …

7.4.3 Peter–the head of the early Apostles

Catechism

… 7.4.3 Peter–the head of the early Apostles …

7.4.4 New Testament references to the activity of the Apostles

Catechism

… 7.4.4 New Testament references to the activity of the Apostles …

7.5.1 Continuity of the Apostle ministry

Catechism

… 7.5.1 Continuity of the Apostle ministry …

7.5.2 Interruption in the activity of the Apostles

Catechism

… 7.5.2 Interruption in the activity of the Apostles …

7.5.3 The reoccupation of the Apostle ministry

Catechism

… 7.5.3 The reoccupation of the Apostle ministry …

7.6.1 The apostolate

Catechism

… The apostolate is defined by the ministries of Chief Apostle, District Apostle, and Apostle.Together … was a senior Apostle, who was also described as the "Pillar of the Apostles". Although the latter did not have any powers or authority surpassing that of the other Apostles–he remained the first among … …

7.6.2 The function of the apostolate

Catechism

… 7.6.2 The function of the apostolate …

7.6.3 The self-conception of the Apostles

Catechism

… 7.6.3 The self-conception of the Apostles …

7.6.4 The authority of the Apostle ministry

Catechism

… 7.6.4 The authority of the Apostle ministry …

7.6.5 The Apostles in the church of Jesus Christ

Catechism

… 7.6.5 The Apostles in the church of Jesus Christ …

7.6.6 The Chief Apostle ministry

Catechism

… Jesus Christ, the Son of God, is the head of His church. In this Church, it is the task of the Chief … up new insights, and uniformly spreading the testimony of faith. The Chief Apostle also lays down the order within the … …

7.6.7 The District Apostle ministry

Catechism

… … (District Apostle district). Moreover he defines the points of emphasis in church work, decides on the ordination of ministers, and seeks to preserve the oneness in the circle of the Apostles. As a rule, he celebrates Holy Communion for … …

7.9.1 The priestly ministries

Catechism

… … dispense Holy Baptism with water, proclaim the forgiveness of sins, and consecrate and dispense Holy Communion.The high … ministers are derived from Malachi 2: 7: "For the lips of a priest should keep knowledge, and people should seek … to the members, visiting them regularly, reinforcing their faith, and promoting their knowledge. The Priest stands by … …

8.1.1 Definition of the term

Catechism

… 8.1.1 Definition of the term …

8.1.2 The biblical basis for Holy Baptism with water

Catechism

… The ritual washings referenced in various passages of the Mosaic Law can be regarded as precursors to baptism with water. They led to a ritual cleansing of persons who, due to their physical conditions, were … …

8.1.3 The necessity of Holy Baptism with water for salvation

Catechism

… 8.1.3 The necessity of Holy Baptism with water for salvation …

8.1.4 The proper dispensation of Holy Baptism with water

Catechism

… 8.1.4 The proper dispensation of Holy Baptism with water …

8.1.5 Prerequisites for receiving Holy Baptism with water

Catechism

… … and adults. The prerequisite is the believer's profession of faith in Jesus Christ and His gospel. When children are … or persons responsible for the religious upbringing of the children, must profess their faith in Jesus Christ … …

8.1.6 The effects of Holy Baptism with water

Catechism

… 8.1.6 The effects of Holy Baptism with water …

8.1.7 Faith and Holy Baptism with water

Catechism

… … Holy Baptism with water is dispensed on the basis of faith. Sacrament and faith belong together: "He who believes … receiving the sacrament as well as his response to this act of God. The unbelief into which a baptised person may fall … …

8.1.8 Holy Baptism with water and Holy Sealing

Catechism

… … interdependent, they are two distinct sacraments. The book of Acts relates that Holy Baptism with water and baptism … 2: 38-39; 8: 12-17, 10: 44-48; 19: 5-6). The rebirth out of water and the Spirit occurs when a person receives both … …

8.1.9 Holy Baptism with water and following Christ

Catechism

… … vows to earnestly endeavour to avoid sin and to lead a life of following Christ. The kind of following to which the baptised are called consists of aligning themselves to the life and nature of Jesus, in … …

8.2.1 Designations for the sacrament

Catechism

… There are various designations for the sacrament of the body and blood of Christ, which emphasise different aspects of the sacrament: "Holy Communion" refers to the … …

8.2.2 Old Testament references to Holy Communion

Catechism

… … Old Testament not only makes frequent references to the Son of God, His suffering, and His sacrifice, but also relates … bread and wine (verse 18). "Bread and wine" are reminiscent of the elements of Holy Communion. This relationship becomes even clearer in … …

8.2.3 Jesus' miracles of feeding and Holy Communion

Catechism

… 8.2.3 Jesus' miracles of feeding and Holy Communion …

8.2.4 The Passover meal

Catechism

… … the lamb, the Israelites ate unleavened bread. The blood of the lamb, which was painted on the doorposts, was the … from the tenth plague to come upon Egypt, namely the death of the firstborn (Exodus 12). God commanded that the Passover should be celebrated every year in commemoration of the liberation from Egypt. The similarities between the … …

8.2.5 The institution of Holy Communion by Jesus Christ

Catechism

… 8.2.5 The institution of Holy Communion by Jesus Christ …

8.2.6 Holy Communion in the first epistle to the Corinthians

Catechism

… In 1 Corinthians 11: 17-32 we find evidence of the celebration of Holy Communion and of Jesus' words of institution which He spoke in the … …

8.2.7 The significance of bread and wine

Catechism

… 8.2.7 The significance of bread and wine …

8.2.8 Holy Communion as a meal of remembrance

Catechism

… 8.2.8 Holy Communion as a meal of remembrance …

8.2.9 Holy Communion as a meal of profession

Catechism

… 8.2.9 Holy Communion as a meal of profession …

8.3.1 Concerning the term "sealing"

Catechism

… The term "sealing" refers to the use of a seal. Important documents are certified and given authority by means of a seal. It documents authenticity. Confidential documents … behind it assures protection and integrity. These aspects of the word's meaning are also reflected in the designation … …

8.3.2 The promise of the Holy Spirit in the Old Testament

Catechism

… 8.3.2 The promise of the Holy Spirit in the Old Testament …

8.3.3 Jesus' anointing with the Holy Spirit

Catechism

… … Sealing also has its foundation in the life and activity of Jesus Christ. Concerning Him–the Son of Man–John 6: 27 states that "God the Father has set His … Him "who baptises with the Holy Spirit ... this is the Son of God" (John 1: 29-34). This event is also described in … …

8.3.4 The outpouring of the Holy Spirit on Pentecost

Catechism

… 8.3.4 The outpouring of the Holy Spirit on Pentecost …

8.3.5 Further attestations of Holy Sealing in the New Testament

Catechism

… 8.3.5 Further attestations of Holy Sealing in the New Testament …

8.3.6 The proper dispensation of Holy Sealing

Catechism

… 8.3.6 The proper dispensation of Holy Sealing …

8.3.7 Prerequisites for receiving Holy Sealing

Catechism

… … He must profess his faith and vow to follow Christ. In the Lord's work of redemption, he will then be prepared for the imminent return of Christ. Holy Sealing is dispensed to both adults and … …

8.3.8 Holy Sealing as an act of God

Catechism

… 8.3.8 Holy Sealing as an act of God …

8.3.9 The effects of Holy Sealing

Catechism

… 8.3.9 The effects of Holy Sealing …

9.6.1 Intercession

Catechism

… Already at the time of the old covenant, there is evidence of the belief that it is possible to perform good deeds for … thereby help alleviate their situation. The twelfth chapter of 2 Maccabees tells of Jews who had served idols and then … …

9.6.2 The participation of the dead in Christ

Catechism

… 9.6.2 The participation of the dead in Christ …

9.6.3 Imparting salvation to the departed

Catechism

… … death, He proclaimed the gospel to them in the realm of the dead. The fact that the departed need the proclamation of the gospel in order to "live in the spirit" is also … His gospel is equally valid for all. It is the desire of God that all men be saved (1 Timothy 2: 4-6; John 3: 16). … …

10.1.1 The promise of the return of Jesus Christ

Catechism

… 10.1.1 The promise of the return of Jesus Christ …

10.1.2 Events associated with the return of Jesus Christ

Catechism

… 10.1.2 Events associated with the return of Jesus Christ …

10.1.3 The bridal congregation

Catechism

… The commission of the Apostles is to prepare the church of Christ for the reunion with Jesus Christ at His return, … To be accepted by Him on this occasion is the goal of faith of New Apostolic Christians. … …

11.2.1 The Church Fathers and the ecumenical councils

Catechism

… … Constantine (ca. AD 270/288, died 337) proclaimed freedom of religion for the Christians. In the years AD 380/381, the Christian religion became the state religion of the Roman Empire. Before this time, many Christians had … the concern of the Church Fathers to defend the Christian faith against both Gentiles and Jews, and to define the … …

11.2.2 Christianity–the state religion and its spread

Catechism

… … Emperor Theodosius made Christianity the state religion of the Roman Empire and forbade all pagan … in Europe grew stronger and spread to many areas of the then known world. Starting in the seventh century, … issues. Many considered the propagation of the Christian faith to be one of their principal tasks. Conditioned by … …

11.2.3 Aspects of Christianity in medieval Europe

Catechism

… 11.2.3 Aspects of Christianity in medieval Europe …

11.2.4 The Reformation

Catechism

… The search for the original form of the gospel and for guidance by the Holy Spirit defined a … associated with Martin Luther (1483-1546). Criticism of the Roman Church's secularisation, as well as the … the Bible. At its core is the doctrine of justification by faith, with its fundamental notion that God does not provide … …

11.2.5 Catholicism and Protestantism in upheaval

Catechism

… … strove for spiritual renewal and reinforced the power of the papacy. The Popes endeavoured to regain Protestant territories for Catholicism. In the course of these conflicts, the Thirty Years' War broke out in … on the importance of emotions for Christian life and faith found a certain continuity in the revivalist … …

11.2.6 Christianity at the beginning of the nineteenth century

Catechism

… 11.2.6 Christianity at the beginning of the nineteenth century …

11.3.1 The development of a church led by Apostles

Catechism

… 11.3.1 The development of a church led by Apostles …

11.3.2 The calling of additional Apostles

Catechism

… 11.3.2 The calling of additional Apostles …

11.3.3 The continuation of the Apostle ministry in the New Apostolic Church

Catechism

… 11.3.3 The continuation of the Apostle ministry in the New Apostolic Church …

12.1.1 General remarks concerning divine service

Catechism

… … an encounter between God and man. In the worshipful serving of the believers and in the perceptible presence of the triune God, the congregation experiences that God … …

12.1.2 Divine service in the Old Testament

Catechism

… The divine service of the Old Testament is based upon encounters between God and mankind. The various forms of divine service developed over a long period of time. Again and again, God revealed Himself and granted … …

12.1.3 Divine service in the New Testament

Catechism

… The incarnation of Jesus Christ marked the beginning of a completely new dimension of God's service to mankind. The Son of God came to earth as … …

12.1.4 Further development of Christian divine service

Catechism

… 12.1.4 Further development of Christian divine service …

12.1.5 Divine service as an encounter with God

Catechism

… The four elements of divine service present in the early church are still … present when the congregation experiences the mystery of an encounter between God and man at the altar, which is … new. The Trinitarian opening formula–"In the name of God, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit"–is an … …

12.1.6 Proclamation of the word

Catechism

… 12.1.6 Proclamation of the word …

12.1.7 The Lord's Prayer

Catechism

… … Jesus gave to those who believe in Him. With it the Son of God gave an example of how we are to pray to the Father in heaven. This prayer of the Son of God has been handed down in one version … …

12.1.8 Forgiveness of sins in the divine service

Catechism

… 12.1.8 Forgiveness of sins in the divine service …

12.1.9 Dispensation of the sacraments in the divine service

Catechism

… 12.1.9 Dispensation of the sacraments in the divine service …

12.2.1 Prenatal blessing

Catechism

… Pregnancy and the birth of a child are experienced as a special phase of life by the parents. During this period of time they … the prenatal development of her child in terms of its faith. The blessing also benefits the unborn soul and … …

12.2.2 Confirmation

Catechism

… … confirmatio = "reinforcement", "affirmation") is that act of blessing in which young New Apostolic Christians take … From then on, these Christians, who have reached the age of spiritual majority, bear full responsibility before God … faithfulness to God and publicly profess the New Apostolic faith. …

12.2.3 Weddings, wedding anniversaries, and engagements

Catechism

… Marriage is the lifelong union of two people of opposite genders, as desired by God. It is based on an act of free will through which a man and a woman accept each … …

12.2.4 Dedication of church buildings

Catechism

… 12.2.4 Dedication of church buildings …

12.4.1 Instruction of children

Catechism

… 12.4.1 Instruction of children …

12.4.2 Youth care

Catechism

… … young brothers and sisters is a special focus in the work of our Church. …

12.4.3 The pastoral care visit

Catechism

… … and Lazarus in Bethany. From this a special relationship of trust developed between them: "Now Jesus loved Martha and … 19: 9). Today we derive the significance and purpose of pastoral care visits from what has been handed down to us … their love for God and His work, cultivate their life of faith, and enhance their understanding of God's activity. … …

12.4.4 Confession

Catechism

… … language, "confession" refers to the acknowledgement of sins or the admission of one's guilt in the presence of a clergyman. This is subject to a strict obligation of … …

12.4.5 Support in death and grieving

Catechism

… Physical death, the end of earthly life, produces anxiety. Death causes pain and … …

12.5.1 Christmas

Catechism

… Christmas commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ and thus refers to one of the central events in the history of salvation: Jesus Christ, who was conceived by the Holy … …

12.5.2 Palm Sunday

Catechism

… Palm Sunday marks the beginning of the Passion Week. This festive day reminds us of Jesus' entry into Jerusalem on the occasion of the Jewish feast of Passover: in fulfilment of a prophecy … …

12.5.3 Good Friday

Catechism

… … we commemorate the crucifixion and sacrificial death of Jesus Christ. Since His sacrifice, suffering, and death are of central importance to the history of salvation, several languages also refer to this day as … …

12.5.4 Easter

Catechism

… This feast is a commemoration of the fact that Jesus Christ resurrected from the dead. The resurrection of Jesus Christ took place on the first day of the week, on Sunday. Therefore the early Christians … …

12.5.5 Ascension Day

Catechism

… … Then "He was taken up, and a cloud received Him out of their sight." From two angels the Apostles received the … …

12.5.6 Pentecost

Catechism

… … day on which the Holy Spirit was poured out. We also speak of Pentecost as the day when the Holy Spirit was revealed and as the "birthday of the church of Christ". The sending of the Holy Spirit–fifty days … …

12.5.7 Thanksgiving Day

Catechism

… Thanksgiving Day commemorates the creatorship of God. On one Sunday of the year–Thanksgiving Sunday–a divine service is held in which gratitude is expressed for God's faithfulness to His creation. On this occasion, believers … …

12.5.8 Structure of divine services on religious holy days

Catechism

… 12.5.8 Structure of divine services on religious holy days …

13.1.1 Prayers in the Old Testament

Catechism

… … found in Genesis 4: 26: "Then men began to call on the name of the Lord." This demonstrates a fundamental characteristic … 95: 6 admonishes: "Oh come, let us worship". Examples of worship of God can be found in many hymns and psalms of the Old … …

13.1.2 Jesus teaches prayer

Catechism

… … changed fundamentally through Jesus Christ. On the basis of this new relationship with God, the Lord taught a kind of prayer that was previously unknown: on the one hand it is the prayer of a child who speaks to God as a loving Father in heaven … …

13.1.3 Jesus prays

Catechism

… The gospel of Luke relates that Jesus prayed especially before decisive … the Father transfigured Him in the presence of the witnesses from here and the beyond (Luke 9: … (Luke 23: 46). The gospels attest the rich prayer life of Jesus: He would often withdraw into seclusion in order to … …

13.1.4 The prayer of the early Christians

Catechism

… 13.1.4 The prayer of the early Christians …

13.1.5 The prayer of New Apostolic Christians

Catechism

… 13.1.5 The prayer of New Apostolic Christians …

13.1.6 Effects of prayer

Catechism

… 13.1.6 Effects of prayer …

13.2.1 From Old Testament sacrificial service to devoting one's life to God

Catechism

… … played an important role in practically all the religions of ancient civilisations–as also in Israel. Sacrifice was … sacrifice mentioned in the Bible was brought by the sons of Adam and Eve: Cain offered of the fruit of the ground, … He graciously accepted the sacrifice brought to Him in faith by Abel, He rejected Cain and his sacrifice (Hebrews … …

13.2.2 Jesus Christ–the model of willingness to sacrifice

Catechism

… 13.2.2 Jesus Christ–the model of willingness to sacrifice …

13.2.3 Willingness to offer and sacrifice based on faith, gratitude, and love

Catechism

… 13.2.3 Willingness to offer and sacrifice based on faith, gratitude, and love …

13.2.4 Sacrifice and blessing

Catechism

… … one give as he purposes in his heart, not grudgingly or of necessity; for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is … will not always result in a tangible material blessing. Faith allows us to recognise that the sacrifices which are brought out of a pure heart attract blessing even if this blessing often … …

13.3.1 Marriage as a divine institution

Catechism

… … fact that God has explicitly anchored the protection of marriage within the Ten Commandments underscores the importance and value of marriage as a divine institution (see … Significant statements on this are recorded in the history of creation: "So God created man in His own image; in the … …

13.3.2 Marriage and the wedding blessing

Catechism

… … to country. They are subject to change as a reflection of constant shifts in society. The New Apostolic Church is a proponent of protection for marriage and family. Receiving the … for spouses to have a common agreement in matters of faith. Grasping God's word and grace, praying together, and … …

13.3.3 Sex and family planning in marriage

Catechism

… … bond within a marriage and contribute to the wellbeing of both spouses. Family planning is at the discretion of both partners. Nevertheless, the Church opposes … methods and means that prevent the continued development of an already fertilised human egg cell. Artificial … …

13.3.4 Parental responsibilities

Catechism

… Because children are a gift of God, parents not only have a high degree of responsibility toward their children and society in … loving devotion. Together, parents raise their children in faith and teach them to take orientation from accepted … …

13.3.5 Responsibilities of the children

Catechism

… 13.3.5 Responsibilities of the children …

13.5.1 Position regarding the state

Catechism

… … is politically neutral. Its activity conforms to the laws of each respective country, in accordance with Romans 13: 1: … tasks, and even grossly mishandle them. Even the power of the state must be measured against divine … laws. This position is expressed in the Tenth Article of Faith: "I believe that I am obliged to obey the worldly … …

13.5.2 Relationship to other religions and denominations

Catechism

… … Church and its members respect the religious practices of other people, and refrain from making derogatory remarks concerning those of different faiths, different religions, and different … and seeks to emphasise the commonalities of the Christian faith (see … …

13.5.3 Social commitment

Catechism

… … Church is committed to the gospel and the imperatives of Christian ethics. Thus it understands its duty to include charitable activity which benefits people irrespective of gender, age, colour, nationality, or religion. Within the scope of its abilities, the Church offers assistance to those in … …

4.2.1.1 Mankind in sin

Catechism

… … the human race to this day. Adam represents the archetype of all sinners, as it were. This is true as regards his motivation to sin, his conduct while in the state of sinfulness, as well as his hopelessness after the fall … be like God, knowing good and evil" (Genesis 3: 5). Some of the motivations for sinful conduct are: the desire not to … …

4.2.1.2 Sinful mankind is still loved by God

Catechism

… … time on have to reap what they had sown: "For the wages of sin is death" (Romans 6: 23). Despite their disobedience … to care for them and attend to them. Illustrations of this divine care include the fact that God made tunics of … God has endowed human beings with conscience, reason, and faith. If human beings align these gifts by Jesus Christ, … …

4.2.1.3 Conscience

Catechism

… … Testament often uses the term "heart", in which the voice of God can be heard. Thus we read in Deuteronomy 30: 14: … do it." In contrast, Apostle Paul explains that the will of God was not only laid into the hearts of those living … especially if the conscience is not guided by reason and faith.Human beings–who have been left to their own … …

4.2.1.4 Reason

Catechism

… Reason is a gift of God that distinguishes human beings–as the image of God–from all other creatures. It is of particular help … foolishness. Ultimately this means that reason would reject faith (1 Corinthians 2: 1-16). In so doing, human beings … …

4.2.1.5 Faith

Catechism

… The word "faith" is not mentioned in the Hebrew texts of the Old … "loyalty", "obedience", "confidence", or "certainty". All of these meanings are implicit in the single word "faith". … …

5.3.1.1 The count

Catechism

… The Bible firmly establishes the count of the commandments at ten, but does not number them. This has led to differing ways of counting them. The counting method in use in the New … …

5.3.1.2 The Ten Commandments in the Old Testament

Catechism

… … and only these commandments were written into stone tablets of the law (Exodus 34: 28). The proclamation of the Ten Commandments is part of the covenant that God made with Israel. Thereby He … …

5.3.1.3 The Ten Commandments in the New Testament

Catechism

… … are reinforced and given deeper meaning by the Son of God. In the statements He makes, Jesus Christ shows … life can only be attained if, beyond the mere observance of the commandments, one is also prepared to follow Christ … on the Ten Commandments. Apostle Paul brought the purpose of the Mosaic Law–according to the understanding of the … …

5.3.1.4 The wording

Catechism

… The wording of the Ten Commandments in use today is not the same as that … Me. Second Commandment You shall not take the name of the Lord your God in vain, for the Lord will not hold him … Commandment I am the Lord your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of bondage. You shall … …

5.3.2.1 God–Lord and Benefactor

Catechism

… … over all. Unrestricted sovereignty is due Him, the Creator of all things. He establishes the law through His word. He is to be obeyed. The Old Testament attests of this awareness in the books of the law, in the Psalms, and in the prophets. The New … …

5.3.2.2 God leads out of bondage

Catechism

… 5.3.2.2 God leads out of bondage …

5.3.2.3 Worship and the fear of God

Catechism

… 5.3.2.3 Worship and the fear of God …

5.3.2.4 The prohibition against worshipping other gods

Catechism

… … and reverence as God are due. The veneration or worship of anything else that human beings might consider … and many lords), yet for us there is one God, the Father, of whom are all things, and we for Him; and one Lord Jesus, … …

5.3.2.5 The prohibition of images

Catechism

… 5.3.2.5 The prohibition of images …

5.3.2.6 Violations of the First Commandment

Catechism

… 5.3.2.6 Violations of the First Commandment …

5.3.3.1 God's name

Catechism

… … identical to Himself, unchangeable, and eternal. Out of reverence, Jews avoid speaking the name of Yahweh. To this day, whenever this name of God appears in the text of the Old Testament, Jews speak … …

5.3.3.2 Forms of taking the name of God in vain

Catechism

… 5.3.3.2 Forms of taking the name of God in vain …

5.3.3.3 The threat of punishment

Catechism

… 5.3.3.3 The threat of punishment …

5.3.3.4 Hallowing God's name–prayer and conduct of life

Catechism

… 5.3.3.4 Hallowing God's name–prayer and conduct of life …

5.3.3.5 Oath–Vow

Catechism

… The question of whether it is permissible to take an oath by … against swearing was not regarded as a general standard of conduct. Accordingly, Christian tradition applies Jesus … to the Eternal One–he thereby publicly professes his faith in the omnipotent, omniscient God. Such an oath is not … …

5.3.4.1 Reasons for the Third Commandment in Israel

Catechism

… The Sabbath is to be kept holy as part of the order of creation because God rested on the seventh day of creation and hallowed it (Genesis 2: 2-3; Exodus 20: … …

5.3.4.2 The Sabbath in Israel

Catechism

… … He gave the Sabbath as a gift, as a day on which the people of Israel were to rest from work and turn to God without distraction. Thus the Sabbath was a day of rest and, at the same time, a holy day. It was … …

5.3.4.3 Jesus Christ and the Sabbath

Catechism

… … position on the Sabbath differed fundamentally from that of the law-abiding Jews. The conduct of the Son of God makes it clear that the law and the gospel assessed … …

5.3.4.4 From Sabbath to Sunday

Catechism

… "For the Son of Man is Lord even of the Sabbath" (Matthew 12: 8)–these words of Jesus, which document His divine authority over the law, … …

5.3.4.5 Keeping Sunday holy–in divine service

Catechism

… … believingly accepting His word, receiving forgiveness of sins in a repentant attitude, and worthily partaking of Christ's body and blood in the sacrament of Holy Communion. In so doing, believers commemorate … …

5.3.4.7 The structure of the Sunday

Catechism

… 5.3.4.7 The structure of the Sunday …

5.3.5.1 The Fourth Commandment according to the understanding of the Old Testament

Catechism

… … The Fourth Commandment according to the understanding of the Old Testament …

5.3.5.2 Jesus Christ and the Fourth Commandment

Catechism

… … on the cross He honoured Mary by commending her to the care of Apostle John (John 19: 27). In His conversation with the rich young man the Son of God mentioned the Fourth Commandment as being important … In His teaching activity, the Lord reproved the teachers of the law for undermining that aspect of the commandment … …

5.3.5.3 The Fourth Commandment in the letters of Apostle Paul

Catechism

… 5.3.5.3 The Fourth Commandment in the letters of Apostle Paul …

5.3.5.4 The broadening of the Fourth Commandment in Christian tradition

Catechism

… 5.3.5.4 The broadening of the Fourth Commandment in Christian tradition …

5.3.5.5 The Fourth Commandment in modern life

Catechism

… Regardless of their age, children have the unaltered task of honouring their parents. If their relationship with one … by love and trust, parents can expect obedience of their children. Adolescents are called upon to become … …

5.3.6.1 The prohibition against killing in the Old Testament

Catechism

… The literal translation of this commandment from the original Hebrew text is: "You … Commandment forbade the unauthorised, unlawful shedding of innocent blood which was damaging to the community. It … refer to military service or the death penalty. In terms of penalties, the Mosaic Law distinguished between … …

5.3.6.2 The prohibition against killing in the New Testament

Catechism

… Jesus' interpretation of the Fifth Commandment went far beyond the original meaning: "You have heard that it was said to those of old, 'You shall not murder, and whoever murders will be in danger of the judgement.' But I say to you that whoever is angry … …

5.3.6.3 The significance of the Fifth Commandment today

Catechism

… 5.3.6.3 The significance of the Fifth Commandment today …

5.3.6.4 Specific questions concerning the Fifth Commandment

Catechism

… … with a view to the basic principle that God is the source of all life. He is the authority in whose hands the beginning and end of human life lies. No human being is entitled to violate … and therefore does not regard it as a suitable means of community protection either. Wars Killing … …

5.3.7.1 Marriage

Catechism

… … a man and a woman as desired by God. It is based on an act of free will which is expressed in a public vow of fidelity (Matthew 19: 4-5). The Bible describes various forms of marriage. Whereas the Old Testament often speaks of … …

5.3.7.2 Adultery

Catechism

… … a married person, commits adultery. According to the words of Jesus: "But I say to you that whoever looks at a woman to … adultery with her in his heart" (Matthew 5: 28), "adultery of the heart" can occur despite an outwardly blameless conduct of life. This commandment is not only violated by committing … …

5.3.7.3 Divorce

Catechism

… … exception in which divorce was permissible was in the case of adultery committed by one's spouse (Matthew 19: 9). The gospel of Mark describes the remarriage of a divorced person as adultery (Mark 10: 11-12). According … …

5.3.7.4 Holy conduct in marriage

Catechism

… … kept "undefiled" (Hebrews 13: 4). The insight that the body of a reborn individual is the dwelling place of God, and also the property of the Most High, results in the obligation to live a holy … …

5.3.8.1 Theft in general legal systems

Catechism

… … take that which belongs to another person. This prohibition of theft, which has its source in God, is one of the basic principles of human legal systems and serves to ensure protection of, … …

5.3.8.2 The prohibition against theft in the Old Testament

Catechism

… … was intended, above all, to outlaw kidnapping. The purpose of this was to protect free men from being kidnapped, sold, … therefore an offence that was punishable by the most severe of all possible penalties. Beyond that, it was also a … …

5.3.8.3 The prohibition against theft in the New Testament

Catechism

… … described theft as a sin, which has its root in the hearts of men and defiles them. In these passages, the Seventh … …

5.3.8.4 Various forms of theft

Catechism

… 5.3.8.4 Various forms of theft …

5.3.9.2 Examples of false witness in the time of the Old Testament

Catechism

… 5.3.9.2 Examples of false witness in the time of the Old Testament …

5.3.9.3 Examples of false witness in the time of the New Testament

Catechism

… 5.3.9.3 Examples of false witness in the time of the New Testament …

5.3.9.4 False witness today–prohibition against lying and fraud

Catechism

… … Paul advises: "Therefore, putting away lying, 'Let each one of you speak truth with his neighbour'" (Ephesians 4: 25). … Even the Eighth Commandment is subordinate to the principle of loving one's neighbour. Great care should therefore be … …

5.3.9.5 Further violations of the Eighth Commandment

Catechism

… 5.3.9.5 Further violations of the Eighth Commandment …

5.3.9.6 False and true witness in the spiritual sense

Catechism

… The triune God is the epitome of truth (John 17: 17; 14: 6; 16: 13), whereas the Devil is the father of lies (John 8: 44). The true witness of the Holy Spirit stands in opposition to his false … …

6.2.3.1 The body of Christ

Catechism

… 6.2.3.1 The body of Christ …

6.2.3.2 The people of God

Catechism

… 6.2.3.2 The people of God …

6.2.3.3 The city of God

Catechism

… 6.2.3.3 The city of God …

6.2.3.4 The kingdom of God

Catechism

… 6.2.3.4 The kingdom of God …

6.2.3.5 The flock of God

Catechism

… 6.2.3.5 The flock of God …

6.2.3.6 Further images for the church

Catechism

… … descriptions that underline the above-mentioned hallmarks of church and illustrate its additional characteristics. These include: God's field, God's building, the house of God, the dwelling place of God, the temple of God, the … of Christ is often applied to those who, through baptism, faith, and profession, belong to Jesus Christ. It … …

6.4.1.1 The church is "one"

Catechism

… The profession of the one church arises from the belief in the one God. The … who sent the Son, through Jesus Christ who–as the head of the body–is enduringly united with the congregation, and through the Holy Spirit who is active in the church of Christ. The church of Christ therefore attests to the … …

6.4.1.2 The church is "holy"

Catechism

… The church of Christ is holy on account of the sanctifying activity of God in Christ's sacrifice and through the activity of the … …

6.4.1.3 The church is "universal"

Catechism

… … means that there are no boundaries for the preaching of the gospel. This comes to expression in the commission … 1: 8). Jesus Christ and His church are there for the people of all nations, for both the living and the dead (Romans 14: … a directly perceptible form within the church. The church of Jesus Christ is all-encompassing and universal: it is … …

6.4.1.4 The church is "apostolic"

Catechism

… The church of Christ is apostolic in two respects: in it the apostolic … apostolic doctrine is the unadulterated message of the death, resurrection, and return of Christ, according to the teaching of the early Christian … …

6.4.2.1 The church of Jesus Christ at the time of the early Apostles

Catechism

… 6.4.2.1 The church of Jesus Christ at the time of the early Apostles …

6.4.2.2 The church of Jesus Christ after the death of the early Apostles

Catechism

… 6.4.2.2 The church of Jesus Christ after the death of the early Apostles …

6.4.2.3 The church of Jesus Christ after the reoccupation of the Apostle ministry

Catechism

… 6.4.2.3 The church of Jesus Christ after the reoccupation of the Apostle ministry …

8.1.10 Holy Baptism with water and the Apostle ministry

Catechism

… … His Apostles the commission to baptise. The administration of the sacraments is inseparably linked to the Apostle ministry. While Holy Sealing–according to the testimony of the Scriptures–was only dispensed by Apostles, there … Holy Baptism performed in the name of the Trinity is a binding element among Christians. … …

8.1.2.1 Old Testament references to Holy Baptism with water

Catechism

… … water can be found in the Old Testament. The deliverance of Noah and his family in the ark is regarded in 1 Peter 3: 20-21 as an "antitype of baptism" and a reference to future salvation. In … distinguishes between "clean" and "unclean". Water is one of the means used to bring about ritual purity. Persons who … …

8.1.2.2 Holy Baptism with water in the New Testament

Catechism

… … interdependent. Jesus Christ submitted to the baptism of John the Baptist in order to demonstrate how … can be attained (Matthew 3: 15). So it was that the baptism of repentance, as practised by John, led to Holy Baptism with water. The Son of God abased Himself and put Himself on the same level as … …

8.1.3.1 Holy Baptism with water as an act of God

Catechism

… 8.1.3.1 Holy Baptism with water as an act of God …

8.1.3.2 The washing away of original sin

Catechism

… 8.1.3.2 The washing away of original sin …

8.2.10 Holy Communion as a meal of fellowship

Catechism

… 8.2.10 Holy Communion as a meal of fellowship …

8.2.11 Holy Communion as an eschatological meal

Catechism

… … the marriage supper in heaven. In Jesus Christ the kingdom of God has drawn near. In accordance with His statement: "I will not drink of the fruit of the vine until the kingdom of God comes" (Luke 22: 18), … …

8.2.12 The real presence of the body and blood of Christ in Holy Communion

Catechism

… 8.2.12 The real presence of the body and blood of Christ in Holy Communion …

8.2.13 The real presence of the sacrifice of Jesus Christ in Holy Communion

Catechism

… 8.2.13 The real presence of the sacrifice of Jesus Christ in Holy Communion …

8.2.14 The relationship between forgiveness of sins and Holy Communion

Catechism

… 8.2.14 The relationship between forgiveness of sins and Holy Communion …

8.2.15 Holy Communion and the Apostle ministry

Catechism

… Jesus Christ instituted Holy Communion in the circle of His Apostles and entrusted it to them. He commissioned … consecration, this occurs by the commission and authority of Jesus Christ. Here it is the Holy Spirit who effects the real presence of the Son of God, His body and blood, in Holy Communion. It … …

8.2.16 The words of consecration in Holy Communion

Catechism

… 8.2.16 The words of consecration in Holy Communion …

8.2.17 The celebration and receiving of Holy Communion

Catechism

… 8.2.17 The celebration and receiving of Holy Communion …

8.2.18 The prerequisites for partaking in Holy Communion

Catechism

… The fundamental prerequisites for partaking worthily of Holy Communion are belief and a repentant heart filled … Although unbelief does not render the sacrament invalid, faith is the prerequisite for it to serve for blessing and … who are indifferent to the suffering and death of Christ or who merely make a habit of the celebration of … …

8.2.19 The manner in which Holy Communion is received

Catechism

… … the congregation in both forms, namely bread and wine. As of 1917, the New Apostolic Church has dispensed both elements of Holy Communion together in the form of a communion wafer sprinkled with wine. …

8.2.20 The effects of Holy Communion

Catechism

… 8.2.20 The effects of Holy Communion …

8.2.21 Eligibility for partaking in Holy Communion

Catechism

… … in Holy Communion. These individuals profess the content of the New Apostolic Creed (see … can partake of Holy Communion as guests. It should be made clear to them that Holy Communion is a meal of profession of the Son of God who died, resurrected from … …

8.2.22 Communion celebrations of the churches

Catechism

… 8.2.22 Communion celebrations of the churches …

12.1.10 The closing benediction

Catechism

… At the end of the divine service, the blessing of the triune God is dispensed upon all those present. … the words recorded in 2 Corinthians 13: 13: "The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the … …

12.1.11 Acts of blessing in the sequence of the divine service

Catechism

… 12.1.11 Acts of blessing in the sequence of the divine service …

12.1.12 Ordinations, appointments, reinstatements, retirements

Catechism

… Ordination is the investiture of a spiritual ministry. It is, without exception, performed by an Apostle. In terms of liturgy, an ordination follows the dispensation of the sacraments and takes place after the celebration of … …

12.1.13 Divine services for the departed

Catechism

… … departed take place three times a year, on the first Sunday of March, July, and November respectively. With this in … the living (Romans 14: 9). Already in the congregation of Corinth, the living were baptised on behalf of the dead (1 Corinthians 15: 29). This practice is … …

12.1.14 Music in the divine service

Catechism

… The purpose of music in the divine service is to praise and honour God (Psalm 150). In the divine service, the role of music is always to serve, and it can serve multiple … the soul, prepare the congregation for the proclamation of the word, and underscore the word of God. Singing–be it … …

12.1.5.1 The Apostles' doctrine

Catechism

… Already Jesus, who is described as the "Apostle ... of our confession" in Hebrews 3: 1, said: "My doctrine is … and ordained to preach the gospel and to promote obedience of faith (Romans 1: 1, 5). The ministers commissioned by them … …

12.1.5.2 Breaking of bread

Catechism

… 12.1.5.2 Breaking of bread …

12.1.5.3 Fellowship

Catechism

… … believers can experience, again and again, the fulfilment of Jesus Christ's promise: "For where two or three are gathered together in My name, I am there in the midst of them" (Matthew 18: 20). Divine service is thus fellowship with Jesus Christ. He is in the midst of the congregation in His word, and truly present in His … …

12.1.5.4 Prayer

Catechism

… … with prayer. Already before the divine service, the faithful seek the nearness of God through personal prayer. During the prayers in the … recorded in Matthew 6: 9-13, and precedes the celebration of Holy Communion. After the believers have partaken of the … …

12.1.6.1 Concerning the term "sermon"

Catechism

… … by a minister, which is inspired and permeated by the power of the Holy Spirit and addressed to the congregation. The … …

12.1.6.2 The proclamation of the word in the New Testament

Catechism

… 12.1.6.2 The proclamation of the word in the New Testament …

12.1.6.3 The proclamation of the word today

Catechism

… 12.1.6.3 The proclamation of the word today …

12.1.7.1 The Lord's Prayer in divine service

Catechism

… In the liturgy of the divine service, the text from the gospel of Matthew in the New King James Version of the Bible is … spoken before the forgiveness of sins, in which the faithful confess before God that they have sinned. …

12.1.7.2 The seven pleas

Catechism

… The invocation of God is followed by three pleas that refer to Him: Your … deliver us. The prayer concludes by praising the majesty of God. …

12.1.8.1 God–the One who forgives

Catechism

… … triune God who erases our sins. Human beings are incapable of doing this by their own power (Matthew 16: 26; Luke 5: … Romans 4: 8). Even though the eternally valid sacrifice of Jesus Christ is the foundation for the forgiveness of sins, God in His omnipotence has always been able to … …

12.1.8.2 God's patience–the sacrificial service in the Old Testament

Catechism

… … merely had a postponing effect until the sacrificial death of Jesus. Up until then, the sinful human beings of the old covenant were covered by God's patience (Romans 3: 25-26). Prophets proclaimed that a forgiveness of sins would one day come that would do more than merely … …

12.1.8.3 The sacrifice of Christ–foundation for the forgiveness of sins

Catechism

… 12.1.8.3 The sacrifice of Christ–foundation for the forgiveness of sins …

12.1.8.4 Prerequisites for obtaining forgiveness of sins

Catechism

… 12.1.8.4 Prerequisites for obtaining forgiveness of sins …

12.1.8.5 Repentance and remorse

Catechism

… Repentance results from recognition of one's own shortcomings or misconduct. It incorporates remorse–the feeling of suffering caused by wrongs committed in deed or … between conscious and unconscious sin. Also in view of the remorse associated with repentance, it is not the … …

12.1.8.6 Sin that is not forgiven

Catechism

… … blasphemy against the Holy Spirit. Concerning this the Son of God said: "But He who blasphemes against the Holy Spirit … or misleading force for hostile and base motives are guilty of blaspheming against the Holy Spirit. …

12.1.8.7 Proclamation and authority

Catechism

… Forgiveness of sins must be proclaimed. Jesus pronounced forgiveness of sins upon individuals (Luke 7: 48 et al). Forgiveness … However, it only has its effect on those who grasp it in faith and fulfil the corresponding prerequisites. The … …

12.1.8.8 Effects of the forgiveness of sins

Catechism

… 12.1.8.8 Effects of the forgiveness of sins …

12.2.2.2 Confirmation vow and confirmation blessing

Catechism

… Confirmation is celebrated in the context of a divine service. First, the confirmands answer the … confirmation vow together. This vow dates back to the text of an old baptismal liturgy from the third century. It is … God and announce their intention to conduct their lives in faith and obedience toward God. After the prayer of the … …

12.2.3.1 The wedding blessing

Catechism

… The church wedding generally takes place in the context of a divine service. In the address before the wedding … faithfulness under all circumstances and pursue their path of life together in love, under God's blessing. Both promise … couples is to support one another in reaching the goal of faith. …

12.2.3.2 Blessing at wedding anniversaries

Catechism

… At the request of a married couple, a blessing is dispensed for the … …

12.2.3.3 Engagement blessing

Catechism

… Engagement represents a serious promise of marriage. If desired, the engagement blessing can be … manner pleasing to God. Upon this they receive the blessing of God. SUMMARY Special blessings are … faithfulness to God and publicly profess the New Apostolic faith. The confirmation vow is given before God and the … …

12.4.1.1 Church instruction

Catechism

… … and adolescents in leading their lives in awareness of their responsibility before God. The cultivation of fellowship and the feeling of belonging is an important objective. The teaching … …

12.4.2.1 The situation of young people

Catechism

… 12.4.2.1 The situation of young people …

12.4.2.2 Goal of youth care

Catechism

… 12.4.2.2 Goal of youth care …

12.4.2.3 Offers in youth care

Catechism

… 12.4.2.3 Offers in youth care …

12.4.5.1 Caring for the terminally ill and dying

Catechism

… Many people suppress the thought of dying and death and therefore avoid any dealings with the … ill. This can have various reasons, for example fear of the questions the dying person may ask, or the knowledge … the grace of God. A New Apostolic Christian who lives his faith does not face death unprepared. On the one hand, he … …

12.4.5.2 Support for the bereaved

Catechism

… … with them. It is frequently difficult to reach the heart of a mourner at all. Ultimately, this will not succeed … might in some cases even continue for years after the death of a beloved family member. Often there is a fear of … persons close to the bereaved–relatives, brethren in faith, friends, and ministers–should reach out to the … …

12.4.5.3 Coping with grief

Catechism

… … minister openly about their sadness, fear, anger, feelings of resentment toward God, and feelings of guilt. At such moments in particular, it is the … ([deeplink:cat:ad40616d-4196-4ab9-b1b9-aa34d13c5bc4]) Faith imparts the certainty of eternal life and eases the … …

5.3.10.1 Different counting methods and versions

Catechism

… The last two of the Ten Commandments are closely linked to one another in terms of content. They are often counted together as the Tenth … in Christianity. There are different versions of these two commandments. In Exodus 20: 17, the house of … …

5.3.10.2 Covetousness–the cause of sin

Catechism

… 5.3.10.2 Covetousness–the cause of sin …

5.3.10.3 Coveting the spouse of one's neighbour

Catechism

… 5.3.10.3 Coveting the spouse of one's neighbour …

5.3.10.4 Coveting the property of one's neighbour

Catechism

… 5.3.10.4 Coveting the property of one's neighbour …

5.3.10.5 Overcoming sinful desire

Catechism

… … sinful desire manifests itself in sinful conduct, in "works of the flesh", which are then described in dramatic fashion. … To "walk in the Spirit" means to bring forth the fruit of the Holy Spirit, namely "love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control." Here the term … …

Glossary

Catechism

… … blessing "Aaronic"–derived from the name of the first high priest, Aaron Three-part blessing … at Holy Communion, the wafer is the outward manifestation of the elements of Communion. antitype From 1 … was a devaluation of the revealed religions in favour of a faith based solely on human reason. eschatology, … …

Index of Bible references

Catechism

… Index of Bible references …

The Apostles' Creed (Apostolicum)

Catechism

… "I believe in God, the Father almighty, Creator of heaven and earth. I believe in Jesus Christ, His only Son, our Lord. He was conceived by the power of the Holy Spirit and born of the virgin Mary. He suffered under Pontius Pilate, was … …

The Creed of Nicaea-Constantinople

Catechism

… The Creed of Nicaea-Constantinople …

The New Apostolic Creed

Catechism

… The First Article of Faith: I believe in God, the Father, the Almighty, the Creator of heaven and earth. The Second Article of Faith: I … …

The Ten Commandments

Catechism

… … Me. The Second Commandment You shall not take the name of the Lord your God in vain, for the Lord will not hold him … …

12.1.6.3.1 Main content of the proclamation of the word

Catechism

… 12.1.6.3.1 Main content of the proclamation of the word …

12.1.6.3.2 The objective of the proclamation of the word

Catechism

… 12.1.6.3.2 The objective of the proclamation of the word …

12.1.6.3.3 Levels within the proclamation of the word

Catechism

… 12.1.6.3.3 Levels within the proclamation of the word …

12.1.7.2.1 "Our Father in heaven"

Catechism

… The form of address "Our Father" identifies this prayer as a communal prayer in which those praying profess to be children of God. In this fellowship, Jesus Christ is the "firstborn … that He provides for them. God is the source and sustainer of that which He has created. In love and trust, and without … …

12.1.7.2.2 "Hallowed be Your name"

Catechism

… The triune God is holy. Believers speak of Him with deep reverence. By giving all honour to God, by … accordance with His will, they contribute to the hallowing of His name. The Lord's Prayer reminds us of the Second Commandment (see … …

12.1.7.2.3 "Your kingdom come"

Catechism

… The kingdom of God has already dawned in Christ and is present in His … that, these words allude to the revelation of the future kingdom of God, which will begin with the marriage of the Lamb … …

12.1.7.2.4 "Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven"

Catechism

… … wishes to deliver fallen mankind from the consequences of sin and grant them salvation (1 Timothy 2: 4). To make … Jesus Christ came and sacrificed Himself, wherein the will of the Father was revealed (Hebrews 10: 9-10). The wish … "Your will be done." Due to their sinfulness and the power of Satan–which, although broken, is still active–human … …

12.1.7.2.5 "Give us this day our daily bread"

Catechism

… … broadest sense, this plea is directed at the preservation of the creation. These words also express the petition that … beings need for earthly life. The figurative meaning of the plea is for the word of God as "food" for our immortal souls (Jeremiah 15: … …

12.1.7.2.6 "Forgive us our debts as we forgive our debtors"

Catechism

… … human beings burden themselves with guilt as a consequence of their sins. With the plea: "And forgive us our debts", the faithful confess that they are sinners before God and ask … clear that the Lord's Prayer also incorporates the aspect of repentance. Believers receive the grace of forgiveness of … …

12.1.7.2.7 "And do not lead us into temptation"

Catechism

… … all their strength. Furthermore, they ask that the trials of faith may not be too severe and that they may be protected from many of the temptations of Satan. However, God will permit … …

12.1.7.2.8 "But deliver us from the evil one"

Catechism

… … the evil from which we ask God to deliver us consists of everything that emanates from Satan. Ultimately this is a … His sacrifice, Christ made redemption possible. In the Son of God we have "redemption ..., the forgiveness of sins" (Colossians 1: 14). Redemption is an ongoing … …

12.1.7.2.9 "For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever"

Catechism

… These pleas are followed by an expression of praise to God (doxology)[15], wherein the Most High is given the honour and glory He is due. He, the Lord of His kingdom, assists the believers with His power, so … will be fulfilled for the bridal congregation at the return of Christ: "When Christ who is our life appears, then you … …

12.4.1.1.1 Pre-Sunday School

Catechism

… … or after Sunday divine service. It has the stated objective of instructing children about God and His activity at their … tell Him anything. I can trust Him." The prime objective of Pre-Sunday School is not to impart knowledge. Rather, it should impart a feeling of security, and instil joy of faith in the children's hearts. …

12.4.1.1.2 Sunday School

Catechism

… … or after the Sunday divine service. The objectives of Sunday School are: to awaken and strengthen joy in … and in the divine service, to impart understanding of God's activities through Bible stories, to reinforce … divine promises, to explain to the children the sequence of the divine service, the meaning of the sacraments and … …

12.4.1.1.3 Religious Instruction

Catechism

… … knowledge about biblical history, the emergence and spread of Christianity in general, and the New Apostolic Church in … It reinforces the children's awareness that they are part of God's work of redemption, thereby promoting a willingness … gospel, the children are to be led into "the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God" (Ephesians 4: … …

12.4.1.1.4 Confirmation Instruction

Catechism

… The content of Confirmation Instruction focuses primarily upon the Creed … day divine service, when they will give their vow of faithfulness to God before the congregation and take upon themselves the full responsibility for their life of faith as Christians who have come of age. …

12.1.7.2.10 "Amen"

Catechism

… … With the Lord's Prayer Jesus gave an example of how one is to pray to God. … 6: 9-13. It is prayed in connection with the forgiveness of sins and the celebration of Holy Communion. … help in resisting sin and that He may ensure that trials of faith do not become too difficult. … …

39. What is the significance of the New Apostolic Creed?

FAQ

… In ten Articles of Faith, the New Apostolic Creed brings the doctrine of the New Apostolic Church to binding expression. It also … …

40. What is the structure of the New Apostolic Creed?

FAQ

… The first three Articles of Faith largely correspond to the Apostolicum. They deal with the triune God. The Fourth and Fifth Articles describe the activity of the Apostles, and the … …

664. What is necessary in order to be confirmed?

FAQ

… … for being confirmed is to have received the sacraments of Holy Baptism with water and Holy Sealing. Other … are to know the main principles of the New Apostolic faith and the Articles of Faith, and be prepared to lead their lives in … …

Articles of Faith

FAQ

… Articles of Faith …

01. The revelations of God

FAQ

… 01. The revelations of God …

04. Man in need of redemption

FAQ

… 04. Man in need of redemption …

06. The church of Jesus Christ

FAQ

… 06. The church of Jesus Christ …

10. The doctrine of future things

FAQ

… 10. The doctrine of future things …

11. From the history of Christianity

FAQ

… 11. From the history of Christianity …

12. Divine service, acts of blessing, and pastoral care

FAQ

… 12. Divine service, acts of blessing, and pastoral care …

13. New Apostolic Christians and their life of faith

FAQ

… 13. New Apostolic Christians and their life of faith …

Index of Bible references

FAQ

… Index of Bible references …

• First – prohibition of images

FAQ

… • First – prohibition of images …

• Fourth – obligations of parents

FAQ

… • Fourth – obligations of parents …

1. What is the source of our belief in God?

FAQ

… 1. What is the source of our belief in God? …

10. What do we understand by the idea of faith as a response to God’s revelations?

FAQ

… 10. What do we understand by the idea of faith as a response to God’s revelations? …

100. What does it mean when it says that Jesus Christ is God’s “only begotten Son”?

FAQ

… The designation of Jesus as God’s “only begotten Son” means that Jesus Christ, the Son of God, is unique and eternal. The Son of God is not part of the creation like mankind, nor can He … …

101. How is it to be understood that the Son of God is described as the “Word” (“logos”)?

FAQ

… 101. How is it to be understood that the Son of God is described as the “Word” (“logos”)? …

102. What does it mean when John says: “The Word became flesh and dwelt among us...”?

FAQ

… John 1: 14 states that the Son of God (the “Word”) became “flesh”, that is, a real … Bethlehem, grew up in Nazareth, and learned the profession of a carpenter there. He died in Jerusalem: He was crucified … …

103. As a Man, was Jesus Christ the same as other human beings?

FAQ

… … friend Lazarus died. He also wept when He stood in front of Jerusalem and the people did not recognise Him as the Son of God. He suffered pain from the scourging of the soldiers. However, He distinguished Himself from … …

104. While on earth was Jesus exclusively a Man?

FAQ

… No. While on earth He was both Man and the Son of God, that is, true God. Jesus Christ is true Man and true … …

105. What passages in Holy Scripture attest that Jesus Christ is also always true God?

FAQ

… … the Father likewise emphasised that Jesus is the Son of God: “This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. Hear Him!” (Matthew 17: 5). The words of Jesus: “He who has seen Me has seen the Father” (John … …

106. Which of His deeds show that Jesus Christ is true God?

FAQ

… 106. Which of His deeds show that Jesus Christ is true God? …

107. What does the name “Jesus” mean?

FAQ

… … Lord saves”. When the angel Gabriel announced the birth of Jesus, He also declared the name of the Child. He said to Mary: “And behold, you will … …

108. How can we recognise that Jesus Christ is the Redeemer?

FAQ

… … is clear especially in the fact that He proclaimed the will of God and gave His life for the redemption of mankind, that is, for their liberation from sin and … …

11. How do human beings come to believe?

FAQ

… Faith is granted and reinforced by the Holy Spirit. Among other things, this comes about through the preaching of the gospel on the foundation of Holy Scripture. “So then faith comes by hearing, and … …

110. What is meant by the term 'majestic titles' of Jesus?

FAQ

… 110. What is meant by the term 'majestic titles' of Jesus? …

111. What is meant by the majestic title of “Christ”?

FAQ

… 111. What is meant by the majestic title of “Christ”? …

112. What does the majestic title “Messiah” mean?

FAQ

… … also means “Anointed One” in translation. That Jesus of Nazareth is the Christ awaited by Israel is stated … …

113. What does the majestic title “Lord” signify?

FAQ

… … designation “Lord” thus identifies the divine authority of Jesus Christ. It therefore far transcends any other form of respectful address. When Jesus is called “the Lord” … …

114. What does the majestic title “Son of Man” mean?

FAQ

… 114. What does the majestic title “Son of Man” mean? …

115. Are there any other majestic titles of Jesus?

FAQ

… 115. Are there any other majestic titles of Jesus? …

116. In what way did Jesus Christ fulfil His divine commission?

FAQ

… Jesus Christ acted in the capacity of King, Priest, and Prophet. When one thinks about a king, one thinks of ruling and governing. In the time of the Old Testament the function of a priest was to mediate … …

117. What does it mean when we refer to “Jesus Christ—the King”?

FAQ

… … entry into Jerusalem, Jesus identified Himself as the King of peace and righteousness. Even before Pilate, a representative of the worldly power of Rome, Jesus professed that He was King and a witness of … …

118. What does it mean when we refer to “Jesus Christ—the Priest”?

FAQ

… The most important task of the priests in the time of the Old Testament was to bring sacrifices to God in order … life. In Old Testament times, high priests had the function of bringing the sins of the people to God. For this purpose … …

119. What does it mean when we refer to “Jesus Christ—the Prophet”?

FAQ

… … Jesus Christ. As Prophet, Jesus Christ proclaimed the will of God. He shows the way to life and reveals future events. … discourses He promises the Holy Spirit. In the book of Revelation He unveils the course of salvation history right up to the new creation. The … …

12. What is Holy Scripture?

FAQ

… Holy Scripture—the Bible—is a collection of writings about God’s activity, promises, and commandments. It consists of the Old Testament and the New Testament. Holy Scripture attests to the revelations of God, however it is not a complete or exhaustive account … …

120. Where do we read of the person and activity of Jesus Christ?

FAQ

… 120. Where do we read of the person and activity of Jesus Christ? …

121. How did the Son of God enter into His human existence?

FAQ

… 121. How did the Son of God enter into His human existence? …

122. What events preceded the birth of Jesus?

FAQ

… 122. What events preceded the birth of Jesus? …

123. Who were Jesus’ parents?

FAQ

… Mary was the biological mother of Jesus. Joseph adopted Jesus as a son. It is for this … tree. “Now Jesus [...] being (as was supposed) the son of Joseph, the son of Heli …” Luke 3: 23 …

124. What do we know about the birth of Jesus?

FAQ

… 124. What do we know about the birth of Jesus? …

125. What occurred at the same time as the birth of Jesus?

FAQ

… 125. What occurred at the same time as the birth of Jesus? …

126. What occurred after the birth of Jesus?

FAQ

… 126. What occurred after the birth of Jesus? …

129. What preceded Jesus’ teaching activity?

FAQ

… … event it was announced to the world that Jesus is the Son of God. …

13. Who is the author of Holy Scripture?

FAQ

… 13. Who is the author of Holy Scripture? …

130. Why did Jesus allow Himself to be baptised by John?

FAQ

… … unto repentance by John the Baptist in the Jordan. This act of baptism—which was an expression of repentance—makes it clear that He abased Himself and … …

131. What transpired after the baptism of Jesus?

FAQ

… 131. What transpired after the baptism of Jesus? …

132. What is the significance of Jesus’ temptations?

FAQ

… 132. What is the significance of Jesus’ temptations? …

133. At what age did Jesus begin to teach?

FAQ

… Jesus began to teach in Galilee at approximately 30 years of age (cf. Luke 3: 23). …

134. What was the focus of Jesus’ teaching?

FAQ

… 134. What was the focus of Jesus’ teaching? …

135. What is meant by the “kingdom of God”?

FAQ

… 135. What is meant by the “kingdom of God”? …

136. What does it mean to “repent”?

FAQ

… … to change their attitude in order to fulfil the will of God. …

137. What does the term “gospel” mean?

FAQ

… … “glad tidings” or “good news”. It is the message of the grace, love, and reconciliation that God grants us in … …

138. What is Jesus’ position on the Law of Moses?

FAQ

… 138. What is Jesus’ position on the Law of Moses? …

139. What was one of the first things Jesus did at the beginning of His teaching activity?

FAQ

… 139. What was one of the first things Jesus did at the beginning of His teaching activity? …

14. Have the texts of the biblical books been handed down in a reliable manner?

FAQ

… 14. Have the texts of the biblical books been handed down in a reliable manner? …

140. What miracles did Jesus perform?

FAQ

… The miracles performed by the Son of God are of various kinds and include healing of the sick, casting out evil spirits, raising the dead, … …

141. Why did Jesus perform miracles?

FAQ

… … suffering mankind in Him. These miracles reveal the glory of the Son of God and His divine authority. …

142. What healings of the sick do the gospels relate?

FAQ

… 142. What healings of the sick do the gospels relate? …

143. What is related about Jesus casting out evil spirits?

FAQ

… … cast out demons— which according to the understanding of the time were also the cause of various sicknesses—and so healed people. Jesus Christ … spirits opposed to God, who according to the understanding of the ancient world, caused illness and sought to control … …

144. Of what miracles of raising the dead do the gospels relate?

FAQ

… 144. Of what miracles of raising the dead do the gospels relate? …

145. Of what miracles of nature do the gospels relate?

FAQ

… 145. Of what miracles of nature do the gospels relate? …

146. Of which miracles of feeding do the gospels relate?

FAQ

… 146. Of which miracles of feeding do the gospels relate? …

147. Of what gift miracles do the gospels relate?

FAQ

… 147. Of what gift miracles do the gospels relate? …

148. How did Jesus teach the people His doctrine?

FAQ

… … “Sermon on the Mount”, which is recorded in the gospel of Matthew. The “beatitudes” are recorded at the beginning of the “Sermon on the Mount”. The beatitudes “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be … …

149. What is meant by the “beatitudes” of Jesus?

FAQ

… 149. What is meant by the “beatitudes” of Jesus? …

15. How did the biblical books come to be collected?

FAQ

… The biblical writings were collected over the course of centuries. This not only came about as the result of human contemplations, but also especially through the … and hand down these original accounts of the Christian faith, they were compiled into a collection that ultimately … …

150. How did Jesus make the gospel understandable?

FAQ

… … narratives. These stories are taken from the daily lives of His listeners so that they might better understand them. With these parables, Jesus illustrated the main content of the gospel. More than 40 parables are recorded in the … I will utter things kept secret from the foundation of the world’.” Matthew 13: 34-35 …

151. What major statements of the gospel are illustrated in parables?

FAQ

… 151. What major statements of the gospel are illustrated in parables? …

152. How did Jesus explain the beginning and the growth of the kingdom of God?

FAQ

… 152. How did Jesus explain the beginning and the growth of the kingdom of God? …

153. How did Jesus explain that something extremely valuable is offered in the kingdom of God?

FAQ

… … that something extremely valuable is offered in the kingdom of God? …

154. How did Jesus explain the love that prevails in the kingdom of God?

FAQ

… … How did Jesus explain the love that prevails in the kingdom of God? …

155. Which parable calls for us to love our neighbour?

FAQ

… The greatest of the commandments are to love God and our neighbour. With the story of the Good Samaritan, Jesus illustrated who this neighbour … means that we must not close our eyes to the distress of others, but rather provide help. The double commandment … …

156. What are the parables that relate to the attitude of man’s heart?

FAQ

… 156. What are the parables that relate to the attitude of man’s heart? …

157. What did Jesus reveal in the parables of the coming of the Son of Man?

FAQ

… 157. What did Jesus reveal in the parables of the coming of the Son of Man? …

158. What images did Jesus use to describe Himself, and what do they mean?

FAQ

… The gospel of John contains statements by Jesus which can be described … describes His nature. Seven such striking statements of Jesus begin with the words “I am”. In them He speaks of Himself metaphorically as the “bread of life” (John … …

159. Which of the disciples were especially close to Jesus?

FAQ

… 159. Which of the disciples were especially close to Jesus? …

16. What is the structure and content of Holy Scripture?

FAQ

… 16. What is the structure and content of Holy Scripture? …

160. What marked the start of the sufferings of Jesus Christ?

FAQ

… 160. What marked the start of the sufferings of Jesus Christ? …

161. What events followed Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem?

FAQ

… … Thereby He made it clear that the temple, the house of God, is holy, and not a place for conducting business. In Bethany Jesus was anointed with costly oil of spikenard. This transpired in accordance with His own … and so His situation became more and more menacing. Oil of spikenard: spikenard is a plant that grows in the area of … …

162. Who betrayed Jesus Christ?

FAQ

… One of the twelve Apostles, Judas Iscariot, visited Jesus’ … (Matthew 26: 14-16). These men offered him 30 pieces of silver. This was the amount that was generally paid for a slave. Thereby a prophecy of Prophet Zechariah was fulfilled (cf. Zechariah 11: … …

163. How did Jesus institute Holy Communion?

FAQ

… … together with the twelve Apostles and celebrated the feast of Passover with them. Judas Iscariot, who had previously … thanks, and gave it to them, saying, ‘Drink from it, all of you. For this is My blood of the new covenant, which is shed for many for the … …

164. What happened in the Garden of Gethsemane?

FAQ

… 164. What happened in the Garden of Gethsemane? …

165. How did the arrest of Jesus occur?

FAQ

… 165. How did the arrest of Jesus occur? …

166. How did the Apostles behave?

FAQ

… … Jesus, Simon Peter drew the sword and cut off the ear of the servant of one of the chief priests (cf. John 18: 10). Jesus, however, held … …

167. Did Jesus later reproach the Apostles for their behaviour?

FAQ

… No. Jesus even knew the human weaknesses of His Apostles, but He did not reproach them for these. After His resurrection, He came to them with a greeting of peace. …

168. What happened after Jesus’ arrest?

FAQ

… … high council, the chief priests and scribes, accused Jesus of blasphemy and condemned Him to death. The fact that He claimed to be the Son of God was interpreted as blasphemy. …

169. What did Judas Iscariot do after Jesus’ sentencing?

FAQ

… … Iscariot regretted his betrayal and brought the 30 pieces of silver back to the chief priests. These men no longer … …

17. What is the content of the Old Testament?

FAQ

… 17. What is the content of the Old Testament? …

170. How did Jesus fare before Pilate and Herod?

FAQ

… … thus sent Him to Herod (who was surnamed Antipas), the king of the Jews. Since the Jews were forbidden by the Romans to … The people demanded Jesus’ crucifixion and accused Him of having exalted Himself over the Roman emperor as the “King of the Jews”. This offence was punishable by death (cf. … …

171. How did Jesus conduct Himself in His sufferings?

FAQ

… … and mocking to which He was subjected. When a crown of thorns was placed upon His head in derision, He endured … …

172. Where did Jesus’ suffering end?

FAQ

… … Two criminals were crucified along with Him. The cross of Jesus stood between theirs. Here the words of Isaiah 53: 12, namely that the Lord would be numbered … words, He was treated like a criminal. The heavy sufferings of Jesus ultimately led to a cruel death struggle before He … …

173. Who is to blame for the death of Jesus?

FAQ

… 173. Who is to blame for the death of Jesus? …

174. What were the last words of Jesus on the cross?

FAQ

… 174. What were the last words of Jesus on the cross? …

175. What events accompanied the crucifixion of the Lord?

FAQ

… 175. What events accompanied the crucifixion of the Lord? …

176. What happened to the body of Jesus?

FAQ

… 176. What happened to the body of Jesus? …

177. To what purpose did Jesus have to suffer and die?

FAQ

… … in Jesus and came into the world in order to take the sins of mankind upon Himself. He brought the sacrifice by His own … love in order to deliver mankind from death. The power of sin is great, but the power of divine love, which is demonstrated by the fact that Jesus … …

178. What significance does the suffering and death of Jesus thus hold for mankind?

FAQ

… 178. What significance does the suffering and death of Jesus thus hold for mankind? …

179. Does the Old Testament make reference to the suffering and death of Jesus Christ?

FAQ

… … the Old Testament make reference to the suffering and death of Jesus Christ? …

18. What is the content of the New Testament?

FAQ

… 18. What is the content of the New Testament? …

180. Did Jesus Himself give make any reference to His suffering and death?

FAQ

… … After Peter had told Him: “[You are] the Christ of God”, Jesus made reference to His impending suffering and death: “The Son of Man must suffer many things, and be rejected by the … spoke similar words following the events on the Mount of Transfiguration: “The Son of Man is being betrayed into … …

181. What do the letters of the Apostles have to say about the sacrificial death of Jesus?

FAQ

… 181. What do the letters of the Apostles have to say about the sacrificial death of Jesus? …

182. What does the cross signify?

FAQ

… The cross of Christ is a sign that God has reconciled sinful mankind … In the ancient world, crucifixion was an expression of defeat: a shameful end for a despised person who had been cast out of human society. In the case of Jesus, however, this … …

183. What happened after Jesus died?

FAQ

… After Jesus Christ had died, He entered the realm of the dead. In 1 Peter 3: 18-20 it says that, after His death, the Son of God preached to those who had been disobedient to God in the time of Noah. He did this in order to offer salvation: “For … …

184. By what power did Jesus Christ resurrect?

FAQ

… The resurrection of Jesus Christ is an act of the triune God: On the one hand, the power of God, the Father, is revealed in that He raised Jesus from … …

185. Are there any witnesses to the resurrection of Christ?

FAQ

… 185. Are there any witnesses to the resurrection of Christ? …

186. What significance does the resurrection of Christ hold for mankind?

FAQ

… 186. What significance does the resurrection of Christ hold for mankind? …

187. What appearances of the Risen One are attested in the New Testament?

FAQ

… 187. What appearances of the Risen One are attested in the New Testament? …

188. How did the chief priests behave after the resurrection of Jesus?

FAQ

… … How did the chief priests behave after the resurrection of Jesus? …

189. What is the resurrection body of Christ?

FAQ

… 189. What is the resurrection body of Christ? …

19. How are the books of the Old Testament organised? How many of them are there and in what order do they appear?

FAQ

… 19. How are the books of the Old Testament organised? How many of them are there and in what order do they appear? …

190. What happened at the ascension of Jesus Christ?

FAQ

… 190. What happened at the ascension of Jesus Christ? …

191. Where did Jesus Christ go when He ascended into heaven?

FAQ

… … returned to the Father and “sat down at the right hand of God” (Mark 16: 19). …

192. What does it mean to say that “Jesus Christ is seated at the right hand of God?”

FAQ

… … to say that “Jesus Christ is seated at the right hand of God?” …

193. Is Jesus Christ also present on the earth now that He has ascended?

FAQ

… … His ascension through the Holy Spirit, the third person of the Godhead, who is at work in the church in the present. … His promise: “I am with you always, even to the end of the age” (Matthew 28: 20). Holy Spirit: see Questions … …

194. What did Jesus mean when He said: “I will come again”?

FAQ

… … returns as the bridegroom, He will take unto Himself those of the dead and the living who have received the gift of the Holy Spirit and have allowed themselves to be prepared for this event. The return of Christ is near. Future hope: see Questions … …

195. How else is the return of Jesus Christ described?

FAQ

… 195. How else is the return of Jesus Christ described? …

196. What references to the return of Christ do we find in the New Testament?

FAQ

… 196. What references to the return of Christ do we find in the New Testament? …

197. Who is the Holy Spirit?

FAQ

… The Holy Spirit is true God. He is the third person of God, who is worshipped as Lord and God along with the … them, is universally active. ‘Universal’: the persons of the Godhead not only work in one place and are not … …

198. How does the Holy Spirit show Himself as a divine person?

FAQ

… The Holy Spirit shows Himself as a person of the trinity of God by sending human beings to spread the gospel, just as … (Luke 12: 11, 12). The Holy Spirit teaches the messengers of God: “But God has revealed them to us through His … …

199. By what other names is the Holy Spirit also known?

FAQ

… The Holy Spirit is also known as the “Spirit of God”, the “Spirit of the Lord”, the “Spirit of truth”, the “Spirit of [Jesus] Christ”, the … …

20. What books of the Bible are numbered among the Apocrypha?

FAQ

… 20. What books of the Bible are numbered among the Apocrypha? …

200. What does it mean to say that “the Holy Spirit is a Comforter and Helper”?

FAQ

… … the believers. He stands by them in all situations of life. …

201. What does it mean to say that “the Holy Spirit is the Spirit of truth”?

FAQ

… … does it mean to say that “the Holy Spirit is the Spirit of truth”? …

202. What does it mean to say that “the Holy Spirit is the power from on high”?

FAQ

… … “power from on high” indicates that the activity of the Holy Spirit incorporates the powerful intervention of God. As the “power from on high” (Luke 24: 49), the … them in the endeavour to live in accordance with the favour of God and prepare themselves for the return of Christ. …

203. How can we recognise the activity of the Holy Spirit?

FAQ

… 203. How can we recognise the activity of the Holy Spirit? …

204. What is the gift of the Holy Spirit?

FAQ

… 204. What is the gift of the Holy Spirit? …

205. How does one receive the gift of the Holy Spirit?

FAQ

… 205. How does one receive the gift of the Holy Spirit? …

206. Is the Holy Spirit mentioned in the Old Testament?

FAQ

… Yes. Whenever we read of the “Spirit of God” in the Old Testament, this is a reference to the … …

207. Was the Holy Spirit also active in the time of the Old Testament?

FAQ

… 207. Was the Holy Spirit also active in the time of the Old Testament? …

208. Was the Holy Spirit also given as a gift in the time of the Old Testament?

FAQ

… 208. Was the Holy Spirit also given as a gift in the time of the Old Testament? …

209. When were the promises concerning the outpouring of the Holy Spirit fulfilled?

FAQ

… 209. When were the promises concerning the outpouring of the Holy Spirit fulfilled? …

21. What value does the New Apostolic Church assign the Apocrypha?

FAQ

… … Apocrypha are assigned the same value as the other writings of the Old Testament. …

210. How did the outpouring of the Holy Spirit occur?

FAQ

… 210. How did the outpouring of the Holy Spirit occur? …

211. Was the Holy Spirit still active after the time of the early Apostles?

FAQ

… 211. Was the Holy Spirit still active after the time of the early Apostles? …

212. Where is the Holy Spirit active today?

FAQ

… … wherever there are people who believe in Jesus Christ, profess Him as Lord, and conduct their lives in accordance … …

213. Is the Holy Spirit active in the sacraments?

FAQ

… … the triune God is active, the Holy Spirit, as a person of the Godhead, is involved. The sacraments are dispensed in the name and power of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Thereby the … …

214. What is the connection between the activity of the Holy Spirit and the Apostle ministry?

FAQ

… 214. What is the connection between the activity of the Holy Spirit and the Apostle ministry? …

215. Why are human beings in need of redemption?

FAQ

… 215. Why are human beings in need of redemption? …

216. What does “redemption” mean?

FAQ

… The original meaning of “redemption” had to do with the act of untying ropes and shackles. In the context of the sacrifice of Jesus, “redemption” refers to the … …

219. How does evil reveal itself?

FAQ

… … reveals itself in various ways, for example, in the form of destruction, lies, envy, or greed. It ultimately leads to … …

22. How are the books of the New Testament organised? How many of them are there, and in what order do they appear?

FAQ

… 22. How are the books of the New Testament organised? How many of them are there, and in what order do they appear? …

220. Does evil also exist as a person?

FAQ

… … or “Satan” (cf. Matthew 4: 1; Mark 1: 13). As an enemy of Christ, he is also described as the “Antichrist”. …

222. Will evil always exist?

FAQ

… No. Evil will not always exist. The power of the evil one has already been broken by Jesus Christ. In … the following concerning this: “For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that He might destroy the works of the devil.” After the kingdom of peace, evil will be … …

223. What is related in Holy Scripture concerning the fall into sin?

FAQ

… God had commanded Adam and Eve not to eat of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, which stood in the middle of the garden of … …

224. What were the consequences for mankind of the fall into sin?

FAQ

… 224. What were the consequences for mankind of the fall into sin? …

225. What was God’s position toward fallen mankind?

FAQ

… … His loving care, God even clothed Adam and Eve with tunics of skin (cf. Genesis 3: 21). The love of God for fallen mankind is revealed in perfect fashion in … His loving care, God even clothed Adam and Eve with tunics of skin (cf Genesis 3: 21). The love of God for fallen … …

226. How was the further development of mankind after the fall into sin?

FAQ

… 226. How was the further development of mankind after the fall into sin? …

227. Did the fall into sin have consequences for all human beings?

FAQ

… … into sin, all human beings have been subject to the power of sin. Sin leads to separation from God, in other words, … within mankind. Human beings cannot return to a state of sinlessness through their own power. Spiritual death: see … …

228. Did the fall into sin also have consequences for the creation?

FAQ

… … was cursed: “Because you have [...] eaten from the tree of which I commanded you, saying, ‘You shall not eat of it’: cursed is the ground for your sake; in toil you shall eat of it all the days of your life. Both thorns and thistles it … …

229. What is sin?

FAQ

… Sin is everything that opposes the will of God and is contrary to His being. This includes all … deeds, and thoughts that are contrary to the will and being of God. It is also sin to intentionally neglect to do good … …

23. What is the significance of Holy Scripture for the New Apostolic Church?

FAQ

… 23. What is the significance of Holy Scripture for the New Apostolic Church? …

230. What is the distinction between sin and guilt?

FAQ

… … God, in His righteousness and mercy, assesses the degree of guilt an individual incurs with Him through sin differently in each case. Explanation concerning the extent of guilt incurred: A distinction must be made in assessing the amount of guilt associated with a sin, for example, if someone has … …

231. How can this separation from God be undone?

FAQ

… In order to enter into the nearness of God, sin must be forgiven. Forgiveness of sins: see Question … …

233. How can we recognise what is sinful?

FAQ

… … is sinful—in other words, what is contrary to the will of God— from Holy Scripture. This includes: violations of the Ten Commandments (cf. Exodus 20: 20), breaking vows … …

234. With what gifts did God equip sinful mankind?

FAQ

… God has endowed human beings with a conscience, reason, and faith. When human beings make use of these gifts, it is the correct response to God for the … …

235. How are we to engage the conscience, reason, and faith?

FAQ

… 235. How are we to engage the conscience, reason, and faith? …

236. What is the purpose of the conscience?

FAQ

… 236. What is the purpose of the conscience? …

237. What is the function of reason?

FAQ

… 237. What is the function of reason? …

238. Are there limitations to human reason?

FAQ

… Yes. In its finiteness, human reason is incapable of grasping God in His endlessness. God’s nature and … 4: 7). As a result, reason cannot be the measure of all things. “And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your … …

239. What is faith?

FAQ

… Faith incorporates trust, obedience, and loyalty toward God. … following concerning this: “Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.” …

24. Who is commissioned to interpret Holy Scripture?

FAQ

… The proper understanding of Holy Scripture can only be opened up in all its depth through the activity of the Holy Spirit. It is part of the commission of the … to interpret Holy Scripture for doctrine and practice of faith. “Let a man so consider us, as servants of Christ … …

240. How does a human being come to believe?

FAQ

… Faith always starts with God, who reveals Himself through His word and His works. Faith is a gift of God. True faith is based on God’s grace of election. At the same time, faith is an obligation for … …

241. What is the task of the believer?

FAQ

… 241. What is the task of the believer? …

242. What can faith help achieve?

FAQ

… … sinners to Himself, that human beings can become children of God (cf. John 1: 12), that human beings can enter into eternal fellowship with God. “But without faith it is impossible to please Him [God].” Hebrews 11: 6 …

243. What is meant by the term “salvation history”?

FAQ

… Holy Scripture uses the term “salvation” in the sense of “deliverance”, “protection”, and “redemption. … “salvation history” is understood to mean the activity of God that allows human beings to receive salvation. …

244. What is meant by the term “plan of salvation”?

FAQ

… 244. What is meant by the term “plan of salvation”? …

245. How will salvation history transpire?

FAQ

… The manner and measure of salvation varies throughout the different phases of salvation history, however, God’s will to save—which is valid for all people of all time periods—stands above everything. …

246. What was the object of hope for salvation in the time of the Old Testament?

FAQ

… 246. What was the object of hope for salvation in the time of the Old Testament? …

247. What is the foundation for salvation?

FAQ

… Jesus Christ is the author of eternal salvation: “And having been perfected, He became the author of eternal salvation to all who obey Him” (Hebrews 5: 9). … on the cross makes liberation from sin—and the undoing of permanent separation from God—possible. “Mediator”: … …

248. Who is able to attain salvation?

FAQ

… Salvation through Jesus Christ is offered to all human beings, both living and dead. …

249. In what phase of God’s plan of salvation do we live?

FAQ

… 249. In what phase of God’s plan of salvation do we live? …

25. What is meant by the expression: “Jesus Christ is the centre of the Scripture?”

FAQ

… … is meant by the expression: “Jesus Christ is the centre of the Scripture?” …

250. How can salvation be attained today?

FAQ

… … by believing in Jesus Christ and availing themselves of the sacraments and the word of God, which Jesus Christ has made available for the salvation of the world. Sacraments: see Questions … …

251. What form of salvation will the bridal congregation experience at the return of Christ?

FAQ

… 251. What form of salvation will the bridal congregation experience at the return of Christ? …

252. When will God’s plan of salvation be fulfilled?

FAQ

… 252. When will God’s plan of salvation be fulfilled? …

253. What is the basis for our election by God?

FAQ

… … rooted in God’s will. No one can influence the decision of God. …

254. Why does God elect people?

FAQ

… God calls individuals or groups of people out of humanity because He has a specific purpose in mind for … …

255. Are there examples of election in the Old Testament?

FAQ

… 255. Are there examples of election in the Old Testament? …

256. Are there examples of election in the New Testament?

FAQ

… 256. Are there examples of election in the New Testament? …

258. What does election signify from the perspective of the gospel?

FAQ

… 258. What does election signify from the perspective of the gospel? …

259. What is the result of accepting this election?

FAQ

… 259. What is the result of accepting this election? …

26. What is the significance of Holy Scripture for believers?

FAQ

… 26. What is the significance of Holy Scripture for believers? …

260. What is blessing?

FAQ

… Blessing is an expression of God’s loving care, which no one can earn. To be blessed … that God grants His help and guidance. The opposite of blessing is curse. …

261. How is blessing attained, and how does it unfold?

FAQ

… … bless himself. Blessing can unfold when it is grasped in faith. Whether it has enduring effects also depends on the attitude and conduct of the person being blessed. Blessing is a gift of God that can always be renewed. Blessing can, however, … …

262. How is God’s blessing revealed in the creation?

FAQ

… God has blessed His creation and laid the law of multiplication into everything that lives. He has … for the task associated with this. Although this blessing of God was limited in its effect through the curse of sin, it was not suspended. God even renewed it after the … …

263. How was blessing experienced in the old covenant?

FAQ

… The promise of blessing is a component of the covenant which God made with Israel. In the old covenant, the blessing of God was revealed primarily through earthly wellbeing. For … …

264. What were the implications for the Israelites if they accepted or rejected the blessing of God?

FAQ

… … the Israelites if they accepted or rejected the blessing of God? …

265. From whom does blessing emanate in the new covenant?

FAQ

… … emanates from Jesus Christ. New covenant: see explanation of Question … …

266. How did Jesus bless?

FAQ

… … gave His sinless life as a sacrifice for the reconciliation of all human beings. Jesus’ sacrificial death: see … …

267. Where does the emphasis of the blessing of Jesus Christ lie?

FAQ

… 267. Where does the emphasis of the blessing of Jesus Christ lie? …

268. What constitutes this spiritual blessing?

FAQ

… This blessing includes election before the foundation of the world (cf. Ephesians 1: 4), redemption and forgiveness of sins (cf. Ephesians 1: 7), insight into the will of God (cf. Ephesians 1: 9), predestination as heirs of … …

269. How can this blessing be attained and how should it be treated?

FAQ

… … also brings blessing—this is the fundamental experience of the Christian. Human beings are called upon to pray for the blessing of God and to conduct themselves in such a manner as to show … through a life defined by the fear of God, obedience, and faith. Sacrifice and blessing: see Question … …

27. What are contributing factors in strengthening the believer’s faith through the study of the Bible?

FAQ

… … are contributing factors in strengthening the believer’s faith through the study of the Bible? …

270. What constitutes the fullness of blessing?

FAQ

… 270. What constitutes the fullness of blessing? …

271. Did God give His people a law in the old covenant?

FAQ

… Yes. God gave the people of Israel a law through Moses. It is contained in the Torah … to love God and one’s neighbour are also part of the Mosaic Law. …

272. What is the purpose of the Mosaic Law?

FAQ

… 272. What is the purpose of the Mosaic Law? …

273. How was the Mosaic Law assessed in Old Testament times?

FAQ

… … Law was considered the highest binding order by the people of Israel. It was understood as the path to salvation. … …

274. How is the Mosaic Law assessed from the perspective of the gospel?

FAQ

… 274. How is the Mosaic Law assessed from the perspective of the gospel? …

275. What is the content of the gospel?

FAQ

… 275. What is the content of the gospel? …

276. What other names are there for the gospel?

FAQ

… The gospel is also known as the “message of the cross” (1 Corinthians 1: 18) and the “word of reconciliation” (2 Corinthians 5: 19). …

277. What is the relationship between the law and the gospel?

FAQ

… … to destroy but to fulfil” (Matthew 5: 17). The elements of the Mosaic Law that are always valid and necessary were … to the disciples that everything written in the Law of Moses, in the Prophets, and in the Psalms, had found its … follows that Christ is both the fulfilment and the goal of the law. The old covenant’s understanding that the law … …

278. What are the fundamental prerequisites for obtaining the grace offered in the gospel?

FAQ

… … are the fundamental prerequisites for obtaining the grace offered in the gospel? …

279. What is the relationship between a person’s good works and his redemption?

FAQ

… … earned through good works. It can only come from the grace of Christ. This requires belief in Christ. Good works are the expression of a living faith. Thus an individual’s faith should lead him to … …

28. What is the foundation and content of Christian faith?

FAQ

… 28. What is the foundation and content of Christian faith? …

280. What is the function of God’s commandments?

FAQ

… 280. What is the function of God’s commandments? …

281. With what attitude should human beings obey the commandments of God?

FAQ

… … what attitude should human beings obey the commandments of God? …

282. What is the greatest commandment?

FAQ

… … one’s neighbour is also known as the “dual commandment of love”. Love for one’s neighbour: see also Question … …

283. What is the basis of man’s love for God?

FAQ

… 283. What is the basis of man’s love for God? …

286. What does the commandment to love one’s neighbour demand?

FAQ

… … with love. It sets clear limits to egoism. In the parable of the Good Samaritan (cf. Luke 10: 25-37), Jesus … spitefully use you and persecute you, that you may be sons of your Father in heaven.” Matthew 5: 43-45 …

287. Who is this “neighbour”?

FAQ

… On the one hand, the example of the Good Samaritan demonstrates that this neighbour is … …

288. Did Jesus say anything else about the commandment to love one’s neighbour?

FAQ

… In addition to the parable of the Good Samaritan, Jesus summarised the following … held principle in interpersonal relationships even outside of Christianity. …

289. What does the “golden rule” state?

FAQ

… … “golden rule” is understood as a reference to the words of the Lord in the Sermon on the Mount: “Therefore, … …

29. What is a creed?

FAQ

… A creed is a summary of the essential content of a doctrine of faith. Such a creed contains all the things which the … …

290. How is the love for one’s neighbour to be revealed in the congregation?

FAQ

… … support one’s fellow human being and help in situations of need, should be especially evident in the congregation: “Let us do good to all, especially to those who are of the household of faith” (Galatians 6: 10). All who belong to the … …

291. What does this “love for one another” produce in the congregation?

FAQ

… … willingness to help one another. From the “high song of love”: “Love suffers long and is kind; love does not … …

292. What is the text of the Ten Commandments?

FAQ

… 292. What is the text of the Ten Commandments? …

293. To whom were the Ten Commandments given?

FAQ

… God gave the Ten Commandments to the people of Israel through Moses on Mount Sinai (cf. Exodus 19: 20). … …

294. What significance did the Ten Commandments hold for the people of Israel?

FAQ

… … significance did the Ten Commandments hold for the people of Israel? …

295. Did Jesus and His Apostles comment on the Ten Commandments?

FAQ

… … reinforced the Ten Commandments. He even sharpened some of the commandments by giving them a deeper meaning and … Apostles ultimately made it clear that breaking even one of the commandments amounted to a violation of the law as a whole: “For whoever shall keep the whole … …

297. How are God’s commandments to be seen in relationship to the laws of the state?

FAQ

… … God’s commandments to be seen in relationship to the laws of the state? …

298. What does it mean to violate the commandments of God?

FAQ

… 298. What does it mean to violate the commandments of God? …

3. How does God reveal Himself in nature?

FAQ

… … reveals Himself in nature as the Creator: in the existence of the universe, of mankind, and of animals and plants. “He waters the hills from His upper … …

30. Are there biblical creeds?

FAQ

… … Old Testament contains texts that bring common convictions of faith to expression. In one such creed it says: “Hear, O … that God grants salvation in Jesus Christ. Examples of such New Testament creeds are: “Jesus is the … …

301. What does the First Commandment mean?

FAQ

… … that God is Lord over all things. Only He, the Creator of all things, is worthy of worship and veneration. His will is to be obeyed. …

302. What is the significance of the First Commandment in the Old Testament?

FAQ

… 302. What is the significance of the First Commandment in the Old Testament? …

303. What does the prohibition to worship other gods imply?

FAQ

… Any veneration or worship of anything— other than God, the Creator— that could be … human beings as a deity is sin. This includes the worship of living beings, natural phenomena, objects, and real or fictional spiritual beings. Accordingly it is a violation of the First Commandment to regard statues, animal … …

304. How are we to understand the prohibition of producing and worshipping images?

FAQ

… 304. How are we to understand the prohibition of producing and worshipping images? …

306. What is the significance of the First Commandment in the New Testament?

FAQ

… 306. What is the significance of the First Commandment in the New Testament? …

307. What does the First Commandment mean for us today?

FAQ

… The First Commandment calls upon us to honour God out of love. We worship God in adoration, obedience, and the fear of God. The fear of God develops from our love for God. It is not an … …

308. What is the Second Commandment?

FAQ

… “You shall not take the name of the Lord your God in vain, for the Lord will not hold him … …

31. How did the first Christian creeds come into being?

FAQ

… … centuries AD. It was during this time that the doctrine of the trinity of God and the doctrine of the essence of Jesus Christ, that … because there had been disputes about various contents of faith. For example, there was the opinion that Jesus Christ … …

310. What is the significance of the Second Commandment in the Old Testament?

FAQ

… 310. What is the significance of the Second Commandment in the Old Testament? …

311. What is the significance of the Second Commandment in the New Testament?

FAQ

… 311. What is the significance of the Second Commandment in the New Testament? …

312. What does the Second Commandment mean for us today?

FAQ

… … holy. This applies to our thoughts, speech, and conduct of life. As Christians we are especially committed to the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. As children of God, who bear the name of the Father and the Son, we have … …

313. How might one take the name of God in vain?

FAQ

… 313. How might one take the name of God in vain? …

314. What is the consequence of violating the Second Commandment?

FAQ

… 314. What is the consequence of violating the Second Commandment? …

315. Is it a violation of the Second Commandment to swear while invoking the name of God?

FAQ

… 315. Is it a violation of the Second Commandment to swear while invoking the name of God? …

317. What is the meaning of the Third Commandment?

FAQ

… 317. What is the meaning of the Third Commandment? …

318. What is the significance of the Third Commandment in the Old Testament?

FAQ

… 318. What is the significance of the Third Commandment in the Old Testament? …

319. What is the significance of the Third Commandment in the New Testament?

FAQ

… 319. What is the significance of the Third Commandment in the New Testament? …

32. Which statements became part of the content of the Christian creeds?

FAQ

… 32. Which statements became part of the content of the Christian creeds? …

320. Why do Christians hallow the Sunday as the “Sabbath”?

FAQ

… … that Christians hallow the Sunday is also a profession of the resurrection of Jesus Christ. A reference to the significance of the Sunday as the holy day of the Christians can be found … …

321. How do we keep the Sunday holy?

FAQ

… The Sunday should be a day of restand a day of celebration for the soul. Above all, we keep the Sunday … by worshipping God in divine service, absorbing His word in faith, having our sins forgiven, and partaking worthily of … …

323. What is the meaning of the Fourth Commandment?

FAQ

… 323. What is the meaning of the Fourth Commandment? …

324. What is the significance of the Fourth Commandment in the Old Testament?

FAQ

… 324. What is the significance of the Fourth Commandment in the Old Testament? …

325. What is the significance of the Fourth Commandment in the New Testament?

FAQ

… 325. What is the significance of the Fourth Commandment in the New Testament? …

326. What does the Fourth Commandment mean for us today?

FAQ

… … duty to obey is, however, limited by the reference of Apostle Peter: “We ought to obey God rather than men” … profession, religious affiliation, and other conditions of life. …

327. How is the promise of a “long life” to be understood today?

FAQ

… 327. How is the promise of a “long life” to be understood today? …

328. Does the Fourth Commandment also imply certain duties for the parents?

FAQ

… … duty to obey if such obedience would result in a violation of a divine commandment by either the parents or the child. …

33. Which are the most important of the early church creeds?

FAQ

… 33. Which are the most important of the early church creeds? …

330. What is the meaning of the Fifth Commandment?

FAQ

… 330. What is the meaning of the Fifth Commandment? …

331. What is the significance of the Fifth Commandment in the Old Testament?

FAQ

… 331. What is the significance of the Fifth Commandment in the Old Testament? …

332. What is the significance of the Fifth Commandment in the New Testament?

FAQ

… 332. What is the significance of the Fifth Commandment in the New Testament? …

333. What is the significance of the Fifth Commandment for us today?

FAQ

… 333. What is the significance of the Fifth Commandment for us today? …

334. Is an abortion a violation of the Fifth Commandment?

FAQ

… 334. Is an abortion a violation of the Fifth Commandment? …

336. Is killing in self-defence a violation of the Fifth Commandment?

FAQ

… 336. Is killing in self-defence a violation of the Fifth Commandment? …

337. What does the commandment say about killing in war?

FAQ

… Killing in war is a violation of the Fifth Commandment. For the individual, the … …

338. Is euthanasia a violation of the Fifth Commandment?

FAQ

… 338. Is euthanasia a violation of the Fifth Commandment? …

339. How should the death penalty be assessed from the perspective of the Fifth Commandment?

FAQ

… … should the death penalty be assessed from the perspective of the Fifth Commandment? …

34. What is the text of the Apostolicum?

FAQ

… 34. What is the text of the Apostolicum? …

340. Does the Fifth Commandment also apply to the killing of animals?

FAQ

… 340. Does the Fifth Commandment also apply to the killing of animals? …

342. What is the meaning of the Sixth Commandment?

FAQ

… 342. What is the meaning of the Sixth Commandment? …

343. What is the significance of the Sixth Commandment in the Old Testament?

FAQ

… 343. What is the significance of the Sixth Commandment in the Old Testament? …

344. What is the significance of the Sixth Commandment in the New Testament?

FAQ

… 344. What is the significance of the Sixth Commandment in the New Testament? …

345. What does the New Testament have to say about divorce?

FAQ

… In the New Testament, divorce is considered a violation of the Sixth Commandment: “Therefore what God has joined … exception in which divorce was permissible was in the case of adultery committed by one’s spouse (cf. Matthew 19: … divorce served, above all, to improve the situation of the woman, who only had very limited rights in antiquity. … …

346. What does the Sixth Commandment mean for us today?

FAQ

… … to be permanent (cf. Matthew 19: 6; Mark 10: 9). In view of this, it is advisable to protect and promote … that both partners should be devoted to one another in faithfulness. The obligations arising from the commandment include the sincere endeavour on the part of both partners to pursue their path of life together in … …

347. What is the position of the New Apostolic Church toward divorced individuals?

FAQ

… 347. What is the position of the New Apostolic Church toward divorced individuals? …

349. What is the meaning of the Seventh Commandment?

FAQ

… 349. What is the meaning of the Seventh Commandment? …

35. What is the text of the Creed of Nicaea-Constantinople?

FAQ

… 35. What is the text of the Creed of Nicaea-Constantinople? …

350. What is the significance of the Seventh Commandment in the Old Testament?

FAQ

… 350. What is the significance of the Seventh Commandment in the Old Testament? …

351. What is the significance of the Seventh Commandment in the New Testament?

FAQ

… 351. What is the significance of the Seventh Commandment in the New Testament? …

352. What does the Seventh Commandment mean for us today?

FAQ

… … is taken away from others. However, usury, exploitation of a situation of need, embezzlement, fraud, tax evasion, corruption, and … entrusted to one’s care must also be seen as violations of the Seventh Commandment. In addition, the Seventh … …

354. What is the meaning of the Eighth Commandment?

FAQ

… 354. What is the meaning of the Eighth Commandment? …

355. What is the significance of the Eighth Commandment in the Old Testament?

FAQ

… 355. What is the significance of the Eighth Commandment in the Old Testament? …

356. What is the significance of the Eighth Commandment in the New Testament?

FAQ

… 356. What is the significance of the Eighth Commandment in the New Testament? …

357. What does the Eighth Commandment mean for us today?

FAQ

… Today the meaning of the Eighth Commandment transcends the original … true facts, as well as slander, are thus also violations of the Eighth Commandment. Bragging and exaggeration, … rumours, defamation and flattery are likewise expressions of untruthfulness. Everyone is called upon to strive for … …

36. What significance do the early church creeds have for the New Apostolic Church?

FAQ

… The doctrine of the New Apostolic Church is based upon Holy Scripture. … Man, in Jesus’ birth by the virgin Mary, in the sending of the Holy Spirit, in the church, the sacraments, the expectation of the return of Christ, and the resurrection of the dead, … …

360. Why are the Ninth and Tenth Commandments often summarised into one?

FAQ

… 360. Why are the Ninth and Tenth Commandments often summarised into one? …

361. What is the meaning of the Ninth and Tenth Commandments?

FAQ

… 361. What is the meaning of the Ninth and Tenth Commandments? …

362. What is the significance of the Ninth and Tenth Commandments in the Old Testament?

FAQ

… 362. What is the significance of the Ninth and Tenth Commandments in the Old Testament? …

363. What is the significance of the Ninth and Tenth Commandments in the New Testament?

FAQ

… 363. What is the significance of the Ninth and Tenth Commandments in the New Testament? …

364. What is the meaning of the Ninth and Tenth Commandments for us today?

FAQ

… 364. What is the meaning of the Ninth and Tenth Commandments for us today? …

365. What does the term “church” mean in general?

FAQ

… … the one hand, it is used in reference to a Christian place of worship (e.g. the local parish) in which the believers gather for divine service. Another meaning of “church” refers to the congregation in a particular … …

366. What does “church” mean with respect to faith?

FAQ

… In reference to faith the term “church” does not refer primarily to the … building, but to the institution that has the function of imparting salvation in Christ to human beings. Those … with God. Beyond that, “church” denotes the fellowship of the believers with the triune God already in the present, … …

367. Is church necessary

FAQ

… … a Christian, because it is only there that we hear the word of God, receive the sacraments, and experience fellowship … …

368. Who established the church?

FAQ

… … namely His church. It thus has its source in the Son of God who came to the earth and worked among human beings … and promised and sent the Holy Spirit. The person and deed of Jesus Christ are fundamental prerequisites for the existence of the church. …

369. Who is the “head” of the church of Jesus Christ?

FAQ

… 369. Who is the “head” of the church of Jesus Christ? …

37. What is the text of the New Apostolic Creed?

FAQ

… 37. What is the text of the New Apostolic Creed? …

370. What are the functions of the church of Jesus Christ?

FAQ

… 370. What are the functions of the church of Jesus Christ? …

371. Is there a difference between the church of Jesus Christ and the New Apostolic Church?

FAQ

… 371. Is there a difference between the church of Jesus Christ and the New Apostolic Church? …

372. With what actions did Jesus Christ establish the church?

FAQ

… … (cf. Mark 1: 16 et seq.), preached about the kingdom of God (cf. Mark 1: 14-15), elected the Apostles (cf. Luke … commission to proclaim the gospel and baptise in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit (cf. Matthew 28: … …

373. Are there references to the church of Jesus Christ in the Old Testament?

FAQ

… 373. Are there references to the church of Jesus Christ in the Old Testament? …

374. How is the church of Jesus Christ described in the New Testament?

FAQ

… 374. How is the church of Jesus Christ described in the New Testament? …

375. What does the image of the body of Christ mean?

FAQ

… 375. What does the image of the body of Christ mean? …

376. What parallel is there between the church and the person of Jesus Christ?

FAQ

… … What parallel is there between the church and the person of Jesus Christ? …

377. How do we experience the invisible side of the church of Jesus Christ?

FAQ

… 377. How do we experience the invisible side of the church of Jesus Christ? …

378. How do we experience the visible side of the church of Jesus Christ?

FAQ

… 378. How do we experience the visible side of the church of Jesus Christ? …

379. Is the invisible side of the church of Jesus Christ perfect?

FAQ

… 379. Is the invisible side of the church of Jesus Christ perfect? …

38. How did the New Apostolic Creed come into being?

FAQ

… The New Apostolic Creed is the result of the Apostles’ interpretation of Holy Scripture and the early church creeds. In terms of content and language, its present form has come into … …

380. Is the visible side of the church of Jesus Christ perfect?

FAQ

… 380. Is the visible side of the church of Jesus Christ perfect? …

381. What are the identifying features of the church of Jesus Christ?

FAQ

… 381. What are the identifying features of the church of Jesus Christ? …

382. What do we mean when we talk about the “oneness of the church of Jesus Christ”?

FAQ

… 382. What do we mean when we talk about the “oneness of the church of Jesus Christ”? …

383. What do we mean when we talk about the “holiness of the church of Jesus Christ”?

FAQ

… 383. What do we mean when we talk about the “holiness of the church of Jesus Christ”? …

384. What do we mean when we talk about the “universality of the church of Jesus Christ”?

FAQ

… 384. What do we mean when we talk about the “universality of the church of Jesus Christ”? …

385. What do we mean when we talk about the “apostolicity of the church of Jesus Christ”?

FAQ

… 385. What do we mean when we talk about the “apostolicity of the church of Jesus Christ”? …

386. Where are the four characteristics of the church of Jesus Christ manifest?

FAQ

… 386. Where are the four characteristics of the church of Jesus Christ manifest? …

387. What tasks are fulfilled in the Lord’s work of redemption?

FAQ

… 387. What tasks are fulfilled in the Lord’s work of redemption? …

388. At what point did the church of Jesus Christ appear?

FAQ

… 388. At what point did the church of Jesus Christ appear? …

389. What distinguished the early Christians?

FAQ

… … in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, in breaking of bread, and in prayers” (Acts 2: 42). This is of decisive significance for the church of Jesus Christ. …

390. Where can we learn about the most important developments of the early congregations?

FAQ

… … Where can we learn about the most important developments of the early congregations? …

391. How did the church of Jesus Christ develop?

FAQ

… 391. How did the church of Jesus Christ develop? …

392. Where did the Apostles spread the gospel?

FAQ

… In fulfilment of the Great Commission given them by Jesus Christ—namely … Apostles Paul and Barnabas travelled to the Gentile nations of the Mediterranean region. The gospel spread as far as … …

393. How did their missionary activity proceed?

FAQ

… … hardships, and sufferings upon themselves in the service of Christ. Apostle Paul describes his experiences in 2 … a day I have been in the deep; in journeys often, in perils of waters, in perils of robbers, in perils of my own … new surroundings they acquainted people with the Christian faith and proclaimed the word of the Lord, like Philip, for … …

394. What is recorded about the end of the early Apostles?

FAQ

… 394. What is recorded about the end of the early Apostles? …

395. What happened after the death of the early Apostles?

FAQ

… 395. What happened after the death of the early Apostles? …

396. How did the members of the early Christian congregations fare?

FAQ

… 396. How did the members of the early Christian congregations fare? …

397. Did the church of Jesus Christ continue to grow?

FAQ

… 397. Did the church of Jesus Christ continue to grow? …

398. How did the Christian doctrine develop?

FAQ

… The expectation of the imminent return of Christ eventually faded into the background in the … Christ were formulated and proclaimed binding for Christian faith. Trinity of God: see Questions … …

399. When did the church of Christ receive Apostles again?

FAQ

… 399. When did the church of Christ receive Apostles again? …

4. How does God reveal Himself in history?

FAQ

… God reveals Himself in the history of mankind. For example, He led the people of Israel out of captivity in Egypt and gave them the Ten Commandments. … …

400. How did the renewed occupation of the Apostle ministry come about?

FAQ

… 400. How did the renewed occupation of the Apostle ministry come about? …

401. What did this mean for the church of Christ?

FAQ

… 401. What did this mean for the church of Christ? …

402. What are the tasks of the Apostles in the church of Christ?

FAQ

… 402. What are the tasks of the Apostles in the church of Christ? …

403. Where are the Apostles active at present?

FAQ

… … the New Apostolic Church, but rather for the whole church of Jesus Christ. The Apostle ministry has the commission to work its way into all parts of the church. The Apostles have been sent to all nations. … …

404. Who dispenses the sacraments in the church of Jesus Christ?

FAQ

… 404. Who dispenses the sacraments in the church of Jesus Christ? …

405. What happens to the church at the return of Christ?

FAQ

… 405. What happens to the church at the return of Christ? …

406. Do all baptised individuals belong to the church of Jesus Christ?

FAQ

… 406. Do all baptised individuals belong to the church of Jesus Christ? …

407. Why are there different Christian denominations?

FAQ

… The multiplicity of Christian communities (denominations) has come about owing to varying interpretations of the gospel, as well as cultural, social, and historical differences. Denomination: see explanation of Question … nations have differing cultural features owing to their way of life, their history, their experiences, their religious … …

408. Where can the church of Jesus Christ be experienced?

FAQ

… 408. Where can the church of Jesus Christ be experienced? …

409. What can be said of the future of the church of Jesus Christ?

FAQ

… 409. What can be said of the future of the church of Jesus Christ? …

41. What is the content of the First Article of Faith?

FAQ

… 41. What is the content of the First Article of Faith? …

410. What do the individual Christian denominations have in common?

FAQ

… … Christian denominations include baptism in the name of God, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, the profession of Jesus Christ, and belief in the triune God. Through the baptised who live their faith and profess Christ as their Lord, the church can be … …

411. What do we understand by the term 'ministry'?

FAQ

… … the term ‘ministry’ is understood as a function or official position associated with specific tasks and … …

412. What is a spiritual ministry?

FAQ

… … issued through ordination for service in the church of Christ. A spiritual ministry is exercised in the power of the Holy Spirit. Authorisation: see explanation of Question … …

413. What is the source of the spiritual ministry?

FAQ

… 413. What is the source of the spiritual ministry? …

414. Were there any references to the spiritual ministry in the Old Testament?

FAQ

… … to the spiritual ministry can be found in the activity of kings, priests, and prophets: the king ruled, the priest mediated the blessing of God, and the prophet proclaimed the will of God. These ministries are references to the spiritual … …

415. What do we mean by “authorisation” for a spiritual ministry?

FAQ

… … ministry is conferred by an Apostle by the commission of Jesus Christ. Thereby the recipient of the ministry receives part of the authority of the Apostle. He is to make use of this … …

416. What do we mean by “blessing” for a spiritual ministry?

FAQ

… Through the ordination, the gifts present in the recipient of the ministry are awakened, strengthened, multiplied, and dedicated to the service of the Lord. In addition, additional powers are imparted … …

417. What do we mean by “sanctification” for a spiritual ministry?

FAQ

… In the ordination, the minister receives a share of the holiness of God—the ministry is holy, but the bearer of the ministry remains a sinful human being. The minister … …

418. What do we mean when we talk about “ministrations” in the church of Jesus Christ?

FAQ

… … mean when we talk about “ministrations” in the church of Jesus Christ? …

419. What distinguishes ministrations in the church of Jesus Christ from the spiritual ministry?

FAQ

… 419. What distinguishes ministrations in the church of Jesus Christ from the spiritual ministry? …

42. What is the content of the Second Article of Faith?

FAQ

… 42. What is the content of the Second Article of Faith? …

420. Are ministrations also exercised without ordination in the New Apostolic Church?

FAQ

… … include church commissions for the religious education of children and young people and musical participation in … …

421. Which ministry was instituted by Jesus Christ?

FAQ

… … them, ‘Receive the Holy Spirit. If you forgive the sins of any, they are forgiven them; if you retain the sins of any, they are retained’” (John 20: 21-23). He entrusted the dispensation of the sacraments to the Apostles. In this manner His … …

422. When did the activity of the Apostle ministry begin in the church?

FAQ

… 422. When did the activity of the Apostle ministry begin in the church? …

423. What does the word 'Apostle' mean?

FAQ

… … the Greek word apóstolos. The Apostles are ambassadors of Jesus. Jesus Christ directly linked His sending with … …

424. What commission did Jesus Christ give to the Apostles?

FAQ

… … Jesus gave the Apostles authority to proclaim forgiveness of sins. By His commission they are also to dispense the … …

425. By what authority do the bearers of the Apostle ministry act?

FAQ

… 425. By what authority do the bearers of the Apostle ministry act? …

426. What designations are there in the New Testament for the Apostle ministry?

FAQ

… The Apostle ministry is described as “the ministry of the new covenant”, “the ministry of the Spirit”, “the ministry of righteousness”, “the ministry of reconciliation”, … …

427. What is meant by the term “the ministry of the new covenant”?

FAQ

… 427. What is meant by the term “the ministry of the new covenant”? …

428. What is meant by the term “the ministry of the Spirit”?

FAQ

… 428. What is meant by the term “the ministry of the Spirit”? …

429. What is meant by the term “the ministry of righteousness”?

FAQ

… 429. What is meant by the term “the ministry of righteousness”? …

43. What is the content of the Third Article of Faith?

FAQ

… 43. What is the content of the Third Article of Faith? …

430. What is meant by the term “the ministry of reconciliation”?

FAQ

… 430. What is meant by the term “the ministry of reconciliation”? …

431. What is meant by the term “the ministry of the word”?

FAQ

… 431. What is meant by the term “the ministry of the word”? …

432. How else are the Apostles described?

FAQ

… … works through the Apostles in His church. “Stewards of the mysteries of God”: a “steward” (1 Corinthians 4: 1) is … Here the Apostles see to it that the proclamation of the word occurs in a manner corresponding to the gospel … …

433. What is another important characteristic of the Apostle ministry?

FAQ

… 433. What is another important characteristic of the Apostle ministry? …

434. Who sent the Apostles?

FAQ

… … Mark 3: 13-19). It was to them that the following words of Jesus applied: “He who receives you receives Me, and … Me” (Matthew 10: 40). “Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptising them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, … …

435. What were the names of the first twelve Apostles?

FAQ

… 435. What were the names of the first twelve Apostles? …

436. Were there any other Apostles besides these during the beginnings of the church?

FAQ

… … any other Apostles besides these during the beginnings of the church? …

437. Was any of the Apostles given a special position?

FAQ

… 437. Was any of the Apostles given a special position? …

438. How did this special position of Apostle Peter manifest itself after the ascension of the Lord?

FAQ

… 438. How did this special position of Apostle Peter manifest itself after the ascension of the Lord? …

439. What New Testament text describes the activity of the Apostles in the greatest detail?

FAQ

… 439. What New Testament text describes the activity of the Apostles in the greatest detail? …

44. What is the content of the Fourth Article of Faith?

FAQ

… 44. What is the content of the Fourth Article of Faith? …

440. According to the New Testament, who dispensed the gift of the Holy Spirit?

FAQ

… 440. According to the New Testament, who dispensed the gift of the Holy Spirit? …

441. What were the other important tasks of the Apostles?

FAQ

… 441. What were the other important tasks of the Apostles? …

442. What expectation comprised the central point of apostolic proclamation already at that time?

FAQ

… 442. What expectation comprised the central point of apostolic proclamation already at that time? …

443. What was the first ministry to come out of the Apostle ministry?

FAQ

… 443. What was the first ministry to come out of the Apostle ministry? …

444. What follows from these actions of the Apostles?

FAQ

… 444. What follows from these actions of the Apostles? …

445. Did other ministries proceed from the Apostle ministry?

FAQ

… … pastors, and teachers were also active in the beginnings of the Christian congregations (cf. Ephesians 4: 11). …

446. How were the congregations cared for after the death of the early Apostles?

FAQ

… 446. How were the congregations cared for after the death of the early Apostles? …

447. Did the Apostle ministry cease to exist after the death of the early Apostles?

FAQ

… … Did the Apostle ministry cease to exist after the death of the early Apostles? …

448. How long did this interruption in the activity of Apostles last?

FAQ

… 448. How long did this interruption in the activity of Apostles last? …

449. Why was the activity of the Apostles interrupted?

FAQ

… 449. Why was the activity of the Apostles interrupted? …

45. What is the content of the Fifth Article of Faith?

FAQ

… 45. What is the content of the Fifth Article of Faith? …

450. When was the Apostle ministry occupied again?

FAQ

… … will when the time for the final gathering and preparation of the bridal congregation for the return of Christ had come: as of the year 1832 the Apostle ministry was once again … …

451. Is there any difference in spiritual authority between the Apostle ministry at the beginning and the Apostle ministry at the end of God’s work of redemption?

FAQ

… … at the beginning and the Apostle ministry at the end of God’s work of redemption? …

452. What ministerial levels and ministries are there in the New Apostolic Church?

FAQ

… … and the explanation of Question … …

453. What are the duties of the apostolate?

FAQ

… 453. What are the duties of the apostolate? …

454. From where does the authority of the Apostle ministry derive?

FAQ

… 454. From where does the authority of the Apostle ministry derive? …

455. What is the objective of the activity of the Apostles?

FAQ

… 455. What is the objective of the activity of the Apostles? …

456. Has the Apostle ministry been given for the whole church of Christ?

FAQ

… … Has the Apostle ministry been given for the whole church of Christ? …

457. What is the foundation of the Chief Apostle ministry?

FAQ

… 457. What is the foundation of the Chief Apostle ministry? …

458. Why is the Chief Apostle ministry also called the “ministry of the rock”?

FAQ

… … is the Chief Apostle ministry also called the “ministry of the rock”? …

459. What are the duties of the Chief Apostle?

FAQ

… 459. What are the duties of the Chief Apostle? …

46. What is the content of the Sixth Article of Faith?

FAQ

… 46. What is the content of the Sixth Article of Faith? …

460. What are the duties of the District Apostle?

FAQ

… 460. What are the duties of the District Apostle? …

461. Who is it that calls a minister to a spiritual ministry?

FAQ

… … upon human will but upon the divine will. It is the task of the Apostle to recognise God’s will and act in … …

462. What is meant by the term 'ordination'?

FAQ

… We understand ‘ordination’ to be the investiture of a spiritual ministry. It is not a sacrament, but an act of blessing. Sacrament: see Question … et seq. Acts of blessing: see Questions … …

463. How is the ordination performed?

FAQ

… The ordination is performed by the Apostle in the name of the triune God through laying on of hands and prayer. The minister can only discharge his … …

464. What transpires during the ordination?

FAQ

… During the ordination the blessing of God is imparted. The individual who has been called to … is issued by the Apostle ministry, be it for the work of a diaconal ministry, priestly ministry, or Apostle. The … …

465. What duties are assumed at ordination?

FAQ

… … to remain faithful to God and follow Christ in obedience of faith. …

466. How should a spiritual ministry be discharged?

FAQ

… … This includes familiarity with the doctrine, firmness in faith, awareness of his commission, carrying capacity, confidentiality, … things the minister should take direction from the example of Jesus. The minister must put into practice that which has … …

467. When does the ministerial commission end?

FAQ

… … ministers’ ministry itself remains intact. In the event of a resignation or dismissal from ministry, he loses his … …

468. What is the duty of all ministers?

FAQ

… 468. What is the duty of all ministers? …

469. What are the duties of the priestly ministers?

FAQ

… 469. What are the duties of the priestly ministers? …

47. What is the content of the Seventh Article of Faith?

FAQ

… 47. What is the content of the Seventh Article of Faith? …

470. What is the task of the Deacons?

FAQ

… 470. What is the task of the Deacons? …

471. What is an appointment?

FAQ

… An appointment is the assignment of a firmly defined task. The appointment can be limited in terms of duration and location. In association with a spiritual … is understood as the assignment to the task of congregational rector, district rector, District Apostle … …

472. What are sacraments?

FAQ

… Sacraments are fundamental acts of God’s grace. In these holy acts—which are performed … …

473. What is the purpose of the sacraments?

FAQ

… 473. What is the purpose of the sacraments? …

474. What comprises a sacrament?

FAQ

… A sacrament is comprised of four elements: sign, content, dispenser, and faith. …

475. What is the “sign” in a sacrament?

FAQ

… The “sign” is the visible element of a sacrament. In the case of Holy Baptism with water it is the water. In Holy Communion the “sign” is comprised of the bread and wine. In Holy Sealing, the “sign” is … …

476. What is the “content” in a sacrament?

FAQ

… … Baptism with water, the “content” is the washing away of original sin and the fact that the baptised now enters into the proximity of God. In Holy Communion, it is partaking in the body and blood of Jesus. In Holy Sealing, the content is that the believer … …

477. Who is the “dispenser” in a sacrament?

FAQ

… … The Apostles dispense all three sacraments. By commission of the Apostle, the priestly ministers dispense Holy Baptism … …

478. What is the significance of “faith” in a sacrament?

FAQ

… 478. What is the significance of “faith” in a sacrament? …

48. What is the content of the Eighth Article of Faith?

FAQ

… 48. What is the content of the Eighth Article of Faith? …

480. To whom did Jesus entrust the administration of the sacraments?

FAQ

… 480. To whom did Jesus entrust the administration of the sacraments? …

481. What occurs in Holy Baptism with water?

FAQ

… … being and God comes into being. Through the washing away of original sin, the baptised is led out of his original state of remoteness from God and enters the proximity of God. He becomes a Christian. Through his faith and profession of Christ, the baptised now belongs to … …

482. What is the meaning of “original sin”?

FAQ

… 482. What is the meaning of “original sin”? …

483. What does the water of Holy Baptism signify?

FAQ

… 483. What does the water of Holy Baptism signify? …

484. Are there any references to Holy Baptism with water in the Old Testament?

FAQ

… Yes, the deliverance of Noah in the ark, which was carried on the water, is a … to Holy Baptism with water. The sevenfold immersion of Naaman in the water of the Jordan (cf. 2 Kings 5: 1-14) can also be seen as a … …

485. Did Jesus also have to be baptised?

FAQ

… … to be baptised, nevertheless He submitted to the baptism of John the Baptist. In so doing He put Himself on the same … before God can be attained (cf. Matthew 3: 15). The baptism of John was only a baptism unto repentance. It is a reference to the sacrament of Holy Baptism with water, which is performed in the name … …

486. What did Jesus say to His disciples concerning baptism?

FAQ

… … the Great Commission: “Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptising them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit” (Matthew 28: 19). … …

488. How is Holy Baptism with water dispensed?

FAQ

… Baptism is performed with water and dispensed in the name of God, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. The water used for baptism is consecrated in the name of the triune God. The baptising minister then uses the consecrated water to make the sign of the cross three times on the forehead of the person being … …

489. Why can children be baptised?

FAQ

… The statement of Jesus: “Let the little children come to Me, and do not forbid them; for of such is the kingdom of God” (Mark 10: 14) indicates that the blessings of God … …

49. What is the content of the Ninth Article of Faith?

FAQ

… 49. What is the content of the Ninth Article of Faith? …

490. What are the effects of Holy Baptism with water?

FAQ

… 490. What are the effects of Holy Baptism with water? …

491. What is the relationship between Holy Baptism with water and Holy Sealing?

FAQ

… … by receiving both sacraments, the individual is reborn out of water and the Holy Spirit. In the process, Holy Baptism with water precedes Holy Sealing. Rebirth out of water and the Spirit: see Question … …

492. Who is entitled to perform Holy Baptism with water?

FAQ

… The Risen Son of God gave His Apostles the mandate to perform baptism (cf. … …

493. Are baptisms performed in other Christian denominations valid?

FAQ

… Yes, the dispensation of Holy Baptism with water is possible and effective in all parts of the one church of Christ. Baptism with water is the first step on the way … …

494. From what does the term 'Lord's Supper' derive?

FAQ

… … celebrated the first Passover meal at the instruction of God. A lamb without blemish was slaughtered and prepared. … …

495. What other designations are used in reference to Holy Communion?

FAQ

… … thanks”), the “Lord’s Supper”, or the “breaking of bread”. …

496. Is there a relationship between the Passover meal and Holy Communion?

FAQ

… Yes, there is a relationship: according to the account of first three gospels, Jesus instituted Holy Communion with … meal. Like the Passover, the Lord’s Supper is also a meal of commemoration. The Passover commemorates the liberation of the Israelites from captivity in Egypt. Holy Communion … …

497. Is Holy Communion attested anywhere else in the New Testament?

FAQ

… … is My body which is broken for you; do this in remembrance of Me. In the same manner He also took the cup after supper, … My blood. This do, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of Me.’ For as often as you eat this bread and drink this … basis for the text that is spoken during the consecration of Holy Communion. ‘Consecration’ is the act of lifting … …

498. What do the elements of bread and wine signify?

FAQ

… 498. What do the elements of bread and wine signify? …

499. What does Holy Communion call to mind for the believer?

FAQ

… Holy Communion is a meal of remembrance: it calls to mind the death of Jesus Christ as a unique event that is valid for all … Holy Communion with the words: “Do this in remembrance of Me...” (Luke 22: 19). …

5. How does God identify Himself?

FAQ

… … Himself as God, the Father, the Creator and Sustainer of the creation (cf. Genesis 1; 8: 21-22), the Son, the Redeemer and bringer of salvation (cf. 1 John 5: 20), the Holy Spirit, the … …

50. What is the content of the Tenth Article of Faith?

FAQ

… 50. What is the content of the Tenth Article of Faith? …

500. What do those who partake in Holy Communion profess?

FAQ

… 500. What do those who partake in Holy Communion profess? …

501. In what way is Holy Communion a meal of fellowship?

FAQ

… 501. In what way is Holy Communion a meal of fellowship? …

502. Is there a connection between Holy Communion and the future “marriage feast” in heaven?

FAQ

… … character. When He instituted Holy Communion in the circle of the Apostles, Jesus said: “For I say to you, I will not drink of the fruit of the vine until the kingdom of God comes” (Luke 22: … …

503. What happens when the wafers are consecrated?

FAQ

… The body and blood of Jesus Christ become present in the consecration. Bread … bread and wine are not transformed. Rather, the substance of the body and blood of Jesus is joined to the bread and wine. This event is … …

504. Is the sacrifice of Jesus Christ present in Holy Communion?

FAQ

… 504. Is the sacrifice of Jesus Christ present in Holy Communion? …

505. Why is Holy Communion celebrated in every divine service?

FAQ

… In contrast to the sacraments of Holy Baptism with water and Holy Sealing, Holy Communion … because it sustains human beings in their fellowship of life with Jesus Christ. We thereby absorb the nature of Jesus. …

506. For how long do the body and blood of Christ remain present in the consecrated wafers?

FAQ

… 506. For how long do the body and blood of Christ remain present in the consecrated wafers? …

507. What is the relationship between forgiveness of sins and Holy Communion?

FAQ

… 507. What is the relationship between forgiveness of sins and Holy Communion? …

508. To whom did Jesus Christ entrust the sacrament of Holy Communion?

FAQ

… 508. To whom did Jesus Christ entrust the sacrament of Holy Communion? …

509. What are the words of the consecration for Holy Communion?

FAQ

… 509. What are the words of the consecration for Holy Communion? …

51. Who is the triune God?

FAQ

… … but rather three persons who are the one God. The Trinity of God: see Questions … …

510. How is Holy Communion celebrated in the divine service?

FAQ

… … the open communion chalice or paten and speaks the words of the consecration. Then the ministers and the congregation receive the body and blood of Jesus Christ in the form of a wafer sprinkled with wine. The dispensation occurs with … …

511. What is the prerequisite for worthily partaking in Holy Communion?

FAQ

… In addition to the forgiveness of sins, which is proclaimed beforehand, belief in Jesus … and His sacrifice is a necessary prerequisite. Forgiveness of sins: see … …

512. What are the effects of Holy Communion?

FAQ

… 512. What are the effects of Holy Communion? …

513. Who is entitled to partake in Holy Communion?

FAQ

… … into the congregation are entitled to regularly partake of Holy Communion. Properly (rite) baptised Christians may … et seq. ‘Rite’: see explanation of Question … …

514. What is the significance of the communion celebrations of other churches?

FAQ

… 514. What is the significance of the communion celebrations of other churches? …

515. What is Holy Sealing?

FAQ

… … is the sacrament whereby the believer receives the gift of the Holy Spirit through the laying on of hands and prayer of an Apostle. The believer thereby becomes a child of God … …

516. What does the term “sealing” / “sealed” mean in the letters of the New Testament?

FAQ

… … the term “sealing” / “sealed” mean in the letters of the New Testament? …

517. Was the Holy Spirit already active in the time of the Old Testament?

FAQ

… 517. Was the Holy Spirit already active in the time of the Old Testament? …

518. Does the Old Testament contain any references to the outpouring of the Holy Spirit in the New Testament?

FAQ

… … the Old Testament contain any references to the outpouring of the Holy Spirit in the New Testament? …

519. Did Jesus promise the outpouring of the Holy Spirit?

FAQ

… 519. Did Jesus promise the outpouring of the Holy Spirit? …

52. What characteristics of God do we know?

FAQ

… 52. What characteristics of God do we know? …

520. When was the promise of the outpouring of the Holy Spirit fulfilled?

FAQ

… 520. When was the promise of the outpouring of the Holy Spirit fulfilled? …

521. When did the anointing of Jesus with the Holy Spirit occur?

FAQ

… 521. When did the anointing of Jesus with the Holy Spirit occur? …

522. What is the significance of Jesus’ baptism and subsequent anointing with the Holy Spirit?

FAQ

… 522. What is the significance of Jesus’ baptism and subsequent anointing with the Holy … …

523. From what does it follow that Holy Baptism with water should precede the receiving of the gift of the Holy Spirit?

FAQ

… … that Holy Baptism with water should precede the receiving of the gift of the Holy Spirit? …

524. What does the book of Acts relate concerning Holy Sealing?

FAQ

… 524. What does the book of Acts relate concerning Holy Sealing? …

525. How is the sacrament of Holy Sealing dispensed?

FAQ

… 525. How is the sacrament of Holy Sealing dispensed? …

526. What are the prerequisites for receiving the sacrament of Holy Sealing?

FAQ

… 526. What are the prerequisites for receiving the sacrament of Holy Sealing? …

527. Who can receive the sacrament of Holy Sealing?

FAQ

… 527. Who can receive the sacrament of Holy Sealing? …

528. What do we mean by the “rebirth out of water and the Spirit”?

FAQ

… 528. What do we mean by the “rebirth out of water and the Spirit”? …

529. What is the relationship between Holy Sealing and the rebirth out of water and the Spirit?

FAQ

… … the relationship between Holy Sealing and the rebirth out of water and the Spirit? …

53. What does it mean when we say: “God is the One God”?

FAQ

… … one God. Belief in the One God is a fundamental profession of the Old and New Testaments, and is thus also fundamental to the Christian faith. ‘Monotheism’ is the designation for the doctrine … Judaism, and Islam. “Thus says the Lord, the King of I srael, and his Redeemer, the Lord of hosts: ‘I am the … …

530. What are the effects of Holy Sealing?

FAQ

… 530. What are the effects of Holy Sealing? …

531. Is there a life after death?

FAQ

… … being and a spiritual being. He is an entity consisting of body, soul, and spirit. The human body is mortal and is … after physical death, and are thus immortal. The personhood of a human being—that is, his essence, that which … God created man to be immortal, and made him to be an image of his own eternity.” Wisdom of Solomon 2: 23 …

532. What is death?

FAQ

… … between the physical death and the spiritual death of a human being. Physical death signifies the end of life on earth. When it occurs, soul and spirit leave the body. Spiritual death is the separation of a human being from God. It is the consequence of … …

533. How else does the Bible understand “death”?

FAQ

… … both physical and spiritual life. Thus the Revelation of Jesus Christ figuratively describes death as a person: “So I looked, and behold, a pale horse. And the name of him who sat on it was Death, and Hades followed with … …

535. What is the significance of the resurrection of Jesus Christ?

FAQ

… 535. What is the significance of the resurrection of Jesus Christ? …

536. Are there any references to life after death in Holy Scripture?

FAQ

… … when once the Divine longsuffering waited in the days of Noah, while the ark was being prepared, in which a few, … …

537. Where do human beings find themselves after physical death?

FAQ

… The souls and spirits of human beings who have died enter the realm of the dead. We also describe this as “the beyond”. …

538. What do we mean when we talk about “the beyond”?

FAQ

… … to all realms, events, and conditions that lie outside of the material world. In a narrower sense, this term denotes the realm of the dead (Hebrew: Sheol, Greek: Hades). …

539. Is there a reincarnation of the dead?

FAQ

… 539. Is there a reincarnation of the dead? …

54. What does it mean to say: “God is the Holy One”?

FAQ

… Holiness is part of God’s nature, being, and activity. Holiness … God’s word and will are likewise holy. The holiness of God sanctifies the place where He reveals Himself. “Holy, holy, holy is the Lord of hosts; the whole earth is full of His glory!” Isaiah 6: … …

541. What is the condition of the souls in the beyond?

FAQ

… 541. What is the condition of the souls in the beyond? …

542. Who are the “dead in Christ”?

FAQ

… In 1 Thessalonians 4: 16 we read of the “dead in Christ”. These are departed individuals who have been reborn out of water and the Holy Spirit, and who have allowed … before God, which is attained through grace and faith. The rebirth out of water and the Spirit: see … …

543. Can the condition of the souls in the beyond be changed?

FAQ

… 543. Can the condition of the souls in the beyond be changed? …

544. How is it possible for souls in the beyond to change?

FAQ

… Souls in the beyond who have never heard of the gospel, never had their sins forgiven, and never received any of the sacraments find themselves in a condition of remoteness from God. This condition can only be overcome … …

545. What statements does Holy Scripture make concerning help for the dead?

FAQ

… In 2 Maccabees 12 there is an account of men who had served idols and fallen in battle. Their … that they would receive help for the sinful condition of their souls. They also collected money with which to buy sacrificial animals in order to bring an offering of atonement. The biblical basis for dispensing sacraments … …

546. Can we help the departed attain salvation?

FAQ

… … they will work both here and in the beyond in the mind of Christ, in other words, they will intercede in prayer for … …

547. In what way do the departed receive salvation?

FAQ

… … is Lord over both the dead and the living. It is the will of God that all men be saved (cf. 1 Timothy 2: 4-6). This … through the sermon, the sacrament, and the forgiveness of sins. Belief in Jesus Christ is indispensable for this. … …

548. How and through whom is salvation imparted to the dead?

FAQ

… The dispensation of Holy Baptism with water, Holy Sealing, and Holy Communion for the departed occurs when Apostles perform each of these visible acts on living persons. The effect for salvation here is not for the benefit of the living, however, but for the departed. Just as Jesus … …

549. How do we know about the events of the future?

FAQ

… 549. How do we know about the events of the future? …

55. What does it mean when we say: “God is the Almighty”?

FAQ

… … with men are possible with God’.” Luke 18: 27 “By faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that the things which are seen were not made of things which are visible.” Hebrews 11: 3 …

550. What future event is the goal of faith of New Apostolic Christians?

FAQ

… 550. What future event is the goal of faith of New Apostolic Christians? …

551. Who promised the return of Jesus Christ?

FAQ

… 551. Who promised the return of Jesus Christ? …

552. Who knows the exact point in time when Christ will return?

FAQ

… Neither angels nor men know the day or the hour of Jesus Christ’s return. Only the triune God knows this. …

553. What follows from the fact that no man knows the moment in time of Christ’s return?

FAQ

… … follows from the fact that no man knows the moment in time of Christ’s return? …

554. How did the early Apostles treat the promise of Christ’s return?

FAQ

… 554. How did the early Apostles treat the promise of Christ’s return? …

555. What does the promise of Christ’s return mean for us?

FAQ

… 555. What does the promise of Christ’s return mean for us? …

556. Why do we believe that the promise of Christ’s return is near?

FAQ

… 556. Why do we believe that the promise of Christ’s return is near? …

557. How do we prepare for the return of Christ?

FAQ

… 557. How do we prepare for the return of Christ? …

558. How is the return of Christ described in the letters of Apostle Paul?

FAQ

… 558. How is the return of Christ described in the letters of Apostle Paul? …

559. What will happen at the return of Christ?

FAQ

… 559. What will happen at the return of Christ? …

56. What does it mean to say: “God is the Eternal”?

FAQ

… … no chronological limitations for Him. God is the Creator of time and is Lord over it. “Before the mountains were … …

560. What is the basis of the believers’ hope that they will not need to suffer physical death?

FAQ

… 560. What is the basis of the believers’ hope that they will not need to suffer … …

561. Who will be caught up at the return of Christ?

FAQ

… 561. Who will be caught up at the return of Christ? …

562. Who is included in the “bridal congregation”?

FAQ

… … gave His Apostles the commission to prepare the church of Christ to be united with Him at His return. Apostle Paul … chaste virgin to Christ” (2 Corinthians 11: 2). The image of the “chaste virgin” is a reference to the “bride” … be united with Jesus will only be revealed at the return of Christ. …

563. Are there any characteristics for those who will belong to the bridal congregation?

FAQ

… … characteristic is that they wait daily for the return of Christ and are steadfast in praying: “Come, Lord … …

564. Does the Bible relate any other characteristics of the bridal congregation?

FAQ

… 564. Does the Bible relate any other characteristics of the bridal congregation? …

565. What is the significance of the images in Revelation 14: 1-5?

FAQ

… 565. What is the significance of the images in Revelation 14: 1-5? …

566. When will the “marriage of the Lamb” take place?

FAQ

… 566. When will the “marriage of the Lamb” take place? …

567. What will transpire at the “marriage of the Lamb”?

FAQ

… 567. What will transpire at the “marriage of the Lamb”? …

568. What happens on earth after the return of Christ?

FAQ

… 568. What happens on earth after the return of Christ? …

569. Will there be any protection in the time of the “great tribulation”?

FAQ

… 569. Will there be any protection in the time of the “great tribulation”? …

57. What does it mean when we say: “God is the Loving One”?

FAQ

… … revealed Himself as the Loving One by electing the people of Israel and liberating them from captivity in Egypt. He … as the Loving One by sending His Son for the salvation of all human beings. Apostle John wrote: “And we have … …

570. What happens to the martyrs from the time of the “great tribulation”?

FAQ

… 570. What happens to the martyrs from the time of the “great tribulation”? …

571. What occurs after the “marriage of the Lamb” and the “great tribulation”?

FAQ

… 571. What occurs after the “marriage of the Lamb” and the “great tribulation”? …

572. What will happen to Satan after the time of the “great tribulation”?

FAQ

… 572. What will happen to Satan after the time of the “great tribulation”? …

573. What happens when Satan is bound and relieved of his power?

FAQ

… 573. What happens when Satan is bound and relieved of his power? …

574. What events comprise the first resurrection?

FAQ

… … the second death has no power, but they shall be priests of God and of Christ, and shall reign with Him a thousand years” … …

575. What follows the conclusion of the first resurrection?

FAQ

… 575. What follows the conclusion of the first resurrection? …

576. Will human beings still sin during this time?

FAQ

… Yes. Even though Satan has been deprived of his power and can no longer tempt anyone to sin, human … …

577. What transpires during the period of the kingdom of peace on earth?

FAQ

… 577. What transpires during the period of the kingdom of peace on earth? …

578. What happens at the end of the kingdom of peace?

FAQ

… 578. What happens at the end of the kingdom of peace? …

579. What will happen once evil has been deprived of its power forever?

FAQ

… 579. What will happen once evil has been deprived of its power forever? …

58. What does it mean when we say: “God is the Gracious One”?

FAQ

… … God became human in Jesus Christ. No one can earn the grace of God. It is a gift. …

580. What happens to those who find grace in the Last Judgement?

FAQ

… … who partook in the first resurrection—become citizens of God’s new creation. They will then all have eternal fellowship with God. The others will remain in the misery of remoteness from God. …

581. What does the Bible have to say about God’s new creation?

FAQ

… … a new earth in which righteousness dwells.” This kingdom of God will be eternal, and then God will be all in all (1 … …

582. How did the first Christian congregations come into being?

FAQ

… … (cf. Acts 2: 37 et seq.). This congregation consisted only of Jews. Owing to the persecutions that followed, many of the believers fled from Jerusalem (cf. Acts 8: 1; 11: … they continued to preach the gospel, which also met with faith there. So it was that Christian congregations began to … …

583. How did the gospel come to the Gentiles?

FAQ

… … concerning the mission to the Gentiles and the significance of the Mosaic Law for baptised Gentiles were clarified (cf. … Christian congregations to eventually shed many traditions of the Jewish faith. Gentiles: see explanation of Question … …

585. Where did the designation “Christian” come into being?

FAQ

… The followers of Jesus were first referred to as Christians in Antioch … …

586. How long were the Apostles active?

FAQ

… The Apostles were likely active until the end of the first century AD. John is thought to be the last Apostle of the early church. After this began the period in which … came to be personally occupied again. Personal occupation of the Apostle ministry: see Question … …

587. How did the activity of the Holy Spirit reveal itself after the death of the early Apostles?

FAQ

… 587. How did the activity of the Holy Spirit reveal itself after the death of the early Apostles? …

589. How did Christendom develop after the second century AD?

FAQ

… What had begun with the stoning of Deacon Stephen grew into waves of persecutions: many Christians were killed for their faith and thereby became martyrs. Despite these persecutions … …

59. What does it mean to say that “God is the Righteous One”?

FAQ

… … righteousness and reliability: “He who calls you is faithful, who also will do it” (1 Thessalonians 5: 24). Another expression of God’s righteousness are His laws, for example, that … reap what they sow (cf. Galatians 6: 7), and that the wages of sin is death (cf. Romans 6: 23). However, God’s grace … …

590. Who handed the teachings of the early Apostles down to posterity?

FAQ

… 590. Who handed the teachings of the early Apostles down to posterity? …

591. Who were the “Church Fathers”?

FAQ

… … were scholars who formulated the fundamental truths of Christianity after the time of the “Apostolic Fathers”. Their ranks include such men as Ambrose of Milan (339 to 397), Hieronymus (347 to 420), and … …

592. When did Christianity become the state religion in the Roman Empire?

FAQ

… After some difficult times of persecution, the Roman Emperor Constantine the Great … elevated Christianity in the Roman Empire to the status of state religion. He forbade the worship of pagan gods. “Religious freedom” refers to a condition … …

593. How did Christianity develop in the time before the Middle Ages?

FAQ

… … in the third century, played a special role in the spread of Christianity. One of the principle duties of the monks was to live a life of … with the example of Christ, and to spread the Christian faith. In the Middle Ages, monks and nuns accomplished … …

594. What else did the Christians have to contend with starting in the seventh century?

FAQ

… Starting in the seventh century, Christians in parts of Asia, Africa, and even Europe had to contend with a new … namely Islam. Many areas were lost to the Christian faith, for example the Middle East and Northern Africa. This … 1095 and 1270 in the Middle East with the stated objective of conquering Jerusalem and the Holy Land for … …

595. What developments led to the efforts to reform the church?

FAQ

… Over the course of the Middle Ages, the church became more and more secular— faith and doctrine lost more and more of their value. This can be attributed to a lack of … …

596. What is the Reformation?

FAQ

… … (1483-1546). According to his conviction, the sole basis of the doctrine was to be the biblical testimony of Jesus Christ. Luther translated the Bible from the Hebrew … …

597. Who are the most significant of the Reformers?

FAQ

… 597. Who are the most significant of the Reformers? …

598. How did the Roman Catholic Church react to the Reformation?

FAQ

… As a response to the Reformation, the Council of Trent (which began in 1545) ushered in a renewal of the Church and prepared the ground for the Counter-Reformation, which in turn reinforced the power of the papacy. The term ‘Counter-Reformation’ denotes … …

599. What were the consequences of the conflict between Protestantism and Catholicism?

FAQ

… 599. What were the consequences of the conflict between Protestantism and Catholicism? …

6. Where are revelations of God recorded?

FAQ

… 6. Where are revelations of God recorded? …

60. What does it mean to say: “God is the Perfect One”?

FAQ

… … good and His ways are right. He does not act on the basis of any external necessities or constraints, but solely on the basis of His own perfect will. God is completely free in His … and His actions. Human beings can experience the perfection of God in Jesus Christ, because Jesus Christ was the only … …

600. What was the condition of Christendom in the Europe of the eighteenth century?

FAQ

… 600. What was the condition of Christendom in the Europe of the eighteenth century? …

601. What was the condition of Christendom in the nineteenth century?

FAQ

… 601. What was the condition of Christendom in the nineteenth century? …

602. What important developments occurred in the Christendom of the nineteenth century?

FAQ

… … What important developments occurred in the Christendom of the nineteenth century? …

603. How did the renewed occupation of the Apostle ministry in the nineteenth century come about?

FAQ

… 603. How did the renewed occupation of the Apostle ministry in the nineteenth century come about? …

604. How did the Catholic Apostolic Church come into being?

FAQ

… In 1835, the Apostles withdrew to Albury for a year of intensive deliberations together. They developed the … was made available to all spiritual and secular leaders of Christendom. In this document the Apostles called upon … leadership and thereby prepare themselves for the return of Christ. They were thus not interested in establishing a … …

605. When did the first sealings take place?

FAQ

… … the time, this act was known as the “apostolic laying on of hands”—took place in 1847 in England, Canada, and … …

606. What happened when some of the Apostles died?

FAQ

… 606. What happened when some of the Apostles died? …

607. How did the New Apostolic Church come into being?

FAQ

… … 1862, Priest Rudolf Rososchacky (1815-1894), the rector of the Catholic Apostolic congregation in Königsberg, was called to be an Apostle by Prophet Geyer. The Apostles of the Catholic Apostolic Church did not acknowledge this calling. Prophet Geyer and the leader of the Catholic Apostolic congregation in Hamburg, Friedrich … …

608. What happened in the time following?

FAQ

… … away with the liturgical vestments and many other elements of liturgy that had been assumed from the Catholic Apostolic … is used to describe the way in which the sequence of the divine service is defined. …

609. How did the name “New Apostolic Church” come into being?

FAQ

… … adopted the name “New Apostolic Congregation”, and as of approximately 1930, began calling itself the “New … …

610. How long was the prophet ministry active?

FAQ

… Toward the end of the nineteenth century, the Apostle ministry, with its … ministry in the Church. At the same time, the significance of the prophet ministry began to decline. As of the end of the 1920s there were no more prophets active … …

611. Who was the first Chief Apostle?

FAQ

… … Germany was called as an Apostle. After the death of Apostles Schwartz and Menkhoff, he assumed the leading … The unity among the Apostles was a great concern to him. As of 1897, the Chief Apostle ministry began to emerge. … …

612. What other individuals have occupied the Chief Apostle ministry?

FAQ

… … Schneider (born 1959, Chief Apostle as of 2013). …

613. What is a divine service?

FAQ

… Divine service is the activity of God upon human beings. At the same time, it is a work of human beings for God. In the divine service, people come … and thank Him. They also gather in order to hear the word of God and receive the sacraments. Thus divine service is an … …

614. What was divine service like in the Old Testament?

FAQ

… … Old Testament times, the divine service consisted primarily of the sacrificial service, in which the priests would bring … to God. They also had the commission to impart the blessing of God to the people (cf. Numbers 6: 22-27). From the time of King David it is related that singers and musicians also … …

615. What elements did the divine service incorporate in the early Christian congregations?

FAQ

… There is no record of any specific sequence of divine service in the early Christian congregations. It consisted of the proclamation of the gospel, the professions of the … …

616. How did Christian divine service develop further?

FAQ

… … Reformation. For them, the sermon became the focal point of the divine service. New Apostolic divine service adheres … that is delivered without notes. Sermon, proclamation of the word: see Questions … …

617. Is God present in the divine service?

FAQ

… Yes. At the beginning of the divine service, God is invoked with the words: “In the name of God, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit”. This invocation of God is called the “Trinitarian opening formula”. This … …

618. What are the basic elements of the divine service?

FAQ

… 618. What are the basic elements of the divine service? …

619. What is meant by the “Apostles’ doctrine”?

FAQ

… … doctrine” means that the Apostles proclaim the doctrine of Jesus Christ, in other words, the gospel of the death, resurrection, and return of the Son of God. This doctrine is also proclaimed in the … …

62. Why do Christians believe that God is triune?

FAQ

… … and New Testaments contain many references to the trinity of God. It is on the basis of these biblical attestations that Christians believe in … …

620. What do we mean when we talk about “breaking of bread”?

FAQ

… 620. What do we mean when we talk about “breaking of bread”? …

621. What does “communion” signify in the divine service?

FAQ

… … in divine service is understood as the fulfilment of the words of Jesus Christ: “For where two or three are gathered together in My name, I am there in the midst of them” (Matthew 18: 20). This “fellowship” in the … …

622. What is the role of “prayer” in the divine service?

FAQ

… 622. What is the role of “prayer” in the divine service? …

623. What do we mean by the “proclamation of the word” (sermon)?

FAQ

… 623. What do we mean by the “proclamation of the word” (sermon)? …

624. What is the sermon capable of doing?

FAQ

… 624. What is the sermon capable of doing? …

625. Who is called to proclaim the word of God in the divine services?

FAQ

… 625. Who is called to proclaim the word of God in the divine services? …

626. What is the main content and objective of the sermon?

FAQ

… 626. What is the main content and objective of the sermon? …

627. Does this rule out any mistakes in the proclamation and hearing of the sermon?

FAQ

… … this rule out any mistakes in the proclamation and hearing of the sermon? …

628. What is the duty of the listeners in the sermon?

FAQ

… 628. What is the duty of the listeners in the sermon? …

629. How are listeners prepared for the forgiveness of sins and the celebration of Holy Communion?

FAQ

… 629. How are listeners prepared for the forgiveness of sins and the celebration of Holy Communion? …

63. What references to the triune God are there in the Old Testament?

FAQ

… The first such reference to the trinity of God is found in Genesis 1: 26: “Let Us make man in Our image, according to Our likeness.” The use of the plural “Let Us” is a reference to the activity of God in several persons. God appeared to Abraham in Mamre … …

630. What is the only prayer that is spoken in accordance with a fixed wording in the divine service?

FAQ

… … together in accordance with a fixed wording. One version of it is recorded with five pleas (cf. Luke 11: 2-4), and … …

631. What is the wording of the Lord’s Prayer in divine service?

FAQ

… 631. What is the wording of the Lord’s Prayer in divine service? …

632. What does the address “Our Father” mean?

FAQ

… … without fear, in love, and in confidence. Child of God: see explanation of Question … …

634. What does it mean to say: “Hallowed be Your name”?

FAQ

… … in accordance with His will. This plea is also reminiscent of the Second Commandment. …

635. What do the words “Your kingdom come” mean?

FAQ

… The kingdom of God has come to mankind in Christ. With the plea “Your kingdom come” believers pray that the nature of Christ may become more and more perceptible in the … however, this plea is also a prayer that the future kingdom of God may soon be revealed: this will begin with the return … …

636. What does it mean when we say: “Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven”?

FAQ

… … believers also pray that they may succeed in doing the will of God themselves. …

638. What does it mean to pray: “And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors”?

FAQ

… All human beings incur guilt on account of their sins. With these words, the believers acknowledge … …

639. What do we mean when we pray: “And do not lead us into temptation”?

FAQ

… … the plea that God may protect them from severe trials of faith. …

64. What references to the trinity of God are recorded in the New Testament?

FAQ

… 64. What references to the trinity of God are recorded in the New Testament? …

640. What is meant by the words “Deliver us from the evil one”?

FAQ

… … desire that God may deliver the believers from the power of the evil one. Ultimately it is a plea for God to grant … by delivering us from the evil one forever. In the Son of God “we have redemption, [...] the forgiveness of sins” (Colossians 1: 14). Evil: see Questions … …

641. What do we mean when we say: “For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever”?

FAQ

… These words are an expression of praise to God (doxology). They serve to glorify the … is due. Our view is hereby also directed to the completion of His plan of salvation, when the redeemed will be permitted to … …

643. When do the believers receive the forgiveness of sins in the divine service?

FAQ

… 643. When do the believers receive the forgiveness of sins in the divine service? …

644. With what words is the forgiveness of sins proclaimed?

FAQ

… 644. With what words is the forgiveness of sins proclaimed? …

645. Is the forgiveness of sins a sacrament?

FAQ

… 645. Is the forgiveness of sins a sacrament? …

646. How is it that sins can be forgiven?

FAQ

… Sins can be forgiven because God—as the God of love—sent His Son to the earth. With His death on the … brought the eternally valid sacrifice for the forgiveness of sins. Through the voluntary surrender of His life, Jesus broke the power of Satan and conquered … …

647. Who forgives sins?

FAQ

… … who forgives sins. On their own, human beings are incapable of forgiving sins or being liberated from sin. “Blessed is … …

648. Is it necessary to proclaim the forgiveness of sins?

FAQ

… 648. Is it necessary to proclaim the forgiveness of sins? …

649. What must a person do in order to have his sins forgiven?

FAQ

… … 8: 24). in addition, one must believe that the forgiveness of sins is proclaimed by the Apostles. it is also necessary … thereby incurring guilt, and that one is thus in need of grace. the person must have the desire in his heart to … …

65. When was the doctrine of the trinity of God formulated?

FAQ

… 65. When was the doctrine of the trinity of God formulated? …

650. What else is part of this recognition of having sinned?

FAQ

… 650. What else is part of this recognition of having sinned? …

651. What is meant by repentance and remorse?

FAQ

… … to overcome mistakes and weaknesses. Remorse is the feeling of suffering caused by wrongs committed in deed or omission. … …

652. What are the effects of the forgiveness of sins?

FAQ

… 652. What are the effects of the forgiveness of sins? …

653. Are there sins that cannot be forgiven?

FAQ

… … for which there is no forgiveness. Concerning this, the Son of God said: “He who blasphemes against the Holy Spirit … …

654. Who commits the sin of blasphemy against the Holy Spirit?

FAQ

… 654. Who commits the sin of blasphemy against the Holy Spirit? …

655. Who dispenses the sacraments in the divine service?

FAQ

… The sacraments of Holy Baptism with water and Holy Communion are dispensed by Apostles or priestly ministers in the commission of the Apostles. The sacrament of Holy Sealing is only dispensed by Apostles. …

656. How often are the sacraments dispensed?

FAQ

… 656. How often are the sacraments dispensed? …

657. Is Holy Communion celebrated in every divine service?

FAQ

… … that is, divine services without the celebration of Holy Communion—are conducted. …

658. Do children also receive the sacraments?

FAQ

… … If possible, the children take part in the celebration of Holy Communion with the congregation. Children receive the sacraments of Holy Baptism with water, Holy Sealing, and Holy Communion in accordance with the words of Jesus: “Let the little children come to Me, and do not … …

659. Are the sacraments also dispensed to the departed?

FAQ

… … Apostles commissioned by them also celebrate the sacrament of Holy Communion for the departed after the congregation … ministers serve as proxies to receive the body and blood of Christ on behalf of the departed. Three times each year—namely on the first … …

66. What is the relationship of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit to one another?

FAQ

… 66. What is the relationship of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit to one another? …

660. What are “acts of blessing”?

FAQ

… 660. What are “acts of blessing”? …

661. What happens in an act of blessing?

FAQ

… 661. What happens in an act of blessing? …

662. Which acts of blessing take place within the divine service?

FAQ

… 662. Which acts of blessing take place within the divine service? …

663. What is confirmation?

FAQ

… … meaning “reinforcement”, “affirmation”) is that act of blessing in which young New Apostolic Christians take … that is, before the congregation, profess the New Apostolic faith. Once confirmed, these Christians, who have now reached the age of spiritual majority, bear full responsibility before God … …

665. How is the act of confirmation performed?

FAQ

… 665. How is the act of confirmation performed? …

666. What is the effect of the confirmation blessing?

FAQ

… 666. What is the effect of the confirmation blessing? …

667. What is the text of the confirmation vow?

FAQ

… 667. What is the text of the confirmation vow? …

668. What do we mean when we talk about the act of “adoption”?

FAQ

… 668. What do we mean when we talk about the act of “adoption”? …

669. What transpires in the adoption?

FAQ

… … Christians are adopted, they publicly profess the creed of the New Apostolic faith. After a prayer they are adopted into the New Apostolic Church in the name of the triune God. The adopted members are now entitled to … …

67. What does the term “Father” mean when it is used in relationship to God?

FAQ

… … relationship to God, it is associated with divine aspects of creatorship, authority, and loving care. God is the source and sustainer of that which He has created. In this respect, all human … God, who is their Creator, as “Father”. See also Child of God: explanation of Question … …

670. What is the engagement blessing?

FAQ

… … when a couple gets engaged. Engagement is a serious promise of marriage. In this act of blessing, the engaged couple publicly declares before God … …

671. What is a wedding blessing?

FAQ

… … are asked whether they intend to stand by each other in faithfulness under all circumstances and pursue their path of life together in love. Both of them vow this before God and the congregation by saying … …

672. For which wedding anniversaries is a blessing dispensed?

FAQ

… At the request of the couple, a blessing is dispensed on the following … …

673. What happens at the dedication of a church building?

FAQ

… 673. What happens at the dedication of a church building? …

674. What happens when a church building is deconsecrated?

FAQ

… … in the last divine service conducted there, the purpose of the church building as a holy place of divine activity, as imparted in the dedication, is … …

675. When are sacraments dispensed and acts of blessing performed?

FAQ

… 675. When are sacraments dispensed and acts of blessing performed? …

676. When are ordinations, appointments, reinstatements, and retirements performed in the divine service?

FAQ

… … a spiritual ministry is imparted—as well as appointments of congregational rectors or district rectors, reinstatements of ministers to a ministry, and retirements of ministers take place after the sacraments have been … …

677. How is the ordination performed?

FAQ

… … intent to serve God faithfully, stand up for the gospel of Jesus Christ, and exercise the ministry in accordance … if they are prepared to exercise the ministry in the mind of Jesus Christ, in love for the believers, and in obedience of faith. They vow this before God, who calls them into His … …

678. What is the function of music in the divine service?

FAQ

… 678. What is the function of music in the divine service? …

679. How is the divine service concluded?

FAQ

… At the end of the divine service, all those who are present receive the blessing of the triune God. Together with the Trinitarian opening … emanates from the triune God. Trinitarian: see explanation of Question … …

68. What do we know about God as the Creator?

FAQ

… … things are subject to Him. “And the Lord God formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living being. The Lord God planted … …

680. What is the text of the closing benediction?

FAQ

… 680. What is the text of the closing benediction? …

681. What is it that causes the believers to attend the divine services regularly?

FAQ

… … God in fellowship with one another. They know that their faith and hope in the imminent return of Christ will be strengthened through the sermon in the … …

682. What are the consequences of not attending the divine services?

FAQ

… 682. What are the consequences of not attending the divine services? …

683. Are there acts of blessing that do not occur in the context of a divine service?

FAQ

… 683. Are there acts of blessing that do not occur in the context of a divine service? …

684. What is the prenatal blessing?

FAQ

… The prenatal blessing is the first visible act of God upon an as yet unborn human being. This blessing … the mother in her endeavour to promote and cultivate the faith life of her child during its prenatal development. The prenatal … …

685. What is a church funeral?

FAQ

… … strength to the bereaved. This comfort consists primarily of hope in the return of Christ, the resurrection of the dead in Christ associated with it, and the future … …

686. What happens at a church funeral?

FAQ

… In the funeral service, the life of the deceased is honoured in appropriate fashion. The soul and spirit of the departed are commended to the love of the Redeemer Jesus Christ with the blessed reassurance … …

687. Does the funeral have any impact on the resurrection of the dead?

FAQ

… 687. Does the funeral have any impact on the resurrection of the dead? …

688. What is pastoral care?

FAQ

… The significance of pastoral care can be recognised in the conduct of Jesus: without regard for the person, He turned to … …

689. How do the ministers of the Church fulfil their pastoral care duties?

FAQ

… 689. How do the ministers of the Church fulfil their pastoral care duties? …

69. What does the creation tell us about God?

FAQ

… … it functions bear witness to God’s wisdom, the magnitude of which cannot even be imagined by man. In admiration the psalmist exclaims: “The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament shows His handiwork” (Psalm 19: … …

690. What is the function of the pastoral care visit?

FAQ

… 690. What is the function of the pastoral care visit? …

691. Do we have confession in pastoral care?

FAQ

… … we have confession. By this we mean a person’s admission of sins and acknowledgement of guilt before a church minister. Although no confession is needed for the forgiveness of sins, there is still an opportunity for confession in the … …

692. Is the task of providing pastoral care only reserved for the ministers?

FAQ

… 692. Is the task of providing pastoral care only reserved for the ministers? …

693. How is pastoral care provided for children?

FAQ

… The pastoral care of children is primarily the task of parents. They are to impart the fundamental values of the … neighbour, and being an example to them in prayer life and faithfulness in offering. The ministers and brothers and … …

694. What is the objective of church instruction?

FAQ

… 694. What is the objective of church instruction? …

695. What is the objective of Pre-Sunday School?

FAQ

… 695. What is the objective of Pre-Sunday School? …

696. What is the function of Sunday School?

FAQ

… 696. What is the function of Sunday School? …

697. What is the content and objective of divine services for children?

FAQ

… 697. What is the content and objective of divine services for children? …

698. What is the function of Religious Instruction in church?

FAQ

… 698. What is the function of Religious Instruction in church? …

699. What is the function of Confirmation Instruction?

FAQ

… 699. What is the function of Confirmation Instruction? …

7. Does God also provide revelations about the future?

FAQ

… … see Him as He is (cf. 1 John 3: 1-2). “Behold what manner of love the Father has bestowed on us, that we should be called children of God! Therefore the world does not know us, because it did not know Him. Beloved, now we are children of God; and it has not yet been revealed what we shall be, … …

70. In what span of time did God create the world?

FAQ

… 70. In what span of time did God create the world? …

700. How is pastoral care provided for young people?

FAQ

… … for confidential conversations in various situations of life as well as for questions of faith. …

701. What is the function of pastoral care for youth?

FAQ

… 701. What is the function of pastoral care for youth? …

702. How is pastoral care provided to the terminally ill and dying?

FAQ

… … require special care. Even believing people are afraid of dying and death. This fear must never be interpreted as a sign of lacking faith. The minister should accept the dying person in all … …

703. How is pastoral care provided to the relatives of a dying person?

FAQ

… 703. How is pastoral care provided to the relatives of a dying person? …

704. What does support for the bereaved entail?

FAQ

… … and pray with them. It is important to impart a feeling of genuine sympathy to the bereaved. Despite any fears of saying the wrong words, it is important to reach out to … that Jesus Christ also suffered and died. The resurrection of the dead is also founded on His resurrection. They share … …

705. What is the purpose of support for the bereaved?

FAQ

… 705. What is the purpose of support for the bereaved? …

707. What is the significance of Christmas?

FAQ

… 707. What is the significance of Christmas? …

708. What is the significance of Palm Sunday?

FAQ

… 708. What is the significance of Palm Sunday? …

709. What is the significance of Good Friday?

FAQ

… 709. What is the significance of Good Friday? …

71. What does the Bible relate about God’s creation?

FAQ

… … Bible relates that heaven and earth, the light, the shape of the earth, the sun, the moon and stars, the plants and … as well as human beings, came into being through the word of God. Everything was very good (cf. Genesis 1: 31). …

710. What is the significance of Easter?

FAQ

… 710. What is the significance of Easter? …

711. What is the significance of Ascension Day?

FAQ

… 711. What is the significance of Ascension Day? …

712. What is the significance of Pentecost?

FAQ

… 712. What is the significance of Pentecost? …

713. What is the significance of Thanksgiving Day?

FAQ

… 713. What is the significance of Thanksgiving Day? …

714. What is the format of divine services on church holy days?

FAQ

… 714. What is the format of divine services on church holy days? …

716. Is praying necessary?

FAQ

… Praying is at times described as the “breathing of the soul”. This image serves to illustrate the necessity of prayer for the believer. Faith without prayer is not a living faith. A prayer without … …

717. What references are there to prayer in the Old Testament?

FAQ

… There are many references to the worship of God in the Old Testament. The hymn of Moses serves as a good example: “For I proclaim the name of the Lord: ascribe greatness to our God. He is the Rock, … …

718. What instructions did Jesus give concerning prayer?

FAQ

… … (cf. Matthew 6: 5-8). We are not to make an outward show of prayer nor are we to use a lot of words. We may address God as “Father”. Prayers should come from the heart. In view of His return Jesus admonished: “Watch therefore, and pray … …

719. What does the Bible relate about the prayer life of Jesus?

FAQ

… 719. What does the Bible relate about the prayer life of Jesus? …

72. Does the creation of God only consist of that which human beings can grasp with their senses?

FAQ

… 72. Does the creation of God only consist of that which human beings can grasp with their senses? …

721. What do we know about the prayers of the early Christians?

FAQ

… 721. What do we know about the prayers of the early Christians? …

722. How are we to pray?

FAQ

… … not bound to any outward form, nevertheless, the intensity of the prayer can be promoted by closing one’s eyes, … The supplicant thereby withdraws from the busy activity of daily life to pause and bow before God in humbleness. New … meals. They may also turn to God repeatedly in the course of the day in order to feel His nearness and seek His … …

723. What is the content of a prayer?

FAQ

… 723. What is the content of a prayer? …

724. What is the source of adoration and worship?

FAQ

… 724. What is the source of adoration and worship? …

725. For what things do we express our thanks when we pray?

FAQ

… … for everything that has been given to us by the goodness of God: word, grace, and sacrament, as well the earthly gifts of sustenance, clothing, and accommodation. …

726. What petitions do we bring before God?

FAQ

… … God in our petitions. These have to do with preservation in faith, angel protection, or help in daily life. The most significant petition is with regard to the imminent return of Christ and our longing to be accepted in grace at that … …

727. Why do we intercede for others?

FAQ

… Intercessions are an expression of love for our neighbour. They are not limited to our own … …

728. What are the effects of prayer?

FAQ

… 728. What are the effects of prayer? …

729. What do we mean when we talk about the “willingness to offer and sacrifice”?

FAQ

… … What do we mean when we talk about the “willingness to offer and sacrifice”? …

73. What belongs to the invisible creation?

FAQ

… … the realm where God rules, the angels, the immortal souls of human beings, as well as the realm of the dead. Realm of the dead: see Questions … …

730. What do people generally mean when they talk about “offerings and sacrifices”?

FAQ

… 730. What do people generally mean when they talk about “offerings and sacrifices”? …

731. How do we understand our sacrifices?

FAQ

… … time, and energy that are put to work in the service of God and His work. Even the endeavour to refrain from doing something for the benefit of God’s work is a sacrifice. Believers also feel the need … for God in concrete gifts (sacrifices), be it in the form of money or natural goods. According to Malachi 3: 10, we … …

732. What was the significance of sacrifice in the old covenant?

FAQ

… 732. What was the significance of sacrifice in the old covenant? …

733. What is the significance of sacrifice in the new covenant?

FAQ

… 733. What is the significance of sacrifice in the new covenant? …

734. Who is the greatest example of willingness to sacrifice?

FAQ

… 734. Who is the greatest example of willingness to sacrifice? …

735. What is the basis for our willingness to sacrifice?

FAQ

… … obligation. Neither should it be made in expectation of a reward. Rather, the willingness to sacrifice should spring forth from faith, gratitude, and love for God. …

736. How is willingness to sacrifice demonstrated in congregational life?

FAQ

… … life: many members dedicate a considerable portion of their leisure time, energy, and talent to the service of the congregation without remuneration. Many of them are active in the musical programming and … …

737. What is a spiritual sacrifice?

FAQ

… … when one subordinates one’s own will to the will of God and allows oneself to be led by that which God … …

738. What is the relationship between sacrifice and blessing?

FAQ

… … beforehand. These sacrifices are therefore an expression of gratitude for that which they have received. In the case of any sacrifice, the attitude of heart is the deciding factor. If the sacrifice is made … …

739. What is marriage?

FAQ

… … foundation for the family. It is based on a public promise of fidelity that is freely given by both partners. Mutual love and fidelity are indispensable factors in the success of a marriage. Polygamy (marriage with multiple spouses) is … …

74. Is the Devil part of the invisible creation?

FAQ

… 74. Is the Devil part of the invisible creation? …

740. What can we derive from the account of creation concerning marriage?

FAQ

… 740. What can we derive from the account of creation concerning marriage? …

741. What is the significance of the wedding blessing?

FAQ

… 741. What is the significance of the wedding blessing? …

742. What significance does the Christian faith have for the success of the marriage?

FAQ

… 742. What significance does the Christian faith have for the success of the marriage? …

743. What is the significance of sex in marriage?

FAQ

… 743. What is the significance of sex in marriage? …

744. What is the New Apostolic Church’s position on family planning?

FAQ

… Family planning is at the discretion of both partners. Nevertheless, the Church opposes all … …

745. What is the New Apostolic Church’s position on fulfilling one’s obligations in one’s profession and society?

FAQ

… … position on fulfilling one’s obligations in one’s profession and society? …

746. How does the New Apostolic Church perceive its responsibility to society?

FAQ

… Within the scope of its capacity and commission, the New Apostolic Church … and admonishes forgiveness. It opposes all forms of violence. …

747. Do New Apostolic Christians participate in public life?

FAQ

… … calls upon its members to treat all people— irrespective of social standing, age, language, or any other … …

748. What is the position of the New Apostolic Church toward the state?

FAQ

… 748. What is the position of the New Apostolic Church toward the state? …

749. How is the relationship of the New Apostolic Church with other churches, denominations, and religions?

FAQ

… 749. How is the relationship of the New Apostolic Church with other churches, … …

75. What are angels?

FAQ

… Angels are spiritual beings created by God. They are part of the invisible creation. In individual cases they can … …

750. What is the social commitment of the New Apostolic Church?

FAQ

… 750. What is the social commitment of the New Apostolic Church? …

76. What is the task of the angels?

FAQ

… 76. What is the task of the angels? …

77. Should angels be worshipped?

FAQ

… No, because angels only act in accordance with the will of God. For this reason it is not to them, but to God alone, … …

78. Why should human beings concern themselves with the invisible?

FAQ

… Man is an entity consisting of spirit, soul, and body (cf. 1 Thessalonians 5: 23). The body is mortal and thus belongs to the visible creation of God. Soul and spirit thus belong to the invisible creation of God. Because soul and spirit continue to exist even after … …

79. How should human beings concern themselves with the invisible?

FAQ

… … to God and worshipping Him. However, it is against the will of God to occupy oneself with the invisible in the form of necromancy or conjuring the dead (spiritism) (cf. … abomination to the Lord.” Deuteronomy 18: 10-12 Practices of conjuring spirits, especially the spirits of deceased … …

8. Are there any other insights into God’s actions?

FAQ

… Yes, through the activity of the Holy Spirit in the Apostle ministry, God grants us knowledge and insights about His actions for the salvation of mankind. These are referenced in the Bible and further … …

80. What is the position of man in the creation?

FAQ

… 80. What is the position of man in the creation? …

81. What does it mean to be created in the image of God?

FAQ

… 81. What does it mean to be created in the image of God? …

82. Are man and woman both created equally in the image of God?

FAQ

… 82. Are man and woman both created equally in the image of God? …

83. Does being “in the image of God” mean that God and man have the same nature and the same form?

FAQ

… 83. Does being “in the image of God” mean that God and man have the same nature and the … …

84. What is the relationship between man and His Creator?

FAQ

… … Him. Thus human beings are oriented to God, regardless of whether or not they believe in Him. …

85. What task does man have in the visible creation?

FAQ

… … fill the earth and subdue it; have dominion over the fish of the sea, over the birds of the air, and over every living thing that moves on the … …

86. How are human beings, as the image of God, to conduct themselves within the creation?

FAQ

… 86. How are human beings, as the image of God, to conduct themselves within the creation? …

87. Were the first human beings allowed to do as they pleased without restriction?

FAQ

… … Lawgiver, God gave Adam and Eve the commandment not to eat of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil in the garden. In so doing He tested man to … …

88. How did the fall into sin come about?

FAQ

… Through the influence of the evil one, who came to them as a serpent, the first … …

89. What is associated with the fall into sin?

FAQ

… … from God, spiritual death, was the direct consequence of the fall into sin. From then on, human beings had to lead … sinful, that is to say, enmeshed in sin and thus incapable of living without sin. Spiritual death: see Question … is the ground for your sake; in toil you shall eat of it all the days of your life. [...] For dust you are, and … …

9. How are human beings to conduct themselves with respect to God’s revelations?

FAQ

… … are to believe in God and His revelations. Only through faith can human beings grasp the divine revelations. If they … in God as the Creator will not see the universe as a work of God in which the Creator has revealed Himself, but rather as the result of coincidental processes unfolding in nature. …

90. Do human beings have to remain in spiritual death?

FAQ

… Human beings cannot undo the condition of separation from God on their own. But even as sinners, human beings are not without the comfort and help of God. God does not leave them in spiritual death: with the incarnation of God in Jesus Christ, His sacrificial death, and … …

91. What does it mean to say that God created human beings as an entity consisting of spirit, soul, and body?

FAQ

… … say that God created human beings as an entity consisting of spirit, soul, and body? …

92. What happens after a human being’s physical death?

FAQ

… … whereas the soul and spirit are immortal. After the death of the body, a human being continues to live on as an entity consisting of soul and spirit. Death does not put an end to human … then expressed through soul and spirit. At the resurrection of the dead, soul and spirit will be united with a … …

93. Who is God, the Son?

FAQ

… God, the Son, is the second person of the triune God. There is no hierarchical difference … the terms “Father” and “Son” might suggest an order of precedence. Father and Son are both equally true God. They are of the same essence. …

94. Who is Jesus Christ?

FAQ

… … became human and yet remained God. He was born in Bethlehem of the virgin Mary. Jesus Christ, God and Man: see Question … to his own city. Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judea, to the city of David, which is … …

95. What references to the birth of Jesus are there in the Old Testament?

FAQ

… 95. What references to the birth of Jesus are there in the Old Testament? …

96. Who prepared the way for Jesus?

FAQ

… … was the one who prepared the way for Jesus. This forerunner of Jesus promised by God (cf. Malachi 3: 1) preached … was the first to expressly refer to Jesus as the Son of God and also proclaim this to the people. “There was a … name was John. This man came for a witness, to bear witness of the Light, that all through him might believe. He was not … …

97. How did John the Baptist describe Jesus Christ?

FAQ

… … Jesus came to John, the latter said: “‘Behold! The Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world!’ Again, the next day, John stood with two of his disciples, and looking at Jesus as He walked, he … …

98. What does the term “Lamb of God” mean here?

FAQ

… 98. What does the term “Lamb of God” mean here? …

99. What is the significance of Jesus’ sacrificial death for us?

FAQ

… 99. What is the significance of Jesus’ sacrificial death for us? …

Act of grace

FAQ

… Act of grace …

Acts of blessing

FAQ

… Acts of blessing …

Apostle ministry – church of Christ

FAQ

… Apostle ministry – church of Christ …

Apostles – death of the early Apostles

FAQ

… Apostles – death of the early Apostles …

Apostolic laying on of hands

FAQ

… Apostolic laying on of hands …

Authority of the keys

FAQ

… Authority of the keys …

Baptism of the Spirit

FAQ

… Baptism of the Spirit …

Blame for the death of Jesus

FAQ

… Blame for the death of Jesus …

Body and blood of Jesus

FAQ

… Body and blood of Jesus …

Body of Christ

FAQ

… Body of Christ …

Breaking of bread

FAQ

… Breaking of bread …

Bride of Christ / Bridal congregation

FAQ

… Bride of Christ / Bridal congregation …

Centre of Scripture

FAQ

… Centre of Scripture …

Church of Jesus Christ

FAQ

… Church of Jesus Christ …

Church of Jesus Christ – apostolicity

FAQ

… Church of Jesus Christ – apostolicity …

Church of Jesus Christ – development

FAQ

… Church of Jesus Christ – development …

Church of Jesus Christ – founding, institution

FAQ

… Church of Jesus Christ – founding, institution …

Church of Jesus Christ – functions

FAQ

… Church of Jesus Christ – functions …

Church of Jesus Christ – Head

FAQ

… Church of Jesus Christ – Head …

Church of Jesus Christ – holiness

FAQ

… Church of Jesus Christ – holiness …

Church of Jesus Christ – marks of the church (notae ecclesiae)

FAQ

… Church of Jesus Christ – marks of the church (notae ecclesiae) …

Church of Jesus Christ – protection

FAQ

… Church of Jesus Christ – protection …

Church of Jesus Christ – references to the church of Christ

FAQ

… Church of Jesus Christ – references to the church of Christ …

Church of Jesus Christ – unity

FAQ

… Church of Jesus Christ – unity …

Church of Jesus Christ – universality

FAQ

… Church of Jesus Christ – universality …

Church of Jesus Christ, invisible

FAQ

… Church of Jesus Christ, invisible …

Church of Jesus Christ, visible

FAQ

… Church of Jesus Christ, visible …

Cleansing of the temple

FAQ

… Cleansing of the temple …

Commandment

FAQ

… see also: “Double commandment of love”, “Ten … …

Communion, Holy – forgiveness of sins

FAQ

… Communion, Holy – forgiveness of sins …

Communion, Holy – meal of fellowship

FAQ

… Communion, Holy – meal of fellowship …

Communion, Holy – meal of profession

FAQ

… Communion, Holy – meal of profession …

Communion, Holy – meal of remembrance

FAQ

… Communion, Holy – meal of remembrance …

Community of the saints

FAQ

… Community of the saints …

Confession (of faith)

FAQ

… Confession (of faith) …

Confession (of sin)

FAQ

… Confession (of sin) …

Cross, Sign of the cross

FAQ

… Cross, Sign of the cross …

Day of creation

FAQ

… Day of creation …

Day of the Lord / Day of Christ

FAQ

… Day of the Lord / Day of Christ …

Disciples of Jesus

FAQ

… Disciples of Jesus …

Divine service – acts of blessing

FAQ

… Divine service – acts of blessing …

Divine service – dispensation of the sacraments

FAQ

… Divine service – dispensation of the sacraments …

Double commandment of love

FAQ

… Double commandment of love …

Doxology (praise of God)

FAQ

… Doxology (praise of God) …

Dual nature of Jesus Christ, Doctrine of Hypostatic Union

FAQ

… Dual nature of Jesus Christ, Doctrine of Hypostatic Union …

Eden

FAQ

… see: “Garden of Eden” …

End of the world

FAQ

… End of the world …

Eschatology

FAQ

… (concerning the doctrine of future things, see also: … …

Faith

FAQ

… Faith …

Faith in God

FAQ

… Faith in God …

Fear of God

FAQ

… Fear of God …

Firstlings, the status of firstling

FAQ

… Firstlings, the status of firstling …

Foreword

FAQ

… In the year 2012 the “Catechism of the New Apostolic Church” (CNAC) was published … many other languages. The present work, the “Catechism of the New Apostolic Church in Questions and Answers”, has … to occupy themselves intensively with the content of their faith. It is also an invitation to all interested parties to … …

Forgiveness of sins

FAQ

… Forgiveness of sins …

Forgiveness of sins – effects

FAQ

… Forgiveness of sins – effects …

Forgiveness of sins – prerequisites

FAQ

… Forgiveness of sins – prerequisites …

Forgiveness of sins – proclamation

FAQ

… Forgiveness of sins – proclamation …

Freedom of religion

FAQ

… Freedom of religion …

Fruit of the Spirit

FAQ

… Fruit of the Spirit …

Garden of Eden

FAQ

… Garden of Eden …

Goal of faith

FAQ

… Goal of faith …

God’s plan of salvation

FAQ

… God’s plan of salvation …

Grace of God

FAQ

… Grace of God …

Great tribulation – time of the great tribulation

FAQ

… Great tribulation – time of the great tribulation …

Healing of the sick

FAQ

… Healing of the sick …

Holy Spirit – fruits of the Holy Spirit

FAQ

… Holy Spirit – fruits of the Holy Spirit …

Holy Spirit – Maker of the new creation

FAQ

… Holy Spirit – Maker of the new creation …

House of God

FAQ

… House of God …

Image of God

FAQ

… Image of God …

Images of Jesus

FAQ

… Images of Jesus …

Incarnation of God

FAQ

… Incarnation of God …

Interpretation of Holy Scripture

FAQ

… Interpretation of Holy Scripture …

Jesus – in the realm of the dead

FAQ

… Jesus – in the realm of the dead …

Jesus – Servant of God

FAQ

… Jesus – Servant of God …

Jesus – Son of David

FAQ

… Jesus – Son of David …

Jesus Christ – at the right hand of God

FAQ

… Jesus Christ – at the right hand of God …

Jesus Christ – fellowship of life with Jesus Christ

FAQ

… Jesus Christ – fellowship of life with Jesus Christ …

Jesus Christ – return

FAQ

… see “Return of the Lord, Return of Christ” …

Killing of animals

FAQ

… Killing of animals …

Kingdom of God

FAQ

… Kingdom of God …

Kingdom of peace

FAQ

… Kingdom of peace …

Lamb of God

FAQ

… Lamb of God …

Laying on of hands

FAQ

… Laying on of hands …

Lord’s work of redemption

FAQ

… Lord’s work of redemption …

Love of God

FAQ

… Love of God …

Majestic titles of Jesus

FAQ

… Majestic titles of Jesus …

Maker of the new creation

FAQ

… Maker of the new creation …

Man – entity consisting of body, soul, and spirit

FAQ

… Man – entity consisting of body, soul, and spirit …

Marriage of the Lamb / Marriage in heaven

FAQ

… Marriage of the Lamb / Marriage in heaven …

Mary (Mother of Jesus)

FAQ

… Mary (Mother of Jesus) …

Meal of remembrance

FAQ

… Meal of remembrance …

Ministry of the rock

FAQ

… Ministry of the rock …

Miracles of feeding

FAQ

… Miracles of feeding …

Miracles of Jesus

FAQ

… Miracles of Jesus …

Miracles of nature

FAQ

… Miracles of nature …

Name of God

FAQ

… Name of God …

Name of God – misuse

FAQ

… Name of God – misuse …

Nature of God

FAQ

… Nature of God …

Notae ecclesiae

FAQ

… see “The church of Christ – distinguishing features” …

Notes on the text

FAQ

… … and feminine pronouns were generally avoided. Neutral forms of expression were employed wherever possible, but otherwise … intended to discriminate but was chosen in the interests of smoother reading. To allow for greater reader … and explanations within citations were identified by way of square brackets ([...]). …

Obedience of faith

FAQ

… Obedience of faith …

Offering – “the tithe”

FAQ

… …

Oil of spikenard

FAQ

… Oil of spikenard …

Omnipotence of God

FAQ

… Omnipotence of God …

Omniscience of God

FAQ

… Omniscience of God …

Outpouring of the Holy Spirit

FAQ

… Outpouring of the Holy Spirit …

Parables of Jesus

FAQ

… Parables of Jesus …

Peace – Pronouncement of peace

FAQ

… Peace – Pronouncement of peace …

Personhood of a human being

FAQ

… Personhood of a human being …

Petrine office, office of Peter

FAQ

… Petrine office, office of Peter …

Picture credits

FAQ

… … (pp 204, 205, 207 (Chief Apostle Krebs, Niehaus, and Bischoff)); NAK-karitativ e.V. (pp 248, 249); New Apostolic … …

Pieces of silver

FAQ

… Pieces of silver …

Pilate’s washing of the hands

FAQ

… Pilate’s washing of the hands …

Praise of God (doxology)

FAQ

… Praise of God (doxology) …

Prayers of Jesus

FAQ

… Prayers of Jesus …

Prince of Peace, King of Peace

FAQ

… Prince of Peace, King of Peace …

Proclamation of the word

FAQ

… Proclamation of the word …

Profession, professing

FAQ

… Profession, professing …

Prohibition of images

FAQ

… Prohibition of images …

Property of God

FAQ

… Property of God …

Raising of the dead

FAQ

… Raising of the dead …

Rapture of the bride of Christ

FAQ

… Rapture of the bride of Christ …

Realm of the dead

FAQ

… Realm of the dead …

Renewal of a person

FAQ

… Renewal of a person …

Resurrection of Christ

FAQ

… Resurrection of Christ …

Resurrection of Christ – witnesses, testimonies

FAQ

… Resurrection of Christ – witnesses, testimonies …

Resurrection of the dead

FAQ

… Resurrection of the dead …

Return of Christ – moment in time

FAQ

… Return of Christ – moment in time …

Return of the Lord – promise

FAQ

… Return of the Lord – promise …

Return of the Lord / Return of Christ

FAQ

… Return of the Lord / Return of Christ …

Revelation of God

FAQ

… Revelation of God …

Righteousness of God

FAQ

… Righteousness of God …

Sacraments – faith

FAQ

… Sacraments – faith …

Sacrifice of Christ

FAQ

… Sacrifice of Christ …

Sealing, Holy – laying on of hands of an Apostle

FAQ

… Sealing, Holy – laying on of hands of an Apostle …

Self-revelation of God

FAQ

… Self-revelation of God …

Sermon – duty of the listeners

FAQ

… Sermon – duty of the listeners …

Slaughter of innocents in Bethlehem

FAQ

… Slaughter of innocents in Bethlehem …

Son of Man

FAQ

… Son of Man …

Star of Bethlehem

FAQ

… Star of Bethlehem …

Stewards of God’s mysteries

FAQ

… Stewards of God’s mysteries …

Sufferings of Jesus

FAQ

… Sufferings of Jesus …

Sunday – the day of rest

FAQ

… Sunday – the day of rest …

Thankfulness, offerings of thanks

FAQ

… Thankfulness, offerings of thanks …

The New Apostolic Creed

FAQ

… The First Article of Faith: I believe in God, the Father, the Almighty, the Creator of heaven and earth. The Second Article of Faith: I … …

The Ten Commandments

FAQ

… … Me. The Second Commandment You shall not take the name of the Lord your God in vain, for the Lord will not hold him … …

Tree of knowledge

FAQ

… Tree of knowledge …

Vision and Mission of the New Apostolic Church

FAQ

… Vision and Mission of the New Apostolic Church …

Washing of the feet

FAQ

… Washing of the feet …

Wisdom of Solomon

FAQ

… Wisdom of Solomon …

Wisdom of Solomon

FAQ

… Wisdom of Solomon …

Witnesses of Christ’s resurrection

FAQ

… Witnesses of Christ’s resurrection …

Worship of God

FAQ

… Worship of God …

Creed | Articles of Faith

A-Z

… Creed | Articles of Faith …

Abortion

A-Z

… … The New Apostolic Church rejects the termination of pregnancies because they constitute a transgression of the Fifth Commandment. The guilt before God associated … Even if there are humanly understandable reasons in favour of a termination of pregnancy the viewpoint of the Church … …

Acts of blessing

A-Z

… Acts of blessing …

Baptism | Holy Baptism

A-Z

… … being and God comes into being. Through the washing away of original sin, the baptised is led out of his original state of remoteness from God and enters the proximity of God. He becomes a Christian. Through his faith and profession of Christ, the baptised now belongs to … …

Bible | Holy Scripture

A-Z

… Holy Scripture—the Bible—is a collection of writings about God’s activity, promises, and commandments. It consists of the Old Testament and the New Testament. Holy Scripture attests to the revelations of God, however it is not a complete or exhaustive account … …

Brain death

A-Z

… … in time cannot be unequivocally determined: the moment of ensoulment and the moment when the soul separates from … Church assumes that ensoulment takes place at the moment of conception and that the separation of body and soul takes place at brain death. …

Chief Apostle

A-Z

… The foundation of the Chief Apostle ministry is the commission that Jesus gave when He instituted the office of Peter. Jesus said the following to Simon Peter: “You … and on this rock I will build My church, and the gates of Hades shall not prevail against it. And I will give you … …

Church

A-Z

… The church of Christ—both in its visible side as well as its … universality, and apostolicity. These identifying features of the church are called notae ecclesiae. They are manifest … Christian denominations. These identifying features of the church of Jesus Christ are most clearly manifest … …

Cloning

A-Z

… … “Fill the earth and subdue it”. The framework of this commission is defined in the Ten Commandments and the gospel of Jesus. This includes unreserved respect for human life in … its diversity. Due to rapid developments in the field of biotechnology we can only provide an outline of the … …

Commandments

A-Z

… … to mankind. In them He proclaims His will for the benefit of mankind. The commandments bring to expression how human … and one’s neighbour is also known as the dual commandment of love. …

Communion | Holy Communion

A-Z

… Holy Communion is a meal of remembrance: it calls to mind the death of Jesus Christ as a unique event that is valid for all … profess their belief in the death, resurrection, and return of Jesus Christ. Those who regularly partake of Holy … …

Confirmation

A-Z

… … meaning “reinforcement”, “affirmation”) is that act of blessing in which young New Apostolic Christians take … that is, before the congregation, the New Apostolic faith. Once confirmed, these Christians, who have now reached the age of spiritual majority, bear full responsibility before God … …

Contraception

A-Z

… … says yes to life. Family planning is at the discretion of the married couple; however, the Church rejects … aimed at killing fertilised ova. The further development of conceived life must not be inhibited. …

Cross

A-Z

… The cross of Christ is a sign that God has reconciled sinful mankind … In the ancient world, crucifixion was an expression of defeat: a shameful end for a despised person who had been cast out of human society. In the case of Jesus, however, this … …

Dispensation of sacraments to the departed

A-Z

… Dispensation of sacraments to the departed …

Divine service

A-Z

… Divine service is the activity of God upon human beings. At the same time, it is a work of human beings for God. In the divine service, people come … and thank Him. They also gather in order to hear the word of God and receive the sacraments. Thus divine service is an … …

Donating blood

A-Z

… From the perspective of the New Apostolic doctrine there are no objections to a transfusion of blood or blood products. A transfusion has no impact on the soul. None of the mental or emotional characteristics of the donor are … …

Emblem

A-Z

… The Church emblem is the visual identification mark of the New Apostolic Church and thus part of its identity. The symbolism of the cross, sun, and water is a reference to the Christian … …

Euthanasia

A-Z

… … is, who performs actions that lead to the death of a dying person—violates the Fifth Commandment. Passive … measures to prolong life—is not considered a violation of the Fifth Commandment, provided certain strict conditions … with doctors and relatives after a responsible assessment of the patient’s best interests. …

Evolutionary theory

A-Z

… The New Apostolic Church does not consider the theory of evolution to be a suitable explanation for the creation … on evolution to be in contradiction to the statements of the Bible. The Church is careful to distinguish between the theory of evolution and evolution itself. While the theory as a … …

Faith

A-Z

… Faith incorporates trust, obedience, and loyalty toward God. … following concerning this: “Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.” Faith always starts with God, who … …

Fasting

A-Z

… … specific days or occasions and thus follows the tradition of the Reformation. Whether individuals fast is left to … can only be obtained through grace earned by the merit of Jesus Christ. …

Gene therapy

A-Z

… … “Fill the earth and subdue it.” The framework of this commission is defined in the Ten Commandments and the gospel of Jesus. This includes unreserved respect for human life in … its diversity. Due to rapid developments in the field of biotechnology we can only provide an outline of the … …

Healing methods

A-Z

… … and capabilities that only belong to God and thereby weaken faith in God and Jesus Christ. An influence on the soul … …

Holy Spirit

A-Z

… The Holy Spirit is true God. He is the third person of God, who is worshipped as Lord and God along with the … must be made between the Holy Spirit as a person of the Godhead and the Holy Spirit as a gift of God. The Holy Spirit as a gift of God is a power that … …

Life after death

A-Z

… … whereas the soul and spirit are immortal. After the death of the body, a human being continues to live on as an entity consisting of soul and spirit. Death does not put an end to human … expressed through soul and spirit. At the resurrection of the dead, soul and spirit will be united with a … …

Life-prolonging measures

A-Z

… … concerns the dying person for whom there is no prospect of a cure or an improvement in their suffering. From a Christian perspective this can only take the form of assistance and support for the dying person and never to … and palliative pain control and sedation for the purpose of symptom control, which carries a small risk of shortening … …

Life, beginning and end

A-Z

… … in time cannot be unequivocally determined: the moment of ensoulment and the moment when the soul separates from … Church assumes that ensoulment takes place at the moment of conception and that the separation of body and soul takes place at brain death. …

Marriage

A-Z

… … foundation for the family. It is based on a public promise of fidelity that is freely given by both partners. Mutual love and fidelity are indispensable factors in the success of a marriage. Polygamy (marriage with multiple spouses) … …

Obligation of confidentiality

A-Z

… Obligation of confidentiality …

Ordination

A-Z

… We understand ordination to be the investiture of a spiritual ministry. It is not a sacrament, but an act of blessing. During the ordination the blessing of God is imparted. The individual who has been called to … …

Organ transplants

A-Z

… By means of transplantation the diseased tissue or organs are replaced by the transfer of healthy tissue or organs from a donor. From the perspective of the New Apostolic doctrine there are no objections to the … …

Original sin

A-Z

… Original sin is the condition of separation from God (remoteness from God) that came into … human being is thus a sinner even before he is capable of acting or thinking. …

Position toward the state

A-Z

… … is politically neutral. Its activities conform to the laws of each respective country, in accordance with Romans 13: 1: … appointed by God.” This presupposes that even the power of the state is in harmony with the divine commandments. The … its legal obligations under the laws and regulations of the respective countries in which it works. In turn, it … …

Recognition of baptism

A-Z

… Recognition of baptism …

Reincarnation

A-Z

… … term “reincarnation” refers to different conceptions of repeated human existence on earth in various forms, none of which are consistent with Christian doctrine. …

Relationship with other churches and religions

A-Z

… … Church and its members respect the religious practices of other people and refrain from making derogatory remarks concerning those of different faiths, different religions, and different … doctrinal positions—the commonalities of the Christian faith are emphasised. …

Sacraments

A-Z

… Sacraments are fundamental acts of God’s grace. In these holy acts—which are performed … …

Sealing | Holy Sealing

A-Z

… … is the sacrament whereby the believer receives the gift of the Holy Spirit through the laying on of hands and prayer of an Apostle. The believer thereby becomes a child of God … …

Sexual misconduct in pastoral care

A-Z

… … offences can be perpetrated by both female and male members of all age groups. They violate the personality and dignity of man. The individual District Churches have appointed … …

Sexual violence

A-Z

… … perpetrators and victims could be found among the members of the Church. The prevention of sexual violence is a task for society as a whole, which … are high priorities for the New Apostolic Church. As part of victim support, the New Apostolic Church has set up … …

Sin

A-Z

… Sin is everything that opposes the will of God and is contrary to His being. This includes all … deeds, and thoughts that are contrary to the will and being of God. It is also sin to intentionally neglect to do good … God, in His righteousness and mercy, assesses the degree of guilt an individual incurs with Him through sin … …

Social commitment

A-Z

… … charitable activity that benefits all people irrespective of personal differences. This work is supported by the voluntary commitment of many helpers in the congregations, but also by providing material assistance. Within the scope of its abilities, the Church plans, promotes, and supports … …

Stem cell research

A-Z

… … “Fill the earth and subdue it.” The framework of this commission is defined in the Ten Commandments and the gospel of Jesus. This includes unreserved respect for human life in … its diversity. Due to rapid developments in the field of biotechnology we can only provide an outline of the … …

Termination of pregnancy

A-Z

… Termination of pregnancy …

The Lord’s Prayer

A-Z

… … prayed in accordance with the words recorded in the gospel of Matthew: “Our Father in heaven, hallowed be Your name. … …

The return of Jesus Christ

A-Z

… The return of Jesus Christ …

Transplantation

A-Z

… By means of transplantation the diseased tissue or organs are replaced by the transfer of healthy tissue or organs from a donor. From the perspective of the New Apostolic doctrine there are no objections to the … …

Vision and Mission

A-Z

… … and their love for God, align their lives to the gospel of Jesus Christ and thus prepare themselves for His return … out to all people in order to teach them the gospel of Jesus Christ and to baptise them with water and the Holy … warm fellowship in which everyone shall experience the love of God and the joy of serving Him and others. …

Resurrection

A-Z

… … is risen from the dead, and has become the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep. For since by man came death, by Man also came the resurrection of the dead. For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ all … (1 Corinthians 15: 20–22). Belief in the resurrection of Jesus is necessary because His resurrection shows that … …

6.5.2 Confirmation: Preparation

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… Adolescents are brought up in the faith in their parental home, in divine service, and through … Confirmation Instruction – as the last phase of religious education in the Church – serves primarily to … essential principles of our doctrine, in particular the ten Articles of Faith, appreciate the value of … …

1 Foreword

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… … our expanded liturgy was introduced in 2010, the Catechism of the New Apostolic Church in 2012, and the concept of ministry in 2019. Last but not least, the introduction of the Serving and Leading model in 1998 set standards for … …

2 Fundamentals of exercising a ministry

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… 2 Fundamentals of exercising a ministry …

3 Ministry

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… … issued through ordination for service in the church of Christ. It is exercised in the power of the Holy Spirit.[2] A ministry comprises ministerial … well as a ministerial mandate. The ministerial authority is of a theological nature, the ministerial mandate is of a … …

6 Dispensation of sacraments and acts of blessing in the divine service

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… 6 Dispensation of sacraments and acts of blessing in the divine service …

8 Music

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… The purpose of music in the divine service is to praise and honour God.[82] The role of music is always to serve, and it can serve multiple … the soul, prepare the congregation for the proclamation of the word, and underscore the word of God.[83] The … …

9 Congregational events and activities

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… … church life is experienced and develops. The foundation of church life is always the congregation’s relationship … and His gospel, and for this reason the divine service is of central importance. In addition to divine services and various kinds of instruction, devotionals, congregational meetings, … …

11 Events in the context of public relations work

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… 11 Events in the context of public relations work …

12 Implementing the Mission of the New Apostolic Church

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… 12 Implementing the Mission of the New Apostolic Church …

Appendix: Competency profiles

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… Appendix: Competency profiles …

10.1 Ecumenism

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… While respecting the self-conceptions of each, the New Apostolic Church’s relationship with … churches is open and seeks to emphasise the commonalities of the Christian faith.[85] The following guidelines apply to the Church’s … …

10.1.1.1 Ecumenism: Divine services and acts of blessing

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… 10.1.1.1 Ecumenism: Divine services and acts of blessing …

10.1.1.2 Ecumenism: Special congregational events

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… … other congregational events it is possible for the clergy of other denominations, or for representatives of the municipality or state, to convey a greeting. …

10.1.1.3 Ecumenism: Weddings

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… In divine services incorporating the dispensation of a wedding blessing, or in special wedding services, the active involvement of the clergy of another denomination is possible at the request of the … …

10.1.1.4 Ecumenism: Holy Baptism with water

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… … church or denomination to give an address at the request of the non-New Apostolic parent or guardian. The address follows that of the New Apostolic officiant. Thereafter, the minister of the other denomination returns to his or her seat in the … …

10.1.1.5 Ecumenism: Funerals

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… Eulogies can be given at the end of a funeral service. At the request of close relatives, a minister of another denomination may also speak some words of comfort … …

10.1.1.6 Other ecumenical events

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… Within the scope of our ecumenical efforts, it is possible to jointly execute … denominations. These are events that take place outside of the context of the divine service and its liturgy. Regardless of … …

10.1.1.7 Church exhibitions and conventions

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… … these events, provided that the manner and implementation of the event are consistent with our convictions. …

10.1.2 Use of Church premises - for church use

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… 10.1.2 Use of Church premises - for church use …

10.2 Interreligious dialogue

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… The international presence of Islam has led to growing interaction—as well as … there are increasing inquiries into the possibility of organising collective Christian-Muslim prayers and devotionals on the occasion of special public events, but also in the wake of accidents … …

10.2.1 Participation in divine services

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… The involvement of Jewish or Muslim clergy in a New Apostolic divine service requires the approval of the District Apostle and must be carefully coordinated … time. It is not permissible for non-Christian clergy of monotheistic religions to be actively involved in New … …

10.2.2 Involvement of non-Christian clergy in wedding ceremonies

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… 10.2.2 Involvement of non-Christian clergy in wedding ceremonies …

10.2.3 Interreligious dialogue: Involvement of non-Christian clergy in funerals

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… 10.2.3 Interreligious dialogue: Involvement of non-Christian clergy in funerals …

10.2.5 Use of Church premises - other use

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… 10.2.5 Use of Church premises - other use …

13.1 Organisation

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… … incumbent Chief Apostle and Apostles in the active service of the New Apostolic Church in all countries of the world are incorporated as members within NACI. … whole Church with a uniform doctrine under the leadership of the Chief Apostle as its highest minister. …

13.2 The Regional Church

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… … with the respective national laws. The congregations of a particular region can be grouped into districts for the purposes of pastoral care. The District Apostle assures the continuing development of the organisational structure in collaboration with the … …

13.3 Membership

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… … Regional Church upon receiving the sacrament of Holy Sealing. A member’s transfer to a congregation of another Regional Church establishes membership in that … Church. Church membership is terminated by a declaration of secession from the Church, in accordance with the legal … …

13.5 Documentation of the divine services

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… 13.5 Documentation of the divine services …

2.1 Vision and Mission of the New Apostolic Church

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… 2.1 Vision and Mission of the New Apostolic Church …

2.2 Serving and Leading model

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… … a uniform and binding foundation for the activity of the ministers. It serves to promote identification and … and create transparency and trust. The short version of the model reads as follows: Jesus Christ’s … which has proven itself, we preserve. The timely impulses of the Holy Spirit we put into action. Mutual esteem, … …

3.1 Ministerial order

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… … the New Apostolic Church has understood itself as a church of ministry. It is led by the apostolate. All other ministries come forth out of the Apostle ministry. Today there are three ordained … who exercises the Petrine office and the administration of the authority of the keys is ordained to his special … …

3.10 Dismissal from ministry

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… … from his ministry, the Apostle pronounces the withdrawal of both the ministerial authority and the ministerial … can be taken if there are grounds for a lengthy leave of absence, or if other serious factors exist which would … and detrimental impact on the trustworthiness required of the minister. Even retired ministers can be dismissed … …

3.12 Appointment of ministers

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… 3.12 Appointment of ministers …

3.12.1 Appointment of ministers: Procedure

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… 3.12.1 Appointment of ministers: Procedure …

3.12.2 Appointment of ministers: Sequence and recommended wording

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… 3.12.2 Appointment of ministers: Sequence and recommended wording …

3.13 Assignment

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… 3.13.1 Assignment of ministers An assignment is the allocation of a service in support of a leading minister. 3.13.1.1 … of raising their children in the New Apostolic faith. This support is provided by instructing the … …

3.14 Termination

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… 3.14.1 Termination of an appointment or assignment3.4.1.1 ProcedureThe minister can, at any time, ask to be relieved of his or her appointment or assignment. If the Apostle … selected for this purpose informs the minister in question of the reasons for this decision. The date of the … …

3.15 Documentation of ordination, appointment, assignment

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… 3.15 Documentation of ordination, appointment, assignment …

3.16 Prerequisites for a ministry

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… … the ministry is not a human work, nor is it ultimately that of the congregation. Rather it is God’s gift to His church. A person bears his or her ministry on the basis of divine will and not human decision. Although ministers … CNAC 2.4.5 The Fifth Article of Faith …

3.16.1 Self-conception of the minister

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… 3.16.1 Self-conception of the minister …

3.16.2 Prerequisites for a ministry: The Creed

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… … with the direction that it is to be exercised on the basis of the New Apostolic Creed. This presupposes that the ministers are familiar with the contents of the Creed and that they identify with it. The believer is … the doctrine in binding fashion through the activity of the ministers. If a minister advocates beliefs that … …

3.16.3 Prerequisites for a ministry: Age

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… … a rule, members to be ordained should have reached the age of majority. …

3.16.4 Prerequisites for a ministry: Competency profiles

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… 3.16.4 Prerequisites for a ministry: Competency profiles …

3.16.5 Prerequisites for a ministry: Lifestyle

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… … It is based on a free and voluntary public expression of fidelity by both partners. Mutual love and fidelity are indispensable factors in the success of a marriage. God’s blessing is an important and valuable … The fact that God has explicitly anchored the protection of marriage within the Ten Commandments underscores the … …

3.18 Training

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… The District Apostles will arrange for the training of the ministers in their Regional Churches. The ministers … …

3.19 Rights

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… The following outlines the rights of the ministers in association with their Church activity. …

3.19.1 Rights: Consent to ordination, appointment, and assignment

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… The agreement of the individual in question is to be secured before the … …

3.19.2 Rights: Information rights

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… … with leadership functions guarantee the necessary flow of information. …

3.19.4 Rights: Care and recuperation

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… In the exercise of their ministry, ministers are covered by the care and protection of the Church. Within the scope of its abilities, the Church endeavours to provide them with … …

3.19.5 Rights: Pastoral care

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… Like all members of the congregation, the ministers and their families also … …

3.19.6 Rights: Right to a hearing

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… … before any decisions are made with regard to the exercise of their ministry. Beyond that, they have the right to … …

3.2 Ministerial authority

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… … constitutes the right to act and speak in the name of the triune God, which is founded upon Jesus Christ and issued through the apostolate by way of ordination in the power of the Holy Spirit.Ministerial authority is issued through … …

3.20.1 Obligations: Connection to the apostolate

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… Ministers cannot perform their duties on the basis of their own abilities, but rather only in oneness with the apostolate and in the power of the Holy Spirit. The Apostle ministry is authoritative for doctrine and serves as a model for the proclamation of God’s word by the other ministries. For this reason, … …

3.20.10 Obligations: Conflicts with professional interests

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… 3.20.10 Obligations: Conflicts with professional interests …

3.20.11 Obligations: Restraint in political activity

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… … exert any influence on the political views and activities of the members of the congregation through their conduct. …

3.20.12 Obligations: Protection from sexual violence

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… The New Apostolic Church strongly disapproves of any actions that infringe upon a person’s sexual … committed to this duty. This applies in particular to cases of sexual violence against children and the vulnerable … sexual assault by ministers or members in the exercise of their church duties. Well-founded cases of suspicion are … …

3.20.2 Obligations: Advocating the doctrine

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… … the duty to proclaim and advocate the unadulterated gospel of Christ. They are obligated to the doctrine as it is described in the Catechism of the New Apostolic Church. The preaching of the ministers … environment and in the private sphere. Any questions of faith that arise in ministers’ meetings or in discussions … …

3.20.3 Obligations: Compliance with Church regulations

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… The regulations and instructions of the Regional Church apply to the exercise of the ministerial mandate in both a spiritual and … that these regulations are fulfilled. In the interest of unity, the individual does not arbitrarily interpret … …

3.20.4 Obligations: Impartiality

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… … stand in service to God. They provide care to the members of the congregation entrusted to them, and promote their faith and knowledge. In caring for their souls, they … concerns, pray with them, and help them carry the burdens of daily life. Such pastoral care requires personal … …

3.20.5 Obligations: Duty to refuse benefits

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… With few exceptions, the ministers of the New Apostolic Church exercise their ministerial … would be receptive to personal benefits within the scope of their ministerial exercise. They are not permitted to … acts. In exceptional cases, they will seek the approval of the District Apostle or the Apostle. …

3.20.6 Obligations: Confidentiality

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… All ministers of the New Apostolic Church are subject to the duty of confidentiality. This includes all facts, information, … well as any matters pertaining to lifestyle, condition of faith, or problems in faith. As a general rule, ministers … …

3.20.7 Obligations: Ministers working together

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… … serve to promote knowledge and oneness, to strengthen faith, to discuss guidelines and instructions from the Church’s leaders, to coordinate matters of pastoral care, organisation, and administration, as well … support one another in the fulfilment of their Church duties. They actively support the … …

3.20.8 Obligations: Duty of disclosure

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… 3.20.8 Obligations: Duty of disclosure …

3.20.9 Obligations: Loyalty and good conduct

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… In order to preserve the authority of the ministry and trust in the proper exercise of their ministry, ministers endeavour to maintain an unblemished reputation within and outside of the congregation. From this arises an obligation to … …

3.21 Consequences of breaching ministerial obligations

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… 3.21 Consequences of breaching ministerial obligations …

3.3 Ordination of ministers

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… 3.3 Ordination of ministers …

3.3.1 Ordination: Procedure

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… … upon human will but upon the divine will. It is the task of the Apostles to recognise God’s will and act in … the candidate’s ability to regularly preach the word of God in a divine service.Once a decision has been made about the ordination, the leading ministers of the congregation or the district arrange a meeting to … …

3.3.2 Ordination: Sequence and recommended wording

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… … serviceThe ordination takes place following the celebration of Holy Communion. If several acts are planned, they are performed in the following sequence:retirement, termination of an appointment or assignment bound to a … of love and with their gifts, and to publicly profess their faith.They are to exemplify a lifestyle oriented to the … …

3.4 Ministerial mandate

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… … have received, within a framework that is limited in terms of both duration and location. The ministerial mandate … …

3.4.2 Ministerial mandate: Exercising a ministry outside of the working area

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… 3.4.2 Ministerial mandate: Exercising a ministry outside of the working area …

3.4.3 Ministerial mandate: Exercising a ministry in retirement

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… The ministerial mandate ends with the retirement of the minister. The District Apostle or Apostle can issue a … …

3.5 Exercise of a previously held ministry

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… 3.5 Exercise of a previously held ministry …

3.6 Leave of absence

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… 3.6 Leave of absence …

3.6.1 Leave of absence: Possible reasons

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… 3.6.1 Leave of absence: Possible reasons …

3.6.2 Leave of absence: Procedure

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… 3.6.2 Leave of absence: Procedure …

3.6.3 Repealing a leave of absence

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… 3.6.3 Repealing a leave of absence …

3.7 Reinstatement of ministers

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… 3.7 Reinstatement of ministers …

3.7.1 Reinstatement of ministers: Procedure

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… 3.7.1 Reinstatement of ministers: Procedure …

3.7.2 Reinstatement of ministers: Liturgical position in the divine service

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… 3.7.2 Reinstatement of ministers: Liturgical position in the divine service …

3.7.3 Reinstatement of ministers: Procedure

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… 3.7.3 Reinstatement of ministers: Procedure …

3.8 Retirement of ministers

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… 3.8 Retirement of ministers …

3.8.1 Retirement of ministers: Sequence and recommended wording

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… 3.8.1 Retirement of ministers: Sequence and recommended wording …

3.9 Resignation from ministry

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… … is an ordained minister’s personal declaration of intent to resign from ministry. It takes effect when the Apostle accepts this declaration of intent. His or her ministerial authority thus expires and … …

4.1 General notes concerning the divine service

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… … (“public service”), denotes the prescribed sequence of the divine service, as well as the words, actions, and … in the sermon inspired by the Holy Spirit, the celebration of the sacraments, and the benediction. On the other hand, … service has its origin in the historical self-revelation of the triune God. Its purpose is to remind believers of … …

4.2 General regulations

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… … congregation. It is here that God’s word and forgiveness of sins are proclaimed, sacraments are dispensed, and divine blessing is imparted. It is the duty of all ministers to ensure that God can be experienced in … holiness in every divine service. It is the particular task of the Deacon ministry to attend to the external order … …

4.2.1 General regulations: Preparing the divine service space

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… … filling the communion chalices, and setting out the locked offering boxes. …

4.2.2 General regulations : Scheduling for divine services

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… … priestly ministers conduct divine services by commission of the Apostle and are scheduled for this purpose in … …

4.2.3 General regulations: Greeting and farewell

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… … all come to the divine service from different situations of life. Ministers should have an idea of the particular concerns and cares of those who attend the divine service, empathise with them, … …

4.2.4 General regulations: Transmission of divine services

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… 4.2.4 General regulations: Transmission of divine services …

4.3 Spiritual preparation

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… … prepare themselves in a spiritual respect. The aim of this preparation is that God may reveal Himself to the … may make an experience with God. A significant part of the divine service is an unscripted sermon, through which the timely will of God is proclaimed. This serves to prepare the bride of … …

4.4 Length of divine services

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… 4.4 Length of divine services …

4.5 Liturgy

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… … dignified manner. The repeated components in the sequence of a divine service are intended, among other things, to … attend the divine service can feel secure in the unchanging faithfulness of God. In addition, the liturgy provides the officiating … …

4.5.1 The liturgy of the divine service (short version)

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… 4.5.1 The liturgy of the divine service (short version) …

4.5.2 Explanations on the liturgy

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… … and serve for the personal sanctification.Greetingf of membersTime for a personal prayerMusical … on special occasion (for example, greeting of bridal couple in sacristy)Silence in the congregation … and with one anotherthe plea for God’s word to strengthen faith, bring comfort, and provide orientation for all those … …

4.5.3 Additional liturgical regulations

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… … can read out an excerpt from the Bible or the Catechism of the New Apostolic Church, which are specified in the … or relate an experience. This must be co-ordinated ahead of time with all those involved. 4.5.3.2 Divine services … in children’s services, for example, the inclusion of visual elements or scenic representations. …

4.5.4 Requirements of the sermon

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… 4.5.4 Requirements of the sermon …

4.6 Special types of divine services

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… 4.6 Special types of divine services …

4.6.1 Word service

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… The word service focuses on the preaching of the word. No sacraments are dispensed in a word … Deacons can conduct word services within the scope of their authority to conduct word services (including the dispensation of the Trinitarian benediction). Prior consultation with the … …

4.6.2 Word service in which Holy Communion can be taken

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… … it can be expected that divine services with dispensation of sacraments will not take place over a longer period, and … is not present, members can only receive and partake of previously consecrated communion wafers. Further … …

4.6.3 Divine service for the departed

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… 4.6.3.1 Divine service for the departed with prayer of intercession The sequence of a divine service for the departed corresponds to that of a divine service with dispensation of the sacraments … …

4.6.4 Dedication service

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… 4.6.4.1 Divine service with dedication of a church building or divine service premisesPremises and … are dedicated. The dedication can also take place outside of the regularly scheduled divine service times. It is an act of blessing and is usually conducted by the responsible … …

4.6.5 Decommissioning service

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… Dedicated churches and places of worship which are no longer in use are decommissioned. … service to decommission a church or a place of worship Decommissioning takes place during a divine … here in word, sacrament, and blessing the plea that the faith of the congregation’s members may be strengthened … …

4.6.6 Wedding service

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… … are separately scheduled word services incorporating an act of blessing, namely the dispensation of a wedding blessing. They are conducted by the Apostle or … of God, stand together in all circumstances and remain faithful to each other as long as they live, treat each … …

4.6.7 Funeral service

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… … with death and despair, we can recall the promise of the gospel that Jesus Christ is the life[41].Above all, our comfort lies in the hope of Christ’s return and the associated resurrection of the dead in Christ.[42]The congregation assembled for the … …

4.7 Dispensation of sacraments and acts of blessing outside of the divine service

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… 4.7 Dispensation of sacraments and acts of blessing outside of the divine service …

4.7 Dispensation of sacraments and acts of blessing outside of the divine service

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… 4.7 Dispensation of sacraments and acts of blessing outside of the divine service …

4.7 Dispensation of sacraments and acts of blessing outside of the divine service

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… 4.7 Dispensation of sacraments and acts of blessing outside of the divine service …

4.7.1 Dispensation of sacraments

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… 4.7.1 Dispensation of sacraments …

4.7.2 Acts of blessing

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… 4.7.2 Acts of blessing …

5.1 Prayer service with liturgical form

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… … only take place sporadically or when, for a longer period of time, no priestly minister is available to conduct divine … These prayer services are intended to ensure that members of a congregation do not suffer through the absence of spiritual care and fellowship. For this reason, prayer … …

5.2 Prayer service in which Holy Communion can be taken

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… … if there are no other possibilities for the celebration of New Apostolic Holy Communion. Such prayer services in … Communion can be taken are conducted based on the practice of pastoral care letters containing consecrated wafers, … letter for taking the wafers: “The body and the blood of Jesus given for you.” Following this, each of the … …

5.3 Devotional (without liturgical form)

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… … can be held on Christmas Eve, Good Friday (the hour of Jesus’ death), Maundy Thursday (institution of Holy Communion), Good Friday (the hour of Jesus’ … always has some kind of reference to the Christian faith.Sequence of a devotionalA devotional has no liturgical … …

6.1 Holy Baptism with water

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… … with water is the first and fundamental sacramental act of grace of the triune God bestowed on a human being who believes in … it original sin is washed away and the believer is led out of his position of remoteness from God. Nevertheless, his … …

6.1.1 Holy Baptism with water: Prerequisites

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… … triune God the death, resurrection, and return of Jesus Christ the effectiveness of the Apostle ministry in administering the sacraments, proclaiming the word, and preparing for the return of Jesus Christ to take home His bride. Before children … …

6.1.3 Holy Baptism with water: Sequence and wording

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… 6.1.3.1 Liturgical positionThe dispensation of the sacraments is the central event in the (regular) … the Eucharistic prayer, and can be introduced with a piece of music. If other sacraments or acts of blessing are … for the child’s upbringing in the Christian faith, as it is proclaimed in the New Apostolic Church.the … …

6.1.4 Conditional baptism

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… … There may be individual cases when believers are unsure of whether they were indeed baptised with water as a child. If it is furthermore impossible to obtain any documentation of such a baptism, a conditional baptism can be performed. … received Holy Baptism with water, I baptise you in the name of…”It is preferred that the conditional baptism take … …

6.1.5 Baptisms in emergency situations

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… … that is, if it is performed with water in the name of God, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. It does … need to be confirmed by a priestly minister. In the case of children, the consent of the legal guardian should be obtained. Adults must … …

6.2 Adoption into the congregation

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… When guests are adopted into the congregation, they profess the New Apostolic faith and are granted admittance to regular participation in … …

6.2.1 Adoption: Prerequisites

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… Christians of the age of religious majority can be adopted if they have been … church. The prerequisite for adoption is regular attendance of the divine services, as well as the belief and profession … …

6.2.3 Adoption: Sequence and wording

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… 6.2.3.1 Liturgical position The adoption of guests into the congregation is an act of blessing in which the person to be adopted professes the New Apostolic faith and is granted enduring access to Holy Communion. It … …

6.3 Holy Sealing

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… … sacrament through which the believer, through the laying on of hands and the prayer of an Apostle, receives the gift of the Holy Spirit and becomes a child of God with the … …

6.3.1 Holy Sealing: Prerequisites

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… … with water in the proper manner. They must profess their faith and vow to follow Christ. In the Lord’s work of redemption, they will then be prepared for the imminent return of Christ. Holy Sealing is dispensed to both adults and … …

6.3.2 Holy Sealing: Preparation

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… In the event this has not yet happened on the occasion of their adoption or baptism, the believers are to be given … should be explained in pastoral meetings before the date of Holy Sealing is arranged, if possible. Parents should be made aware of the responsibility they assume before God when their … …

6.3.3 Holy Sealing: Sequence and wording

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… … and the Eucharistic prayer, and can be introduced by way of a musical contribution. If several acts are planned before the celebration of Holy Communion, they are to be performed in the following … for raising their children in the New Apostolic faith.[59]Address at the sealing of adultsThe following … …

6.4 Holy Communion

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… … occupies a significant place in the consciousness and lives of the believers. In Holy Communion, the reality of God and His devotion to mankind can be directly … who have been baptised in the proper manner can partake of Holy Communion as guests. In pastoral discussions it … …

6.5 Confirmation

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… … From then on, as Christians who have reached the age of spiritual majority, they bear full responsibility before … faithfulness to God and publicly profess the New Apostolic faith.[69] [69] CNAC 12.2.2 …

6.5.1 Confirmation: Prerequisites

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… The age of confirmation varies. It depends on the religious maturity … adolescents are generally able to assess the consequences of their actions on their own and assume responsibility for their life of faith. Attending the divine services and Confirmation … …

6.5.3 Confirmation: Sequence and wording

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… 6.5.3.1 Liturgical positionThe act of confirmation exists in direct association with the sacraments of Holy Baptism and Holy Sealing and therefore takes place … confirmandsassume responsibility for their life of faith.publicly profess the New Apostolic faith as it comes … …

6.6 Engagement

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… Engagement represents a serious promise of marriage. If desired, the engagement blessing can be … manner pleasing to God. Upon this they receive the blessing of God.[71] 6.6.1 Prerequisites An engagement blessing … concerning the preparation, sequence, and wording of this act of blessing. [71] CNAC 12.2.3.3 …

6.7.1 Wedding anniversaries: Sequence and wording

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… 6.7.1.1 Liturgical positionThe dispensation of a wedding anniversary blessing takes place after the celebration of Holy Communion. If several acts are planned after Holy … performed in the following sequence:retirement, termination of an appointment or assignment bound to a … …

6.8 Acts of blessing performed outside of the divine service

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… 6.8 Acts of blessing performed outside of the divine service …

7.1 Objectives and guiding principles

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… The objective of pastoral care in the New Apostolic Church is to support … leads to redemption from sin and death and into the image of Christ. The foundation for this, and the ability to do this, can only be found in the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. The earnest endeavour of the believers to … …

7.10 Pastoral care for special groups

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… … care offers for members in special phases or circumstances of life. …

7.11 Care of members who live far away

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… 7.11 Care of members who live far away …

7.2 Limits of pastoral care

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… 7.2 Limits of pastoral care …

7.3 Pastoral care bound to a ministry

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… … are responsible for pastoral care. They have the task of building up a relationship of trust with the believers and of providing support to them in all situations of life. … …

7.4 Pastoral care without a ministry

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… Beyond that, pastoral care is also the task of the entire congregation.[77] The instruction of children in various classes, as well as the care of young people and other groups within the congregation are … …

7.5 The pastoral care discussion

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… … address believers on a personal level. The content of the conversation is strictly confidential. In the … ministers are to attune themselves to respond to the needs of their conversation partners. They are called upon to … and patiently. They will make the endeavour to strengthen faith in God, and in His support and help. Faith is a … …

7.6 Confession

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… … language, confession refers to the acknowledgement of sins or the admission of one’s guilt in the presence of a minister. No confession is needed for the forgiveness … …

7.7 Pastoral care for ministers

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… … Bishops, and Apostles are responsible for the pastoral care of those ministers assigned directly to them, including … for ministers and ministers’ meetings serve to strengthen faith and promote uniform direction for the exercise of their ministry. …

7.8 Instruction for children

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… It is an important task of the ministers and teachers to support parents in their … by the Church are to be used in the various levels of instruction. The competency profiles included in the … …

7.9 Youth care

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… … young brothers and sisters is a special focus in the work of our Church. Our youth receive age-appropriate care and … and to practise, profess, and stand up for their faith in their surroundings. Youth leaders, who are trained … …

9.1 Devotionals

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… … devotionals can be held on Christmas Eve, Good Friday (hour of Christ’s death), Maundy Thursday (the institution of Holy Communion), or Ascension Day. Devotionals can also … has no liturgical form. It is therefore not a special type of divine service. The presence of ministers is not … …

9.2 Congregational meetings

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… … meeting creates the opportunity to discuss various topics of congregational life with interested members. The … identification with the congregation, profit from the ideas of those in attendance, listen to proposals, and explain decisions. In an atmosphere of mutual esteem, it is also possible to address problems … …

9.3 Discussions

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… … be arranged in consultation with the rector for specific faith-related topics or for specific groups (for example, … …

9.4 Events that promote fellowship

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… … various events promoting fellowship be offered in the scope of the congregation’s abilities and financial resources. … …

Competency profile for congregational rectors

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… Competency profile for congregational rectors …

Competency profile for district rectors

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… Competency profile for district rectors …

Competency profile for teachers

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… Competency profile for teachers …

Competency profile for the Deacon ministry

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… Competency profile for the Deacon ministry …

Competency profile for the Priest ministry

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… Competency profile for the Priest ministry …

Competency profile for youth leaders

Richtlinien für Geistliche

… Competency profile for youth leaders …

1.1 The liturgy of the divine service (short version)

Liturgie

… 1.1 The liturgy of the divine service (short version) …

1.1.1 Beginning of the divine service

Liturgie

… 1.1.1 Beginning of the divine service …

1.2.1 Beginning of the divine service

Liturgie

… 1.2.1 Beginning of the divine service …

2.1.1 Liturgy of the word service

Liturgie

… 2.1.1 Liturgy of the word service …

2.2.1 Divine service for the departed with prayer of intercession

Liturgie

… 2.2.1 Divine service for the departed with prayer of intercession …

2.3.1 Divine service with dedication of a church building or divine service premises

Liturgie

… 2.3.1 Divine service with dedication of a church building or divine service premises …

3.1 Prayer service (with liturgical form)

Liturgie

… … only take place sporadically or when, for a longer period of time, no priestly minister is available to conduct divine … These prayer services are intended to ensure that members of a congregation do not suffer through the absence of spiritual care and fellowship. For this reason, prayer … …

4.1 Holy Baptism with water

Liturgie

… Liturgical positionThe dispensation of the sacraments is the central event in the (regular) … the Eucharistic prayer, and can be introduced with a piece of music. If other sacraments or acts of blessing are … for the child’s upbringing in the Christian faith, as it is proclaimed in the New Apostolic Church.The … …

5.1 Ordination of ministers

Liturgie

… 5.1 Ordination of ministers …

5.6.1 Termination of an appointment or assignment of a minister

Liturgie

… 5.6.1 Termination of an appointment or assignment of a minister …

Introduction: general notes concerning the divine service

Liturgie

… … (“public service”), denotes the prescribed sequence of the divine service, as well as the words, actions, and … in the sermon inspired by the Holy Spirit, the celebration of the sacraments, and the benediction. On the other hand, … attend the divine service can feel secure in the unchanging faithfulness of God. In addition, the liturgy provides the … …

1.2 The liturgy of the divine service (long version)

Liturgie

… 1.2 The liturgy of the divine service (long version) …

1.2.2 Sermon part

Liturgie

… … to the congregation in the divine service.The word of God is, first and foremost, the content recorded in Holy … The sermon must be oriented to this. The foundation of the sermon is thus a previously selected Bible text. The … provides the ministers with notes for interpretation of this passage (Divine Service Guide) so that they can … …

2.1.2 Word service in which Holy Communion can be taken

Liturgie

… … it can be expected that divine services with dispensation of sacraments will not take place over a longer period, and … is not present, members can only receive and partake of previously consecrated communion wafers. Please follow … …

2.2.2 Divine service for the departed with dispensation of the sacraments

Liturgie

… 2.2.2 Divine service for the departed with dispensation of the sacraments …

2.3.2 Ceremonial act supplementary to the dedication

Liturgie

… … or local officials. All official speeches are made in front of the altar or beside it from a lectern. As a rule, the … …

3.2 Devotional (without liturgical form)

Liturgie

… … can be held on Christmas Eve, Good Friday (the hour of Jesus’ death), Maundy Thursday (institution of Holy Communion), or Ascension Day. Likewise, a devotional … departed. Devotionals might also be held on the occasion of congregational anniversaries or in connection with … …

4.2 Holy Sealing

Liturgie

… … and the Eucharistic prayer, and can be introduced by way of a musical contribution. If several acts are planned before the celebration of Holy Communion, they are to be performed in the following … for raising their children in the New Apostolic faith.Address at the sealing of adultsThe following content … …

5.2 Appointment of ministers

Liturgie

… 5.2 Appointment of ministers …

5.6.2 Termination of an assignment to services that are not bound to a ministry (teachers and youth leaders)

Liturgie

… 5.6.2 Termination of an assignment to services that are not bound to a … …

1.1.3 Sacramental part

Liturgie

… Preparation of congregation for forgiveness of sins and celebration of Holy Communion.Should there be further sacraments to be … …

1.2.3 Sacramental part

Liturgie

… Preparation of congregation for forgiveness of sins and Holy CommunionFollowing the sermon, the congregation is prepared for the forgiveness of sins (absolution) and the celebration of Holy … …

4.3 Holy Communion

Liturgie

… The preparation and execution of the sacrament of Holy Communion is exhaustively described in … …

5.3 Assignment of ministers

Liturgie

… 5.3 Assignment of ministers …

1.1.4 Further acts

Liturgie

… retirement, termination of an appointment or assignment bound to a … appointment, assignment, reinstatementtermination of, or assignment to, a service that is not bound to a … …

2.4 Decommissioning service

Liturgie

… Divine service to decommission a church or a place of worshipDedicated churches and places of worship which are no longer in use are de commissioned. … felt here in word, sacrament, and blessingthe plea that the faith of the congregation’s members may be strengthened … …

4.4 Adoption into the congregation

Liturgie

… Liturgical positionThe adoption of guests into the congregation is an act of blessing in which the person to be adopted professes the New Apostolic faith and is granted enduring access to Holy Communion.[21] … …

5.4 Reinstatement of ministers

Liturgie

… 5.4 Reinstatement of ministers …

1.1.5 End of divine service

Liturgie

… 1.1.5 End of divine service …

2.5 Wedding service

Liturgie

… … are separately scheduled word services incorporating an act of blessing, namely the dispensation of a wedding blessing. They are conducted by the Apostle or … a gift of Godstand together in all circumstances and remain faithful to each other as long as they livetreat each other … …

4.5 Confirmation

Liturgie

… Liturgical positionThe act of confirmation exists in direct association with the sacraments of Holy Baptism and Holy Sealing and therefore takes place … for their life of faithpublicly profess the New Apostolic faith as it comes to expression in the Creedpromise to … …

5.5 Assignment to services that are not bound to a spiritual ministry (teachers and youth leaders)

Liturgie

… … to these services.Liturgical positionThe assignment of members or ministers to a duty that is not bound to a … during or following the divine service, in the presence of the congregation, or in the circle of those whom the … of raising their children in the New Apostolic faith.This support is provided by instructing the children … …

2.6 Funeral service

Liturgie

… Word service on the occasion of a funeralA funeral service is first and foremost a … with death and despair, we can recall the promise of the gospel that Jesus Christ is the life (Joh 14,19).Above all, our comfort lies in the hope of Christ’s return and the associated resurrection of the … …

4.6 Blessings on wedding anniversaries

Liturgie

… Liturgical positionThe dispensation of a wedding anniversary blessing [22] takes place after the celebration of Holy Communion. If several acts are planned after Holy … performed in the following sequence:retirement, termination of an appointment or assignment bound to a … …

2.7 Dispensation of sacraments and acts of blessing outside of the divine service

Liturgie

… 2.7 Dispensation of sacraments and acts of blessing outside of the divine service …

4.7 Prenatal blessing

Liturgie

… … prenatal blessing is dispensed as the first visible act of God upon a human being. The act of blessing is performed upon the mother at her request. As … and by consciously involving the child in her life of faith.PrayerThe minister asks those present to rise, if … …

5.7 Retirement of ministers

Liturgie

… 5.7 Retirement of ministers …

2 Special types of Divine Services

Liturgie

… 2 Special types of Divine Services …

4 Dispensation of sacraments and acts of blessing

Liturgie

… 4 Dispensation of sacraments and acts of blessing …

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The Creed in ten articles

In detail: the publications

2.4 The New Apostolic Creed

2.4.9 The Ninth Article of Faith

6.4 Belief in the one, holy, universal, and apostolic church

12.2.2.1 Age of confirmation and prerequisites

Index

1.1 The self-revelation of God in creation and history

1.1.1 God reveals Himself as the Creator

1.2.1 Content and structure of Holy Scripture

1.2.2.1 The origin of the Old Testament canon

1.2.4.1 The origin of the New Testament canon

1.2.5.1 Interpretation of Holy Scripture through the Holy Spirit

1.4.1 Belief in God, the Father

2.1 Biblical creeds

2.2.1 The Apostles' Creed

2.4.1 The First Article of Faith

3.1 The nature of God

3.1.1 One God in three persons

3.2.1 References to the triune God in the Old Testament

3.3.1 God, the Creator

3.3.1.1 The invisible creation

3.3.1.1.1 The angels

3.4.1 The only begotten Son of God

3.4.11.1 The significance of Jesus Christ's resurrection for salvation

3.4.6.1 Messiah–Christ–Anointed One

3.4.7.1 Jesus Christ–the King

3.4.8.1 The conception and birth of Jesus

3.4.9.1 Jesus institutes Holy Communion

3.5.1 The Holy Spirit as a divine person

3.5.1.1 The Holy Spirit in unity with the Father and the Son

3.5.3.1 The Spirit of God

3.5.4.1 The Helper and Comforter

3.5.5.1 The outpouring of the Holy Spirit on Pentecost

Professions of the New Testament

1.1.2 God reveals Himself in the history of Israel

1.2 Holy Scripture

1.2.2 The Old Testament

1.2.2.2 The books of the Old Testament