THE
UNITED REFORMED CHURCHES IN NORTH AMERICA (URCNA)
is a young federation of churches formed on October 1, 1996, at a
synod meeting held in Lynwood, Illinois. The basis of these churches
is God’s Holy Word as confessed in the Three Forms of Unity (Heidelberg
Catechism, Belgic Confession, and the Canons of Dordt). This was adopted by an organization known as the Fellowship of Uniting Reformed
Churches on November 16,1995.
Additional information about the URCNA
is available at the web site of Bethany
United Reformed Church (Wyoming, MI).
* * *
We are following the order of the Heidelberg Catechism as it explains the universal human dilemma. Because of the fall at the beginning of human history we are born in sin, and unable to do anything whatsoever to make ourselves righteous. Yet that, and nothing less, is what God requires! Well, to put it bluntly, we need someone who can save us. In Lord's Day 7 we saw a summary of the essential doctrines of the Christian Faith showing us how God has provided salvation for us through the gift of his only begotten son, Jesus. Each "Lord's Day" continues to ask and answer questions that further expound the meaning of this ancient Confession.
LORD'S DAY 41
Q. 108 - What is God's will for us in the seventh commandment?
A. God condemns all unchastity.^1 We should therefore thoroughly detest it^2 and, married or single, live decent and chaste lives.^3
^1 Lev. 18:30; Eph. 5:3-5 — ^2 Jude 22-23 — ^3 1 Cor. 7:1-9; 1 Thess. 4:3-8; Heb. 13:4
Q. 109 - Does God, in this commandment, forbid only such scandalous sins as adultery?
A. We are temples of the Holy Spirit, body and soul, and God wants both to be kept clean and holy.
That is why he forbids everything which incites unchastity,^1 whether it be actions, looks, talk, thoughts, or desires.^2
^1 1 Cor. 15:33; Eph. 5:18 — ^2 Matt. 5:27-29; 1 Cor. 6:18-20; Eph. 5:3-4