Glossary 1: Foundations of the Faith

The Gospel and the Work of Christ

▶ Term 1: Gospel

The gospel is the good news about Jesus of Nazareth—the message that God sent His Son into the world to rescue sinners and establish His kingdom (Mark 1:14–15; John 3:16–17). Jesus is the promised King who fulfilled everything God said about the one who would come to rule and redeem (Isaiah 9:6–7; Luke 24:25–27). He lived in full obedience to God’s law (Matthew 5:17; Hebrews 4:15), died as a substitute to take the judgment we deserved (Isaiah 53:5–6; 1 Peter 2:24), and was raised from the dead—vindicated by God as the true and faithful Savior (Romans 1:4; 1 Corinthians 15:3–4). His resurrection confirmed that His offering for sin was accepted (Acts 2:24; Romans 4:25), and through Him, we can be counted as righteous before God—not because of anything we’ve done, but because of everything Christ has done for us (2 Corinthians 5:21; Titus 3:5–7).

▶ Term 2: Atonement

Atonement is the payment made to satisfy a debt. In the case of humanity, the debt owed is the result of sin—breaking the law of God revealed through Moses (Romans 3:19–20; 1 John 3:4). Because God is holy and just, sin provokes His righteous wrath (Romans 1:18; Ephesians 5:6). Atonement involves something—or someone—being offered in exchange to cancel that debt and turn aside God’s judgment (Hebrews 9:22). In the gospel, Jesus of Nazareth bore the wrath of God in the place of sinners. His death fully satisfied divine justice and absorbed the punishment sin deserves, so that mercy and forgiveness could be freely given without compromising God’s righteousness (Isaiah 53:5; Romans 3:25–26; 1 Thessalonians 1:10; 1 Peter 3:18).

▶ Term 3: Imputed Righteousness

Imputed righteousness means being given something that wasn’t originally yours, but once it’s given, it fully belongs to you. In the gospel, this refers to how the perfect righteousness of Jesus of Nazareth is credited to those who trust in Him (2 Corinthians 5:21; Romans 4:5). This idea is not new—it began with Abraham. When Abraham believed God's promise, his faith was counted to him as righteousness (Genesis 15:6; Romans 4:3), setting the pattern for how all sinners would one day be made right with God. We don’t earn this righteousness—it is given freely, not through works but through faith (Romans 3:21–24; Philippians 3:9). Because of this gift, believers are treated as righteous in God’s sight—not because of what they’ve done, but because of what Christ has done on their behalf.

▶ Term 4: Justification

Justification is a legal declaration from God that a person is righteous in His sight. It means being publicly accepted and declared “in the right” before the Judge of all (Romans 5:1; Proverbs 17:15). This verdict is not based on anything we have done, but on the completed and perfect work of Jesus of Nazareth—His obedience, His sacrificial death, and His resurrection (Romans 3:24–26; Galatians 2:16). When someone trusts in Christ, everything required for righteousness is considered fulfilled on their behalf, and they are fully accepted by God—now and forever (Romans 4:5; Philippians 3:9). What God declares now will be confirmed publicly on the day of final judgment, when all people will stand before Him (Romans 2:6; 2 Corinthians 5:10).

▶ Term 5: Grace

Grace is unearned favor freely given to someone who does not deserve it. In Scripture, this kind of favor is never earned through good behavior—it is a gift from God, given to the undeserving (Romans 11:6; Ephesians 2:8–9). Sinners are given a righteous standing and the removal of the consequences of their sins through the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus of Nazareth. This undeserved kindness not only saves, but also strengthens, sustains, and empowers believers to live in obedience to God (Titus 2:11–12; 2 Corinthians 12:9). At every point, this unearned favor reminds us that salvation depends not on what we’ve done, but on who God is. Because of this grace, believers not only live with assurance now, but also wait with confidence for the return of Christ and the fullness of eternal life in His kingdom (Romans 5:2; Titus 2:13; 1 Peter 1:13).

▶ Term 6: Sacrifice

Sacrifice is the act of giving up something of value—often something costly—as an offering. In the Old Testament, sacrifices were central to worship. Animals, food, or other gifts were offered to God to express devotion, gratitude, or the need for forgiveness (Leviticus 1:3–4; Hebrews 9:22). These acts reminded God’s people that sin brings death and that approaching a holy God requires a substitute. But those sacrifices were never meant to be the final answer. They pointed forward to Jesus of Nazareth, who offered Himself as the once-for-all sacrifice to take away sin and restore people to God (John 1:29; Hebrews 10:10–14). Because of His offering, Christians no longer bring animals to God, but instead offer their whole lives in response—living as people set apart for His glory (Romans 12:1).

▶ Term 7: Mediator

A mediator is someone who deals between two parties as an arbiter—working to bring peace, resolve conflict, and secure agreement. In Scripture, Jesus of Nazareth is described as the one and only mediator between God and humanity. He doesn’t just speak on our behalf; He stands in the gap, having made peace through His own blood. No other person, priest, or system can bridge that divide. Through Him alone, sinners are brought into right relationship with God (1 Timothy 2:5; Hebrews 8:6; Hebrews 9:15; Colossians 1:19–20).

▶ Term 8: Incarnation

The incarnation is the act of God the Father physically manifesting Himself in human flesh through the Son. This took place by the miraculous work of the Holy Spirit, who formed a human life in Mary’s womb—beginning at conception, without sperm—using only her egg and His power to bring forth the Son (Luke 1:31–35; Matthew 1:20–23). In that moment, the eternal Son of God took on full humanity without ceasing to be divine (John 1:14; Philippians 2:6–7). Jesus of Nazareth is both fully God and fully man—born of a woman, yet without sin. The incarnation makes it possible for Him to live, suffer, and die as our substitute, and to reveal the invisible God to the world.

▶ Term 9: Resurrection

Resurrection is the intentional act of God stepping into time and space to overturn death and restore life in full, physical form. In Scripture, resurrection is never partial or symbolic—it is a complete, bodily return to life. Jesus of Nazareth was raised on the third day in a glorified body that would never die again (Luke 24:39–43; Romans 6:9). His resurrection is the confirmation that death has been defeated and the promise that all who trust in Him will one day be raised as well (1 Corinthians 15:20–22; Romans 8:11).

▶ Term 10: Cross

The cross was the most brutal execution method used by the Roman Empire during its expansion across the known world. It was designed to maximize pain, humiliation, and public exposure. The English word “excruciating” comes from this form of death. Victims were severely beaten, then nailed or tied to a wooden crossbeam and lifted onto an upright post. Often their legs were broken to prevent them from pushing up for air, and many died by slow asphyxiation. Roman citizens were legally barred from this form of execution because it was considered too shameful and degrading for anyone with protected status. Crucifixion was reserved for the worst criminals and enemies of the state. In the gospel, the cross becomes the place where Jesus of Nazareth, though innocent, was publicly shamed and executed in the place of sinners (Philippians 2:8; Galatians 3:13). What the world saw as defeat, God used as the means of salvation (1 Corinthians 1:18).

Salvation and the Christian Life

▶ Term 11: Repentance

Repentance is a turning of the whole person—mind, heart, and will—from idolatry toward Jesus Christ as He is revealed in the gospel. It is more than feeling bad about sin; it is a change in allegiance. Throughout Scripture, repentance involves forsaking false gods, empty hopes, and sinful desires, and turning to trust and follow the true and living God (Isaiah 55:7; 1 Thessalonians 1:9). In the Gospel of Mark, Jesus begins His public ministry by calling people to repent and believe the good news (Mark 1:15). True repentance is not a one-time event, but a lifelong posture of turning away from self-rule and submitting to Christ as Lord (Acts 26:20; 2 Corinthians 7:10). It is a necessary and ongoing response to the mercy of God, empowered by the Holy Spirit and grounded in faith.

▶ Term 12: Faith

Faith is an inward trust in something not yet seen that shapes a person’s actions, desires, and outlook. In Scripture, faith is not just agreeing with truth—it’s relying on it. It means believing the promises of God and acting in light of them, even when the outcome is not yet visible (Hebrews 11:1; 2 Corinthians 5:7). True faith transforms both the mind and the will—it leads a person to depend fully on Jesus of Nazareth, obey Him, and long for what He has promised (John 20:29; Galatians 2:20). In the Gospel of Mark, faith is the difference between merely being amazed by Jesus and truly trusting Him as Lord (Mark 2:5; Mark 5:34; Mark 10:52).

▶ Term 13: Grace

▶ Term 14: Justification

▶ Term 15: Sanctification

Sanctification is the process in which a believer goes through where they change, or mature, into a person that resembles Christ in act and deed. The effort includes work from both the person and God Himself (Philippians 2:12–13). It is a lifelong journey of being set apart, becoming more like Jesus in character and action. This transformation is fueled by the Holy Spirit and involves growing in obedience, love, humility, and righteousness (Romans 8:29; 1 Thessalonians 4:3). Sanctification is not about perfection, but about progress—becoming more aligned with God’s will and His character.

▶ Term 16: Redemption

Redemption is being restored back to a previous standing. In Scripture, it often refers to someone being set free from slavery, debt, or loss by the payment of a price (Leviticus 25:47–49; Ruth 4:4–6). Spiritually, it means that those who were separated from God because of sin are brought back into right relationship with Him through the work of Jesus of Nazareth. His life, death, and resurrection serve as the cost paid to reclaim what was lost (Ephesians 1:7; Galatians 3:13). The standing believers are restored to is not just a clean slate—it is communion with God, as Adam had in the garden before the fall (Genesis 3:8). Redemption is both a rescue and a reinstatement—it restores people to what they were created to be: near to God, free from condemnation, and part of His kingdom.

▶ Term 17: Deliverance

Deliverance is the act of being saved or relocated from a current or pending destructive event or circumstance. In Scripture, it refers to God rescuing His people from danger, bondage, or judgment—whether from physical enemies, personal suffering, or spiritual oppression. Deliverance reveals God’s power, mercy, and faithfulness to those who call on Him. The greatest act of deliverance is found in Jesus of Nazareth, who saves sinners from the penalty and power of sin and brings them into the safety of His kingdom (Exodus 14:13–14; Psalm 34:17–19; Colossians 1:13–14; 2 Timothy 4:18).

▶ Term 18: Prayer

Prayer is the act of offering up to God one’s emotions, thoughts, anxieties, or requests for help, strength, direction, or needs. It may be spoken aloud, written, or offered silently through focused thought or repeated petition. But more than asking, prayer is an act of worship—acknowledging who God is and giving thanks for what He has done, especially His gift of salvation and daily provision. Prayer is not about performance, but about dependence—bringing oneself honestly before God in response to who He is. Scripture presents prayer as both a personal discipline and a shared practice of the Church, always grounded in faith and trust (Philippians 4:6; Matthew 6:6–8; Romans 8:26–27; James 5:13–16; 1 Thessalonians 5:16–18).

▶ Term 19: Faith

▶ Term 20: Holiness

Holiness means being completely set apart from what is unclean and devoted to a special purpose. In Scripture, this refers to separation from sin and full dedication to God (Leviticus 20:26; 2 Timothy 2:21). God alone is pure, perfect, and entirely distinct from anything corrupt (Isaiah 6:3; Revelation 4:8). When something or someone is set apart in this way, it is marked for God’s use and meant to reflect His character. Those who belong to Jesus of Nazareth are made acceptable before God and are called to grow in this distinctiveness by turning from sin and following God’s commands (1 Peter 1:14–16; Hebrews 12:14). This way of life is not just about moral behavior—it is about being set apart for God and transformed by His presence.

The Nature of God and Christ

▶ Term 21: Son of God

The title “Son of God” refers to a promised, divine figure who would fulfill God’s covenant promises and rule His kingdom on earth. In the Old Testament, it was used to describe Israel (Exodus 4:22), Davidic kings (2 Samuel 7:14), and the coming Messiah (Psalm 2:7). In the Gospel of Mark, Jesus of Nazareth is revealed as the true Son of God—both fully divine and the chosen King who brings God’s rule to the world (Mark 1:1; Mark 15:39). The title also expresses His unique relationship to God the Father. Just as Adam’s son was said to be in his image (Genesis 5:3), Jesus is the exact image of God in human form, making the unseen God visible to the world (John 14:9; Hebrews 1:3).

▶ Term 22: The Cross

▶ Term 23: Resurrection

▶ Term 24: The Holy Spirit

The Holy Spirit is God. He was present at creation (Genesis 1:2), with the people of Israel in the wilderness (Nehemiah 9:20), and spoke through the prophets (2 Peter 1:21). He is the Spirit who filled and empowered Jesus of Nazareth during His earthly life and ministry (Mark 1:10; Luke 4:1). After Jesus’ resurrection, the Spirit was poured out into the hearts of all who believe, dwelling within them to transform, guide, and seal them for eternal life (John 14:16–17; Romans 5:5; Ephesians 1:13–14). The Spirit is not a force or an influence—He is the living presence of God with His people.

▶ Term 25: Incarnation

▶ Term 26: Son of Man

The title Son of Man holds two deeply connected meanings. First, it is a biblical way of identifying someone as a human being—a descendant of Adam, marked by weakness and mortality (Psalm 8:4; Ezekiel 2:1). Second, it is a prophetic title drawn from Daniel 7:13–14, where “one like a son of man” comes with the clouds of heaven, given authority, glory, and an everlasting kingdom by God Himself. When Jesus of Nazareth used this title for Himself, He was revealing both His true humanity and His divine authority as the promised King who would rule God's kingdom and come again in power (Mark 2:10; Mark 14:62; Matthew 25:31).

▶ Term 27: High Priest

The high priest was the singular and most prominent priest under the law of Moses. He was the only one allowed to enter the Most Holy Place—the inner sanctuary of the temple—once a year, to offer a sacrifice for the sins of the people (Leviticus 16:2–34; Hebrews 9:7). His role was to represent the people before God. In the New Testament, Jesus of Nazareth is revealed as the true and final High Priest who offers Himself as the perfect sacrifice and gives constant access to God for those who belong to Him (Hebrews 4:14–16; Hebrews 10:19–22).

▶ Term 28: Messiah

The Messiah is the promised person sent by God to save Israel and establish His kingdom on earth. The hope of the Messiah was first spoken by Moses and continued through the prophets, who described a future King who would deliver God’s people and reign with justice and peace (Deuteronomy 18:15; Isaiah 9:6–7; Jeremiah 23:5–6). The word “Messiah” means “Anointed One” in Hebrew, and is translated as “Christ” in Greek. In the Gospel of Mark, Jesus of Nazareth is revealed as the true Messiah—not only for Israel, but for all who believe in Him. He fulfilled the promises not through military conquest, but through suffering, death, and resurrection (Mark 8:29–31). His rule has begun, but it will be fully realized when He returns to restore all things and reign forever.

▶ Term 29: Glory

Glory is the awe-inducing presence of God made visible. In Scripture, it is often marked by blinding light and thick smoke—both of which overwhelm the senses and make it impossible to look directly (Exodus 19:18; 2 Chronicles 7:1–2; Isaiah 6:4). His glory reflects the weight of His holiness and majesty, and no one can stand before it unless He allows it. When people encounter God’s glory, they often fall in fear or reverence. In Jesus of Nazareth, the glory of God was revealed in a human life—veiled, yet real (John 1:14). One day, that glory will no longer be veiled but will fill all creation (Revelation 21:23).

▶ Term 30: Temple

The temple was the central place of Israel’s worship of the God of Israel. According to the law, worship first took place in a movable tent called the tabernacle, built under Moses’ leadership (Exodus 25:8–9). Later, King David desired to build a permanent house for God, and though he did not build it himself, his son Solomon constructed the temple using a design given by God (1 Kings 6:1; 1 Chronicles 28:11–12). The temple was the one authorized location where sacrifices, offerings, and ceremonial worship were to take place. It was the only place where God’s presence was said to dwell among His people (1 Kings 8:10–11). However, due to Israel’s repeated disobedience, God allowed the temple—His earthly meeting place with His people—to be destroyed three times in history. In the New Testament, Jesus of Nazareth identifies Himself as the true temple, the final meeting place between God and man (John 2:19–21).

Salvation, Faith, and Repentance

▶ Term 31: Gospel

▶ Term 32: Faith

▶ Term 33: Repentance

▶ Term 34: Grace

▶ Term 35: Mercy

Mercy is when someone in a position of power or authority chooses not to give another person the judgment they rightly deserve. It is a compassionate response to guilt, weakness, or need—especially when the one showing mercy has every right to punish or condemn (Exodus 34:6; Matthew 18:23–27). In the gospel, mercy is at the heart of how God treats sinners. Though humanity has rebelled against Him, God offers forgiveness and restoration through Jesus of Nazareth, not because we deserve it, but because He is merciful (Titus 3:5; Ephesians 2:4–5). In the Gospel of Mark, many approach Jesus crying out for mercy—and He responds not with coldness or condemnation, but with healing, compassion, and grace (Mark 5:19; Mark 10:47–48).

▶ Term 36: Justification

▶ Term 37: Confession

Confession is the act of revealing something that has been unknown or intentionally hidden. In Scripture, this includes two key expressions: confessing sin and confessing faith. To confess sin is to acknowledge guilt before God and others with honesty and humility, no longer covering it up. To confess faith is to openly declare belief in Jesus of Nazareth as Lord and Savior—agreeing with the truth of who He is and what He has done. Both forms of confession are vital to the Christian life and mark a turning toward God in trust and truth (Psalm 32:5; 1 John 1:9; Romans 10:9–10; Matthew 10:32).

▶ Term 38: Deliverance

▶ Term 39: Temptation

Temptation is a personal desire that draws someone toward an action that goes against God’s original design and will. The temptation itself begins in the heart—it is not caused by something outside of us, but by inward desires that are stirred when an object or opportunity appears. These external things give shape to our cravings, becoming opportunities for idolatry, selfishness, or rebellion. Temptation itself is not sin, but giving in to it is. Jesus of Nazareth was tempted in every way yet remained without sin, showing both the weight of temptation and the possibility of victory through dependence on God (James 1:14–15; Genesis 3:6; Matthew 4:1–11; Hebrews 4:15).

▶ Term 40: Mediator

God's Attributes, Jesus, and Salvation

▶ Term 41: Son of God

▶ Term 42: Kingdom of Heaven

The Kingdom of Heaven is another way of referring to the Kingdom of God, especially in the Gospel of Matthew. While the terms are often interchangeable, “heaven” highlights the place where God’s rule is already fully active and established. In the Lord’s Prayer, Jesus teaches His followers to ask that God’s kingdom would come to earth as it already exists in heaven (Matthew 6:10). The phrase reflects not just reverence for God’s name, but a vision of His present reign in heaven coming to transform the earth.

▶ Term 43: Election

Election is the decision of God to sovereignly choose what He wants to be His. In Scripture, this includes people, purposes, and outcomes that God has set apart according to His will (Deuteronomy 7:6; Ephesians 1:4–5). Election is not based on human effort, background, or merit—it flows from God’s wisdom and mercy. While often mysterious, it shows that salvation is ultimately a work of God, not man (Romans 9:15–16). This truth is meant to produce humility, worship, and assurance for those who belong to Him.

▶ Term 44: Redemption

▶ Term 45: Wrath of God

The wrath of God is the full weight of His power and anger poured out in judgment against rebellion. Unlike human anger, God’s wrath is not impulsive or out of control—it is His holy and just response to sin (Romans 1:18; Nahum 1:2–3). It is unfiltered and unrestricted, revealing His righteousness in dealing with evil. Scripture shows that this wrath is already being revealed in part, but will be fully unleashed in the final judgment (Romans 2:5; Revelation 6:16–17). For those who trust in Jesus of Nazareth, God’s wrath was satisfied at the cross; but for those who reject Him, it remains (Romans 5:9; John 3:36).

▶ Term 46: Incarnation

▶ Term 47: Baptism

Baptism is the public act of professing faith in response to hearing and believing the gospel. It is a visible sign that someone has identified with Jesus of Nazareth—dying to their old life and being raised to walk in newness of life (Romans 6:3–4). Though there is debate about the method of baptism, the Greek word baptizō means “to submerge,” which is why it was transliterated rather than translated. In the New Testament, baptism follows belief and serves as an outward expression of inward trust in Christ (Acts 2:41; Mark 1:4–11; Acts 8:36–38).

▶ Term 48: Prophet

A prophet is a person chosen by God to deliver a specific message or direct words from Him to the people. Prophets did not speak on their own authority, but communicated exactly what God gave them—whether words of warning, comfort, instruction, or future hope (Deuteronomy 18:18; Jeremiah 1:9). John the Baptist is called the last of the Old Testament-style prophets who prepared the way for Jesus of Nazareth (Mark 1:2–4). Jesus Himself is the ultimate Prophet—God’s final and clearest Word to the world (Hebrews 1:1–2).

▶ Term 49: High Priest

▶ Term 50: Glory

Search This Blog

FBCC - Second Serving