"The heresy of one age becomes the orthodoxy of the next." (Helen Keller, 1903)
As we continue our journey through the heretics of the early church, we make our way to the Ebionites this week. Much of what we can infer about them comes from the apocryphal Gospel of the Ebionites, with fragments bearing similarity to the Gospel of Matthew and a theology resonant with the Epistle of James. The Ebionites may be the same group Paul referred to in Galatians 2:14 as well.
We will learn more about this group and their understanding of the Christian faith this week, and, as Helen Keller's quote suggests, we may find some of yesterday's heresies have become today's orthodoxy, or perhaps that some of yesterday's heresies help us clarify our own beliefs, much as they did for the early Church. If you find this topic piquing your interest, the sermon series is based in part on a book by one of my seminary professors and her spouse (Catherine and Justo Gonzalez)--Heretics for Armchair Theologians A copy of the book is also available in the Fellowship Hall. Our scripture text this week will be James 1:22-25; 2:14-17.
Epic Bingo Night
Join us Wednesday evening at 6:30 for dinner and the and the third semi-occasional installment of epic Timber Ridge Bingo White Elephant Prize Extravaganza (TRBWEPE for short). Everyone is invited!
Calendar Updates
Dates for your Calendar: While a few weeks away, there are a few things coming up worth adding to your calendar...
- 22 May – Spring Picnic and Worship in the Pavilion
- 5-8 June – Vacation Bible School
Summer Mission Trip
We have the option of joining with First Presbyterian Church, Greeneville, on a mission trip to New Orleans this summer. The trip will leave on Saturday, 25 June, and return on Wednesday, 6 July. We will be staying at First Presbyterian Church, New Orleans, and the cost is anticipated to be around $150 inclusive of meals and travel. The trip is open to anyone who is a rising ninth greater or older this summer (which means we would welcome college students and adults as well!).
April Collection Items
Please remember the Greene County Food Bank and Samaritan's Purse collections for the month of March when you're doing your shopping. March collection items are:
- Food Bank: Peanut Butter
- Samaritan's Purse: T-shirts
