Dear Cornerstone Family,
Your leaders regularly evaluate the ministry of Cornerstone to make sure we’re staying on track as a church. In addition to reviewing our founding documents and performing reviews of staff, etc., we ask assessment questions like, “Are ministry initiatives effectively serving our vision? Is a balanced diet of biblical, theological, and practical content being offered? Are new people coming to know the Lord? Is spiritual growth happening in the body?” These questions and others like them help ensure that we’re continually renewing our commitment to the mission-critical work of being and making disciples.
After asking these questions a few years ago, the session decided to establish The Cornerstone School of Discipleship. Recognizing that we’re limited in opportunities to address the congregation corporately, but there is a great need for training in biblical, theological, cultural, and practical areas, the decision was made to offer to offer two six to eight- week education courses every term during the Sunday School hour. One course is a core class, and the other course is an elective class. The core class addresses enduring biblical-theological subjects we believe every Cornerstone member should engage. The elective course centers on a wide variety of practical/cultural subjects that have particular application to the time in which we live. Our earnest desire is for this one-two punch to go a long way in meeting the growing need for discipleship in our time.
Beginning on Sunday, August 21 two more School of Discipleship classes will be offered. Please take time to read the descriptions of the two classes below and make plans now to join us as we commit to growing in grace together.
The Cornerstone School of Discipleship
Core Class - The Christian Hope in a Secular Age: Engaging Unbelief with the Hope of the Gospel led by Ben Griffith (Upstairs, Room 302) In this six-week course, Pastor Ben and other teachers will explore the topic of "apologetics," the defense of the Christian faith. What does it look like to be "ready to give a defense for the hope that is within us" (2 Peter 3:15) in today's context? How do we winsomely respond to the common objections to Christianity that are so prevalent in our day and age? Come and join us as we learn together how to thoughtfully and charitably engage some of the big questions of our day with the hope of the gospel.
Elective Class - A Match Made in Heaven: Pursuing a Lifetime of Love led by Nate Shurden (The Chapel) In this six-week course, Pastor Nate will present the Bible’s vision for marital oneness while addressing key reasons couples fail to experience the oneness God intends. With a mix of lecture, panel discussion, and Q&A, Pastor Nate will be flanked by the stories and testimonies of seasoned Cornerstone couples who will help troubleshoot a variety of spiritual, relational, and practical challenges to marital oneness. Only imperfect couples allowed! Come and join us.
Your Servant,
