John Knox called Calvin’s Geneva “the most perfect school of Christ that ever was in the earth since the days of the Apostles.” Calvin’s ministry was marked by a commitment to wed deep theological study to an all-of-life experiential godliness. He longed to see sound doctrine established in the hearts of the people, seeking to faithfully carry out the Apostle Paul’s charge to Timothy: “Take heed to yourself and to your doctrine” (1 Tim. 4:16).
In keeping with this exhortation and example, Christward Collective (christwardcollective.com) will introduce the reader to theology, together with the experiential benefits that flows from it, being a place where “doctrine and life meet.” Whether systematic, biblical, exegetical, historical, or pastoral theology, this resource will equip believers for growth in their relationship with Christ and other believers. In short, it’s built to encourage all believers to care deeply about theology, to see the “cash value” of diligently pursuing such study.
The term “Christward” reflects both the object and goal of theological study. Jesus Christ is the center, source, and end of all sound doctrine. Conformity to His image is the goal of all Christian living. “Collective” reflects the group of pastors and theologians coming together for the common cause of edifying the Church. This project will be a blessing to all who are moving Christward in their knowledge of and in conformity unto His image.
Christward Collective is an exciting addition to the Alliance of Confessing Evangelicals. The Alliance is a coalition of confessional pastors, scholars, and churchmen proclaiming biblical doctrine in order to foster a Reformed awakening in today’s Church. Christward Collective serves as a place where “doctrine and life meet,” and is one way to foster such an awakening.