Walking in God’s presence is possible only by God’s grace in Jesus Christ, who seeks us despite our sin, so that we no longer need to hide from him but may live by his Word and walk in the way everlasting. We do not always foresee the outcome of our actions, but we can walk with confidence in God’s sovereignty, follow his commandments with faith and wisdom, and show loving empathy, submission to his authority, and responsible action toward others.

Confessing is first of all confessing Jesus Christ as Lord, the Son of the living God, and affirming that salvation is found in his death and resurrection alone, because true confession is given by God and belongs both to the church and to every believer personally. The church must not avoid the burning questions of the day, but every confessional response must remain focused on Christ himself, so that no other lord claims our hearts and lives and people are directed to his grace and truth.

The fear of the LORD is loving reverence for the living God, shown in trusting him, listening to his Word, walking in his ways, and living a life of true piety that is centred on faith in Jesus Christ. It is the beginning of wisdom because it teaches us to walk in awe and trust, to recognize what is truly important, and to serve God rather than rely on ourselves or human wisdom. The fear of the LORD also has an ethical character, leading believers to holiness, loving service, compassion, and a God-glorifying way of life that is a witness to others.

God is the God of peace, and true shalom is not merely the absence of violence but the peace, blessing, and new life that he gives through Jesus Christ, who made peace by the blood of his cross and reconciled us to God. Christ is our peace, and those who have peace with God are called to pursue what makes for peace, to be peacemakers, and to sow righteousness in peace with wisdom, mercy, and sincere love. The church must therefore reject hatred, division, and hard hearts, and pray that God will reclaim our lives so that we truly live out the peace of Christ.

Is the New Testament more tolerant than the Old Testament? Did Jesus make a change in the tolerance of God? This article discusses compulsion and tolerance, and the freedom of love.

The ethical life of the early Church was embedded in an understanding of the love of Christ for His church. The early Church Christians reflected this love in their relationships with each other. They did not have an entirely separate ethical conduct, but rather lived their lives within the structures of society empowered by the love of Christ. Can the church today learn from this?