Name

The term "Verax" is derived from the Latin word in the Vulgate (Latin Bible) meaning "true". This word appears, for example, in the last book of the New Testament, Revelation 19:11. In this heavenly vision, a rider on a white horse - called by that name - appears in the sky. According to the context of this verse, the rider is Jesus Christ, who, as King of kings and Lord of lords, has been invested with authority to judge the world. To this supreme ruler who is also the redeemer of his people is the ministry of the Verax Institute dedicated.

Mission

The Verax Institute fulfills its mission of providing orientation at a time of confusion by focusing on two specific tasks:

a. Advancing an accurate understanding of the Bible

Amidst a multiplicity of religious views the Institute offers biblical orientation. This is being done by biblical exposition, explication of theological topics, and the analysis of religious trends affecting churches.

b. Researching and critiquing global trends

As a Christian apologist, Dr. Martin Erdmann has been particularly interested in researching the historical, religious, and philosophical development of different ideologies which have become predominant in the western world during the past three hundred years while changing their epochal manifestations in accordance with cultural preferences in order to reach their utopian goals. Against this ideological background he analyzes and critiques current events and relevant issues, such as stakeholder capitalism, sustainable development, and global governance. In previous decades Progressivism has established itself as a mixture of all of these ideologies and gained considerable importance as a religious, socio-political, and economic movement. Thus, it is imperative to present informed arguments in opposition to Progresivism which are firmly based on a Christian perspective.

Theological Position

The Bible (Old and New Testament) is the divine revelation, inspired by the Holy Spirit and therefore is the only reliable source of truth und authority. Therefore all staff members at the Verax Institute agree to submit unreservedly to the comprehensive Lordship of Jesus Christ, in particular as it concerns the intellectual understanding, interpretation, and proclamation of biblical truth.

It is our studied conviction that the First London Baptist Confession of Faith of 1646 is the best written expression of our beliefs.

Baptist Ecclesiology: 1) believer's baptism; 2) church of the regenerate; 3) autonomy of the local church; 4) rejection of a state church system; 5) denial of a sacral society (theocracy)

Executive Committee

Dr. Martin Erdmann: Director
Dean Good: Pastor, Grace Church of North Olmsted, Ohio
Calvin Brain: S.I.M. Missionary