Promoting Christ In Cyberspace

Review of Christless Christianity

2011-12-18T20:22:00.000-08:00

I just finished reading Christless Christianity, by Michael Horton (2008). My pastor once referred to it from the pulpit as 'the most important book of the century.' Challies and others have written great reviews already and it has been around for a while now (3 years). However, writing helps me retain what I have read, so if this is a blessing to you, or if it will cause you to pick up the book, then it is worth my time to write and yours to post a blog on it. Thanks to the BSG (the Bible study at my work) for allowing me to lead a discussion through this book at the tale end of the year. Without having to answer to you I probably would have moved on to another book rather than completing it!

Disclaimer: Horton is a little deep. Keep your dictionary handy and persevere, and your vocabulary will grow and you will be blessed by his teaching. He is a smart guy that it is at times a reach for me to stay tracking with him. Having said that, he is a quote machine! He is a powerful writer and as I will mention, he points the reader to Christ and the Gospel.

Concern

Horton’s concern in writing this book is that Christianity in America is in many churches being watered down. He explains this form of denying Christ is what he calls “Christless Christianity”.

I am not arguing in this book that we have arrived at Christless Christianity but that we are well on our way. … My concern is that we are getting dangerously close to the place in everyday American church life where the Bible is mined for ‘relevant’ quotes but is largely irrelevant on its own terms; God is used as a personal resource rather than known, worshiped and trusted; Jesus Christ is a coach with a good game plan for our victory rather than a Savior who has already achieved it for us; salvation is more a matter of having our best life now than being saved from God’s judgment by God himself; and the Holy Spirit is an electrical outlet we can plug into for the power we need to be all that we can be.

Horton describes today’s Christianity using the borrowed phrase: ‘moralistic, therapeutic deism’, which offers this kind of working theology:

God created the world; God wants people to be good, nice and fair to each other, as taught in the Bible and most world religions; The central goal of life is to be happy and to feel good about oneself; God does not need to be particularly involved in one’s life except when needed to resolve a problem; Good people go to heaven when they die. Pause to consider much of the teaching you might find on your television on a Sunday morning and you’ll see how apt a description this is. (Challies)

Christ

My favorite thing about the book is the way Horton points us away from ourselves and to Christ and His Word. In walking us through the ills of our Christless Christianity, he masterfully weaves Gospel truth and proclaims the Gospel of Christ.

Christianity announces the Good News that God in Christ has saved us now from the condemnation of the law, has dethroned the tyranny of sin, and has delivered us from Satan’s oppressive regime. But it gets even better: one day this salvation will be consummated in the gift of resurrection, glorification, and everlasting life free of the very presence of sin, pain, evil, and violence. (p 97)

Not only the message but the gospel’s method of delivery itself is Good News. God did not merely speak about the incarnation. Still less did God speak of the incarnation as a general principle for anything and everything that God does in the world. No God actually became flesh, fulfilled all righteousness, conquered sin and death, and in his resurrection inaugurated the new creation as the firstfruits of the entire harvest. A new power regime is afoot in this passing age: the power of life over death, justification over condemnation, righteousness over the dominion of sin. God’s politics is his work: the cross and the resurrection – and the confident expectation of Christ’s return in glory to make all things new.

Characters

In diagnosing the problem with American evangelicalism, Horton does what is unpleasant but necessary: he names names.

As heretical to our post-modern culture as this is, there is a clear Biblical precedent for naming names, calling out those who preach error. Peter named Simon the Sorcerer (Acts 8) and he exposed “the way of Balaam (II Pet.2: 15). Paul named Hymenaeus and Alexander (1Tim. 1:20), Phygelus and Hermogenes (2Tim. 1:15), Hymenaeus and Philetus (2 Tim. 2:17), Alexander the metalworker (2 Tim. 4:14), Paul had some strong words for the sorcerer El'ymas (Acts 13:10). He even called out the Apostle Peter publicly when the issue was crucial for the Gospel (Gal 2:11-14).

Likewise, Horton discusses Finney, Pelagianism, semi-pelagianism, Gnosticism, the Emergent church, Osteen, Meyer, and Barna to name a few. The New Testament is crystal clear that we are to be on the alert for false teachers and to test all things holding fast to that which is true (i.e. jives with Scripture). He is quick to point out that the problems with the American church are in all major denominations (including his own). He is not pointing to liberalism as the problem, but rather a lack of theology altogher, a vacuum of truth.

My argument in this book is not that evangelicalism is becoming theologically liberal but that it is becoming theologically vacuous. … We come to church, it seems, less to be transformed by the Good News than to celebrate our own transformation and to receive fresh marching orders for transforming ourselves and our world. … Just as you don’t really need Jesus Christ in order to have T-shirts and coffee mugs, it is unclear to me why he is necessary for most of the things I hear a lot of pastors and Christians talking about in church these days.

Confusion

One helpful aspect of the book is the way it confronts many of the things we hear so often. Things that are just flat wrong. We are confused in many ways in our thinking. Here is a short list:

We are called to ‘Deeds not creeds’
Christians need to ‘be the Gospel’
‘Preach the Gospel at all times; if necessary use words’
Are you going to accomplish great things for God?
The Gospel is not about rules; it’s about loving God and each other. (p 134)
Religion is personal, between me and God.

Call

Horton’s call is to a slumbering church to wake up to its true mandate in Christ.

A genuinely evangelical church will be an evangelistic church: a place where the gospel is delivered through Word and sacrament and a people who witness to it in the world.

Challies points out that Horton is calling the “church to narrow its commission from fixing all of the world’s ills to simply returning to the basics.”

The church as people—scattered as salt and light through the week—has many different callings, but the church as place (gathered publicly by God’s summons each Lord’s Day) has one calling: to deliver (and receive) Christ through preaching and sacrament.

The final chapter is entitled ‘A Call to Resistance’.

What is called for in these days, as in any other time, is a church that is a genuine covenantal community defined by the gospel rather than a service provider defined by laws of the market, political ideologies, ethnic distinctives, or other alternatives to the catholic community that the Father is creating by his Spirit in his Son. For this, we need nothing less than a new Christian where the only demographic that matters is in Christ.

I love how Challies closes out his review of the book. I could not have put it better, and in my laziness I do not care to.

Through all of this I’d suggest the most important statement in the book may just be this: “It is not heresy as much as silliness that is killing us softly.” This is where the book may be most useful for the conservative Christians who are the audience most likely to read it. All of us can fall into silliness without tossing aside the gospel. We can hold fast to Christian theology, even while allowing silliness and levity to pervade the very fabric of our church. A once-serious institution can become overrun by programs and purposes that slowly erode the gravity and simplicity of the church’s unique calling. This book is a call for the church to return to its biblical foundations and to remain true to those convictions. It is a clarion call and one that Christians would do well to heed. Christless Christianity is an excellent and timely book and one I would not hesitate to recommend to any Christian.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Resources

Tim Challies review of the book: http://www.challies.com/book-reviews/christless-christianity
Horton’s article, Christless Christianity, in Modern Reformation (a 'cliffs notes' version of Christless Christianity for those who do not have time to read the book): http://www.modernreformation.org/default.php?page=articledisplay&var1=ArtRead&var2=1&var3=main

Wayne Simien visits the BSG

2011-10-25T18:55:00.000-07:00

I am blessed to have a Bible study where I work. Wayne Simien came and spoke there last Thursday.

I got to introduce Wayne, one of my all-time favorite Jayhawk basketball heroes. Wayne explained why he walked away from a pro basketball career to pursue Christian ministry with Called to Greatness.

Wayne proved to be just a regular guy, completely humble and fun to hang out with. He shared his testimony of coming to faith in Christ while in college, gave some unique insight into the life of a professional athlete, and encouraged the audience to follow Christ in every aspect of life. His message is worth listening to; in fact I hope entire families will gather and listen together! CLICK HERE to download the audio.

Wayne before he spoke to our Bible study group.

Wayne and others from the Bible study, posing by the poster used to promote the 10/20 event.

Do not be deceived. How you live matters.

2011-09-23T04:27:00.000-07:00

Three Scriptures warn not to be duped by those who teach you can be a Christian yet live like the Devil.

Do not be deceived: God is not mocked, for whatever one sows, that will he also reap. For the one who sows to his own flesh will from the flesh reap corruption, but the one who sows to the Spirit will from the Spirit reap eternal life. (Galatians 6:7-8)
For you may be sure of this, that everyone who is sexually immoral or impure, or who is covetous (that is, an idolater), has no inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and God. Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of these things the wrath of God comes upon the sons of disobedience. (Ephesians 5:5-6)
Little children, let no one deceive you. Whoever practices righteousness is righteous, as he is righteous. Whoever makes a practice of sinning is of the devil, for the devil has been sinning from the beginning. The reason the Son of God appeared was to destroy the works of the devil. (1 John 3:7-8)

Is there any Biblical basis for a 'carnal Christian' or a 'backsliding Christian'? Many today teach that once you are 'saved/accept Christ/pray the prayer/walk the aisle' you are guaranteed Heaven regardless of how you live. I believe that salvation is by grace (Eph 2:8-9) and not by any act of righteousness on our part (Titus 3:5). However, if you are a child of God will you not act like your Father? If you are His, you will bear fruit?

Note the warning in each of these verses. Do not be deceived! If you claim the name of Christian, does your life bear that out? If not, what will you do about it?

If you can't say anything nice ...

2011-08-17T03:25:00.001-07:00

Sometimes the best answer is to say nothing at all ...

Whoever restrains his words has knowledge, and he who has a cool spirit is a man of understanding. Even a fool who keeps silent is considered wise; when he closes his lips, he is deemed intelligent. Proverbs 17:27-28
When words are many, transgression is not lacking, but whoever restrains his lips is prudent. Proverbs 10:19
Know this, my beloved brothers: let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger; James 1:19

Parenting Seminar Mp3

2011-08-15T17:50:00.000-07:00

The Bible study group at my work put on a parenting seminar luncheon on August 4th. The guest speaker was our very own Dan Pentimone, a pastor at Christ Fellowship of KC, who also works with me downtown!

Whether you have children now or plan to in the future, you will benefit from this study!

Click here for the Audio
Click here for the handout

Here is the advertisement we ran in our company email ...

One of the toughest jobs you will ever face is parenting. With all the influences confronting your children, how do you assure that you have the strongest influence? Join the Bible Study Group in KC for lunch as we discover what the Bible says about this important topic.

Do you want children who respect and honor you?
Are you preparing your children to face the tough decisions of life?
Is it really possible to raise children where you have the strongest influence over them even through their teen years?

Free S.O. album download

2011-07-01T08:33:00.000-07:00

I commend the UK artist S.O., the newest member of Lamp Mode. His lyrics are saturated with Christ-exalting rhymes and wrapped in a smooth hip hop beat, professionally produced by Lamp Mode!

You can get his entire album 'S.O. It Begins' for FREE here ... www.lampmode.com/so-it-begins/

My favorite song so far is Highs and Lows. S.O. describes how in his walk with Christ, he goes through painful lows, then like in the Psalms, he looks to Christ and is lifted up.

(So I ask myself) Why are you downcast my soul, hope in the Lord/See Him hanging there on the pole for the filthest thoughts/The most wicked of hearts, He died for you S know it/This is truth, objective how do you then blow/Repentance and faith, bear fruit man show it/Have that cross up in face endure and know Him/Be strong in the grace that’s found solely in Him/Satan will pray tricks by reminding you of your sin/But He died for them all, remember Calvary again/Never let it leave your brain/and things will never be the same/The Lamb of God was truly slain, rose up from the grave though/And justified in His name up the praise go!/Yeah, and that will never change/This that high up on the ride that I better crave/My help and my God who is centre stage/And His Spirit in I no better way/

Download this album and be blessed by it too!

The Lion of the Tribe of Judah

2011-06-07T05:18:00.000-07:00

Daily Readings with Martyn Lloyd-Jones

June 07

The Lion of the Tribe of Judah

Sin ... entered human life from the outside and it attacked even the Son of God. That I am forgiven is glorious, that I have a new nature is wonderful and still better. But still I am left to face this terrible power that is set over against me, and which strives ever to defeat me ... It has defeated the mightiest and the strongest. It has not hesitated to match its strength even with God Himself. Its subtlety and suggestions meet me everywhere. Who am I to confront such a foe? What is man at his best against such an antagonist? ... Man cannot, for all men have failed ... Is all hopeless? Must we continue to strive and strive in vain? No! A David has appeared and smitten this Goliath; a Jonathan has routed the Philistines again. The Man has entered the lists and delivered the enemy a mortal wound from which he can never recover ...

Jesus of Nazareth, the Son of God, has conquered Satan. Tried and tested to the utmost, He not only emerged unscathed, but hath 'cast out the prince of this world' ... He has conquered death and the grave and every power that is inimical to man and his highest interests. The Lion of the tribe of Judah has prevailed — yea, and not only for Himself, but for us. He offers us His own power and promises to clothe us with His own might. Not only need we not be defeated any longer; in Him we can become more than conquerors over any and every power that may raise itself against us.

These are the problems of the world ... They are exposed in the gospel and they are solved by it. Christ satisfies every need and He alone does so. He has 'done all things well'. The message of the gospel is about Him and what He has done. It is not theory. It works, it is a fact as the lives of Christians of all ages testify. Ashamed of Jesus? A thousand times no!

The Plight of Man and the Power of God, pp. 89-91

Christ at Work! Unlocking the "Mystery" of the Bible

2011-06-02T03:36:00.001-07:00

In May, Dan Pentimone taught a Bible Study at the BSG in which he gave an overview of the entire Bible in 3 lessons! This was one of our most successful studies to date! Dan was really bringing the Word and the Spirit was pleased to use him! If you can take a listen to these messages and look over the powerpoints and handout, I guarantee you will walk away with a 'big picture' view of this Great Story (of which we are a part!) and a fresh sense of wonder at the God who authored it!

Part 1 * PPT1 * AUDIO1
Part 2 * PPT2 * AUDIO2
Part 3 * PPT3 * AUDIO3

Here is the handout that pulls it all together.

God is our Secret Place and Hiding Place

2011-04-29T04:00:00.000-07:00

On this theme of God as the believer's Hiding Place/Secret Place, here are two resources:

1) Fantastic sermon called the Secret Place by Fred Juhnke on Psalm 91
2) Download Corrie Ten Boom's The Hiding Place, based on Psalm 119:13-14*

*Hurry on this, I think it is only for April!

Friends don't let friends go to Hell

2011-04-25T03:00:00.000-07:00

We see a billboard like this on our way to church. It definitely grabs your attention, right? In fact, I almost wrecked trying to read it the first time I saw it-shocking! The source is the AdCouncil (also known for 'Friends don't let friends drive drunk', and 'A Mind is a Terrible Thing to Waste'.)

The point of this billboard is to speak up if you are in the car with someone driving recklessly ... or else you could end up in a serious accident leaving you paralyzed or dead.

I love the bluntness, the efficiency of words! It is cold-drink-in-a-dessert type of refreshing in our culture of political correctness and tolerance of all things save Christianity!

Speaking of which, I would like to propose that Christians consider the message of the Gospel in these terms. Serious car wrecks are tragic, but isn't eternal judgment and torment infinitely more important?

I am preaching at myself, here trust me. I am far too selfish--too worried about embarrassment or whether so-and-so will like me. Too busy. It is time to get beyond fear of rejection and warn people about the wrath to come. What did Jesus say when He first began his public ministry?

From that time Jesus began to preach, saying, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” (Matthew 4:17 ESV)

Not exactly a PC message, but like the billboard message it is concise and effective.

What about the Apostle Paul? Did he worry about hurting feelings? He was often beaten, some times to the point of near death, all to bring the Gospel to people who didn't want to hear it.

We are afflicted in every way, but not crushed; perplexed, but not driven to despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed; always carrying in the body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be manifested in our bodies. For we who live are always being given over to death for Jesus' sake, so that the life of Jesus also may be manifested in our mortal flesh. So death is at work in us, but life in you. (2 Corinthians 4:8-12 ESV)

I love Tim Challies' article about the false perception of God's 'unconditional love' for all mankind. We do an injustice to our non-Christian friends when we allow them to stay comfortable with a life not lived in obedience to God.

Mankind's greatest need is not tolerance but Truth. Let's go tell them--in love--that God is not happy with sin and a judgment is coming.

So speak up and share Christ with someone who is driving recklessly down the highway of life.

Jesus is the Lion King

2011-04-23T06:00:00.000-07:00

Regardless of your preference/style of music, these lyrics are POWERFUL! They paint a picture of Jesus Christ as THE Lion King, in all His majesty! Scripture often refers to the Lord as the lion of the tribe of Judah. Narnia has it right, Jesus is a LION! (See video here)

Here are the lyrics (about as close as I can get) ...

Gentle Jesus, meek and mild
That's how they see Him now Jesus of your convenience
Never heated thumbs up when He smiles
That’s so mistaken--like He can't incinerate
A whole city, wrath more 'dread'-ful (dredlocks) then all Jamaica
And any attitude, anything less than gratitude
Is rebellion, idolatry, or proportionate magnitude
How can you figure you're gonna get with the dude you're attracted to
While the God of the universe is specifically mad at you?
I'm talkin holiness, holier than the holiest
Angels who are beholding Him, cover eyes or they won't exist
Knees are folded when they get close to His awesomeness
His presence 'ill send em repentance or their lives will be over with
Behold the Lamb Christ Jesus, the substitute for the heathen
Only One that can stand the wrath of God and keep on breathin'
Righteous, resurrected Ruler, redeemin' these rebel bein's
This lion's also a lamb for mercy for those who believe it

We all know-oh-oh, this world is a jungle
We only got one hope, oh Zion,
Our God is a king, He's a lion
Woah-oh-oh-oh-oh-oh, oh Zion
Woah-oh-oh-oh-oh-oh , oh Zion
Woah-oh-oh-oh-oh-oh ,
Oh Zion
Our God is a king, He's a lion

I know this world is a jungle, baby this life is a forest
And we surrounded by beasts, they seek to kill and destroy us
They say we better take cover, and run for it like Forest
And while they prey on the weak, we just gon keep prayin for em
And fear can't be afforded, the God of Jacob's my fortress
And yeah I'm walkin' in pride baby the Lion is roarin
Persecution n sufferin, they raidin' our villages
They wanna push our wig back like the Indians
We got a King who hears the prayers of the indigent
Ending the fears and in the affairs of the invalid
??? and death was the instrument
So we can see His glory in a clearer lense
No drummer here but we're aware of the snares
Snakes on our heel but He was crushing his head
Took the stripes of a tiger He went out up on a limb
I got a lion king, so this jungle’s just a gym

We all know-oh-oh, this world is a jungle
We only got one hope, oh Zion,
Our God is a king, He's a lion
Woah-oh-oh-oh-oh-oh, oh Zion
Woah-oh-oh-oh-oh-oh , oh Zion
Woah-oh-oh-oh-oh-oh ,
Oh Zion
Our God is a king, He's a lion

You can get this song on a free album download here. There are several other terrific songs on this album!

Celebrate the Creator and Sustainer of the Earth!

2011-04-21T06:37:00.000-07:00

Thought it would be fun since tomorrow is 'Earth Day' to list a sample of passages in the Psalms that include the word 'earth'. I am thankful that Jesus Christ created the earth, and further that He came to it in order to give me life and a future when I die!

Enjoy!

Psalm 24:1
The EARTH is the LORD’s and the fullness thereof,
the world and those who dwell therein,

Psalm 33:8
Let all the EARTH fear the LORD;
let all the inhabitants of the world stand in awe of him!

Psalm 33:8
Let all the EARTH fear the LORD;
let all the inhabitants of the world stand in awe of him!

Psalm 65:9
You visit the EARTH and water it;
you greatly enrich it;
the river of God is full of water;
you provide their grain,
for so you have prepared it.

Psalm 72:19
Blessed be his glorious name forever;
may the whole EARTH be filled with his glory!

Amen and Amen!

Psalm 74:17
You have fixed all the boundaries of the EARTH;
you have made summer and winter.

Psalm 77:18
The crash of your thunder was in the whirlwind;
your lightnings lighted up the world;
the EARTH trembled and shook.

Psalm 83:18
that they may know that you alone,
whose name is the LORD,
are the Most High over all the EARTH.

Psalm 89:11
The heavens are yours; the EARTH also is yours;
the world and all that is in it, you have founded them.

Psalm 90:2
Before the mountains were brought forth,
or ever you had formed the EARTH and the world,
from everlasting to everlasting you are God.

Psalm 104:14
You cause the grass to grow for the livestock
and plants for man to cultivate,
that he may bring forth food from the EARTH

Psalm 119:90
Your faithfulness endures to all generations;
you have established the EARTH, and it stands fast.

Psalm 124:8
Our help is in the name of the LORD,
who made heaven and EARTH.

Psalm 135:6
Whatever the LORD pleases, he does,
in heaven and on EARTH,
in the seas and all deeps.

A Living Savior

2011-04-20T05:42:00.000-07:00

A friend of mine who lives in Malta wrote this. You can check out his website here. Wish him a Happy Easter; he's doing the Lord's work!

I learn a lot from my children ... patience, for instance! But recently John, my three year old son, is teaching me some theology as well.

Last Sunday at church, while we were singing ‘Majesty’, he heard the phrase ‘Jesus who died’. He turned to his mother, evidently shocked, and asked, ‘Jesus died?!’

Poor child. We had taught him that Jesus loves you, Jesus takes care of us, Jesus is always with us ... and now he died!

Like my son, the apostles were also baffled when their Master was taken away. They hid, they went back to their fishing, they were at a loss. I would be utterly confused if Jesus remained dead, for with him all my hopes and meaning will be buried forever. Just as the Scripture says, “If Christ has not been raised, your faith is futile and you are still in your sins” (1 Cor 15:17).

Thank God, Jesus triumphed over death. “Christ has indeed been raised from the dead!” My son – all of us - may rest assured that the Saviour is alive!

Happy Easter!

Joe, Joanne, John, Elizabeth.

Free Answers in Genesis Conference!

2011-01-14T10:08:00.001-08:00

In Kansas City area this weekend? There is a free AIG conference this Sunday and Monday in at Lenexa Baptist Church.

http://www.answersingenesis.org/outreach/event/6858/

Ken Ham and his website, Answers in Genesis, has been a huge blessing as he seeks to provide a Christian worldview in the area of scientific debate. Someday we will visit the Creation Museum in Kentucky, which we have heard is quite impressive!

Our path is often slippery!

2011-01-10T04:59:00.000-08:00

From James Smith, "Preservation Sought" 1865 ...

"But as for me, my feet had almost slipped! I had nearly lost my foothold!" Psalm 73:2

The Christian is always on dangerous ground!

We may fall into sin--even when we cannot fall into hell.
We may break our bones--when we cannot break our neck.
We may make sad work for repentance--when we do not incur a sentence of final condemnation.
We are liable to fall by error--which is specious and powerful.
We are liable to fall by Satan--who is crafty and malicious.
We are liable to fall by our weakness--which is very great.
We are liable to fall by sinful pleasures--in which the flesh takes delight.
We are liable to fall by our unhallowed tempers--which need constant watchfulness and incessant prayer.
We are liable to fall by erroneous people--who may, like Satan, lie in wait to deceive us.

We therefore need keeping--constant keeping, divine keeping!

Our path is often slippery--and we are apt to be incautious. But it is our unspeakable mercy, that God has promised to keep us. "He keeps the feet of His saints."

But He will have us feel our weakness, and need of His keeping--and plead with Him to keep us: "Hold me up--and I shall be safe!" Psalm 119:117

"My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth!
He will not let you stumble; the One who watches over you will not slumber.
Indeed, He who watches over Israel never slumbers or sleeps.
The Lord Himself watches over you!
The Lord keeps you from all harm and watches over your life.
The Lord keeps watch over you as you come and go, both now and forever!"
Psalm 121
Source: Today's GraceGem

Holiness Unto the Lord by James Smith, 1865

2011-01-01T07:52:00.000-08:00

Today's Grace Gem is perfect for New Year's Day! May we use this new year to take inventory of our possessions and our pursuits in life, and bring all under the Lordship of Christ. The following is taken from a sermon written over 140 years ago, but the message is still relevant.

Holiness Unto the Lord
by James Smith, 1865

"On that day even the harness bells of the horses will be inscribed with these words: 'Holy unto the Lord.' And the cooking pots in the Temple of the Lord will be as sacred as the basins used beside the altar." Zechariah 14:20

We are to write on all that we ARE, on all that we HAVE--"Holy unto the Lord!" We are no longer to live unto ourselves--but unto Him who loved us, and gave Himself up for us. We are to have . . .
holy thoughts,
holy desires,
holy motives,
holy aims,
holy pleasures,
holy sorrows, and
pursue holy objects.

1. See then, what we should BE--holy. This was God's end in our election, redemption, and effectual calling. This is God's design in all our trials, troubles, and exercises; they are for our profit--that "we may be partakers of His holiness."

2. See also, what we should DO--write, "Holy unto the Lord!" on all that we possess. We have no right to possess, use, or wear anything--on which we cannot write, "Holy unto the Lord!"

Christian, is there anything in your house, in your business, or on your person--on which it would be unfitting to write, "Holy unto the Lord?" If so--ought you to possess it, practice it, or wear it?

Would such an inscription look well on some of our costly furniture, fine clothing, or entertainments? Would it? Do not shun the question--but let conscience take it up, examine, and return an honest answer.

We should use all that we have--as consecrated to Jehovah's service and praise:
our mental powers,
our physical strength,
our wealth,
our abilities,
our possessions
--all should be used for God, and for His glory! When about to employ any of these, we should pause, and ask, "Will putting them to this use honor God? Will it serve His cause? Will it bring praise to His most holy name?"

All who see us, dwell with us, or visit us--should be able to perceive that we have written upon all we have and are, "Holy unto the Lord." Until they can, we are not what we ought to be--and God's end in what He has done for us, and conferred upon us, is not answered.

O Spirit of holiness, come down and by the finger of Your power--write, "Holy unto the Lord!" upon our hearts! Enable us, as the effect, to write upon all we that have and are, upon all that we purpose, plan, and do--"Holy unto the Lord!" in large and pleasing characters, such as all may understand!

Happy New Year to one and all!

Christ at Work!

2010-12-29T16:11:00.000-08:00

It is a huge blessing to work for a company that sponsors employee network groups, including a Bible Study Group. We occasionally have guest speakers who come and share from God's Word.

This post is a way to 'open the vault' so to speak and share this treasure of Biblical wisdom from some of the guest speakers to the Bible Study Group since early 2008. These recordings worked best for converting into mp3 audio (unfortunately several others could not be converted due to technical issues).

Click the play button on the left of each item to listen here, or download the mp3 files by right-clicking and selecting Save-File-As.

Jim Elliff, February 2008

Jim Elliff, Jan 2009

Tim Juhnke, April 2009

Conrad Mbewe, May 2009

Ken Turnbull, Feb 2010

Conrad Mbewe, November 2010

Beginning in 2011, I hope to add other similar 'Christ at Work' posts that feature visitors to the Bible Study Group.

Will God ever answer my prayer?

2010-12-09T03:16:00.000-08:00

Ever feel like that? Today's Spurgeon devotional was perfect (subscribe here)! If you are a child of God, your Heavenly Father promises to answer your prayers. Be encouraged by this, as I was:

"Therefore the LORD waits to be gracious to you," Isaiah 30:18a

God often delays in answering prayer . We have several instances of this in sacred Scripture. Jacob did not get the blessing from the angel until near the dawn of day--he had to wrestle all night for it. The poor woman of Syrophenicia was answered not a word for a long while. Paul besought the Lord thrice that the thorn in the flesh might be taken from him, and he received no assurance that it should be taken away, but instead thereof a promise that God's grace should be sufficient for him. If thou hast been knocking at the gate of mercy, and hast received no answer, shall I tell thee why the mighty Maker hath not opened the door and let thee in? Our Father has reasons peculiar to himself for thus keeping us waiting. Sometimes it is to show his power and his sovereignty, that men may know that Jehovah has a right to give or to withhold. More frequently the delay is for our profit. Thou art perhaps kept waiting in order that thy desires may be more fervent. God knows that delay will quicken and increase desire, and that if he keeps thee waiting thou wilt see thy necessity more clearly, and wilt seek more earnestly; and that thou wilt prize the mercy all the more for its long tarrying. There may also be something wrong in thee which has need to be removed, before the joy of the Lord is given. Perhaps thy views of the Gospel plan are confused, or thou mayest be placing some little reliance on thyself, instead of trusting simply and entirely to the Lord Jesus. Or, God makes thee tarry awhile that he may the more fully display the riches of his grace to thee at last. Thy prayers are all filed in heaven, and if not immediately answered they are certainly not forgotten, but in a little while shall be fulfilled to thy delight and satisfaction. Let not despair make thee silent, but continue instant in earnest supplication.

Global Day of Prayer for Sudan

2010-12-05T06:09:00.000-08:00

At this historic juncture for the people of Sudan, the World Evangelical Alliance is asking Christians to observe a global day of prayer on December 5th, 2010.
The people of Sudan have experienced terrible loss of life and suffering in the last half century as a result of prolonged civil war and unrest.
The Comprehensive Peace Agreement ended that war but now peace is threatened again as Southerners prepare to vote in a decisive referendum on January 9th, 2011.
Whether the people decide to separate or remain united, the nation will be changed forever. (from the World Evangelical Alliance)

Last week a close friend returned from a two week mission trip to Sudan. Jared Chasteen shared with the Bible study group that Sudan, the largest country in Africa and one of the most poverty-stricken, is on the verge of devastating war.

Today Jared is asking ministry partners to pray for Sudan. "Generally, I have mixed feelings about 'Days of Prayer' - we should be praying for Sudan EVERY day," Jared said. "But I think they can be helpful reminders for us to pray with a special focus for important issues."

Jared also shared this MSNBC Video which featured actor George Clooney traveling to Sudan to raise awareness of the huge issues there.

Visit msnbc.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy

May the Lord work mightily in Sudan to call to Himself a people for His Name and glory!

Thomas Watson - a call to action!

2010-12-01T06:00:00.000-08:00

In our family devotions Monday, we read parable of the 10 virgins in Matthew 25:1-13. Then I came across this over lunch.

This is in Thomas Watson's introduction to his commentary on the Beatitudes. It's a call to action, Christian!

May the Lord grant that while you have an opportunity, and the windserves you, you may not lie idle at anchor, and when it is too late beginto hoist up sails for Heaven. Oh now, Christian, let your loins be girt,and your lamps burning, that when the Lord Jesus, your blessed Bridegroom,shall knock, you may be ready to go in with Him to the marriagesupper,which shall be the prayer of him who is,Yours in all true affection and devotion,Thomas Watson

Watson's work on The Beatitudes can be read online here or purchased here.

Nathan Clark George in Concert December 19th!

2010-11-30T04:44:00.000-08:00

Just wanted to let you know about a free Christmas concert featuring Nathan Clark George on December 19th at Redeemer Presbyterian in Overland Park, KS.

I have had opportunities to see Nathan in concert when he comes to KC, and here is what I learned:

NCG is a great performer. He likes to get the audience involved! This feat is especially noteworthy given he is a Presbyterian performing in a Presbyterian church - ha ha! Nathan has great rapport with the audience and his fellow musicians on stage and is the opposite of the stereotypical pop star. He is 'down to earth' yet 'heavenly minded' (Col 3:2).

The setting is warm and intimate regardless of the weather outside (ala 'Let it Snow').

The music is top notch professional and fun. There is a good mix of timeless hymns, new arrangements of lesser known songs, and brand new creations. This is music everyone will enjoy, regardless of age or gender or race!

Best of all the message of the music is first and foremost Christ-exalting and often Scripture set to music.

The concert is free but I believe there is a love offering and opportunity to purchase CD's.

Treat yourself and your loved ones to this concert and enjoy you will be as excited as me the next time you hear news of Nathan Clark George returning to Kansas City.

New to Nathan Clark George? Here is a short bio from Nathan's website:

Award winning singer/songwriter Nathan Clark George has been touring with his music for over a decade, including 4 years full-time in an RV with his family, encouraging a multi-generational vision for the family and the Kingdom of Peace. His discography delivers compelling musical presentations of Scripture along with transparent snapshots of life. Also included is a DVD featuring a full-length concert, as well as a documentary of Nathan and his family and their lives on the road. Most recently, he is excited to be one of the featured artists on the upcoming release from Ligionier Ministries, My Cry Ascends, performing the beautiful compositions of time-honored Psalms and hymns by Greg Wilbur. It is Nathan’s desire to encourage the thoughtful and meaningful approach to corporate worship embodied on this new project, and he looks forward to introducing several of the selections in his upcoming concerts.

Missions on the Mind

2010-11-21T04:25:00.000-08:00

From reading Scripture, it is clear that the Lord is very passionate about the nations and wants to be known among them. He's been stirring my heart to missions once again. We had a Missions Emphasis week at FCC Nov 7th through the 14th. At the Bible Study at work, November is 'Let the Nations be Glad!' month (Psalm 67:4-5). This stirring continued last night as we attended an International Student Festival at Park University. I will hit the highlights of each in the order they occurred.

Pastor Tim kicked off the FCC Missions Emphasis week in the 11/3 midweek service. He shared some amazing stats about how the nations are coming right to our doorstep like no other time in history. Our church is located mere miles from a Hindu Temple and a Muslim Mosque (unthinkable 10 years ago). There are 66 countries represented in the NE part of KC and 22,000 Muslims live north of the river. America is wasting her prosperity over the last few decades and is no longer the leading sender of missionaries (Korea now has that honor). The challenge was given from John 4:35, where Jesus said, "Look, I tell you, lift up your eyes, and see that the fields are white for harvest." We were also challenged to pray about how we can, as families and as a church, partner in the Gospel (Phil 1:5)

Conrad Mbewe, the Spurgeon of Zambia Africa, visited FCC Sunday and gave a wonderful sermon from Galatians 3:10-14. He powerfully proclaimed that the world is under the curse of the Almighty God because of sin, and there is a great need for the reversal of that curse. Praise the Lord, the remedy is Jesus Christ! Christ redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us—for it is written, “Cursed is everyone who is hanged on a tree” (Gal 3:14)

The next day, I got to hear Conrad preach in an executive presentation room in the public corporation where I work! While speaking at a luncheon in KC, Conrad preached Christ from Ecclesiastes via video-conference to Sacramento, Boston, Toronto, and Montreal (over 100 employees heard a clear Gospel presentation)!

Rich Casebolt enjoys a conversation with Conrad after the luncheon.

On Wed, Nov 10th we heard fromMarty Zide in the mid-week service. Marty ministers at the Midwest Messianic Center in St Louis, to reach our Jewish neighbors there. He shared about evangelism, mostly concepts that are appropriate regardless of who you are sharing with: 1) Know the Gospel, 2) Listen, listen, listen! 3) Trust the power of the Gospel, 4) Use the Word of God, 5) Use Illustrations, and 6) Pray, pray, pray!

Rich Casebolt joined the Bible Study at my work on Nov 11th. It was a more intimate group than when Mbewe was there and more interactive. We talked about the Gospel and missions with a man who has faithfully served in Thailand for the last six years! Jason Dawson (UrbanReformation) a mutual friend of Rich and myself was also there. Without my knowledge he sneaked this creepy photo of me with his phone. Makes me laugh! His picture of Rich did not turn out well at all.

November 13th was the FCC Men's breakfast. It is a time I will never forget. We skyped in a call with Ken Heizer, our missionary to Italy. I enjoyed hearing his simple missions strategy of pouring his life into relationships with the Italians and living out the Gospel with his large family before these lost people.

That same morning, we also heard from a Wycliffe recruiter. Pat (I forget his last name) shared with us of the great need for completing the work of Bible translation. 2,000 languages are yet to have the Word of God translated (not even a verse) in their own language.

This picture puts things into perspective. I was surprised to learn about the number of roles/positions available through Wycliff (not just Biblical translator/scholar). Education and literacy advancement also goes hand in hand with Bible translation, for example.

The last speaker at the Men's Breakfast is a living legend: Frank Drown. As the men mulled into the auditorium and formed lines to get our food, I wondered who the older man was who was sitting down. Turns out it was 88-yr-old Frank Drown who only a couple of days earlier emerged from the hospital with a brand new pacemaker! I will never forget the challenge he gave to the men there. First of all he was very funny. He told of how it took him and his pregnant wife five days of walking in the mud to get to the village where they served as missionaries. "How many of you guys could do that? Bunch of wimps!" He was so engaging and had the undivided attention of all. Often his voice would falter as if he was about to cry. He was so joyful to be holding up a translation of the Bible in the native language of the Indian people in Equador that he had ministered to for thirty years! Later he shared that had recovered and buried the bodies of his friends, those who lost their lives at the hands of the Waodani people (Ecuador) in 1956 . You can read more about this experience here. Frank shared how he just completed a book about this and will be available soon.

Here is Frank's wife Marie, holding the Quichua Bible open to John 3. She shared with me an unexpected insight about John 3:14 (this Bible features a picture of the serpent on the pole) and the significance that the snake had in that culture. It was cursed and therefore this people group would appreciate how Jesus became a curse for sinners when he was lifted up on the tree.

I called Aimee after we were dismissed and was so overwhelmed I could hardly get out the words! The message is simple but powerful: What am I doing to make Christ known among the nations?

I will close with one more guest speaker at our BSG at work. Dr. Jeremy Farmer just happened to be passing through Kansas City during our mission month. So he agreed to come and share with us. Jeremy was a seminary professor at Northland International, teaching Biblical languages and Old Testament. But God has called him to move his family across the world to reach the Loatians in Cambodia! Get to know the Farmers on their website, SolidJoys. He shared a similar message to the one I heard from him at Countryside a year and half ago. He traced the theme of the Gospel from Creation to Christ. Wonderful testament to the unity of the Scriptures and a great way to avoid the familiarity of Jesus command in 'The Great Commission' in Matthew 28:18-20.

Application:

So how do I make sense of all this? Just a couple of thoughts.

God has a big picture of redeeming this fallen world. The remedy for the curse, left by Adam in the garden is salvation in Jesus Christ. He is calling a people to Himself from every tribe and tongue (Revelation 5:9). What about me? What am I doing to fulfill the Great Commission? As a believer, we are called to either go or send.
Second, not everyone is called to go overseas. We are to be faithful in the sphere of influence where God has placed us. But we need to keep God's grand design in mind. His Kingdom involves not just the nation of Israel, and not just Christians in America, but the Nations! The nations in many ways are coming to us. Am I being faithful in the opportunities that He has given me, with my time, my money, my prayer life?

My wife and I have the privileged of being 'friendship partners' with two Chinese students from Park. ISI is a great way to partner in the Gospel by showing love to international students!

We attended a ceremony Friday night that featured performances from Mexico, Mongolia, China, Thailand, and many others. It also featured a Flag Ceremony where representatives from over 60 nations paraded their country's flags. We need not look far to find people from across the globe that are right here in Kansas City. We need to pray about how to show love to them, and how we can get involved in their lives to gain a hearing for the Gospel.

"Look, I tell you, lift up your eyes, and see that the fields are white for harvest." --John 4:35

The case of the stolen camera

2010-11-20T08:52:00.000-08:00

We recently found our lost digital camera. It was under Adriana's bed and was left on draining the batteries. The following seven pictures stored on it's SD card indicate who the perpetrator might have been.

Exhibit A - this is taken in our utility room. Note the height at which this was taken. Hard to imagine the one taking the picture is taller than two feet.

Exhibit B - Myles revealed this looked like his 'monster guy' (his 6-armed stuffed alien buddy)

Can you see the smile?

Exhibit C - this picture is not included because it is too gross. It is an inside view of kitty's bathroom

Exhibit D - not sure what this is but Myles pointed out some numbers in it.

Exhibit E & F - the most condemning evidence are these two pictures. No one else in the family has these little hands.

Exhibit G - hard to tell but you can see the carpet below through what appears to be fingers.

Can you tell who this mystery photographer is?

2010-11-20T02:59:00.001-08:00

I can now write a blog by texting from my phone! WHO KNEW? Problem being: Why would I ever WANT to do a thing like that?

The week in pictures

2010-11-11T17:56:00.000-08:00

Thought it was time to post some pictures of the eventful week.

We took a walk at the English Landing Park on Sunday. Gorgeous warm day in November! Aimee and Adriana joined us but elected not to appear in the pictures!

On Monday, Conrad Mbewe spoke at State Street for the Bible Study. His VISA situation working out was an answer to prayer, as was his stirring Christ-centered message from ... Ecclesiastes 1! Over a hundred employees in the US and Canada got to meet Conrad via video-conference.

Here he is chopping it up with Rich Casebolt about church-planting. Rich, having spent the last six years in Thailand, would later speak to the BSG on Thursday.

This week I received my John MacArthur ESV study Bible. If you are not on GTY's mailing list, you missed out! Sign up and you will get a monthly offer for a free CD or other resource. This generous ministry often gives copies of MacArthur's books!

Aimee started her once a week job at Mom's Day Out (daycare). Myles was excited to meet new friends and sport his new Spiderman lunchbox; pictured with his typical arsenal of gestures!

Not without it's challenges, the week also produced this new hairdo. While he came out acting as if nothing had happened we soon learned he had found the razor and played barber to the tune of a giant chunk out of his already short hair! Here is the mugshot.

Great week, though. A friend gave me the book Radical by David Platt and I can't wait to read it. Having heard some of the sermons it was based on, I look forward to reading this call to examine 'the American Dream' in light of Scripture and the radical demands of Christ.

Extra Biblical Literature on Halloween Candy

2010-11-03T12:55:00.000-07:00

Here are some recently discovered writings on the proper dividing of the spoils for Halloween candy (posted on this blog). Certainly not inspired, but quite humorous (compare to Leviticus)...

From the Book of Davidicus

3 Of the spoils of your wandering, you shall devote a tenth of the firstfruits to your father. But take heed that you devote what has chocolate, so that he shall be pleased with what he receives.

4 Of the Reese's®, you shall devote them all, likewise the Snickers®. But take heed, lest you try to test your father and give him Skittles® instead of M&Ms®, and thereby incur his disfavor.

5 Of the Pixi Stix®, and the Sweet Tarts®, and the Kandy Korn®, you shall give him no part, for they are an abomination unto him. But of the Nestle Crunch® and Krackel®, you shall give him a portion, as a peace offering.

6 Lest you grumble because of the nuts in the flesh of your spoils, you may offer the bars that contain them unto your father. Mr. Goodbar® is favored, as are the Peanut M&Ms®. Almond Joy® hath nuts, Mounds® don't.

7 You shall reserve the choicest fruits: the special darks, and the truffles, for an offering to your mother, who bore you, who brought you to life. And it is under her rule as to when you are able to eat the remainder.

8 And on the day of cleansing, the last day, all the bags shall be opened, and I shall say unto you, "How on earth did we get so many Tootsie Rolls®?" And all that remains will be cast into the bin.

9 And if any acceptable offerings are found that have been left to rot, or get that white crusty stuff on the chocolate, I shall say to you, "How is it that you have hidden this from my eyes, and have not even eaten it?" And your father shall not be pleased with you.

HT: Joel

Wish I had a GAP Shirt, and Other Thoughts on Prayer

2010-10-29T08:27:00.000-07:00

Not long ago, my wife and I met a lady (neighbor to some church friends). She wore a 'GAP shirt' with small print that read, "God Answers Prayer". I was amazed by the way she used the shirt as a conversation-starter, in order to witness for Christ! I wishI had that shirt right now, because I want to shout from the rooftops that my God answers prayer!

God has been teaching me to go to Him in prayer confidently (Heb 4:16) and expectantly. I see this both in His Word and in experience.

I have seen this in the Gospel of John, especially in Jesus words in chapters 14-16.

Whatever you ask in my name, this I will do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. (John 14:13)
If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. (John 15:7)
You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit and that your fruit should abide, so that whatever you ask the Father in my name, he may give it to you. (John 15:16)
In that day you will ask nothing of me. Truly, truly, I say to you, whatever you ask of the Father in my name, he will give it to you. Until now you have asked nothing in my name. Ask, and you will receive, that your joy may be full. (John 16:23-24)
In that day you will ask in my name, and I do not say to you that I will ask the Father on your behalf (John 16:26) (bold mine)

Then in the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus makes Himself perfectly clear:

Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives, and the one who seeks finds, and to the one who knocks it will be opened. Or which one of you, if his son asks him for bread, will give him a stone? Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a serpent? If you then, who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father who is in heaven give good things to those who ask him! (Matthew 7:7-11)

We should go to God in prayer persistently, like the persistent widow in Luke 18.

God answers prayer! I also have seen this in my life on many occasions.

Not much time to write despite the day off, but let me just share that I am finding this to be true in my own life recently. Just today I am seeing specific prayers answered! I must confess the sin of prayerlessness; far too often I have prefered a book on prayer to prayer with the Living God! But, He is gracious and His Holy Spirit faithful to convict me on this. It is amazing that when we are humbled and corrected, we can be brought back into fellowship with the God of the Universe, then He gives us the desires of our heart (Psalm 37:4)!

God answers prayer!

Of course, I am not implying that God is a cosmic genie at our beckon call, or that if your prayers are not answered we are somehow lacking in faith. But we should ask ourselves like Francis Chan asks in this message, 'Do you know God? Are you known by Him? Does He answer your prayers?'

We also need to make sure our prayers are directed to the One True God, the One revealed in the Scripture. Jesus said that no one comes to the Father except through Him (John 14:6). The One True God is not the Mormon god, or the god of Mohammed, or any other false god. He is the One who reveals Himself through Scripture. He is the One that answers my prayers! Wow, what a thought! A brother just shared this quote.

"The Alpha and Omega knows who you are and what you care about. That’s as famous as you’re ever going to be." -Jon Acuff

Finally, consider your motives. Are you praying selfishly? (James 4:1-8) Jesus says that we are to pray for the Father's name to be 'hallowed'(Matthew 6:9-15). That is, we are to pray for His name to be revered and lifted up as it is, three times holy! Are we praying for His will or are we just praying that we will find the nearest parking spot?

So start with God. Meditate on His majesty and holiness and Sovereignty. Then in humility ask for His will to be done in any given situation, and for Him to get glory for His Name! This morning I was brought low before the Triune God of the Scriptures. Within hours He powerfully answered my prayer! Will write more on the specifics of that request later, but just wanted to encourage the brethren to always go to Him and ask Him for your every need and for the needs of others, but mostly for His name to be exalted (Psalm 67)! It is inconsistent at best (blasphemous at worst) to claim the name of Christ, the one who created and sustains the Universe, and yet to disbelieve He will answer our prayers!

God Answers Prayer!

Francis Chan at the Desiring God 2010 Conference

2010-10-29T03:06:00.000-07:00

Christian, take some time to check out this sermon! Watch it on this blog or go to DesiringGod to watch/listen/read ...

I Run to Christ!

2010-10-14T20:25:00.000-07:00

Some friends and family members have requested prayer for ailing loved ones. Please let me encourage you to run to Christ! This hymn is awesome; may it remind you to keep your eyes focused on Christ, the Eternal Giver of Life!

click here to listen

I Run to Christ
Text by Chris Anderson; Tune by Greg Habegger

I run to Christ when chased by fear
And find a refuge sure.
“Believe in me,” His voice I hear;
His words and wounds secure.

I run to Christ when torn by grief
And find abundant peace.
“I too had tears,” He gently speaks;
Thus joy and sorrow meet.

_____

I run to Christ when worn by life
And find my soul refreshed.
“Come unto Me,” He calls through strife;
Fatigue gives way to rest.

I run to Christ when vexed by hell
And find a mighty arm.
“The Devil flees,” the Scriptures tell;
He roars, but cannot harm.

_____

I run to Christ when stalked by sin
And find a sure escape.
“Deliver me,” I cry to Him;
Temptation yields to grace.

I run to Christ when plagued by shame
And find my one defense.
“I bore God’s wrath,” He pleads my case—
My Advocate and Friend.

Great hymn! By the way, Chris shared how this hymn is getting attention among the leadership at Chuck Swindoll's church! You can find the words and music to I Run to Christ and other great hymns at ChurchWorksMedia.com.

Get radical

2010-09-22T03:04:00.000-07:00

Thief in the Night!

2010-09-16T19:21:00.000-07:00

Two things are for certain: 1) Jesus WILL return, and 2) this movie is quite entertaining!

My pastor mentioned this movie from the pulpit, pointing out its enormous influence on evangelicalism and the way we view Revelation. He also said you can see it online and check out the cheesy acting and 'far out' outfits! So when Aimee had Sophia for the evening and Adriana was doing homework, I did what any good dad would do with his 4-yr-old and watched a movie about the end of the world.

We enjoyed the drama and the comedy (and awful singing) and had lots of discussion about what our new resurrected bodies will be like (force fields Myles, really?) He was pretty bummed that he can't take his 'monster guy' stuffed pillow with him to Heaven!

No matter what your view on end times (Christians disagree on the details/timing/sequence of the Second Coming, but agree that He will indeed return!), this is a helpful movie because we all need to examine our life view of eternity and we're all called to respond to the call to forsake our sin and give our life to Christ. I love the blood transfusion analogy (in the movie a guy gets bitten by a cobra--check it out!)

My pastor doesn't teach 'pre-tribulation rapture' so I can't endorse that view, but still, this is a fun movie to see and actually has a pretty good Gospel message! If you can get past the horrible short-shorts worn by shirtless MEN, you will be fine!

Read the New Testament before year end! New Excel Tool

2010-09-04T05:44:00.001-07:00

Ever read through the New Testament? If not, or if it's been a while, ... it's now easier than ever! In fact, CCW has a reading plan that will take you through it in 90 days!

I thought it would be cool to put this 90-day plan in a spreadsheet (CLICK HERE) with the following features:

Input a start date and all dates auto-populate so you know what to read on what date
Check-boxes (for you 'box-checkers') so you know what passages you have read*.

Download this file (Microsoft Excel) today! If you get started by October 3rd you can have the New Testament read by the end of the year!

Soli Deo Gloria!

*Note: checked boxes are not meritorious toward salvation (i.e. Titus 3:5, Eph 2:8-9), however the Scripture is God's chosen instrument for revealing Himself to sinners (Rom 10:17) and causing growth in the believer (2 Tim 3:16)!

I am a hole-riddled, long sunk wooden boat ...

2010-08-28T05:32:00.000-07:00

Tony Felich is my brother-in-law's pastor at RPC. Great stuff!

If the sea represents the righteous, just, and holy standard of God, I am a hole-riddled, long sunk wooden boat on the bottom. I never could float on this perfect sea, I was never sturdy enough to stay atop the waves for even a moment. From the time I have existed there was no other possibility for me but to sink under the weight of the water with my countless holes and gashes. There was never time for any water to be scooped out before sinking, my structural devastation was just too far reaching and catastrophic. The speed and immediacy of the engulfing water never gave opportunity to devise a plan for escape. In my condition, self-rescue from the crashing, crushing weight of sea was impossible.

Click here to read the whole thing. You will be glad you did!

Video - The Gospel Song

2010-08-28T05:16:00.000-07:00

A friend shared this video on FB. It's amazing! Beautiful animations describing Christ's substitution for sinners.

HT: Jason

What is the Bible About?

2010-08-24T20:25:00.000-07:00

Great video featuring Tim Keller. Is the Bible a list of things God doesn't want us to do? I was stirred to worship Christ, who is written about in every page of the Bible.

HT: Erik

Free Mp3 CD from D.A. Carson - The God Who is There

2010-08-06T04:16:00.000-07:00

Now you can learn about God from the smartest man of our time! All you pay is shipping to get the entire seminar on Mp3 for FREE! The following is from Monergism's website, about the offer ...

Description: With the generous permission of The Gospel Coalition, Monergism Books is giving away for free this incredible seminar by Don Carson.

From The Gospel Coalition blog: On February 20-21 and 27-28, 2009, Don Carson presented a 14-part seminar entitled “The God Who Is There” at Bethlehem Baptist Church’s North Campus in Minneapolis. This series will serve the church well because it simultaneously evangelizes non-Christians and edifies Christians by explaining the Bible’s storyline in a non-reductionistic way.

The series is geared toward “seekers” and articulates Christianity in a way that causes hearers either to reject or embrace the gospel. It’s one thing to know the Bible’s storyline, but it’s another to know one’s role in God’s ongoing story of redemption. “The God Who Is There” engages people at the worldview-level.

Contents

1. The God Who Made Everything
2. The God Who Does Not Wipe Out Rebels
3. The God Who Writes His Own Agreements
4. The God Who Legislates
5. The God Who Reigns
6. The God Who Is Unfathomably Wise
7. The God Who Becomes a Human Being
8. The God Who Grants New Birth
9. The God Who Loves
10. The God Who Dies—and Lives Again
11. The God Who Declares the Guilty Just
12. The God Who Gathers and Transforms His People
13. The God Who Is Very Angry
14. The God Who Triumphs

About the Speaker
D. A. Carson (PhD, University of Cambridge) is research professor of New Testament at Trinity Evangelical Divinity School. He is the author or editor of more than forty books.

Click here to order!

Confession is not Propitiatory

2010-08-05T19:50:00.001-07:00

Huh? Some might wonder what that means! This is the title of an article a friend sent me today. It basically means that merely saying you are sorry (even repenting) for an offense against God does not make everything better; it does not satisfy the required justice.

Had a discussion in Bible Study today about this very thing. The topic of the study was how God is our Judge. He has every right to be our judge as the Creator and Sustainer of the Universe. Someone mentioned how He forgives and that He's not all about Law. This is true, but I feel like I failed to clearly communicate that the only basis for His forgiveness of rebellious enemies of God (Rom 5:10) like us, is the Blood of Christ. This article, sent in God's perfect timing, explains perfectly what I was trying to spit out! It answers a question we should all have, and that is, 'What do we do with all our guilt?' It includes a great Spurgeon quote and a beautiful Christian song. Please read! Confesion is not Propitiatory

HT: Ryan

If David Letterman had a Top 10 List for Worst Praise Songs Ever

2010-07-28T16:09:00.000-07:00

... or top 10 signs you're not in a healthy church...

HT: Stephen

Facinating facts about Spurgeon

2010-07-24T04:23:00.001-07:00

I bet you didn't know some of these facts about Charles H. Spurgeon. Below are a from this article by Eric W. Hayden, a former pastor of Metropoliton Tabernacle, where Spurgeon preached for 38 years:

Charles Haddon Spurgeon is history's most widely read preacher (apart from the biblical ones). Today, there is available more material written by Spurgeon than by any other Christian author, living or dead.

One woman was converted through reading a single page of one of Spurgeon's sermons wrapped around some butter she had bought.

Spurgeon read The Pilgrim's Progress at age 6 and went on to read it over 100 times.

The New Park Street Pulpit and The Metropolitan Tabernacle Pulpit—the collected sermons of Spurgeon during his ministry with that congregation—fill 63 volumes. The sermons' 20-25 million words are equivalent to the 27 volumes of the ninth edition of the Encyclopedia Britannica. The series stands as the largest set of books by a single author in the history of Christianity.

Praise the Lord for powerfully gifted men like Charles Spurgeon! Read the rest of the article (click here) to learn how many times Spurgeon preached before the age of 20 (hint: if you guessed 500, think higher!) ... and many other interesting facts.

HT:Ryan

Free audio of Joni Eareckson Tada/PRAY for her!

2010-07-20T20:07:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to share this offer to get a portion of Joni's new book on Pain and Suffering free!

Also, please continue to pray for Joni as as she is battling breast cancer and yet continuing her ministries. Remarkable lady!

Can you be a Christian and be free from persecution?

2010-07-15T04:00:00.000-07:00

A friend sent this video with the disclaimer: "This will jack you up." Indeed it did.

Three Scriptures come to mind.

Blessed are you when others revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account. Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you (Matthew 5:11)
Indeed, all who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted (2 Timothy 3:12)
Fear not, therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows. So everyone who acknowledges me before men, I also will acknowledge before my Father who is in heaven, but whoever denies me before men, I also will deny before my Father who is in heaven. (Matthew 10:31-33, cf Matthew 10:16-33)

Ask yourself what I'm asking myself right now. Am I willing to be persecuted for being a follower of Christ? If I'm not being persecuted now, why not? Sure, we live in America, but there are subtle forms of persecution that make us silent (i.e. the religion of 'tolerance'). Certainly we should not seek persecution, but what is hindering me from living a godly life in Christ Jesus which will ultimately lead to persecution? Should I not be more fearful of my Father in heaven than to be looked at sideways by someone who is offended by the Cross of Christ?

How important is the local church?

2010-07-14T15:00:00.000-07:00

Our culture doesn't put a high premium on the local church. Many people look at church as something you 'do' or 'go to' on Sundays. But if you read the New Testament the emphasis is much more pronounced. This article by David Doran clearly and powerfully demonstrates the Biblical necessity for a Christian to be plugged into a healthy local church.

In fact, he goes as far to say that service done in and through the local church is a believer's primary responsibility.

Although we live in a day that focuses almost exclusively on the believer’s personal relationship with God, we cannot forget that every genuine believer has been saved and placed into the Body of Christ. It may seem radical, but I would like to suggest that service to God in the local assembly is every believer’s primary obligation in life.

Parents, consider that you can't raise your children the way God intends apart from the local church (Eph 6:4). In fact, the good works we are called to do (Eph 2:10), our marriage, our parenting, careers, indeed all of the aspects of our life are to be reflections of the importance we place in the local church. Doran says this much better:

Marriage and family are temporal concerns that should not supplant our devotion to Christ (including our service for Him). God does not keep this planet spinning for the advancement of our careers, pursuit of our life goals, or the enjoyment of our families. The world continues on because the mission of Jesus Christ has not yet been fulfilled, and that means the mission should be our supreme concern. All of these other things are good gifts from the Lord for our enjoyment and a means by which we may glorify Him, but when they become the supreme concerns of our life they can become idolatries. (emphasis mine)

Please check out this short article. It is well written and clearly communicates Biblical truth.

Is Purgatory a Biblical Doctrine? Part 3

2010-07-14T04:05:00.000-07:00

Scripture Against Purgatory

Having defined Purgatory, and examined the Scriptures used by Roman Catholicism to justify a belief in Purgatory, we now turn to consider the Biblical evidence against it. There are primarily three arguments used by the Reformers to clearly demonstrate that purgatory is not only absent from Scripture, but is contradictory to it.

1) Only two soul-states are given in Scripture (Heaven/Hell)

Consider this quote: “The Bible always describes the state of the dead in terms of two conditions not three. The Bible knows of heaven and hell, the place of the righteous and of the wicked after death, bliss and torment, but of no third place. In the Lord's parable of the rich man and the beggar Lazarus in Luke 16, again the beggar is in paradise and the rich man in torment. This is the alternative. If there is a third it is astonishing that the Bible never says anything about it.”

There was a rich man who was dressed in purple and fine linen and lived in luxury every day. At his gate was laid a beggar named Lazarus, covered with sores and longing to eat what fell from the rich man's table. Even the dogs came and licked his sores.

The time came when the beggar died and the angels carried him to Abraham's side. The rich man also died and was buried. In hell, where he was in torment, he looked up and saw Abraham far away, with Lazarus by his side. So he called to him, 'Father Abraham, have pity on me and send Lazarus to dip the tip of his finger in water and cool my tongue, because I am in agony in this fire.'

But Abraham replied, 'Son, remember that in your lifetime you received your good things, while Lazarus received bad things, but now he is comforted here and you are in agony. And besides all this, between us and you a great chasm has been fixed, so that those who want to go from here to you cannot, nor can anyone cross over from there to us.'

"He answered, 'Then I beg you, father, send Lazarus to my father's house, for I have five brothers. Let him warn them, so that they will not also come to this place of torment.'

Abraham replied, 'They have Moses and the Prophets; let them listen to them.'

'No, father Abraham,' he said, 'but if someone from the dead goes to them, they will repent.'

He said to him, 'If they do not listen to Moses and the Prophets, they will not be convinced even if someone rises from the dead.' (Luke 16:19-31)

2) Death is described anticipated in glorious good news, not a passageway into suffering and torment.

Scripture clearly teaches that when the believer dies, they are in the immediate presence of Christ. “The apostle Paul said, ‘I am hard-pressed from both directions, having the desire to depart and be with Christ, for that is very much better’ (Philippians 1:23). Paul is saying that the very moment after physical death occurs, he will be with Christ. … Moreover, for believers ‘to be absent from the body’ is to be ‘at home with the Lord. (2 Cor 5:6-8) (Rhodes, p 239)”

“The Bible often openly and emphatically asserts the glorification of the Christian's soul at the moment of death. (Phil 1:23, 2 Tim 4:7,8; 1 Cor 15:55) Could Paul possibly have meant that Christ has removed the sting of death, but that death ushers the believer into perhaps centuries of suffering for his sin? (Rayburn)”

Consider also this line of reasoning by Ron Rhodes (p 237)

“Consider what Roman Catholics are saying in regard to the doctrine of purgatory. Let’s say you are a good-hearted Catholic, and you do all the things required of your Church throughout life. You regularly attend Mass, you work hard to maintain sanctifying grace in your soul by being faithful, and you confess your sins to a priest when you do wrong. You are always careful to participate in the sacrament of penance after committing what you think may be a mortal sin. … You do all this and more, in keeping with what your Church tells you. When you die, you will likely still have to go to purgatory before being granted entrance into heaven. Throughout someone’s lifetime he or she could attend over a thousand Masses and still die not fully purified from sin. Protestants respond that this hardly seems like the “good news” of the gospel (Ephesians 2:8,9).

So we have seen that the Scriptures describe two places in the afterlife, heaven and hell. We have seen that in the Bible, death for the believer is described as a glorious passageway into the presence of Jesus, not a portal to suffering. But most importantly, this belief that we can suffer to pay for our own sins in this life or in purgatory, is an affront to the Gospel of the blood of Christ, which is sufficient to cleanse us from our sin.

3) Purgatory is a rejection of the sufficiency of Christ’s complete and perfect work on the Cross for our sins.

From a scriptural perspective, when Jesus died on the cross He said, “It is finished” (John 19:30). Jesus completed the work of redemption at the cross. No purgatory is needed for those who trust in Christ. In His high priestly prayer to the Father, Jesus said, “I have brought you glory on earth by completing the work you gave me to do” (John 17:4 NIV, emphasis added). First John 1:7 (NIV) says, “The blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin” (emphasis added). Romans 8:1 (NIV) says, “Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus” (emphasis added).

We are cleansed not by some alleged fire of purgatory but by the blood of Jesus Christ (Hebrews 9:14). Jesus “Himself is the propitiation for our sins” (1 John 2:2). It is through Jesus’ work on the cross that we are made righteous (2 Corinthians 5:21). The apostle Paul spoke of this life as “not having a righteousness of my own derived from the Law, but that which is through faith in Christ, the righteousness which comes from God on the basis of faith” (Philippians 3:7-9). It is through this wonderful work of Christ on the cross that believers are “blameless,” and hence are in no need of some alleged purgatory (Jude 1:24; see also Ephesians 1:4).

Rhodes then points to a key verse to share with Roman Catholics who argue for purgatory.

For by a single offering he has perfected for all time those who are being sanctified. (Hebrews 10:14)

“In other words, no further purging is necessary because Christ has perfected ‘for all time’ those who have believed in Him. That which is already perfect ‘for all time’ needs no further purging. There is no need for purgatory for those who have truly trusted in Christ as Savior. (Rhodes, 239)”

Our sins are cleansed in the blood of Christ at the moment He died for us, absorbing the Father’s wrath on our behalf. As the Reformers point out, “The notion that we must satisfy for our sins by paying the price for them, enduring punishment for them, was an insult to the perfection of the redemption of Christ, of his sufferings for our sins, and assumed the fundamentally erroneous notion that we could pay for our sins -- even their temporal penalties -- if we had to.” Rayburn continues, “It is crucial to the entire biblical teaching of salvation and of Christ's redeeming work to understand that for the man or woman who is in Christ by faith, "there is, therefore, now no condemnation." As the author of Hebrews puts it in 1:3, "After he had provided purification for sins, he sat down at the Right Hand of the Majesty in heaven!" The work was finished. Or, as the same author has it later, "Since that time he waits for his enemies to be made his footstool, because by one sacrifice he has made perfect forever those who are being made holy." [Heb 10:13-14]

As the Scripture says it in a hundred different ways, we are healed by his stripes, not ours; the chastisement of our sin fell on him, not us. There is no sense in which the afflictions of believers, in this life, "pay" for their sins in the sense that they remove the guilt or penalty of those sins. They are only chastisements by which we are taught to love and fear God. They are discipline not satisfaction. They have no virtue to remove guilt or to remit penalty. Christ alone, the infinite and infinitely perfect sacrifice, can do that!

This is not just a doctrine where the Protestants disagree with Roman Catholics. It hits at the very center of the Gospel. As Sauer puts it, “purgatory must lead men away from God because it leads men away from the cross.”

We must put our complete and total trust in the Perfect Work of Jesus Christ on the cross, as the only basis for our entrance into Heaven. Purgatory does not exist. If it did, the Holy Spirit would have been sure to include it in the Scriptures.

We have seen how the few Scriptures that are used in support of purgatory do not hold up in light of Scripture as a whole. We have seen also, that there are many passages which contradict the concept of Purgatory (Romans 8:1, Hebrews 10:13-14, Hebrews 1:3). Finally, we have seen that the idea of Scripture denies the sufficiency of the Perfect, once for all cleansing from sin that Christ’s death on the Cross brings to the believer. Please listen to this plea by Joe Mizzi.

Perhaps up till now you have hoped to go to a place of suffering to undergo cleansing from sin. The opportunity to experience purification and complete forgiveness is now, while you are still living. God is compassionate and He really forgives and cancels the debt of all those who turn to Him by faith. Look to Jesus the Deliverer, whose death on Calvary is a full and adequate payment for the sins of His people. His blood was not shed in vain; it actually purifies the soul from all defilement. Do you believe in purgatory? I hope you will affirm, 'Yes, I believe in God's purgatory. My purgatory is the Lord Jesus Christ!"

I close with the words of the great hymn, Jesus Paid it All:

I hear the Savior say,
“Thy strength indeed is small;
Child of weakness, watch and pray,
Find in Me thine all in all.”

Jesus paid it all,
All to Him I owe;
Sin had left a crimson stain,
He washed it white as snow.

For nothing good have I
Whereby Thy grace to claim,
I’ll wash my garments white
In the blood of Calv’ry’s Lamb.

And now complete in Him
My robe His righteousness,
Close sheltered ’neath His side,
I am divinely blest.

Lord, now indeed I find
Thy power and Thine alone,
Can change the leper’s spots
And melt the heart of stone.

When from my dying bed
My ransomed soul shall rise,
“Jesus died my soul to save,”
Shall rend the vaulted skies.

And when before the throne
I stand in Him complete,
I’ll lay my trophies down
All down at Jesus’ feet.

“Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be white as snow.” Isaiah 1:18

“There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. (Romans 8:1)”

Sources
-Rev. Dr. Robert S. Rayburn, Roman Catholicism: Purgatory (Sermon preached at Faith Presbyterian Church (PCA) on March 15, 1998
-Dr Joe Mizzi; Purgatory http://www.justforcatholics.org/00.11.pdf

What is this 'little faith' business?

2010-07-13T04:55:00.000-07:00

The good doctor sets us straight on what Christ means in Matthew 6:30 by 'O you of little faith'. Man, this was helpful to me:

What then is this condition which is described by our Lord as being 'little faith'? ... We can say ... in general that it is one which is confined to one sphere of life only. It is faith that is confined solely to the question of the salvation of our souls, and it does not go beyond that. It does not extend to the whole of life and to everything in life. This is a common complaint among us as Christian people. On the question of the salvation of our souls we are perfectly clear ... We have seen ... that the only way of deliverance is in the Lord Jesus Christ ... And we believe on Him, and have that saving faith with regard to the present and to all eternity. That is saving faith, the thing that makes us Christians, and without which we are not Christian at all. Yes; but Christian people often stop at that, and they seem to think that faith is something that applies only to that question of salvation. The result is, of course, that in their daily lives they are often defeated; in their ordinary lives there is very little difference to be seen between them and people who are not Christian. They become worried and anxious, and they conform to the world in so many respects. Their faith is something that is reserved only for their ultimate salvation, and they do not seem to have any faith with regard to the everyday affairs of life and living in this world. Our Lord is concerned about that very thing. These people have come to know God as their heavenly Father, and yet they are worried about food and drink and clothing. Their faith is confined; it is a little faith in that way; its scope is so curtailed and
limited.

Studies in the Sermon on the Mount, ii, p. 127

On a side note, I am thrilled to have found MLJ's Sermon on the Mount at a Book Sale over the weekend at our church. What a blessing! An 'antique-roadshow-esque' bargain at $2! I don't expect to sell it at auction, but the spiritual treasure is incalculable!

Is Purgatory a Biblical Doctrine? Part 2

2010-07-13T04:00:00.000-07:00

Today we consider our look at the Roman Catholic (RC) doctrine of Purgatory, and whether it is a Scriptural concept. We will consider a few of the main texts used to establish the text as Scriptural.

Matthew 12:31-32

Therefore I tell you, every sin and blasphemy will be forgiven people, but the blasphemy against the Spirit will not be forgiven. And whoever speaks a word against the Son of Man will be forgiven, but whoever speaks against the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven, either in this age or in the age to come. (Matthew 12:31-32 ESV, emphasis mine)

The Catholic Church focuses in on this last phrase, “either in this age or in the age to come” as evidence for the case for purgatory. “Roman Catholics sometimes reason that if certain sins like blasphemy against the Holy Spirit cannot be forgiven in the 'age to come,' then other sins may be forgiven in the 'age to come.' The Catechism of the Catholic Church tells us:

As for certain lesser faults, we must believe that, before the Final Judgment, there is a purifying fire. He who is truth says that whoever utters blasphemy against the Holy Spirit will be pardoned neither in this age nor in the age to come. From this sentence we understand that certain offenses can be forgiven in this age, but certain others in the age to come. (Rhodes, 247-8)"

I was happy to hear this verse came up in our discussion, because there is a rather simple response. Rhodes summarizes:

When this text says that the sin against the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven in this age or the age to come, this is simply a Jewish idiomatic way of saying that the sin will never be forgiven. This becomes clear in the parallel account in Mark 3:29: “But whoever blasphemes against the Holy Spirit never has forgiveness, but is guilty of an eternal sin” (emphasis added). Hence, there is no support for the Roman Catholic doctrine of purgatory to be found in these verses. (Rhodes, 248)

James White adds, “Jesus is not, then, referring to the possibility of cleansing in the future, but is instead speaking of an "eternal sin," one that has no forgiveness whatsoever. If the Roman interpretation of Matthew 12 is valid, *then Mark's rendition is not.* Obviously, this cannot be, hence, it is the Roman interpretation that must be rejected. (White, Online Debate).”

Luke 12:59

I tell you, you will never get out until you have paid the very last penny.

This same concept is also found in the parallel passage in Matthew 5:26. “Some Roman Catholic theologians such as Ludwig Ott believe this parable lends support to the doctrine of purgatory, teaching a “time-limited condition of punishment in the other world.”

Rhodes’ response is given here (p 249-50): “The Roman Catholic interpretation is completely foreign to the context. That Jesus is referring to a physical prison during earthly life and not a spiritual prison in the afterlife is clear from the previous verse: “Make friends quickly with your opponent at law while you are with him on the way, in order that your opponent may not deliver you to the judge, and the judge to the officer, and you be thrown into prison” (Matthew 5:25) Jesus is simply giving a practical teaching about reconciliation of human conflicts and the avoidance of situations that naturally lead to anger and personal injury (see Matthew 5:21-26).”

So this passage is referring to a physical prison, not a spiritual one after death. Not only that, but the idea of a prison-like purgatory, Rhodes points out, is contrary to the clear teaching of Scripture that Christ on the cross paid for all the consequences of our sins. We will see many passages in the next section.

For now, let us look at the next verse used in support of the RC idea of purgatory.

Revelation 21:27

But nothing unclean will ever enter it, nor anyone who does what is detestable or false, but only those who are written in the Lamb's book of life.

RCs interpret this as supporting the doctrine of purgatory, for “only completely pure souls [can] be assumed into Heaven (Apoc. 21:27).” (Rhodes, 252)

We see again that purgatory is being read into the passage when it is not there. “It is true that “nothing unclean and no one who practices abomination and lying, shall ever come into” God’s kingdom, but that does not thereby mean that purgatory is the instrument through which people become purged of uncleanness. … our cleansing and purging from sin is based entirely on the finished work of Christ (1 John 1:7, Rom 8:1). (Rhodes, p 252)

1 Cor 3:10-15

According to the grace of God given to me, like a skilled master builder I laid a foundation, and someone else is building upon it. Let each one take care how he builds upon it. For no one can lay a foundation other than that which is laid, which is Jesus Christ. Now if anyone builds on the foundation with gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, straw— each one's work will become manifest, for the Day will disclose it, because it will be revealed by fire, and the fire will test what sort of work each one has done. If the work that anyone has built on the foundation survives, he will receive a reward. If anyone's work is burned up, he will suffer loss, though he himself will be saved, but only as through fire.

Ludwig Ott tells us that the Latin fathers took 1 Corinthians 3:15 “To mean a transient purification punishment in the other world” Vatican II described purgatory as a place where the souls of the dead make expiation “in the next life through fire and torments or purifying punishments.” The Catechism of the Catholic Church describes purgatory as a place of “cleansing fire.” (Rhodes, 244)

James White offers this excellent resource on the passage we’re now considering. In it, he gives a thorough exegesis of the passage. Then he gives several reasons why it cannot be used in support of purgatory. Finally, he responds to the misuse of the passage by many leading RC apologists, especially Robert Sungenis. Here is the section listing the arguments against purgatory in 1 Corinthians 3.

First, the passage is about Christian workers, not all the Christian faithful.

Next, the passage says nothing about the purification of individuals. Works are tested in this passage. Rome teaches souls are purified from the temporal punishment of sins by suffering satispassio in purgatory: but there is nothing about temporal punishments, satispassio, or suffering of individuals for their sins, in this passage. All these are extraneous to the text itself.

Further, the insertion of the Roman concepts into the passage turns it on its head. Remember, those with works of gold, silver, and precious stones (i.e., Christian workers who had godly motivations) appear in this passage: their works are subject to the same testing as the others. If this “fire” is relevant to purgatory, then are we to assume that even those with godly motives “suffer”? Are there no saints involved in building upon the foundation?

But most telling is this: the fire of which Paul speaks reveals. It does not purge. If this were the fire of Rome's purgatory, it would not simply demonstrate that gold is, in fact, gold, or hay is truly hay. The sufferings of purgatory are supposed to sanctify and change a person’s soul, enabling them to enter into the very presence of God! If this passage supported Rome's position, it would speak of purifying the gold, making it more pure, spotless, precious, and ready for God's presence. It would speak of the fire removing wood or other "impurities" from a person's soul, not simply telling us that the works a Christian minister did were or were not done with God's sole glory in mind. But the text speaks of a revelation of the quality of a man's work, which is wholly incompatible with Rome's use of the passage.

Modern Roman Catholics have started to move away from the term “fire” (though this was, inarguably, what attracted the attention of Rome to the passage in the first place), and seek to focus more upon the suffering of a loss, so that only the second group is seen as being relevant to purgatory. Of course, this is made possible by the constant repetition of the assertion, “Rome has never officially declared the meaning of this passage, nor that there is fire in purgatory, nor that purgatory is a place, nor that we experience time in purgatory...” etc and etc. The fact that one can go into history and determine with great clarity what was taught and believed only a few centuries ago does not seem to matter.

Finally, it should be noted that in Roman Catholic theology, a person sent to purgatory has already been judged to be in need of further purging (sanctification) before entering into the presence of God. Yet, there is no mention of such a judgment here; in fact, most RC interpretations see this as the judgment itself. (White, 1Cor3)

There are several other obscure passages (i.e. 2 Tim 1:18, Col 1:24) used in defense of purgatory, however most are again ‘read into’ the passage as we have seen, so no space will be given for them here. We will instead turn to the passages which contradict the idea of suffering in a transitional state so that a ‘saved’ child of God can be purged of sin before being accepted into Heaven.

Tomorrow we will turn the to the Scriptures which contradict the idea of Purgatory.

Sources
-White, James; An online debate http://vintage.aomin.org/ChanDeb1.html
-White, James; 1 Cor 3:10-15: Exegesis and Rebuttal of Roman Catholic Misuse http://vintage.aomin.org/1Cor3.html

Is Purgatory a Biblical Doctrine? Part 1

2010-07-12T04:00:00.000-07:00

I have several Catholic friends. They’re good peeps. In fact, I’ve never met a truly devout Catholic who was not sincere and zealous for good works, to my own shame. I share many beliefs with my Catholic friends; things I get excited about like the deity of Jesus Christ, the Trinity, and a belief in the bodily return of Christ and the Resurrection to name a few.

I owe this post to a Catholic friend, who agreed to meet and consider some doctrines of Catholicism in light of Scripture. We begin this journey to simply answer the question, “What do the Scriptures say?”

I don’t remember why ‘purgatory’ was the first topic chosen but it is, to me, a good start because a) I feel purgatory is a doctrine grossly lacking in Scriptural evidence, and b) it clearly demonstrates the divide between Roman Catholic (RC) teaching and the Gospel of faith alone.

Introduction/Roman Catholic position on Purgatory

To begin, let us describe what we mean by Purgatory. According to RC teaching:

Purgatory may be defined as “a place or state in which are detained the souls of those who die in grace, in friendship with God, but with the blemish of venial sin or with temporal debt for sin unpaid. Here the soul is purged, cleansed, readied for eternal union with God in Heaven.” The Catechism of the Catholic Church tells us that “all who die in God’s grace and friendship, but still imperfectly purified, are indeed assured of their eternal salvation; but after death they undergo purification, so as to achieve the holiness necessary to enter the joy of heaven.” The Roman Catholic teaching on purgatory was pronounced as Church dogma in A.D. 1438. (Rhodes, 233)

So to summarize, purgatory is a temporary hell for “saved” Christians who die while they still have not worked off the ‘temporal punishment’ for sins committed after baptism, so that one can enter heaven (sins can be forgiven through penance but still require temporal punishment). My friend told me that ‘very righteous’ people can forgo purgatory; people like saints. Purgatory brings my friend comfort because if she were to die before she had a chance to go to confession for a given mortal sin, this offers hope that she can pay for this sin through purgatory and not be eternally lost. I see no hope in suffering centuries of suffering in hell after the many pains and suffering here on earth. Even worse, this is a denial of the sufficiency of the Cross of Christ, (more on that later).

First, let us consider the Scripture used by the RC church to defend this doctrine. Then we will look at Scriptures that contradict the view.

Scripture in support of Purgatory

There is no clear Scripture supporting the view of Purgatory. Catholic apologists lean to tradition, not Scripture, in defense of the concept of purgatory, because Biblical evidence is lacking. Consider the Catholic Encyclopedia:

"In the final analysis the Catholic doctrine of purgatory is based on tradition not Sacred Scripture." (Sauer)

As Dr Rayburn, who preached a sermon on purgatory at Faith Presbyterian Church (PCA) on March 15, 1998 adds:

Roman Catholic writers have tried to argue for purgatory from a few biblical texts, but those arguments are contrived and even they put little weight on them. The fact is, the entire doctrine is without biblical warrant. When Jesus taught his disciples to pray and what to pray for, he mentioned nothing about prayer for the dead. He said nothing, nor did the prophets and apostles about purgatory, about indulgences, or about the church's authority to remit punishments being suffered by the righteous dead in purgatory. All of this is completely lacking from the Bible and that, surely, is important. For these are not small matters to have been omitted from Holy Scripture. (Rayburn)

Nevertheless, tomorrow we will examine some of the main texts used in favor of a view of purgatory: Matthew 12:31-32, Luke 12:59, Revelation 21:27, and 1 Cor 3:10-15. Go to these passages and look them up along with their contexts. See if you ‘see’ purgatory in them. We will examine them in detail tomorrow.

Below are some of the sources I will use in putting this argument together. Disclaimer: I don't claim this as a scholarly work. I only have one book on the topic besides the Bible, though I have found some helpful sources online (sources below). I trust this look at the Scripture will be profitable nonetheless.

Sources:
-Rev. Dr. Robert S. Rayburn, Roman Catholicism: Purgatory (Sermon preached at Faith Presbyterian Church (PCA) on March 15, 1998
-Rhodes, Ron; Reasoning from the Scriptures with Catholics
-Sauer, James; Purging a Problem

Is America God's Chosen Covenant Nation?

2010-07-10T06:22:00.000-07:00

Nothing very profound this morning. Was just reading Jeremiah and thinking about how many people look at America as God's chosen covenant nation and apply many of the passages meant for Israel to the United States (i.e. 2 Chron 7:14).

These lines are to me striking. If God judged His own covenant people of Israel, how much more will He severely judge America, that has so much sin!

“How can I pardon you?
Your children have forsaken me
and have sworn by those who are no gods.
When I fed them to the full,
they committed adultery
and trooped to the houses of whores.
8 They were well-fed, lusty stallions,
each neighing for his neighbor's wife.
9 Shall I not punish them for these things?
declares the Lord;
and shall I not avenge myself
on a nation such as this?
Jeremiah 5:7-9

They do not say in their hearts,
‘Let us fear the Lord our God,
who gives the rain in its season,
the autumn rain and the spring rain,
and keeps for us
the weeks appointed for the harvest.’
25 Your iniquities have turned these away,
and your sins have kept good from you.
26 For wicked men are found among my people;
they lurk like fowlers lying in wait.
They set a trap;
they catch men.
27 Like a cage full of birds,
their houses are full of deceit;
therefore they have become great and rich;
28 they have grown fat and sleek.
They know no bounds in deeds of evil;
they judge not with justice
the cause of the fatherless, to make it prosper,
and they do not defend the rights of the needy.
29 Shall I not punish them for these things?
declares the Lord,
and shall I not avenge myself
on a nation such as this?”
Jer 5:24-29

America is not God's covenant people. Certainly there are a few that He has chosen out of Her, but we cannot expect the blessing of God because some of our founders were God fearing men (though many were deists and Universalists). Tim Juhnke preached a helpful message on this topic, and John MacArthur of course has written 'Can God Bless America?'

The point of this is that we should not set our hope in America, but in Christ who alone can save us from the thing that is most fearful: the wrath of God against sin. God's chosen nation is His church (1 Peter 2:9).

Download A.W. Tozer's The Pursuit of God audiobook for free!

2010-07-05T05:49:00.000-07:00

I am downloading the audiobook of A.W. Tozer's Pursuing God, free in July from ChristianAudio. Click here for details. If you want to skim the book before downloading, you can read it online here.

Here is a quote to spark your interest:

How tragic that we in this dark day have had our seeking done for us by our teachers. Everything is made to center upon the initial act of 'accepting' Christ . . . and we are not expected thereafter to crave any further revelation of God to our souls. We have been snared in the coils of a spurious logic which insists that if we have found Him, we need no more seek Him. This is set before us as the last word in orthodoxy, and it is taken for granted that no Bible-taught Christian ever believed otherwise. Thus the whole testimony of the worshiping, seeking, singing church on that subject is crisply set aside. The experiential heart-theology of a grand army of fragrant saints is rejected in favor of a smug interpretation of Scripture which would certainly have sounded strange to an Augustine, a Rutherford or a Brainerd. (pp. 16-17)

I have heard Tozer quoted countless times so I look forward to hearing this classic.

Completely Done song by Sovereign Grace

2010-07-02T04:50:00.000-07:00

he predestined us for adoption as sons through Jesus Christ, according to the purpose of his will,
(Ephesians 1:5 ESV)

I'm working on a post about the Roman Catholic doctrine of purgatory; hope to post here soon. In the meantime here is a song that has taken on increasing significance as I have studied Scripture that tells of the perfect, once for all, complete sacrifice of Christ. One that does not not require our effort in purging ourselves of sin in this life or in an intermediate state of torment after death.

Enjoy the video here complete with lyrics, which I will also post below. If that is not enough, Sovereign Grace makes the song available for a free download here.

What reason have I to doubt
Why would I dwell in fear
When all I have known is grace
My future in Christ is clear

My sins have been paid in full
There’s no condemnation here
I live in the good of this
My Father has brought me near
I’m leaving my fears behind me now

Chorus
The old is gone, the new has come
What You complete is completely done
We’re heirs with Christ, the victory won
What You complete is completely done

I don’t know what lies ahead
What if I fail again
You are my confidence
You’ll keep me to the end
I’m leaving my fears behind me now
from Sovereign Grace Worship

Humanist Religion and the Origin of Life

2010-06-26T06:22:00.000-07:00

This entire article is great, but please consider MacArthur's words here:

When I encounter people who think evolutionary doctrine trumps the biblical account of creation, I like to ask them where their belief in the Bible kicks in. Is it in chapter 3, where the fall of Adam and original sin are accounted for? In chapters 4-5, where early human history is chronicled? In chapters 6-8, with the record of the flood? In chapter 11, with the Tower of Babel? Because if you bring naturalism and its presuppositions to the early chapters of Genesis, it is just a short step to denying all the miracles of Scripture—including the resurrection of Christ. If we want to make science the test of biblical truth rather than vice versa, why would it not make just as much sense to question the biblical record of the resurrection as it does to reject the Genesis account? But "if Christ is not risen, your faith is futile; you are still in your sins! . . . If in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are of all men the most pitiable" (1 Corinthians 15:17-19).

God provides salvation

2010-06-21T04:41:00.001-07:00

This morning, I am once again amazed at the unity of Scripture: God has provided a way of salvation to a people He has chosen in His mercy and grace. We all are guilty of His divine wrath, which will one day be poured out in a terrible display of cosmos-shaking destruction. But the passages I am looking at this morning shout the glorious praises of the One who provides shelter from His wrath.

King David, who lived one thousand years before Christ, looked forward to the Gate of Righteousness:

Open to me the gates of righteousness,
that I may enter through them
and give thanks to the Lord.
20 This is the gate of the Lord;
the righteous shall enter through it.
21 I thank you that you have answered me
and have become my salvation.
22 The stone that the builders rejected
has become the cornerstone.
23 This is the Lord's doing;
it is marvelous in our eyes.
24 This is the day that the Lord has made;
let us rejoice and be glad in it. (Psalm 118:19-24)

How would a holy and just God overlook our sin and forgive us while still remaining just and righteous? Three centuries later, the prophet Isaiah looked forward to the Suffering Servant, who would be crushed on our behalf.

Behold, my servant shall act wisely;
he shall be high and lifted up,
and shall be exalted.
14 As many were astonished at you—
his appearance was so marred, beyond human semblance,
and his form beyond that of the children of mankind—
15 so shall he sprinkle many nations;
kings shall shut their mouths because of him;
for that which has not been told them they see,
and that which they have not heard they understand.
53:1 Who has believed what he has heard from us?
And to whom has the arm of the Lord been revealed?
2 For he grew up before him like a young plant,
and like a root out of dry ground;
he had no form or majesty that we should look at him,
and no beauty that we should desire him.
3 He was despised and rejected by men;
a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief;
and as one from whom men hide their faces
he was despised, and we esteemed him not.

4 Surely he has borne our griefs
and carried our sorrows;
yet we esteemed him stricken,
smitten by God, and afflicted.
5 But he was wounded for our transgressions;
he was crushed for our iniquities;
upon him was the chastisement that brought us peace,
and with his stripes we are healed.
6 All we like sheep have gone astray;
we have turned—every one—to his own way;
and the Lord has laid on him
the iniquity of us all.

7 He was oppressed, and he was afflicted,
yet he opened not his mouth;
like a lamb that is led to the slaughter,
and like a sheep that before its shearers is silent,
so he opened not his mouth.
8 By oppression and judgment he was taken away;
and as for his generation, who considered
that he was cut off out of the land of the living,
stricken for the transgression of my people?
9 And they made his grave with the wicked
and with a rich man in his death,
although he had done no violence,
and there was no deceit in his mouth.

10 Yet it was the will of the Lord to crush him;
he has put him to grief;
when his soul makes an offering for guilt,
he shall see his offspring; he shall prolong his days;
the will of the Lord shall prosper in his hand.
11 Out of the anguish of his soul he shall see and be satisfied;
by his knowledge shall the righteous one, my servant,
make many to be accounted righteous,
and he shall bear their iniquities.
12 Therefore I will divide him a portion with the many,
and he shall divide the spoil with the strong,
because he poured out his soul to death
and was numbered with the transgressors;
yet he bore the sin of many,
and makes intercession for the transgressors.
Isa 52:13-53:12

So when David said, "Open to me the gates of righteousness, ... This is the gate of the Lord" he was referring to Jesus Christ, who said of Himself:

I am the door. If anyone enters by me, he will be saved and will go in and out and find pasture. I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. (John 10:9, 14:6)

Another passage I read was in the very last book of the Bible, Revelation 22:14:

Blessed are those who wash their robes, so that they may have the right to the tree of life and that they may enter the city by the gates.

How are these robes washed? Pulling ourselves up by our bootstraps? Self-improvement? Impossible.

Can the Ethiopian change his skin or the leopard his spots? Then also you can do good who are accustomed to do evil. (Jeremiah 13:23)

All of us have become like one who is unclean, and all our righteous acts are like filthy rags; we all shrivel up like a leaf, and like the wind our sins sweep us away. (Isaiah 64:6)

We are cleansed only by the blood of the Lamb, who was slain! As the opening verses of Revelation proclaim, "To him who loves us and has freed us from our sins by his blood. (Rev 1:5)

Finally, the first chapter of Matthew announces His coming to Joseph, and the angel instructs him:

"You shall call his name Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins. (Matthew 1:21)”

As we heard about in a sobering 'Father's Day Message' the Universe will one day be utterly destroyed (not by global warming or a nuclear holocaust). In an absolute dissolution, de-creation, the cosmos will shake as the Day of the Lord comes crashing out of Heaven. Read Matthew 24:29-31 and Revelation 6:12-17.

Do you know the One who alone can protect against this day of Judgment? Repent and believe the Gospel!

Happy Father's Day Dad!

2010-06-20T05:47:00.000-07:00

I am not naïve enough to overlook how ‘lucky’ I was growing up. We had both mom and dad at home, they loved each other, and there was no alcoholism or drug abuse. But not just that, there was genuine love and a stable environment. Sure, we had our problems as everyone does. But I thought I would just take a minute and express my gratefulness for my father. It’s Father’s Day after all, and the Bible commands us to ‘honor our father and mother’ (Eph 6:2). So allow me to introduce my father.

Gene Bonham, Jr spent most of his career in Criminal Justice, starting out as a parole officer and administrator of a corrections program before taking his knowledge to academia. He is now a grad-school professor at the University of Central Missouri holding a Ph.D.

Very cool! (by the way, I always thought he looks a little like D.A. Carson. How cool would it be to get those two brains together to talk about the meaning of life!) But I digress ...

My Dad put up with a lot from us boys growing up. I was definitely the most argumentative and self-centered of the four boys and I am blown away when I look aback at his patience with us, especially me. He demonstrated wisdom in knowing how to pick battles with us boys and with Mom. He exercised restraint and showed humility in not having to ‘win’ every argument.

Dad taught the importance of education and study, by example. He could often be found marking up a thick book on this or that. I am grateful for the rather ‘nerdy’ qualities he passed on. I still can remember the day I finally beat him in chess! Sure, we threw the baseball around at times but I owe my love of books to Dad.

The way Dad treats his wife is especially commendable. He simply will not tolerate her to be disrespected and has shown us boys that he will come after us when we fall short of that respect!

There are a lot of other things I can talk about, but I never quite learned from Dad’s aversion to procrastination! Need to run help get those kids to church!

Dad, I am glad you are my dad and I truly love you. I wasn’t 'lucky' to have been born into your family, it was exactly the way God designed it. I am grateful He did not leave it to chance! In fact, even if it wasn’t predestined, I would still choose you 999 times out of 1,000 (just once I would choose a family where the gene pool allowed for a 40-inch vertical!)

A tour of RC Sproul's office

2010-06-18T10:32:00.000-07:00

This is very cool to see. RC Sproul is a hero of mine. Cardinals fans might even note the appearance of a St Louis cardinals hat signed by the famous ... sorry, his name eludes me. You will have to watch and see for yourself.

R.C. Sproul - Study Tour from Together for the Gospel (T4G) on Vimeo.

Happy 13th Birthday Adriana!

2010-06-14T23:13:00.000-07:00

Adriana turns 13 today from Mike Bonham on Vimeo.

Were we created sinners?

2010-06-13T03:41:00.000-07:00

Dr Joe Mizzi answers this question:

Question: If God so loved the world why did he create us imperfect sinners? If you believe the story in the Garden of Eden, then you have to admit that God set us up for failure. What kind of loving God would do such a thing? What kind of God would stand by and allow something like the holocaust to occur? The fact is that whether or not there is or is not a God, it doesn't really matter.

Answer: The Bible does not teach that God created man imperfect or sinful. As a matter of fact, the Bible clearly teaches than man was originally created good and upright. "Truly, this only I have found: that God made man upright, but they have sought out many schemes" (Ecclesiastes 7:29). “God created man in His own image...then God saw everything that He had made, and indeed it was very good” (Genesis 1:27, 31).

Something happened after creation that ruined the image of God in us. Like God, we were created holy and righteous; but that image was defaced by sin. Man voluntarily chose to disobey God, even though he had been warned about the terrible consequences that would follow. The first man, Adam, sinned. He could choose to obey and disobey. He freely chose to disobey the Creator. It is his fault, not God’s.

Moreover, since Adam is our head and father, he is the representative of all the human family. “Therefore, just as through one man sin entered the world, and death through sin, and thus death spread to all men, because all sinned” (Romans 5:12). We repeated and ratified his sinful choice a million times. We have no-one to blame but ourselves.

The diseases, trouble, decay, the holocaust and death are the consequence of our sin. It is our responsibility, and we deserve worse than that. Indeed, unless God is merciful to his rebellious creatures, we will all perish in Hell forever.

What kind of God would stand by and allow something like the holocaust to occur? The same God who stood by His beloved Son while he cried out, "My God, My God, why have thou forsaken me!" God did that for the love of sinners who would believe in Him; God gave His Son to liberate His enemies from the debt and penalty of their sins, which were transferred to Jesus on the cross. God loved the world that much!

Is God irrelevant in the face of the cruelties and injustices in our world? This thought is as foolish as it is arrogant. On the contrary, the existence of an all-powerful and just God is the sure guarantee that one day justice will prevail, just as He promised. Moreover, God is the hope of redemption from personal guilt and the miseries of this world and the world to come, to them who, instead of accusing God, admit their sinfulness, repent and trust His beloved Son.

From Just For Catholics

Dr Joe's website, Just for Catholics, is intended for his Catholic friends. He lives and ministers in Malta, which is 98% Catholic. The website, Just for Catholics, is full of helpful information to help someone compare the Scriptures with the teachings of the Roman Catholic church. Search the Doctrine section to see how the teachings about salvation by works, Mary, the Pope, etc line up with the Bible.

The Lord will Provide

2010-06-11T04:00:00.000-07:00

The Lord will Provide (Hebrew: Yahweh-Jireh)
This name was ascribed to God by the patriarch Abraham in Genesis 22:14. In obedience to God’s command, Abraham placed his son Isaac on the altar as a sacrifice. Before Abraham could strike his son, God detained him and provided a ram in his place. The redemption that God provided that day on Mount Moriah motivated Abraham to call the place Yahweh-Jireh. Although it is true that God is powerful and faithful to supply all our needs, the name Yahweh-Jireh is not a promise of economic prosperity, but a promise of redemption from sin. We should die for our sins (Romans 6:23), but Yahweh-Jireh has provided a sacrifice in our place – His only begotten and beloved Son. He is the Lamb that takes away the sin of the world (John 1:29). It is near blasphemy to emphasize economic prosperity over redemption. Jesus did not shed His blood for our monetary gain, but for the salvation of our souls – the redemption of the soul is costly (Psalm 49:8).
From The One True God by Paul Washer

How strong is your faith?

2010-06-10T04:05:00.000-07:00

A friend gave me a copy of Justification and Regeneration by Charles Leiter, and it is living up to the frequent recommendations. Here is a very helpful section on how justification is based on the blood of Jesus.

There is nothing in man that causes God to justify him, including his repentance and faith. Repentance does not pay for sin. A criminal's remorse for his crimes adoes not satisfy the just demands of the law. Neither does faith pay for sin! Only the blood of Jesus can pay for sin! Justification is based on the blood of Christ.

Could my zeal no respite know,
Could my tears forever flow,
All for sin could not atone;
Thou must save and Thou alone.
Augustus Toplady

This explains why a person can have a very weak faith and still be justified. Imagine two bridges crossing a chasm: One is very weak and untrustworthy; the other is very strong. A man may have a very strong faith in the weak bridge and confidently step out onto it. His strong faith will not keep him from plunging to his death. On the other hand, a man may have a very weak faith in the strong bridge and only barely manage with fear and trembling to venture forth upon it. The bridge will hold him securely, regardless of his weak faith. All that is necessary is for him to have enough faith to get him onto the bridge! When someone told Hudson Taylor that he must be a man of great faith, he replied, "No, I am a man of very little faith in a very great God."

When the Death Angel passed through Egypt on the night of the Passover, God was looking for only one thing--the blood on the doorposts. "When I see the blood, I will pass over you. (Exodus 12:13)" Those inside the house might have been full of fear and trembling, but it made no difference as long as the blood had been applied. (p 34-35)

So the question is not how strong is your faith, but how strong is the object of your faith? If that object is not Christ (John 14:6), and Christ alone (Acts 4:12), you will not make it across the bridge.

God is Love ... right?

2010-06-09T19:49:00.001-07:00

The Bible makes this great affirmation: God is Love (1 John 4:8)! But as Tim Conway* points out in this short video, He is more than just loving and His love is greater than our human minds can comprehend. He is more glorious than that one aspect.

*Sorry, Carol Burnett fans, this is a different Tim Conway. This one preaches the Gospel at Grace Community Church in San Antonio, TX.

If you meet that poor wretch who thrust his spear into My side!

2010-06-09T04:00:00.000-07:00

It is very affecting that the first offers of grace should be made to those who, of all people in the world--had done it the most harm! One would rather have expected the apostles should have received another kind of charge, and that Christ should have said, "Let repentance and forgiveness of sins be preached--but do NOT carry it to Jerusalem, that wicked city, that has been the slaughter-house of my prophets, whom I have often sent. Last of all, I myself, the Son, came--and with wicked hands, they have crucified and murdered Me! They may do the same to you! Do not let the gospel enter those wicked gates, through which they led Me, its Author, to crucifixion!"

But Christ singles out exactly these--to make monuments of His mercy, and commands the first offer of eternal life to be made to them! As if our Lord had said: "Lest the poor house of Israel should think themselves abandoned to eternal despair--as cruel and vile as they have been--go, make the first offer of grace to them! Let those who spilled My blood--be welcome to its healing virtue. Tell them that there is repentance and forgiveness, even for them!"

"Nay, if you meet that poor wretch who thrust his spear into My side, tell him that there is another way, a better way of coming to My heart--even My heart's love! Tell him, that if he will repent, and look upon Me whom he has pierced, and will mourn--then I will cherish him in that very bosom which he has wounded! Tell him that he shall find the blood which he has shed--to be an ample atonement for the sin of shedding it! And tell him from Me, that he will put Me to more pain and displeasure by refusing this offer of My blood--than when he first drew it forth!"

"For I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance!" Matthew 9:13

This is from a sermon by Samuel Davies that you can read here.

Spurgeon discusses Free Will

2010-06-08T04:00:00.000-07:00

This quote appeared on Pyro's 'Your Daily Dose of Spurgeon' on May 30th.

Man has become so fallen that he cannot keep the law. Sooner might the Ethiopian change his skin, or the leopard his spots, than he that is accustomed to do evil learn to do well (Jeremiah 13:23); but what man cannot do, by reason of the perversity of the flesh, God performs within him, working in him to will and to do of his good pleasure. Oh, what amazing grace is this, which while it forgives our want of will, also removes our want of power!

And, dear friends, is it not a wonderful proof of grace that God does this without destroying man in any degree whatever? Man is a creature with a will,—a "free will" as they sometimes call it,—a creature who is responsible for his actions; so God does not come and change our hearts by a physical process, as some seem to dream, but by a spiritual process in which he never mars our nature, but sets our nature right.

If a man becomes a child of God, he still has a will. God does not destroy the delicate machinery of our nature, but he puts it into proper gear. We become Christians with our own full assent and consent; and we keep the law of God not by any compulsion except the sweet compulsion of love. We do not keep it because we cannot do otherwise, but we keep it because we would not do otherwise, because we have come to delight therein, and this seems to me the greatest wonder of divine grace.

See, dear friends, how different is the Lord's way of working and ours. If you knock down a man who is living an evil life, and put him in chains, you can make him honest by force; or if you set him free, and hem him round with Acts of Parliament, you may make him sober if he cannot get anything to drink, you may make him wonderfully quiet if you put a gag in his mouth; but that is not God's way of acting.

He who put man in the Garden of Eden, and never put any palisades around the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, but left man a free agent, does just the same in the operations of his grace. He leaves his people to the influences that are within them, and yet they go right, because they are so changed and renewed by his grace that they delight to do that which once they loathed to do.

I admire the grace of God in acting thus. We should have taken the watch to pieces, and broken half the wheels, and made new ones, or something of the kind. But God knows how to leave the man just as much a man as he was before his conversion, and yet to make him so entirely a new man that old things have passed away, and all things have become new.

And this is very beautiful, too, that when God writes his law in his people's hearts, He makes this the way of their preservation. When God's law is written in a man's heart, that heart becomes divinely royal property, for the King's name is there, and the heart in which God has written his name can never perish.

Others May, You Cannot

2010-06-07T04:05:00.000-07:00

The following was very helpful so thought I would share. It was written by G. D. Watson (1845-1924). Click here to read and hear audio:

If God has called you to be really like Jesus He will draw you into a life of crucifixion and humility. God’s call will put such demands of obedience on you that you will not be able to follow other people, or measure yourself by other Christians. At times, He will let other people do things which He will not let you do.

Other Christians who seem very religious will push themselves, pull wires, and work schemes to carry out their plans. You cannot, and if you attempt it, you will meet with failure and rebuke from the Lord.

Others may boast of themselves, of their work, of their successes, but the Holy Spirit will not allow you to do any such thing, and if you begin it, He will lead you to despise yourself and all your good works.

Others may be allowed to succeed in making money, or may have a legacy left to them, but it is likely God will keep you poor. God wants you to have something far better than gold, namely, a helpless dependence upon Him, that He may demonstrate His faithful love for you in supplying your needs day by day.

God may let others be honored and put forward, and keep you hidden in obscurity in order to produce some fragrant fruit for His coming glory which can only be produced in the shade. He may let others be great, but keep you small. He may let others do a work for Him and get the credit for it now. The reward for your work is held in the hands of Jesus and you will not see it until He comes.

The Holy Spirit will put a strict watch over you with a jealous love. He will rebuke you for the little words and feelings or for wasting your time. So make up your mind that God is an infinite Sovereign, and has a right to do as He pleases with His own. He does not owe you an explanation of these mysteries. But if you give yourself to be His child, He will wrap you up in a jealous love, and give you the precious blessings for those who belong, heart and soul, to Him.

Settle it forever, then, that you are to deal directly with the Holy Spirit. It is His option to tie your tongue, or chain your hand, or close your eyes in ways that He does not seem to use with others. And when you are so possessed by the living God that your heart delights over this peculiar, personal, private, jealous guardianship and management of the Holy Spirit over your life, you will have found the vestibule of Heaven.

What is your only comfort in life and death?

That I am not my own, but belong, body and soul, in life and in death, to my faithful Savior Jesus Christ. He has fully paid for all my sins with His precious blood, and He has set me free from the tyranny of the devil. He also watches over me in such a way that not a hair can fall from my head without the will of my Father in heaven. In fact, all things must work together for my salvation. Because I belong to Him, Christ, by His Holy Spirit, assures me of eternal life and makes me wholeheartedly willing and ready from now on to live for Him.—Heidelberg Catechism

I consider everything a loss compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. —Philippians 3:8

HT:Ryan

Monergism Particular Redemption T-Shirt

2010-06-07T04:00:00.000-07:00

Monergism has a new t-shirt that describes a biblical doctrine I hold dear, that of particular redemption (aka Limited Atonement). Rev 5:9-10 appears on the shirt, which has been preached recently by my pastor in his Revelation series, and appears in the Slain Lamb video I wrote about here. Here is a quote from Monergism:

The scope of Christ's work of redemption is both universal and particular: universal because it includes people of every ethnicity and nation; particular because Christ redeems a people for Himself from out of these nations, having had an eye for a remnant of mankind from every tribe. Here is the climax of God's redemptive purpose, fulfilling God's covenant to Abraham to bless the children of promise through his seed (Gen 12:2; Rom 9:6-13). This is why God has commanded the church to preach the gospel to the ends of the earth (Matt 28:18, 19) that He might gather those he has set apart for Himself in every city and town (Acts 18:10; John 17:9, 20)

Poor in spirit, rich in His grace - Martyn Lloyd-Jones

2010-06-06T05:07:00.000-07:00

Poor in spirit - rich in His grace

... what is the [meaning] of being 'poor in spirit' ... ? It is that Isaiah said (57:15): 'For thus saith the high and lofty One that inhabiteth eternity, whose name is Holy; I dwell in the high and holy
place, with him also that is of a contrite and humble spirit, to revive the spirit of the humble, and to revive the heart of the contrite ones.'

That is the quality of spirit, and you have endless illustrations of it in the Old Testament. It was the spirit of a man like Gideon, for instance, who, when the Lord sent an angel to tell him the great thing he was to do, said, 'No, no, this is impossible; I belong to the lowest tribe and to the lowest family in the tribe.' That was not Uriah Heep, it was a man who really believed what he said and who shrank from the very thought of greatness and honour, and thought it was incredible. It was the spirit of Moses, who felt deeply unworthy of the task that was
laid upon him and was conscious of his insufficiency and inadequacy. You find it in David, when he said, 'Lord, who am I that thou shouldst come to me? The thing was incredible to him; he was astonished by it. You get it in Isaiah in exactly the same way. Having had a vision, he said, 'I
am a man of unclean lips'. That is to be 'poor in spirit', and it can be seen right through the Old Testament. But let us look at it in the New Testament. You see it perfectly, for instance, in a man like the Apostle Peter who was naturally aggressive, self-assertive and self-confident-a
typical modern man of the world, brimful of this confidence and believing in himself. But look at him when he truly sees the Lord. He says, 'Depart from me; for I am a sinful man, O Lord.' Look at him afterwards as he pays his tribute to the Apostle Paul, in 2 Peter 3:15, 16. But ... he never ceases to be a bold man; he does not become nervous and diffident ... The essential personality remains; and yet he is 'poor in spirit' at the same time.

Studies in the Sermon on the Mount, i, p. 49-50

New Bulletin Inserts site

2010-06-06T04:58:00.001-07:00

I've been blessed by the writing ministry of Bulletin Inserts (a Jim Elliff ministry), and now their website is updated. Check it out!

A Response to the ABC Story on the Children of the Westboro Church

2010-06-05T06:14:00.000-07:00

It was not my plan to watch this ABC piece on the children of the Westboro Church in Topeka (you know, the nice folks who picket with signs that say, 'YOU'RE GOING TO HELL!' and other uplifting messages). But when I saw the video of their children spewing this hatred, I just could not turn away.

Still in shock this morning, I read the entire abc story. I was sickened by the perversion of truth that is so prevelant in their message. I prayed for those kids who are being indoctrinated in this church, and for the families who have to deal with this hatred at the funerals of their loved ones, including young men and women who have served in our military. I prayed that God would vindicate Himself against these blasphemous lies. Worst of all, I discovered that much of their 'doctrine' is based on a twisted version of the theology that I love and embrace (the doctrines of grace, aka Calvinism). It was time to find a level-headed response. I found it on Josh Buice's website, Delivered By Grace.

Buice is the pastor of Cornerstone Baptist Church located in McMinnville, Tennessee, and author of this helpful blog. He has written several articles about the Westboro church which were compiled into a document called Westboro Baptist Church Revealed: Evangelized, Interviewed, Reviewed.

The 30 page document is worth the read, if you can stomach the inflammatory hatred (coming from the Wesboro members). The first story describes Buice's encounter with the hate group as they protested outside the SBC Conference. I was touched by his willingness to walk across the street to witness to these folks, and his heart for their children. An official interview with the church itself is next, followed by Buice's clear response. The paper concludes with the story of death of the great missionary Jim Elliot, who gave his life spreading the glory and love of God to the Auca Indians of South America.

This article exposes the hatred and ignorance of the Westboro church, and best of all, Buice explains the true gospel that the Scriptures teach.

The Westboro Baptist Church has a skewed view of the Gospel which leads to a very skewed view of missions. Their view of missions is to spread a vile form of hatred mixed with the Old Testament law regarding passages of judgment without moving toward the answer to that judgment which is propitiation through Jesus Christ our Lord. It seems like a strange mixture of hyper-hatred + hyper-Calvinism put into a blender and mixed together. It simply does not make sense. How can people find so much joy and fulfillment in telling people they are damned?

To believe in the sovereignty of God is one thing, but to hide the good news from people who are damned is another! I pray for Westboro Baptist Church. My desire is to see them saved and spared from their incorrect understanding of our God. Yes, God is a God of wrath, but He is also a God of love and mercy. We must be faithful to spread the truth about Him in both respects - God judges Sin, but He saves on the basis of Jesus Christ and His blood sacrifice.

The Glory of the Resurrection Conference this weekend

2010-06-04T07:01:00.001-07:00

I would like in my messages to consider the resurrection not only as a future hope but also for its present significance in the life of the believer. -- Richard Gaffin

Redeemer Presbyterian Church in Overland Park is hosting the KCARC Reformed Theology Conference this weekend (June 4-5).

Keynote speaker, Dr Richard Gaffin will speak about the glory of the Resurrection of Christ, this Friday evening (7:30 to 9:00) and Saturday morning (9:oo to Noon).

Gaffin is professor of Biblical and Systematic Theology, Emeritus at Westminster Theological Seminary in Philadelphia, PA.

Click here for more information on this weekend's conference.

Slain Lamb

2010-06-01T03:08:00.000-07:00

There is nothing, no one, more worthy of high and lofty words than Jesus Christ. So when I heard this 'song/sermon' I had to find a way to share it here. This video makes use of the 'Slain Lamb Outro' piece on the album Unpacked (download for free here), by iSix5.

Excerpts are taken from a sermon by Pastor Smedly Yates, a graduate of The Master's Seminary. Yates sermon, God Never Graduates from the Gospel, was preached at Grace Bible Church in Tempe, AZ on 3/7/2010.

This exalted view of Christ is central to the Scriptures. Tim Juhnke has been preaching through Revelation and his last two sermons have been a spiritual feast. From Revelation 5 we see this idea in The Investiture of the Lamb. Consider downloading Part 1 and Part 2.

Let us focus on the One who is both Lion and Lamb, and who will return to earth to judge the world.

Memorial Day Surprise - a providential meeting

2010-05-31T03:00:00.000-07:00

The Lord, in His providence, has provided a very special Memorial Day for my wife’s family this year. So to honor our Lord and the men who fought for the freedom to worship Him, I share this story with the family's permission. I’m merely an ‘in-law’ but this family story goes beyond family ties.

Two childhood friends from Iola, KS, have sacrificed their lives for America.

Harry Lightner was young and never married. My wife’s family knew he served in North Africa and in Italy during World War II. They knew he was in the 180th and was killed in action, but did not know much concerning the circumstances of his death. Though research has been done and the family has tried to learn of the details of his death, very little was uncovered. Until this week.

Friday, my father-in-law Scott Shanahan came across an article in the local newspaper’s online edition, and quickly called his wife, Candie. The article featured a World War II vet, who will be honoring fallen comrades at a memorial service in Paola on Monday. The vet was a 'remains convoy driver' during the war. The article explains:

Much of his time serving overseas from 1946 to 1949 was spent in Italy, where he and his fellow members of the Graves Registration Service took on the unenviable task of collecting and identifying the remains of fallen soldiers.

Later in the article is the paragraph which made this story possible.

Because the remains would often be indistinguishable by sight, (he) said members of his unit used dental records, tattoos and military dog tags to identify the fallen soldiers. With tears welling in his eyes and a quivering voice, (he) talked about the time they identified the remains of a soldier as Harry Lightner — his childhood friend.

Candie phoned the veteran from the article, Mr. Carl Gregg, and had a good talk. Turns out he lives in the same town as the Shanahans, Paola, KS. It was quite emotional understandably. Ryan (Candie’s son) got to speak with Mr Gregg Saturday. He learned the nature of Harry’s death and also heard other stories about the family.

The Shanahans plan to attend the services Monday, now with even more knowledge of how their fallen relative died. How gracious of God to orchestrate this meeting!

At the beginning of this post, I said that two childhood friends had sacrificed their lives for America. One of them (Harry Lightner) died in service to his country before the age of 22. The other is alive today, but some would say he has been a ‘living sacrifice’ in the way he has served others following the War. He served his community through the local VFW in Paola, and has done my wife’s family an invaluable service by simply sharing stories about a beloved family member.

By the way, there is a letter that my wife’s family holds in very high regard, a special family artifact. It was perhaps the last letter Harry Lightner ever wrote. He reportedly wrote the same message to at least three different people. It included the words, “Don’t worry about me, I’ve accepted Christ as my Savior.”

The Miami County Republic article referred to above can be found here.

RC Sproul - Should Christians be on Facebook?

2010-05-29T04:48:00.000-07:00

Several months ago, I saw a video of Paul Washer pleading, "Be a man, get off Facebook!" I love Washer, so this hit close to home, especially since my brother-in-law (not on FB) loves to repeatedly mention the video, albeit jokingly. But still I'm on Facebook. By the way, Washer's appeal (found here), is based on the necessity to not waste your life, to resist the tendency to spend it on trivial things while greater spiritual battles are waging. He is saying that many people need to get off Facebook. For many he is right.

Maybe you're like me and have been frustrated with some of the negative aspects of Facebook. Even if you're not a Christian, it is easy to see its evils (narcissistic triviality, privacy concerns, time-wasting tendencies, etc). So when RC Sproul published an article on the topic (Should Christians Be on Facebook) I was quick to read it.

He offers some great insights, worthy of a read. Most importantly, is the aspect of examining our own hearts. This social networking thing is a matter of personal conviction, but our conviction needs to be constantly evaluated in light of Scripture. I'm sticking with FB for now. I feel it offers many blessings and so far those have outweighed its curses. My aim, and my prayer for those who glory in Christ Jesus, is to find ways to use Facebook to bring honor to His name. (1 Cor 10:31).

In addition, I invite challenge and feedback from any who see my use of Facebook, Twitter, etc as being in opposition to the glory of Christ. Please keep me accountable.

DA Carson on Psalm 84 and Eric Liddell

2010-05-29T04:35:00.000-07:00

I love the movie Chariots of Fire. If you haven't seen it, I whole-heartedly recommend it. DA Carson, in commenting on Psalm 84, talks about Eric Liddell who the movie is about.

After quoting Psalm 84, which declares, "no good thing does he withhold from those whose walk is blameless. O LORD Almighty, blessed is the man who trusts in you (84:11-12)" Carson brings up the anticipated reply, "Isn’t it obvious that God withholds lots of good things from lots of people whose walk is about as blameless as walks can get, this side of the new heaven and the new earth?"

Hear him out here.

Guarding the Gospel

2010-05-15T06:13:00.001-07:00

This is some good preaching by Steve Lawson. The video is just a few pictures rotated, but the Truth in the sermon is powerful!

Give us some men who know the truth!

Charles Spurgeon on the wrath of God

2010-05-13T04:55:00.001-07:00

This is a fitting quote with all the rain we've had in Missouri. I drove through a river last night driving down River Road, sending waves 20 feet in the air!

God's wrath, though it come not on you yet, is like a stream that is dammed up.
Every moment it gathers force. It bursts not the dike, yet every hour it is swelling it. Each moment of each day in which you remain an unbeliever you are treasuring up wrath against the day of wrath when the measure of your iniquity
is full. CHS

As the author of Hebrews warns several times, "we must pay much closer attention to what we have heard, lest we drift away from it. (Hebrews 2:1)" If Christ is not your treasure and the object of your hope for eternal life. Repent and believe in Him!

God cannot be thwarted - Martyn Lloyd-Jones

2010-05-13T04:00:00.000-07:00

This is a good follow up to what we saw yesterday. Here Martyn Lloyd-Jones proclaims the futility of a life without Christ:

How can you plan for life and the world and at the same time exclude God who is the Maker and Sustainer and Controller of all things? God has not only made the world, He is actively concerned in it, and constantly intervenes in its affairs. His laws are absolute and cannot be avoided ... God has decided and ordered and arranged that a life of forgetfulness of Him, and of antagonism to Him, shall not be successful and happy ... That is the whole story of mankind from the very beginning, and it has continued until this day, and it will continue to be so until the end of time. Mankind has refused to recognize this - indeed, has ridiculed it. It has been confident that it could succeed without God. But what of the results? Constant failure. God cannot be thwarted. The facts of life, the story of history, proclaim the wrath of God against all ungodliness and unrighteousness. That is our first problem. We have sinned against God. We are in the wrong relationship to Him. His wrath is upon us. We have made it impossible for Him to bless us ... None can keep the law ... Is there no hope, therefore? Can nothing be done? God be thanked, the gospel of Christ provides the answer ... God has dealt with our sins in Christ. The demands of holiness and justice have been satisfied ... God in Christ is prepared to receive us ... God in Christ offers us pardon and forgiveness, and instead of cursing, blessing. Without God we cannot be happy, 'for there is no peace, saith my God, to the wicked'. Try as we will, and as mankind has, we cannot succeed. The first step is to have the favour of God, and in Christ it is gloriously possible-indeed, it is offered us.
The Plight of Man and the Power of God, pp. 85-7

Look to Christ not your circumstances

2010-05-12T04:06:00.001-07:00

I love God's Word and the tapestry that is woven throughout every book. Numbers 21 contains a short story (Numbers 21:4-9) that Jesus refers to thousands of years later (John 3:14), to illustrate faith in Himself. D.A. Carson has this to say about this passage in Numbers.

THE BRIEF ACCOUNT OF THE BRONZE SNAKE (Num. 21:4-9) is probably better known than other Old Testament accounts of similar brevity, owing to the fact that it is referred to by Jesus himself in John 3:14-15: “Just as Moses lifted up the snake in the desert, so the Son of Man must be lifted up, that everyone who believes in him may have eternal life.” What is the nature of the parallel that Jesus is drawing?

In the Numbers account, we are told that as the people continue their God-directed route through the desert, they “grew impatient on the way; they spoke against God and against Moses” (21:4-5). They even whine against the food that God has been providing for them, the daily provision of manna: “We detest this miserable food” (21:5). In consequence the Lord sends judgment in the form of a plague of venomous snakes. Many die. Under the lash of punishment, the people confess to Moses, “We sinned when we spoke against the LORD and against you” (21:7). They beg Moses to intercede with God. God instructs Moses to make a snake and put it on a pole; “anyone who is bitten can look at it and live” (21:8). So Moses casts a bronze snake and places it on a pole, and it has just the effect that God had ordained.

So here we have an ungrateful people, standing in judgment of what God has done, questioning their leader. They face the judgment of God, and the only release from that judgment is a provision that God himself makes, which they receive by simply looking to the bronze serpent.

The situation of Nicodemus is not so very different in John 3. His opening remarks suggest that he sees himself as capable of standing in judgment of Jesus (John 3:1-2), when in fact he really has very little understanding of what Jesus is talking about (3:4, 10). The world is condemned and perishing. Its only hope is in the provision that God makes — in something else that is lifted up on a pole, or more precisely, in someone who is lifted up on a cross. This is the first occurrence of “lifted up” in John’s gospel. As the chapters unwind, it becomes almost a technical expression for Jesus’ crucifixion. The only remedy, the only escape from God’s judgment, depends on looking to this provision God has made: We must believe in the Son of Man who is “lifted up” if we are to have eternal life.

That word still comes to us. Massive muttering is a sign of culpable unbelief. Sooner or later we will answer to God for it. Our only hope is to look to the One who was hoisted on a pole.

For the Love of God, May 12th

This passage is not for 'seekers' only, but for every Christian. Do you find yourself grumbling and complaining due to life's circumstances (as I find myself doing this morning?) Repent of your lack of faith and look to Christ, who has provided salvation for us! Look to Him for the answers to all your problems and you will never be without a certain hope!

...looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God. (Hebrews 12:2)

Repentance and faith

2010-05-11T03:16:00.000-07:00

Charles H. Spurgeon describes repentance and faith:

Repentance and faith must go together to complete each other. I compare them to a door and its post. Repentance is the door which shuts out sin,but faith is the post on which its hinges are fixed. A door without a doorpost to hang on is not a door at all, while a doorpost without the door hanging on it is of no value whatever. What God hath joined together let no man put asunder, and these two he has made inseparable--repentance and faith.

A video by Reddit Andrews on the wrath/love of God

2010-05-10T04:12:00.000-07:00

Why does the Bible devote so much ink to God's wrath if God is a God of love? Reddit Andrews touches on that here on The Gospel Coaltion video page:

Happy Mother's Day!

2010-05-09T04:47:00.001-07:00

I thought this was well said about Mother's Day:

Mothers Day is not primarily about being a mother and receiving honor, but thanking God for the mother he gave you, and giving honor. The people giving honor should include all moms. Persons receiving honor as moms should also being giving honor for their God-given moms.

Mothers are common: Everyone without exception has one. Jesus had one. ...

The set of all people with no mothers is zero. The set of all people with mothers is everyone. The two sets do not intersect.

Though moms are common, the mother of any given individual is a rare mother, uniquely designed and assigned by God to be a person’s tailor-made mom in order to accomplish God’s good purposes.

Honoring your mother is a way to honor the One who gives the command to honor your mother. Thank you, all-wise and almighty God, for giving me exactly the mother you gave me.

Besides this post by Sam Crabtree, there is a lot of other good Mother's Day reading out there. Here is a sample:

I have a wonderful mother, and my wife is a wonderful mother. Praise the Lord for our mothers! Thank you God for giving us all mothers!

Hear, my son, your father’s instruction, and forsake not your mother’s teaching, 9 for they are ja graceful garland for your head and pendants for your neck. (Proverbs 1:8-9)

HT: Tyler

Sunday's Coming!

2010-05-08T04:47:00.000-07:00

Is this your church? If so, why?

"Sunday's Coming" Movie Trailer from North Point Media on Vimeo.

Aimee's Song of the Week May 2nd, 2010

2010-05-02T05:00:00.000-07:00

The song of the week is 'To Christ the Lord Let Every Tongue', a hymn written by Samuel Stennett (ca. 1727-1795) and has been updated by Laura Taylor. She added the second half of verse five, which includes Aimee's favorite line in the song.

Had I a thousand hearts to give
Lord, they should all be Thine
A thousand men could not compose
A worthy song to bring
Yet Your love is a melody
Our hearts can’t help but sing!

We have sung this at church and love it. The entire lyrics are below. Also, you can here a demo of the song being sung by iGrace music here. May this song stir your heart to worship the infinitely worthy Christ!

To Christ the Lord Let Every Tongue

1. To Christ the Lord let every tongue
Its noblest tribute bring
When He’s the subject of the song
Who can refuse to sing?
Survey the beauties of His face
And on His glories dwell
Think of the wonder of His grace
And all His triumphs tell

2. Majestic sweetness sits enthroned
Upon His awful brow
His head with radiant glories crowned
His lips with grace overflow
No mortal can with Him compare
Among the sons of men
Fairer He is than all the fair
That fill the Heavenly train

3. He saw me plunged in deep distress
He fled to my relief
For me He bore the shameful cross
And carried all my grief
His hand a thousand blessings pours
Upon my guilty head
His presence gilds my darkest hours
And guards my sleeping bed

4. To Him I owe my life and breath
And all the joys I have
He makes me triumph over death
And saves me from the grave
To Heaven the place of His abode
He brings my weary feet
Shows me the glories of my God
And makes my joy complete

5. Since from His bounty I receive
Such proofs of love divine
Had I a thousand hearts to give
Lord, they should all be Thine
A thousand men could not compose
A worthy song to bring
Yet Your love is a melody
Our hearts can’t help but sing!

©2001 Laura Taylor Music.

Praying for necessities

2010-04-25T04:00:00.000-07:00

A quote from Martyn Lloyd-Jones

Is not this one of the most wonderful things in the whole of Scripture, that the God who is the Creator and Sustainer of the universe, the God who is forming His eternal kingdom and who will usher it in at the end, the God to whom the nations are but as 'the small dust of the balance' -
that such a God should be prepared to consider your little needs and mine even down to the minutest details in this matter of daily bread?

But that is the teaching of our Lord everywhere. He tells us that even a sparrow cannot fall to the ground without our Father, and that we are of much greater value than many sparrows ... If only we could grasp this fact, that the almighty Lord of the universe is interested in every part
and portion of us! ... the smallest and most trivial details in my little life are known to Him on His everlasting throne ... But that is the way of God, 'the high and lofty One that inhabiteth eternity, whose name is Holy'; who nevertheless, as Isaiah tells us, dwells with him also 'that is of a contrite and humble spirit'. That is the whole miracle of redemption; that is the whole meaning of the incarnation which tells us that the Lord Jesus Christ takes hold of us here on earth and links us with the almighty God of glory. The kingdom of God, and my daily bread!

It must be emphasized, of course, that all we pray for must be absolute necessities. We are not told to pray for luxuries or super-abundance, nor are we promised such things. But we are promised that we shall have enough ... The promises of God never fail. But they refer to necessities only, and our idea of necessity is not always God's. But we are told to pray for necessities.
Studies in the Sermon on the Mount, ii, pp. 70-1

Aimee's Song of the Week April 24, 2010

2010-04-24T05:00:00.001-07:00

Check out the new category on the blog, Aimee's Song of the Week. My wife and I share a love for music, so we thought it would be fun to share a song each week. Hope it will be a blessing to you.

We were introduced to 'All I Have is Christ' at the church we've been attending, FCC. The Lyrics are below, and you can listen to a sample and buy the song from Sovereign Grace Ministries here.

All I Have Is Christ
By Jordan Kauflin
As recorded on Looked Upon

Lyrics
I once was lost in darkest night
Yet thought I knew the way
The sin that promised joy and life
Had led me to the grave
I had no hope that You would own
A rebel to Your will
And if You had not loved me first
I would refuse You still

But as I ran my hell-bound race
Indifferent to the cost
You looked upon my helpless state
And led me to the cross
And I beheld God’s love displayed
You suffered in my place
You bore the wrath reserved for me
Now all I know is grace

Hallelujah! All I have is Christ
Hallelujah! Jesus is my life

Now, Lord, I would be Yours alone
And live so all might see
The strength to follow Your commands
Could never come from me
Oh Father, use my ransomed life
In any way You choose
And let my song forever be
My only boast is You

© 2008 Sovereign Grace Praise (BMI)

Does God Love Everybody the Same Way?

2010-04-23T04:37:00.000-07:00

Someone at work asked me if God loves everyone equally, believers and unbelievers. I believe Scripture says no. While I can't begin to understand God's love and all it's facets, I do believe the Scripture is clear that God has a special love for His children.

It is important to remember that it comes down to the basis of that love. On what basis are we loved by God? Genuine believers are the ones who have been broken of their sin and seen their absolute unworthiness of God's love. You can't know grace or mercy if you think you are in any way deserving. Like we heard Wednesday night at FCC, Mephibosheth in 2 Samuel 9:1-13 (see 2 Sam 4:4), was a lowlife socially and the grandson of King David's enemy Saul. But because of his love for Jonathan, David sought him out and gave this social outcast (lame in both feet) a place at the royal table so he could feast with the King daily. In the same way, there is nothing loveable or adorable about me that would make God choose me and adopt me into His family. But to say that He loves those who reject him to the grave in the exact same way, ... that to me is not what Scripture teaches. This is especially chilling when I think that people I love and care may prove by their rejection of Christ, that they are not loved this way.

All mankind is born a rebel to the King and His enemy. We are born dead spiritually and need a miracle to be saved. God clearly has the power to raise us to life the way Jesus called Lazarus out of the grave (John 11:43-44). We put limits on God's sovereignty if we say that there are people in hell that He loved the same way as His own. Does this not say that He was not powerful enough to save them? We give ourselves too much credit if we say that there was something special about us that caught God's eye to save us.

Here is a short video of John Piper discussing this very thing. It is not comprehensive, but he goes to Scripture for an answer to this tough question.

Listen to Jesus words in the High Priestly prayer (John 17) and ask yourself if Jesus loves everyone the same way.

1When Jesus had spoken these words, he lifted up his eyes to heaven, and said, "Father, the hour has come; glorify your Son that the Son may glorify you, 2since you have given him authority over all flesh, to give eternal life to all whom you have given him. 3 And this is eternal life, that they know you the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom you have sent. 4I glorified you on earth, having accomplished the work that you gave me to do. 5And now, Father, glorify me in your own presence with the glory that I had with you before the world existed.

6 "I have manifested your name to the people whom you gave me out of the world. Yours they were, and you gave them to me, and they have kept your word. 7Now they know that everything that you have given me is from you. 8For I have given them the words that you gave me, and they have received them and have come to know in truth that I came from you; and they have believed that you sent me. 9I am praying for them. I am not praying for the world but for those whom you have given me, for they are yours. 10 All mine are yours, and yours are mine, and I am glorified in them. 11And I am no longer in the world, but they are in the world, and I am coming to you. Holy Father, keep them in your name, which you have given me, that they may be one, even as we are one. 12 While I was with them, I kept them in your name, which you have given me. I have guarded them, and not one of them has been lost except the son of destruction, that the Scripture might be fulfilled. 13But now I am coming to you, and these things I speak in the world, that they may have my joy fulfilled in themselves. 14 I have given them your word, and the world has hated them because they are not of the world, just as I am not of the world. 15I do not ask that you take them out of the world, but that you keep them from the evil one. 16 They are not of the world, just as I am not of the world. 17 Sanctify them in the truth; your word is truth. 18 As you sent me into the world, so I have sent them into the world. 19And for their sake I consecrate myself, that they also may be sanctified in truth.

20"I do not ask for these only, but also for those who will believe in me through their word, 21 that they may all be one, just as you, Father, are in me, and I in you, that they also may be in us, so that the world may believe that you have sent me. 22 The glory that you have given me I have given to them, that they may be one even as we are one, 23 I in them and you in me, that they may become perfectly one, so that the world may know that you sent me and loved them even as you loved me. 24Father, I desire that they also, whom you have given me, may be with me where I am, to see my glory that you have given me because you loved me before the foundation of the world. 25 O righteous Father, even though the world does not know you, I know you, and these know that you have sent me. 26 I made known to them your name, and I will continue to make it known, that the love with which you have loved me may be in them, and I in them."

One final note. While God loves His sheep in a special saving way, there is one thing that is clear. We do not know who will ultimately become born again. We should never write anyone off as being hopeless. The Bible and experience (i.e. me!) gives a wealth of evidence that God can change the worst of sinners. Look no further than the apostle Paul (Acts 9:1-19)! He was dragging Christians away from their families and throwing them in prison for worshiping Christ, and this on the very day that Christ encountered him on the road to Damascus to change his heart and history forever. So this truth should not affect our evangelistic fervor. In fact quite the opposite. It is empowering to know that we don't have to win souls, God does that! We just have to be faithful to share the glorious truth of the Gospel and leave the results to God.

Persecution in Israel

2010-04-22T04:42:00.000-07:00

On Sunday, our church heard a sermon from the letter to the Church at Philadelphia (not Pennsylvania) in Rev 3:7-13. Tim Juhnke also played a video along with the sermon. But like many churches, he didn't play a clip from a popular movie or something else to entertain us. This was more like an illustration that gave a very good idea of the kind of persecution that the church in Philadelphia was going through. Here is the video that was shared.

Messianic Jews (i.e. ethnic Jews who have believed in Jesus Christ as the Messiah and Son of God) are being persecuted for worshiping Christ in Israel.

Two things come to mind.

First, what is our reaction to our Jewish friends in Israel who are persecuting Christians? It goes without saying that we ought to pray for them. Jesus said to pray for those who persecute us (Matt 5:44). But what about evangelism? In this sermon, Tim speaks against John Hagee's dual covenant view. Hagee teaches that we do not need to evangelize Israel, just to bless them and God will bless us. But as Tim powerfully points out:

The only way a Jew will ever participate in the Kingdom of God is through their Messiah Jesus Christ. And if we love Israel, if we love the Jewish people, the greatest thing we can do for them is present to them their Savior Jesus Christ, for He alone is the entrance into the Kingdom of Heaven.

Second, what kind of persecution are we willing to endure for the name of Christ? In fact, Paul says that "everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted. (2 Tim 3:12, emphasis mine)" Tim wondered what the impact would be to Faith Community Church if we had to walk through a mob of people screaming insults to get to worship Christ. What are we willing to risk for Christ?

BLESSED IS HE WHOSE TRANSGRESSIONS ARE FORGIVEN

2010-04-21T04:47:00.000-07:00

Today's 'For the Love of God' reading was great!

“BLESSED IS HE WHOSE TRANSGRESSIONS ARE FORGIVEN, whose sins are covered. Blessed is the man whose sin the LORD does not count against him and in whose spirit is no deceit” (Ps. 32:1-2). In a theistic universe where God keeps the books, it is difficult to imagine any greater blessedness.

The sad tragedy is that when many people reflect on this brute fact — that we must give an account to him, and there is no escaping his justice — almost instinctively they do the wrong thing. They resolve to take the path of self-improvement, they turn over a new leaf, they conceal or even deny the sins of frivolous youth. Thus they add to their guilt something additional — the sin of deceit.

Continue reading entire post

T4G Video

2010-04-16T02:56:00.000-07:00

Couldn't make it to T4G? They have made video available of all the speakers! Click here.

Pastors away from the pulpit

2010-04-10T14:00:00.000-07:00

Here is a couple of items from two pastors at Grace Community Church, only not like you have seen them before!

Check out this Twitter exchange between Phil Johnson (Pyro blogger) and the organist for the Atlanta Braves.

Also, check out this video shared by a recent Master's College graduate, featuring John MacArthur, president of TMC.

HT: Dan

Music for you

2010-04-10T04:33:00.000-07:00

Free music abounds, so I thought I would wrap these together into one post. I expect there is something for everyone ...

This is last minute (it's today), but if you enjoy listening to a master concert pianist, and live in the north part of KC, check out Andrew Sheffield do his thing TODAY! He is giving a free piano recital at 2:30pm at New Hope Church of the Nazarene, located on North Oak, just north of Briarcliff Road. Andrew has a gift for music and uses it to edify the body at FCC where her serves as worship leader.

Another gifted musician who needs more pub is Nathan Clark George. I talk about him often, and for good reason! He has now added a new free tune on his site. The music is great, but even better are the words. Here is the first verse:

All men are but mortal, all flesh fades like grass
Only through deaths portal to, eternal life we pass
This body here must perish, before it gains reward
Heavenly joys to cherish, for the ransomed of the Lord

Click here to see how he came up with the song, and download it for free!

As we travel the spectrum of musical styles, let's kick off our shoes and pick up a fiddle! I came across this delightful video in a google search for the Rolf Family (featured in this post).

Here is the official Rolf Family website. Devon, if you're reading, I suggest you add an 'Events' section to the site and fill it up with nearby venues!

Finally, slap on your ear goggles (headphones) on and pic up the mic. If you enjoy theology AND rap music, you can download a free album from iSix5 (short for Isaiah 6:5), from Grace Bible Church in Tempe, Arizona. If you're like me, and don't catch all the words, here are the lyrics. Good stuff, lots of Scripture, lots of theology, Christ-exalting. Here is a quick taste:

God Himself is guardin what He placed inside of me/
And His indwelling Spirit is constantly reminding me/
I was filled and sealed to let the flesh die to me/
Conforming to the image of Him, cuz I'm tryna see/
Less JG, that's why I am denying me/
I must decrease to increase His notoriety/

Thanks, Andrew B for that one!

Sorry polka fans, I have nothing for you.

**UPDATE! Devon pointed me to this newer video of the family performing at Silver Dollar City. Enjoy! **

Turnbulls on Conrad Mbewe's blog

2010-04-10T04:00:00.000-07:00

Looking at this picture makes me smile! I see God's handiwork all over it. In Ken's humble demeanor, despite his incredible scientific knowledge (He has a PhD in organic chemistry). I saw him suffer greatly when he had a horrible nerve issue in his neck/shoulder, yet he never stopped giving praise to God, who eventually healed him months later. I love the fact that Ian is even in this picture, because God spared him miraculously from a near-death illness (great story by the way!). I just love this family. God's grace is put on display in the Turnbulls. (read more about them here)

So I was thrilled to see this picture on Conrad Mbewe's blog. Having had the privilege to meet Conrad Mbewe (the Spurgeon of Africa) and to spend some time with Dr Ken Turnbull as well (both visited our Bible Study Group at work), it was a treat to see how their ministries are coming together in Zambia. Both of these men are gifted to the extent that they could write their own paycheck if they were to pursue secular careers, but they have forsaken all, 'that they may know Christ and be found in Him' (Phil 3:8-9). God has in turn blessed their ministries! Please read this article and pray for African Christian University, and for these men and their families. Note: I especially enjoyed Mbewe's playful jab at Ken's writing style.

Praying for Myles

2010-04-09T07:45:00.000-07:00

Working from home affords some priceless moments. Here is an example:

Myles: You wanna pray about me?
Me: Sure. (Myles runs off) Where are you going?
Myles: To my room.
Me. I thought I was going to pray for you.
Myles: Pray about me by yourself!

Resurrection by J.I. Packer

2010-04-03T04:57:00.000-07:00

Resurrection: Jesus Christ was Raised from the Dead
by J.I. Packer

On the first day of the week, very early in the morning, the women took the spices they had prepared and went to the tomb. They found the stone rolled away from the tomb, but when they entered, they did not find the body of the Lord Jesus. (Luke 24:1-3)

Jesus’ resurrection, which was a divine act involving all three Persons of the Godhead (John 10:17-18; Acts 13:30-35; Rom. 1:4), was not just a resuscitation of the ruined physical frame that was taken down from the cross for burial. It was, rather, a transformation of Jesus’ humanity that enabled him to appear, vanish, and move unseen from one location to another (Luke 24:31, 36). It was the creative renewing of his original body, the body that is now fully glorified and deathless (Phil. 3:21; Heb. 7:16, 24). The Son of God in heaven still lives in and through that body, and will do so forever. In 1 Corinthians 15:50-54, Paul envisages that Christians who are alive on earth at the moment of Christ’s return will undergo a similar transformation, though in 2 Corinthians 5:1-5 he shows himself aware that Christians who die before the Second Coming will be “clothed” with their new body (the “eternal house in heaven”) as a distinct event, at or after the time of the old body’s return to dust (Gen. 3:19).

Christianity rests on the certainty of Jesus’ resurrection as a space-time occurrence in history. All four Gospels highlight it, focusing on the empty tomb and resurrection appearances, and Acts insists on it (Acts 1:3; 2:24-35; 3:15; 4:10; 5:30-32; 13:33-37). Paul regarded the Resurrection as indisputable proof that the message about Jesus as Judge and Saviour is true (Acts 17:31; 1 Cor. 15:1-11, 20).

Jesus’ resurrection demonstrated his victory over death (Acts 2:24; 1 Cor. 15:54-57), vindicated him as righteous (John 16:10), and indicated his divine identity (Rom. 1:4). It led on to his ascension and enthronement (Acts 1:9-11; 2:34; Phil. 2:9-11; cf. Isa. 53:10-12) and his present heavenly reign. It guarantees the believer’s present forgiveness and justification (Rom. 4:25; 1 Cor. 15:17) and is the basis of resurrection life in Christ for the believer here and now (John 11:25-26; Rom. 6; Eph. 1:18-2:10; Col. 2:9-15; 3:1-4).

From: Concise Theology: A Guide To Historic Christian Beliefs

What is the Gospel? by Greg Gilbert

2010-04-03T04:23:00.000-07:00

What is the Gospel? by Greg Gilbert looks like a great book. Can't wait to get it! Here is what the author says about the purpose for writing the book.

I'll write more after I've read it! In the meantime, this post talks about the basics of the Gospel in a very similar outline to what Gilbert uses in his book: God, man, Christ, and a response.

Christ in the Passover

2010-04-02T05:24:00.000-07:00

A friend at work shared this video and I saw it for the first time this morning, Good Friday! In the video, the Jewish Passover is demonstrated and explained, and all throughout the presence of the Lamb of God, the Messiah is pointed to. I was brought to tears as I watched how even Jewish traditions (and the entire Old Testament-the Jewish Bible-for that matter) point to the second person of the Trinity: Jesus Christ, the Messiah! Click the full-screen button and enjoy!

DA Carson on Psalm 1

2010-04-02T03:59:00.000-07:00

Wonderful exposition of Psalm 1!
01 – April – 2010 – For the Love of God

Paul's daring word about propitiation

2010-04-01T05:04:00.000-07:00

Dr Martyn Lloyd-Jones on Christ as the Substitute for Sinners

The true Christian realizes ... God's way of salvation in Christ. This is the great good news. 'This is the thing I am preaching,' says Paul, in effect, to the Romans, 'this righteousness that is of God, that is in Jesus Christ, His righteousness.' What is he talking about? It can be put in the form of a question if you like. What is your view of Christ? Why did He come into the world? What has God done in Christ? Is He merely a teacher, an example, and so on? ... No, this is something positive, this righteousness of God in Jesus Christ. Salvation is all in Christ, and unless you feel yourself shut up to Christ with everything else having failed, you are not a Christian, and it is not surprising that you are not happy. 'The righteousness of God in Jesus Christ' means that God sent Him into the world in order that He might honour the Law and so men might be forgiven. Here is One who gave perfect obedience to God.
Here is One, God in the flesh, who has taken human nature unto Himself, and, as man, has rendered perfect homage to God, perfect allegiance, perfect obedience. God's law He kept fully and absolutely without a failure. But not only that ...
Before man can be reconciled to God ... this sin of his must be removed. God has said that He will punish sin, and that the punishment of sin is death and banishment from the face of God ... God has set Him forth as a propitiation . . . [this] means that God has made Him responsible for our sins. They have been placed upon Him and God has dealt with them and punished them there, and therefore ... He can justly forgive us.... It is a daring thing for the Apostle to say, but it has to be said ... God, because He is righteous and holy and eternal, could not forgive the sin of man without punishing it. He said He would punish it, so He must punish it, and, blessed be His Name, He has punished it.
He is just, therefore, and the justifier of them that believe in Jesus.
Spiritual Depression, pp. 32-3

Something about Mary?

2010-03-31T14:00:00.000-07:00

The other day a Catholic friend mentioned she once visited a shrine to Mary. Sadly, there are millions of people who are elevating a proper love and respect for the birth mother of Jesus of Nazareth to level that Mary herself would not approve of. And certainly God Himself who alone deserves worship, does not approve.

If you attend Roman Catholic services, or you know someone who does, please take a minute to read this article, written by a Mary Ann Collins, a former Catholic nun. I ask that you please meditate on the Scriptures that she points to in order to 'test all things' as God's Word calls us to do.

Jesus said that the truth will set us free. (John 8:32) However, He did not say that the truth would necessarily be easy to accept. It was painful for me to learn the information that I am about to share with you, but it was also liberating and it led to a closer relationship with God.

As a faithful Catholic, and later as a nun, I was devoted to Mary. The prayers and practices were so familiar. They were taught to me by sincere people. I prayed the rosary, including rosary novenas. I wore a Brown Scapular and a Miraculous Medal. I visited shrines that honor Mary. I had beautiful statues of Mary. I attended special services where we prayed to Mary and recited a litany of titles honoring her. I read books about apparitions of Mary, and dreamed of visiting Lourdes and Fatima. I participated in processions honoring Mary. A statue of Mary was put on a platform that was decorated with flowers. There were poles on the platform, so that men could carry it. The men walked through the streets, carrying the statue on the platform. We walked behind the statue, singing songs in Mary’s honor.

Was this worship? At the time, that question never occurred to me. Now, looking back on what I did, I believe that it was.

Please read the rest of the article here. The author also references a video (click here to see online) in which Mary worship is seen, even by the Pope himself. Also, examine the claims made by the supposed Mary 'apparitions' in light of Scripture.

Jack Bauer School of Evangelism

2010-03-25T04:00:00.000-07:00

You can find this and many other hilarious pictures over on Sacred Sandwich!

Praise the Holy Spirit, the Paraclete

2010-03-24T05:22:00.000-07:00

A friend of mine has been talking a lot about the Holy Spirit of late. In the 'reformed' circles that we run around in, the Spirit tends to get downplayed and not given His proper due (due perhaps to an over-reaction to the Charismatic movement). But the Holy Spirit is all over the New Testament and we often just gloss over His incredibly significant role in the Trinity. With that in mind, today's 'For the Love of God' reading was particularly helpful:

THE FAREWELL DISCOURSE, beginning in John 14, includes some extraordinarily rich material on the Holy Spirit. Some highlights:

(1) In Greek, every noun is grammatically designated masculine, feminine, or neuter. The word for “spirit” is neuter. When a pronoun referring to “spirit” is used, it too should be neuter. In this chapter, however, the pronoun is sometimes masculine, breaking grammatical form, a way of gently affirming that the Holy Spirit is personal.

(2) Among his titles is “Counselor” (14:16), or, in some English versions, “Comforter” or “Helper.” When Comforter is coined, it drew from Latin words that meant “to strengthen” or “to strengthen along with.” Today a comforter is either a thick quilt or someone who helps the bereaved, and is therefore too restrictive to convey what is meant here. The Greek word is capable of a variety of nuances, so some do not translate it but merely transliterate it (i.e., put it into English spelling) as Paraclete. He is certainly someone who is called alongside to help and to strengthen. Sometimes the help is legal: he can for instance serve as prosecuting attorney (16:7 -11), and he may be our legal “Counselor.” (The word should not conjure up pictures of camp counselors or psychological counselors.)

(3) He is, Jesus says, “another Counselor” (14:16, italics added). In older Greek, this word for “another” usually had overtones of “another of the same kind.” By the time of the New Testament, that meaning is fairly rare; it cannot be assumed, but must be demonstrated from the context. In this case, Jesus is clearly promising to send someone who will stand in his place. Intriguingly, apart from its use in the Farewell Discourse, the word rendered “Counselor” is found in the New Testament only in one other place, viz. 1 John 2:1 (NIV: “one who speaks to the Father in our defense”). So Jesus is the first Paraclete. At his impending departure, he promises to send the Holy Spirit, another Paraclete, to and for his followers.

(4) He is also called “the Spirit of truth” (14:17). This not only means he tells the truth as opposed to lies, but that he is the true Spirit, the one who mediates the very presence of the Father and the Son to the believers (14:23).

(5) The Spirit, Jesus promises, “will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you” (14:26). Since the “you” are being reminded of what Jesus said, in the first instance they must be the first disciples. The Spirit will enable them to recall Jesus’ teaching, and flesh out its significance in the wake of the cross and resurrection. How secure would the links have been without his work?

From For the Love of God - March 24th, by D.A. Carson

What does luck have to do with it? By Jim Elliff

2010-03-17T03:49:00.000-07:00

Top of the morning to you! Jim Elliff discusses Joni Eareckson Tada and the Sovereignty of God.

Joni Eareckson Tada is one of the most gracious and effective Christians in the world. She has lived with the results of a diving accident that broke her neck during her teen years. In her 50's she continues to radiate Christ to a listening world. Joni is known by thousands of Christians, perhaps millions, through her books, radio program, and conference speaking.

Once my brother asked Joni how she made it through the difficult battle with her paraplegia. I later heard her give the same answer in a large conference in Orlando. Her reply will surprise you. "I suppose what helped me get through this more than any other thing" she said, "was reading Loraine Beottner's Reformed Doctrine of Predestination."

Now that caught you off guard, didn't it?

What she was saying was that she came to understand through this book that God is in control. And if God is in control then her accident wasn't just a fluke, but a purposeful arrangement by a loving God. She could trust a God like that. That accident cost her freedom and brought chronic suffering. But to Joni, that diving accident was a huge gift from God—a platform for speaking to the world about her favorite subject, Christ.

Click here to read the entire article.

Also, Susan Verstraete tells us a little about the Patrick who is honored on this St. Patrick's Day.

Patrick, Missionary to Ireland

Enjoy, and wear something green!

John Piper videos

2010-03-14T05:00:00.000-07:00

John Piper answers a couple of tough questions:

Can we see God?

2010-03-13T05:35:00.000-08:00

I do not recall Exodus 24:9-11 jumping out at me the way it did this morning. I was confused by what it said about some men who, with Moses, 'saw God'. Elsewhere the Bible says that 'the soul who sees God will die', right? D.A. Carson explains this apparent contradiction...

To strengthen the allegiance of the covenantal community, God graciously discloses himself not only to Moses but to Aaron and his sons, and to seventy elders. Whenever Old Testament writers say that certain people “saw God” (24:10-11) or the like, inevitably there are qualifications, for as this book says elsewhere, no one can look on the face of God and live (33:20). Thus when we are told that the elders saw the God of Israel, the only description is “something like” a pavement “under his feet” (24:10). God remains distanced. Yet this is a glorious display, graciously given to deepen allegiance, while a special mediating role is preserved for Moses, who alone goes all the way up the mountain. (FTLG)

It is shocking to think about what Jesus said to those living in his time over a thousand years later. He said that in seeing Him they have seen God! He claimed to be God! John Blanchard, in my new favorite book (Right with God) discusses the 'I Am' passages in the Gospel of John (John 6:35; John 8:12; John 10:9; John 11:25-26; John 14:6; John 15:1).

In the plainest way, Jesus claimed that there had never been his equal in the history of the world, nor would such a person ever appear again. He was unique, and every other person in history would need to assess his life in the context of his person, life, work and teaching. (p. 66)

Quite arrogant for anyone other than God! Later Blanchard discusses my favorite passage dealing with the deity of Christ.

One one occasion, Jewish leaders, angry at the extravagant claims Jesus made, asked Him, ''Are you greater than our father Abraham? (John 8:53) and went on, 'You are not yet fifty years old, and you have seen Abraham!' (John 8:57). Jesus replied, 'I tell you the truth, before Abraham was born, I AM!' (John 8:58). The two words in capitals are most important. If Jesus was only claiming to have been older than Abraham - and that would have been amazing enough! - he would have said 'Before Abraham was, I was'. Instead, he deliberately used the words 'I AM'. To discover why, we must go back to the Old Testament. When called by God to lead the Israelites out of Egypt, Moses asked by what name he should identify God to the children of Israel. God's answer is recorded in Exodus 3:14, 'God said to Moses, "I am who I am." This is what you are to say to the Israelites: "I AM has sent me to you."' To the devout Jew, this remained one of God's distinctive names, and to hear Jesus (who was also a Jew and knew its meaning perfectly well) using it as his own was too much. It was blasphemy, and demanded death by stoning, 'they picked up stones to stone him' (John 8:59). It is obvious from this that both Jesus and the Jews knew the implication - Jesus claimed the right to use God's Name as his own, as he did again in John 13:13 and John 18:5. (p 67-68)

Blanchard went on to say that Jesus often claimed to be equal with God (Mark 9:37; John 5:23; John 8:19; John 10:30; John 12:44; John 12:45; John 14:7,9,11; John 14:23), and that other Bible authors claimed the same thing of Him (John 1:1,14; Romans 9:5; Col 1:15, 2:9; 1 Tim 3:16; 1 Tim 6:14, 15).

The Bible says that God no longer reveals Himself through the terrifying smoke and fire of His manifestation on Mount Sinai. He no longer speaks to us merely through the words of His prophets. He has now revealed Himself through His Son, Jesus Christ.

In the past God spoke to our forefathers through the prophets at many times and in various ways, ²but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed heir of all things, and through whom he made the universe. ³The Son is the radiance of God's glory and the exact representation of his being, sustaining all things by his powerful word. (Hebrews 1:1-3b)

So no one has seen God and lived to tell about it. Not even Moses when He went up to the Mountain to receive the Law, saw God in all his glory, but rather just a glimpse of the background of His glory (Exodus 33:18). Yet, Jesus Christ is God in human form, and we can see God Himself in the person of Jesus Christ, as He is revealed in the Scriptures! This verse sums it up so well.

No one has ever seen God; the only God, who is at the Father's side, he has made him known. (John 1:18)

While many claim that the God of the New Testament is a 'kindler/gentler' God who is passive and inept, please do not make the same mistake. Consider that Hell is discussed much more than Heaven in the New Testament, and the pages of Scripture are full of warnings to repent and fall on the mercy of Christ before it is too late. I invite you to bow to His authority and worship Him today!

There will come a day, described in 2 Thessalonians, "when the Lord Jesus is revealed from heaven in blazing fire with his powerful angels. ⁸He will punish those who do not know God and do not obey the gospel of our Lord Jesus. ⁹They will be punished with everlasting destruction and shut out from the presence of the Lord and from the majesty of his power ¹⁰on the day he comes to be glorified in his holy people and to be marveled at among all those who have believed. (2 Thes 1:7b-10)"

Then will appear in heaven the sign of the Son of Man, and then all the tribes of the earth will mourn, and they will see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of heaven with power and great glory. (Matthew 24:30)