Pastor's Corner

Book Review: The Intolerance of Tolerance

2011-12-14T12:52:00.001-06:00

By D. A. Carson

Is tolerance the highest ideal? What does tolerance mean and how can it be achieved? Can an evangelical Christian be tolerant?

Carson’s book deals with these questions as he probes western culture and its fixation on tolerance as the ideal that drives all social interaction. In his preface he states that there were two main incentives to writing this book. The first was the broad appeal and interactions in university settings when he lectured on this topic. The second was the overview that he had provided in his earlier book on culture, Christ and Culture Revisited. He wanted to explore the theme of tolerance and intolerance in more detail.

In the introduction Carson provides two similar but competing definitions for tolerance that become the basis for everything else that he says in the book. He calls these the old tolerance and the new. The old tolerance is defined as the belief that other opinions have a right to exist. The new tolerance is defined as the belief that all opinions are equally valid. He unpacks these ideas and demonstrates from interaction with many other authors that these two ideas undergird much of the confusion and ultimately disagreement that one encounters in trying to discuss differing belief systems.

The next few chapters cover how the shift in meaning of tolerance has occurred and then how it has been applied in today’s society. Carson demonstrates how the older idea of tolerance is vital to a free society, and how the newer definition is actually inconsistent and ultimately unsustainable. Truth claims by major religions including atheism, if taken seriously, all deny the idea of tolerance in the newer definition.

There is time spent on the interaction of evangelical Christianity with the culture at large and how the new tolerance seems to be intolerant of a serious Christianity. Many examples are given.

The final chapter outlines ten suggestions for Christians to interact with culture in a way that affects it in a positive direction. The suggestions are kind and compelling.

As always, I found Carson’s writing to be persuasive and thoughtful. He backs up claims with well documented sources and presents an articulate alternative to much of the rhetoric that has made up Evangelical interaction with culture over the last decades. I found this to be a book of ideas that are very helpful and I hope to implement his ‘Ten words’ for moving the discussion ahead.

[I received this book free from the publisher as a part of the LibraryThing Early Review Program.]

The Gospel Coalition-- Tim Keller

2011-04-29T03:00:00.006-05:00

Here is the video from Tim Keller's session. A very helpful sermon on the Exodus 14

Getting Out

Getting Out - Tim Keller - TGC 2011 from The Gospel Coalition on Vimeo.

Share your thoughts on this sermon below.

The Preacher's Task

2011-04-28T20:40:00.001-05:00

I have been reminding myself of the vital necessity of proclaiming God's Word, not my word. Here is a quote that I have found helpful.

“Your task [as a preacher] is not to send people away from church saying, ‘That was a lovely sermon’ or ‘What an eloquent appeal!’ The one question is: Did they, or did they not, meet God today?
There will always be some who have no desire for that, some who rather than be confronted with the living Christ would actually prefer what G. K. Chesterton described as ‘one solid and polished cataract of platitudes flowing forever and ever.’ But when St. Peter finished his first great sermon in Jerusalem, reported in the book of Acts, I do not read that ‘when they heard this, they were intrigued by his eloquence’ . . . or ‘bored and impassive and contemptuous’; what I do read is, ‘When they heard this, they were pierced to the heart.’
The heart of man has a whole armor of escapist devices to hold off the danger when reality comes too near. But I would remind you that Peter’s theme that day – Jesus crucified and risen – is your basic message still, still as dynamic, as ‘mighty through God to the pulling down of strongholds,’ as moving and heart-piercing as when men heard it preached in Jerusalem long ago.”
James S. Stewart, Heralds of God (New York, 1946), pages 31-32. Italics added.

What do you see as the task of the sermon?

The Gospel Coalition-- Albert Mohler

2011-04-28T03:00:00.004-05:00

The Gospel Coalition just posted the videos for the plenary sessions. I will begin posting them here so you can watch and here some of the better gospel preachers of today proclaim Christ from the Old Testament.
The first session actually begins with the Gospel of John as Al Mohler sets the agenda for the conference.

John 5:31-47
Studying the Scriptures and Finding Jesus

Studying The Scriptures and Finding Jesus - Albert Mohler - TGC 2011 from The Gospel Coalition on Vimeo.

Post your thoughts below.

"While High on Heroin, I Started Reading the Bible"

2011-04-27T11:25:00.000-05:00

Consider how God powerfully uses his Word.
What a testimony!

(HT CB)

The Heavens Declare ...

2011-04-16T16:04:00.000-05:00

Awesome time-lapse video of the sky over the highest mountain in Spain, El Teide. Read the write up that the photographer included with the video. Part of the scene from around 30 seconds was shot through a sandstorm from the Sahara Desert. This provided some spectacular views. Well worth your time to watch.

As I watched I was in awe of the beauty that our Creator God has shared with us in this world.

The heavens declare the glory of God,
and the sky above proclaims his handiwork.
Day to day pours out speech,
and night to night reveals knowledge.
There is no speech, nor are there words,
whose voice is not heard.
Their voice goes out through all the earth,
and their words to the end of the world.
In them he has set a tent for the sun,
which comes out like a bridegroom leaving his chamber,
and, like a strong man, runs its course with joy.
Its rising is from the end of the heavens,
and its circuit to the end of them,
and there is nothing hidden from its heat.
(Psalm 19:1-6 ESV)

(HT Abraham Piper)

The Gospel Coalition

2011-04-11T21:03:00.000-05:00

Tuesday through Thursday I will be attending the Gospel Coalition Conference in Chicago.
I am looking forward to this opportunity. If you would like to hear the Plenary Sessions you can listen to the live stream . I am grateful that Desiring God is offering this service.

Revenge Against My Sin

2011-04-11T11:00:00.002-05:00

As I have been meditating on the death of Christ in our concluding messages in the book of John, I came across this hymn by Isaac Watts and found it helpful.

From Book II Hymn 106
Isaac Watts

Oh, if my soul were formed for woe,

How would I vent my sighs!

Repentance should like rivers flow

From both my streaming eyes.

Twas for my sins my dearest Lord

Hung on the cursed tree,

And groaned away a dying life

For thee, my soul, for thee.

Oh how I hate those lusts of mine

That crucified my God!

Those sins that pierced and nailed his flesh

Fast to the fatal wood!

Yes, my Redeemer, they shall die,

My heart has so decreed;

Nor will I spare the guilty things

That made my Savior bleed.

Whilst, with a melting, broken heart,

My murdered Lord I view,

I’ll raise revenge against my sins,

And slay the murderers too.

Just for Fun

2011-03-08T19:27:00.000-06:00

Here are a couple of videos of a prototype of a robotic mule and a robotic biped being developed for military applications.

The Choice of a Lifetime

2011-03-04T13:22:00.000-06:00

Last evening I was privileged to attend a fund raising banquet for the Women’s Center of Northwest Indiana. What a blessed evening. There were over 800 people in attendance. That is a tremendous army of supporters for a very God honoring, Christ exalting organization.

The featured speaker was Janet Parshall. Her address was very positive and encouraging. The thesis of her remarks was that there has been a hopeful shift toward life in the national discussion on abortion. [in no way did she say the fight was over, but she did say that it is appearing that the tide is beginning to turn.] Her remarks were similar in tone and reasons to Trevin Wax’s recent post on the same topic.

While Parshall’s remarks were encouraging and helpful, the highlight of the evening actually occurred before she spoke. Two women, clients of the Center, gave testimony on the decision to choose life that they had reached because of the gentle work of those that volunteer at the Women’s Center. The first client will be having her child next month, the second to speak carried her two month old daughter up on the stage with her. Listening to these two women and realizing that they represent so many others was a blessing.

I had tears on my cheeks as I listened to these two women describe the care and compassion that they received. I praise God for his moving in their hearts. Their choice to bring these children into the world is profound. It is a choice that has eternal implications.

Pray for this ministry and others like it that exhibit the light of the gospel in the very darkest of areas.

Coincidence or Providence

2011-03-03T13:44:00.000-06:00

I was doing some sermon work this morning. In the middle of my thinking through the passage I am working on, a friend started a chat with me. Since he generally has some good thoughts on the topic I was working on, I asked him for some input. He sent me a link to an article that speaks to the topic, then we chatted about it for a few more minutes. About that time I checked my feed reader and was surprised to see an article, not only on the topic I was researching, but on the very same passage of Scripture I was preaching from.

Coincidence or providence?

Memories

2011-03-02T13:33:00.000-06:00

Five years ago today a good friend of mine went home to be with the Lord. I miss him.

I am praying for his wife and children, for the grandson he never met, for the other good friends who also miss him.

I am also looking forward to joining him. The prospect of heaven is so sweet. The presence of the Lord awakens a longing in my heart for that day.

Yet today, God has left me here to do his mission; to be faithful in serving him. May I be faithful to the end.

Cranes and Hope

2011-03-01T12:44:00.000-06:00

This morning I took my daily walk and was pleasantly surprised to hear some unusual bird sounds over head. I look up and watch flock after flock of Sandhill Cranes winging their way north. The majesty of the birds was wonderful to see, and the promise of spring that they herald is wonderful to contemplate.

I have watched over fifty winters come and go and have matured [somewhat] in my view of winter. I often tell people that I don’t complain about the weather, I determine to enjoy it. And I do enjoy it. But there is something about the change of seasons, particularly about the coming of spring that is refreshing to the soul.

The change of seasons reminds us that God is still God; he is sovereign over the march of time. It is he that decrees the weather, the cycles of climate, the day-to-day elements. No matter what investment of money and effort man has made, we cannot significantly impact these things.

The change of seasons also reminds us of the orderliness of God. He set the stars and the planets in place. He set up the laws of physics which govern the interaction of matter in this universe. This orderliness allows us to plan for the different seasons, to be prepared for what is coming.

The change of seasons, particularly the coming of spring, brings hope. One of the lines from The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe that captures this the complaint that ‘…it is always winter, and never Christmas.’ When the hope for the change of seasons is denied, the inhabitants of Narnia despair. But with the coming of spring their hearts are lifted and hope is reborn. So too, we are reminded of the loving-kindness of God as we see the newness and freshness of spring coming.

Now you will have to excuse me while I go outside and enjoy the sunshine quickly before the weather changes again.

Perseverance MUST finish?

2011-02-28T12:17:00.000-06:00

This morning I was reading Bill Mounce’s weekly article on the Greek language as used in the New Testament. Normally he takes a particular Greek word or phrase and discusses possible meanings and draws out the implications of the appropriate translation. This week though didn’t rely on the Greek translation as much [though he did discuss the best way to translate it]. Rather he drew out the practical implications of James 1:4, “Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.” [NIV]

“… We are being told to be patient with the maturing process. Testing will produce perseverance, and we are not to sidestep the process but rather lean into it and allow perseverance to do all that God intends it to do, and at the end of the day lies the promise of spiritual maturity… Perseverance in the face of trials is a difficult topic. Isn’t it true that our natural instincts are to run from the trials and testing? No sane person enjoys pain, and we have psychological terms for those who do. But God has evidently so ordered reality that the path to spiritual maturity is down the narrow path, the path of pain and persecution. That’s just the way it is. We can either run from it and never grow up, or we can embrace it, lean into the pain, and trust God.”

Read the rest here.

I found this a very helpful way to express the reality that trial and suffering are realities that God prescribes for us to walk through as he matures us.

Meditation on 1 Peter 5.10-11 [Part 5]

2010-08-12T04:00:00.002-05:00

‘… The God of all grace,

who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ,

will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you.

To him be the dominion forever and ever. Amen.’

1 Peter 5.10-11

Our hope is in God alone.

The Lord is gracious toward his people. As we trace the arc of God’s providence through the Old Testament, we see that he is greatly concerned for his people. When Moses asks God to reveal his glory to him, God does that. He places Moses in a safe place, covers him and then walks by Moses. As he passes by he proclaims his glory with these words: “The LORD, the LORD, a God merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love and faithfulness, keeping steadfast love for thousands, forgiving iniquity and transgression and sin…” This is the characteristic of God that is celebrated throughout the story of God’s dealings with his people. God repeatedly rescues his people from their own transgressions. Even when he punishes them, he does it in order to bring them back into the covenant blessings.

The aim of that trajectory through the Old Testament is the glory of Christ. Again and again as God’s mercy draws his people back into that right relationship, we are pointed ahead to the coming of the One who will set everything right forever. We are pointed to the Seed of Abraham, God’s Choice for king, the Son of David, the Rock that shatters the world’s kingdoms. This promised One, the anointed One, the Messiah is the man, Jesus Christ, who came in fulfillment of all of the Old Testament. That is our hope as well: the eternal glory that we will share with Christ Jesus.

That is why we are confident that we will experience the strengthening, preserving power of the almighty God as we move toward that consummation. That is why even in the face of difficulty and trial we can rest confident in God’s grace. We know that, if we are God’s child, we can say with Paul, “For me to live is Christ, to die is gain.”

Meditation on 1 Peter 5.10-11 [Part 4]

2010-08-11T04:00:00.003-05:00

‘… The God of all grace,

who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ,

will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you.

To him be the dominion forever and ever. Amen.’

1 Peter 5.10-11 ESV

The final line of this verse reminds us of the place of God in this world. Often we are reminded of the Creation Mandate, that God told Adam that he was to subdue the earth and have dominion over it. This vital directive from the Creator to his creation has been the key to man’s use of the earth.

This verse in 1 Peter is a reminder to us that our use of the earth is, in reality, a stewardship. Our dominion is not for our own benefit, but rather for the benefit of the God of all creation. He is the ruler, his kingdom is sure and eternal.

This phrase is reminiscent of the final phrase added to the end of the model prayer “for yours is the kingdom and power and the glory forever.” God is the one who is the Sovereign over all of what he has made.

Peter is encouraging that God in calling us will give what we need to accomplish what he has called us to. This final phrase reminds us that God is fully capable of restoring, confirming, strengthening, and establishing us. He is the one to whom everything is subject.

Let us rejoice in his sovereignty, his calling, his gifting. What marvelous grace he bestows on us.

Meditation on 1 Peter 5.10-11 [Part 3]

2010-08-10T04:00:00.002-05:00

‘… The God of all grace,

who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ,

will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you.

To him be the dominion forever and ever. Amen.’

1 Peter 5.10-11 ESV

Today we will walk through the third line of this verse: “…will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you.”

What a marvelous thought.

God himself takes it upon himself to care for those whom he has called to glory. This phrase makes God’s care for his people intensely personal. He does not send intermediaries, he doesn’t rely on blind chance, he doesn’t just sit back and watch things happen. No, he takes personal interest in his dear ones. This reminds us of what Jesus said in John 15:9 “As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you.” The love of God is expressed to us in the person of Jesus Christ. His love for us is great as his love for the Son. know that God himself is intensely concerned about the circumstances of your life, indeed, he is directing those very circumstances for his glory and your good.

How is God’s care for us shown? Peter gives us four verbs that describe God’s concern for his people. He says that God himself will restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish us.

The term restore refers to the process whereby we are being changed into the people that God wants. Romans 8:29 says that we are being “conformed to the image of his Son.” God has a purpose in our lives. He desires that we reflect ever more perfectly the image of Jesus Christ. It is a hopeful thing for us to realize that the trials we face are not designed to crush us, but rather to be a part of the process of our sanctification.

When Peter says confirm, he wants us to remember that God is the one working in our lives and he will surely be successful in that work. We can be completely confident that “…he that began a good work in[us] will perform it…” There is no doubt, no fear of failure with God. Even when things seem bleak, even when it seems as if each step has only led us down, remember God’s purposes. Meditate on Joseph in the dungeon in Egypt. Each event of his life to that point had only seemed to be a further step down, but God’s plan was operating, God purposes were at work and the next step was to the position of the top administrator in the greatest world power of the day. Even that was just a part of God’s purposes for the care of his people.

The verb strengthen reminds us of God’s continuing care. He will provide the resources needed to walk the path he has given to us. At times this is physical strength. As Jesus reminded us in the model prayer in Matthew 6, our daily sustenance is from his gracious hand. It is helpful for us to regularly remind our selves that our food, our sleep, all the things that provide physical strength come from God’s hand. We do well to thank him for this. We must also see that our inner man is strengthened by God. He feeds us with his Word in order for us to be strong in the circumstance of life. Even the trials we face today are exercises that strengthen us so that we can face tomorrow with even greater vigor.

The final verb in this chain is establish. This points to God’s purpose in our lives. He has an intentional goal for us. The picture that is here is one of a building upon a solid foundation that will withstand the storms of life. As we face the difficult providences remember that they are designed to help us obtain that deep, firm, solid foundation that will enable us to face the future with the confidence of God’s omnipotent hand upholding us.

Meditation on 1 Peter 5.10-11 [Part 2]

2010-08-09T04:00:00.004-05:00

‘… The God of all grace,

who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ,

will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you.

To him be the dominion forever and ever. Amen.’

1 Peter 5.10-11 ESV

Today let us look at the phrase: ‘who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ…’

In the circumstances of our lives, even in the hard providences, we may rest assured that God has put these in place for his sovereign purposes. This is a truth that we need to build into our lives regularly, especially when situations are gentle. One of the foundational truths to the Christian life is that God has called us into it, and that this calling is aimed at the glory of Christ.

Paul expressed it this way in Romans 8.28-30:

And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose. For those whom he foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, in order that he might be the firstborn among many brothers. And those whom he predestined he also called, and those whom he called he also justified, and those whom he justified he also glorified. [ESV]

Notice the progression here. God has a purpose in his work in believers’ lives. That purpose is to conform them to the image of his Son, and then ultimately, to glorify them just as the Son has been glorified. That provides great assurance for each of us as we consider the ultimate end of God’s purposes for us. This also gives us great confidence in God’s goodness in our current circumstances. One of the questions that we ought to be asking is, ‘how is this situation being used by God to make me more like his Son?’

While Peter does not list the individual links to this chain the way Paul does, his outlook is very similar. Remember that this letter is an encouragement to those that are facing persecution. Peter is reminding them that even the persecution that they are facing is part of the process by which God is calling them to eternal glory.

As we encounter the messiness and the troubles of life, be assured that these things are not just happenstance; they are not just chance operating in this life. No, the good, the difficult, even the devastating events of life are all from the hand of God and are part of his calling us to the glory of his dear Son. Remember that he doesn’t give us trials beyond what we can handle without also providing the way to deal with them. We may trust his purposes, and cling to his love.

Lay hold on these truths, believe these truths, rest on these truths. They provide the ultimate in security and comfort.

Meditation on 1 Peter 5.10-11 [Part 1]

2010-08-06T04:00:00.002-05:00

‘… The God of all grace,

who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ,

will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you.

To him be the dominion forever and ever. Amen.’

1 Peter 5.10-11 ESV

It is helpful for us to remember the context of this passage in meditating on it. In this first letter Peter is encouraging and strengthening believers who are going through very difficult circumstances. In chapter five as he is wrapping up his letter, he reminds them that there is an adversary, the devil, actively opposing their lives. One of the foundational truths that he wants believers to remember is that this adversary is defeated, that he is not an all powerful being who cannot be opposed. He also wants the believers to remember that though the adversary is defeated, he still possesses power for a time. He encourages them [and us] to resist him, not in our own strength, but by ‘casting all our anxieties’ on God. Trust God to give the victory.

Then Peter expresses this great truth that will bear the weight of all our hope and desire. 'The God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you. To him be the dominion forever and ever. Amen.' There is suffering in this present age, but we must trust that the Creator God is sovereign over even these sufferings and he will use even these means to work his good purposes in our lives.
Today I want to meditate on the phrase: ‘The God of all grace…’

Grace is favor that is undeserved. We realize that we are completely undeserving of God’s favor. That Salvation, indeed life itself is an undeserved gift from God. When we are reminded of the ultimate holiness and glory of God we can only respond with humility and gratitude for the grace we have received. We remember that ‘Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights…’ [James 1.17 ESV]

It is the God of this grace who is our God. It is this God, whose favor is unmatched, who is equipping us for the resistance to Satan. It is this God, the giver of gracious, unmatched gifts, who is strengthening and establishing us in this life so that we are prepared for life with him forever. This is the God that Peter is relying on. This is the God that we should rely on, trusting him for his favor for all eternity.

When the circumstances of life are pressing in on you, when it seems as if the enemy has made you his particular target, remember that God has empowered us to resist him. Remember that He has given us the grace that strengthens and upholds us.

Ye fearful saints, fresh courage take; 
The clouds ye so much dread 
Are big with mercy and shall break 
In blessings on your head.

ALMOST (saved)

2010-04-08T12:49:00.000-05:00

The Passion For Christ Movement [P4CM] Lyricist Lounge presents ALMOST (saved) by Ezekiel Azonwu.

[HT Will Hatfield at the Quest]

The Voice of the Lord

2010-02-27T17:05:00.001-06:00

This morning I learned of the earthquake in Chili. Reports are that it is one of the strongest earthquakes ever recorded. As I think of this earthquake, the Haitian earthquake of a month ago, and other natural disasters that we are powerless to oppose, I am reminded of the great and awesome power of God.

In 1 Kings 19 Elijah is shown just how the quiet voice of God is more powerful than spectacular miracles and natural disasters. While he is hiding in the cave, God sends a mighty wind, a powerful earthquake and a devastating fire, but the solemn declaration each time is that God is not in any of those mighty displays. Then the still, small voice speaks [literally: a sound, a thin silence], this is the voice of God. It is more powerful than the mighty displays. It is a reminder that the miracles on Carmel are not as important as the voice that created the world; that spoke man into existence; that declared his plan to redeem man. Just as Elijah was reminded that the still, small voice of God was more powerful than the earthquake, the fire, or the wind, we must remember and pay attention to the Word of God no matter what the world throws at us.

God’s voice is the most powerful thing in this world. Consider what David had to say about the voice of the Lord in Psalm 29:
Ascribe to the Lord, O heavenly beings, ascribe to the Lord glory and strength.
Ascribe to the Lord the glory due his name; worship the Lord in the splendor of holiness.
The voice of the Lord is over the waters; the God of glory thunders, the Lord, over many waters.
The voice of the Lord is powerful; the voice of the Lord is full of majesty.
The voice of the Lord breaks the cedars; the Lord breaks the cedars of Lebanon.
He makes Lebanon to skip like a calf, and Sirion like a young wild ox.
The voice of the Lord flashes forth flames of fire.
The voice of the Lord shakes the wilderness; the Lord shakes the wilderness of Kadesh.
The voice of the Lord makes the deer give birth and strips the forests bare, and in his temple all cry, “Glory!”
The Lord sits enthroned over the flood; the Lord sits enthroned as king forever.
May the Lord give strength to his people! May the Lord bless his people with peace!

Listen to what the voice of God says to us:

“Come unto me all, who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.”
“The Lord is merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love.”
“The Lord is faithful in all his words and kind in all his works.”

Tremendous Response from a Tremendous Player

2010-01-08T11:16:00.000-06:00

This interview with Colt McCoy shows a classy, godly young man.

Check It Out 12 17 09

2009-12-17T11:04:00.002-06:00

Here are several links that I have found helpful this week.

Carl Trueman wrote a very sobering article on self promotion, particularly that which occurs on the internet. He tone is gentle, yet his message cuts to the heart of pride that lives deep in all of us (perhaps not as deep as we think). This is a thoughtful article, very convicting to me.

Dumb sheep. Who are we to talk?

Juan Sanchez posts another article in an on-going discussion on contextualization.

Many, many are facing unemployment. I have a brother that has been out of work for a year. I have church members that have been out of work for extended periods. It is difficult as you pray with them and talk with them and cry with them, yet it is also a time of growth and blessing. Greg Gilbert at Nine Marks Journal has posted part one of a two part series on unemployment that I found helpful and I believe would be helpful to any believer facing the loss of a job.

Jon Acuff has an essay on the corrosive effect of sin in our lives.

Of First Importance quote The Father’s Two Greatest Gifts.

Ed Stetzer posts a video with a light hearted look at selfishness at Christmastime.

Matt Chandler

2009-12-16T16:25:00.000-06:00

Matt Chandler, Pastor at the Village Church in had a tumor removed from the frontal lobe of his brain last week. The pathology report is in and it states that the tumor was malignant. The Village Church has posted an update on their web page.
Here is an link to a video that Matt made before his surgery. Here is a video of Matt's sermon at this year's Desiring God conference.

Check It Out 12 14 09

2009-12-14T14:56:00.003-06:00

Several links I gleaned over the weekend.

Here is a very interesting article from the Biblical Archeological Journal discussing why we celebrate Christ’s birth on December 25.
(HT TW)

My cousin, Dan Cruver, is now posting at the Gospel Coalition. Here is his article What Orphans Need: Christians Who Live in the Joy of Their Father’s Delight.

Also at the Gospel Coalition there is a thoughtful article on contextualization and the gospel.

John MacArthur’s take on the prosperity gospel. As usual he pulls no punches in dismantling this false teaching.

Tim Challies has a listing of daily devotionals. Look the list over, there are many helpful resources there.

Check It Out 12 10 09

2009-12-10T16:22:00.000-06:00

John Piper posted good article today: Why Require Unregenerate Children to Act Like They’re Good. Noel Piper adds this article on Advent.

Here are a couple of helpful articles discussing the gospel and the Christian life: here and here.

Matt Perman discusses the common grace of the unparalleled food supply chain here in this country.

A thoughtful essay on Spurgeon and depression. This is a helpful look at a biblical response to periods of darkness.
[HT JS]

And finally for today there is an article over at the Gospel Coalition entitled The Dominion of Foot Washing.

Check It Out 12 09 09

2009-12-09T11:42:00.002-06:00

Check It Out 12 09 09

Here are 4 gleanings from the blogoshere to bless your day.

Mark Driscoll has 16 Daddy Christmas Tips.

Pastor Colin Smith has a Christmas season devotional to help you reflect on Jesus’ glory by taking a broad look at all that God has promised and accomplished in Him. The readings follow the pattern of his current sermon series, “The Plan: God’s Design For the Universe and Your Place In It.” You can read, hear or watch these sermons as they are posted at Unlocking the Bible.] He is posting a new devotional each day.

Chris Braun has a quote from Cornelius Plantinga on the relationship between discipline and creativity.

Ray Ortlund has an article entitled Brothers Together in Christ that is a valuable read.

Check It Out 12 08 09

2009-12-08T09:41:00.002-06:00

Here are some articles worth reading today:

Good reminder of how to live godly from Elyse Fitzpatrick quoted at Of First Importance.

Dan Cruver links to an article telling about the first Christmas for three adopted children from Rwanda.

Here is an article on hospitality. While many will do more get togethers during the holiday season, this virtue should extend throughout the year.
(HT Challies)

Tim Challies put up a thoughtful post today on Being a Diligent Listener. He is dealing with the individual responsibility of those in the congregation to prepare and engage with the sermon.

Check It Out 12 07 09

2009-12-07T10:56:00.004-06:00

Some valuable links to look at for today.

Here is a video that Matt Chandler recorded this week before his surgery. It was played on Sunday at the Village Church. Also scroll down and read his list of ten things that he is thankful for.

I like Matt Perman’s post on Moral Clarity. He has some very helpful thoughts.

Max McLean has Ten Tips on the public reading of Scripture.

Trevin Wax with 9 Examples of the Internet Changing Our World.

Here is a very thoughtful article by John MacArthur dissecting the Prosperity Gospel. As usual he has a very clear, biblical perspective on the issue.

Check It Out 12 05 09

2009-12-05T08:34:00.003-06:00

Here is some good reading and listening for a Sunday morning.

Pastor Chris Braun shares some beneficial ideas to implement as we prepare for the Lord’s Table.

I make Justin Taylor’s blog a regular stop because he always has great content. Here he posts a video of Bob Kauflin and Paul Tripp discussing worship and counseling. I commend it to you.

Justin Buzzard has a four question interview with D. A. Carson about the gospel and its impact for the believer on a daily basis. I highly recommend reading and thinking about this.
(HT JT)

Do you need ideas for Christmas? If there are kids on your list Nate Wright has a couple for you.
(HT JT)

If you are on facebook, our church just added a facebook page.

Check It Out 12 04 09

2009-12-04T09:24:00.003-06:00

Dan Cruver has some good thoughts in his article Caring for Orphans While Soaked with the Sense of Exile. Thanks for the thoughts Dan.

Here are Pastor Matt Chandler’s thoughts as he heads into surgery to have a tumor removed from the frontal lobe of his brain. Pray for Matt.
(HT Zach Nielsen)

Here is an article that Albert Mohler wrote called Moralism vs. the Gospel. Some good thoughts to remind us of the vital nature of the gospel.

Here is some helpful thoughts on how Christians should respond to the furor surrounding Tiger Woods. C. J. Mahaney does a good job in discerning the true issues involved.

Check It Out 12 03 09

2009-12-03T10:58:00.006-06:00

Here are three links that are worth looking at today:

Jon Acuff, of Stuff Christians Like, always puts up thoughtful content on Wednesdays. This week is no exception.

My daughter, Bethany, put up a new post at her blog.

Some good reminders in this article at the Gospel Coalition Blog. Three Truths that Change Your Life.

Check It Out 12 02 09

2009-12-02T08:34:00.000-06:00

As usual the Big Picture has some spectacular pictures. This month they are adding a picture a day from the Hubble Space Telescope to make an Advent Calendar. This will require you to check back each day to see the new picture. If the quality of the rest is as good as the first one, it is worth the effort.

Russ Moore has written a profound and moving article Jesus Has Aids. Read this and ponder the truths that are laid in front of you.

My cousin Dan Cruver always has thoughtful, helpful articles on his website. Today is no exception. Let me commend this article, Adoption, Christian Identity, and the Global Orphan Crisis as worth reading, especially after reading Dr. Moore’s article.

Justin Taylor, the managing editor for the ESV Study Bible, has a very helpful post describing one of the best ways to study the Bible.

Check It Out 12 01 09

2009-12-01T10:38:00.002-06:00

Here is some good content for the beginning of December.

Mike Pohlman, over at the Gospel Coalition Blog shares a good quote and some helpful commentary on the Pastor as “Life Coach” vs. Herald of the Good News.

The Gospel Provides the Questions is a new post by Trevin Wax that addresses the important idea of contextualization of the Gospel.

Over at First Things is an excellent article, Longing For King Jesus that helps put into perspective what advent is about.

Check It Out 11 30 09

2009-11-30T09:56:00.000-06:00

Here are some resources worth checking out today.

Andy Naselli just pointed to an older post of his where he had compiled several links to a series that Kevin Bauder had written on The Christians and Fantasy Literature. This was good reading and well worthwhile for the believer in pondering how fantasy literature can be used.

My daughter Bethany wrote an article yesterday in which she talks about lessons in perseverance learned from a wilderness camping trip she took last summer.

John Piper posted a quote from Spurgeon about the a cure for discouragement in the ministry.

Justin Taylor links to a video of John MacArthur telling about the wonderful grace of God that led to him being able to share the Gospel with his old football coach.

Beyond the Manger

2009-11-27T10:07:00.000-06:00

December is a favorite month for many because of the celebration of our Lord’s birth. It is always a blessing to be reminded of his rescue mission to this world. He came on a mission that would prove his lordship, but he came first as an obedient servant. Often we become enamored with the glory expressed by the angels, with the image of a star as a birth announcement, with the appealing idea of shepherds and lambs, with the honor of wise men coming to worship.

Yet our focus must move from the romanticism of the manger to the indignity of the cross. Without the completion of the mission, the start of the mission would mean nothing. The coming of the Son to the created world was not in order to receive honor for himself. It was a to accomplish the task that had been assigned by the Father.

John tells us, “he came to his own, but his own people did not receive him.” Many would have accepted a king coming to grasp power to himself and set up his rule, yet most were unwilling to accept a servant coming to redeem their deficiency. That is what he did, he came as a servant not for his own benefit, but to suffer and give his life as a ransom for those that are slaves to sin. It was the completion of that mission that gives meaning to the start of it.

This month remember cross is the reason for the manger.

Check It Out 11 25 09

2009-11-25T18:53:00.002-06:00

Bethany posted a neat new article about teaching the English word ‘church’ to children who only have heard of ‘Church’s Chicken.’

A helpful list of things to remember when your child is disobedient.

Chris Brauns has a thought provoking quote on thankfulness being directed to a person.

Check It Out 11 24 09

2009-11-24T11:08:00.000-06:00

Some helpful links for today.

CCEF has a short excerpt from an article entitled Thankfulness: Even When It Hurts. I found it to be a good reminder.

Chris Brauns reposts an article encouraging believers to make intentional efforts to reach out to unbelievers especially during times like the Christmas season.

Check It Out 11 23 09

2009-11-23T20:42:00.000-06:00

Bethany posted a new article, The God of the Impossible. She is chronicling her year teaching English in a Honduran school.

Rick Thomas of Counseling Solutions links to the book, This Great Salvation available for free download from Sovereign Grace Ministries.

Justin Taylor is posting excerpts from the Gospel Coalition’s Theological Vision for Ministry. He is excerpting the section that deals with gospel centered ministry.

Some beautiful pictures from the Boston Globe. These are from The National Geographic’s International Photography Contest.

Check It Out 11 20 09

2009-11-20T19:06:00.000-06:00

Albert Mohler writes on the immorality of therapeutic evasion.

A very helpful article by Jim Eliff discussing the issue of childhood conversions. Those of you with children or grandchildren that you want to see walking with God would be very well served to read it.
(HT Kevin Pierpont)

The Manhattan Document was just published on line. It is a very thoughtful statement defending three foundational aspects of a biblical social order. These three are:
1. the sanctity of human life;
2. the dignity of marriage as the conjugal union of husband and wife;
3. the rights of conscience and religious liberty. I encourage you to read this thoughtfully and add your signature to it.

Of First Importance includes a daily quote that highlights some aspect of the Gospel. Today’s quote, entitled Sin and the Resolve of God, is a good example of the quotes that are included.

Check It Out 11 19 09

2009-11-19T13:19:00.001-06:00

Some helpful resources and links for today:

Lex Loizides continues his series on George Whitefield’s visit to Northhampton. In this post he focuses on God’s outpouring of his Spirit on that community before, during, and after the time of Whitefield’s visit there.

Here is a short quote from J. I. Packer on the Gospel.

Steve Altrogge at the Blazing Center has posted an article entitled Extreme Makeover – Heaven Edition.

Part two of Dan Cruver’s backstory of adoption. See part one here.

Check It Out 11 18 09

2009-11-18T09:20:00.002-06:00

Items worth reading today.

Paul Tripp talks about what is wrong with the world.

A helpful article on unpacking the meaning in some of the densely packed sentences in Paul’s epistles. Justin Taylor does it by asking simple questions.

A frightening article on the recommendation by U.N. Population fund to slow global warming by slowing population growth. Compare Albert Mohler’s thoughts on population growth.

Sometime back, Ray Ortland had this thought on the importance of the church over at the Gospel Coalition blog. I thought it was worth reposting and reminding ourselves of the place of the local church in God’s program.

Check It Out 11 17 09

2009-11-17T08:43:00.004-06:00

Bethany posted some pictures of her school as she is ministering in Central America. Pray for her as God uses her in the lives of many of these children.

Trevin Wax has an excellent interview with Justin Taylor of Crossway regarding the ESV Study Bible. I have a copy and I am very pleased with it. And I learned something more about it just from reading this interview.

A good article about how God dealt with the darkest time in history and what that says about our dark times.
(HT Trevin Wax)

Rick Thomas has some helpful thoughts on the danger of being right in an argument.

Check It Out 11 16 09

2009-11-16T10:32:00.000-06:00

A few articles worth reading today.

Bethany posted a new article about her time in Honduras teaching school. This week she had to be at school on Saturday and God gave her a wonderful opportunity.

Lex Loizides has a four part series on the friendship that grew up between Jonathon Edwards and George Whitfield. Here are the links: part 1, part 2, part 3, and part 4.
(HT Adrian Warnock)

A new issue of Themelios is now available. Themelios is the theological journal that is operated by the Gospel Coalition. The articles in this edition look like they will be very helpful.

A good reminder from John Piper on the difference between ought to and want to and how to change the ought to into want to.

Check It Out 11 15 09

2009-11-15T15:16:00.000-06:00

Three things today:

Ray Ortland posted a quote from Jonathon Edwards that is worth reading today.
(HT Thabiti Anyabwile)

Good quote from Counsel From the Cross.

An interview with J. I. Packer looking back to his conversion and ahead to his ”non-retirement.”
(HT Bob Kellemen)

Check It Out 11 14 09

2009-11-14T07:09:00.001-06:00

Here are a few things I have read lately.

The Boston Globe has a picture essay for Veterans Day.

Molly Piper has an article talking about the opportunity that she had this week to meet the child in El Salvador that she and her family sponsor. A very moving essay.
HT Abraham Piper

Justin Taylor has a video of Shai Linne rapping the story of the Bible in four minutes.

Kevin Bauder of Central Baptist Seminary is in the middle of a discussion of the history of Fundamentalism which I am finding quite interesting. Kevin is very thoughtful and thorough in his treatment. Though he calls himself a fundamentalist and is president of a fundamentalist school, he is willing to point out the absurdities of many of the assumptions that get made by most fundamentalists. I commend the entire series to you.

David Head at Ponder Anew has a helpful post thinking through some issues of cultural engagement. In particular he is addressing the firestorm surrounding the former Miss America contestant, Carrie Prejean.

Check It Out 11 13 09

2009-11-13T08:52:00.000-06:00

Here is some of my reading for today.

A Christian Janitor gave his life to save Muslim girls. Read about it here.
(HT Tom Ascol)

Funny Story: Deer Loses Fight With Lawn Ornament.
(HT Phil Johnson)

Second laugh for today: Tim Hawkins video on using a GPS.

Rick Thomas of Counseling Solutions always has good content, many practical helps. Here is an article that deals with the issue of what constitutes saving faith in a child.

Check it out 11 12 09

2009-11-12T09:05:00.001-06:00

As usual Albert Mohler has some good thoughts on a current issue of national importance. See his thoughtful comments about Muslims serving in the military in the light of the Fort Hood shooting.

Some thoughts from Jon Bloom of Desiring God, on disciplining ourselves for spiritual growth.

A great article on the goal of biblical parenting from Juan Sanchez on the Gospel Coalition Blog.

Anthony Carter, pastor of East Point Church in East Point, GA, speaks on Christian unity on Moody Radio.
(HT Thabiti Anyabwile)

A video of returning soldiers surprising their children at school. Remember to pray for our men and women who are in harm’s way.
(HT Chris Brauns)

Check It Out 11 11 09

2009-11-11T11:50:00.004-06:00

Articles that are worth reading today.

Thank you to all our veterans. Here is a video tribute. (Thanks Dad, Uncle Jerry, Uncle Don, Don, Nick, Steve, Matt, Tyler, Mike)

Justin Taylor has a short article with a video about Michael Oher, the subject of the upcoming movie The Blind Side. There is also a link to an article about Michael in World Magazine that is very worthwhile reading.

Here are a couple of older articles that are well worth the time to read.

Tim Keller on heart idolatry and how it impacted his ministry.

Don Carson wrote an editorial for Themelios regarding how the speed of the internet encourages too much communication with too little thought.
(HT Mike Pohlman)

I Have to Earn It

2009-11-10T15:08:00.002-06:00

I just had the opportunity to spend some time with a young teen that had some questions about the existence and goodness of God. We talked for some time about the existence of God, then discussed the reason for evil in this world. I then told him how God had sent his Son, Jesus, to die in our place and take our punishment upon himself.

At that point he asked me why, if Jesus had paid for our sins, God would still punish people. I sensed that this was not an opportunity to expound upon the doctrine of particular redemption and decided that I would approach it from a different angle.

I pulled a dollar out of my pocket and offered it to him, intending to use this as an illustration that God offers us the gift of salvation by his grace and that we need to receive it. The illustration worked far better than I expected. As I held out the bill, a look of horror came over his face and when I told him he could take it he shook his head and said, “No! I can’t!” I was surprised, because I had never experienced a 12 year old that would refuse a dollar bill. I asked him why and his first response was, “Because it doesn’t belong to me.” I told him it belonged to me and I wanted to give it to him. He said that he couldn’t take it. When I pressed him further for a reason, he said, “I didn’t earn it!”

For a moment I was speechless, then I told him, that is why people are punished even though Jesus died. They still face God’s wrath because they don’t receive his gift. I talked with him about how something is not a gift if you earn it.

He never took the dollar, and he hasn’t yet trusted Christ, but I am praying for him.

This was just a reminder to me of the power that self-sufficiency has in our lives. We feel that we have to earn something, even when it is offered as a gift. Not only is this too often a roadblock to salvation, it is also a roadblock to our sanctification. May God grant us to recognize that though this grace cost God the death of his Son, he offers it to us as grace, no payment necessary, no earning possible.

Check It Out 11 10 09

2009-11-10T14:41:00.001-06:00

Some links to some things I found worth reading.

A video celebrating the 234th birthday of the United States Marine Corp.
(HT Kevin Pierpont)

Here is an update on the fundraising effort I linked to yesterday.

The Boston Globe has a picture essay celebrating the 20th anniversary of the fall of the Berlin Wall.

Our God Is Amazing

2009-11-09T21:44:00.005-06:00

This morning I pointed to a blog post where Jon Acuff of Stuff Christians Like was attempting to raise $30,000 to build a kindergarten building in a poor city in Northwest Vietnam. His goal was to have the amount raised by the end of the year. I checked at 9:30 on the donation site and found that within 18 hours there has been over $30,000 donated. Praise God for his generosity through his people. Jon posted an update in the early evening when the total was at $24,000.

Check It Out 11 09 09

2009-11-09T11:11:00.002-06:00

Things I found interesting today.

Jon Acuff writes about a project he just started to raise money to build a kindergarten in Vietnam. I am looking forward to getting his book.
(HT Abraham Piper)

Scott Anderson reviews Steven Curtis Chapman’s new album Beauty Will Rise. I have listened to portions of it and enjoyed it greatly. (HT Dan)

Justin Taylor posted the interview that Mike Huckaby did with Abby Johnson, the former Planned Parenthood director in Texas that became a pro-life advocate after seeing an abortion procedure by means of ultrasound. This is worth the time to watch.

Remember Christian Audio is offering a free download of John Piper’s book Desiring God throughout this month.

Check It Out 11 08 09

2009-11-08T12:57:00.003-06:00

Here are some recent items that I have read and found helpful.

Voice of the Martyrs prayer request for the International Day of Prayer for the Persecuted Church.

At Between Two Worlds, Justin Taylor posts an article about God’s love and how that relates to suffering.

My daughter, Bethany is teaching in Honduras for this school year. She continues to write about her experiences there. Yesterday she wrote about little boys and frogs.

Check It Out 11 06 09

2009-11-06T06:40:00.000-06:00

Here are a couple links worth looking at.

Rules for youth groups. (HT Jason Taylor)

imonk has a thoughtful post on gospel living daily even when tragedy enters our lives. (HT Timmy Brister)

Check It Out 11 05 09

2009-11-05T13:41:00.000-06:00

Links of interest for today.

Noel Piper has written a series of articles chronicling their adoption story.

Justin Taylor has posted a thoughtful essay about B. B. Warfield.

Thabiti Anyabwile has a post on the vital need of prayer for preaching.

Thom Rainer has a good reminder on one of the important metrics for understanding church attendance.

The director of planned parenthood in Texas that reversed her course.

Deal of the Day??? (thanks @Davecruver)

Check It Out 11 04 09

2009-11-04T16:17:00.000-06:00

Here are a couple of recent web pages worth looking at.

Rod Decker gives notice about a new commentary series in the works. The Evangelical Exegetical Commentary looks like it could be a worthy set. But it also looks like it will be quite a while before any are seen.

Interview with Steven Curtis Chapman on the sorrow and pain of grief and the grace of God in the midst of that grief.

Check It Out 11 03 09

2009-11-03T10:26:00.000-06:00

Naked and Alone Hung the Son of Man This is a poem by Kevin Hartnett that is a thoughtful, instructive look at the cross. He writes with a gospel perspective. Explore his site. (HT Of First Importance )

Video of John Piper commenting on the devastating nature of the prosperity gospel.

Christianaudio is offering Desiring God as a free audio book for the month of November. Apparently some have had trouble downloading because of overwhelming demand, but keep trying. They are encouraging people to try again later in the month if they have trouble now.

Life size Noah’s Arks have been built as replicas in several places. Here are some neat photographs and commentaries.

Thanksgiving

2009-11-02T22:18:00.004-06:00

We set aside the fourth Thursday in November to give thanks for the blessings that we enjoy. Abraham Lincoln made this proclamation in 1863:

The year that is drawing towards its close, has been filled with the blessings of fruitful fields and healthful skies. To these bounties, which are so constantly enjoyed that we are prone to forget the source from which they come, others have been added, which are of so extraordinary a nature, that they cannot fail to penetrate and soften even the heart which is habitually insensible to the ever watchful providence of Almighty God. . . . I do therefore invite my fellow citizens in every part of the United States. . . [to] set apart and observe the last Thursday of November next, as a day of Thanksgiving and Praise to our beneficent Father who dwelleth in the Heavens. And I recommend to them that while offering up the ascriptions justly due to Him for such singular deliverances and blessings, they do also, with humble penitence for our national perverseness and disobedience, commend to His tender care all those who have become widows, orphans, mourners or sufferers . . .

The principle of thankfulness certainly ought to be a year round thing, yet it is good to be reminded of it especially on occasion. I appreciate that President Lincoln connected thankfulness for God’s blessing with intercession for the weak and powerless. Remember that all we have is a blessing of God.

Excitement in Honduras

2009-10-13T19:05:00.001-05:00

I was pleased this week to talk to Bethany and listen to her excitement about her time in Honduras. She had the opportunity to experience two exciting events.

The first was when a fellow teacher called her and told her that she wanted to meet with her. Last week Bethany had shared the Gospel with this teacher. Now she was calling Bethany and wanted to talk. So Beth told her that she was at Burger King doing lesson plans. The young lady said she’d be right there. When she got there she told Bethany that she had ask Jesus to be her Savior. Beth was very excited about that.

Then second exciting event was when Bethany and several fellow teachers were able to attend the USA vs. Honduras soccer game. The excitement of being packed into a stadium with thousands of Honduran fans was something that she had never experienced before.

Reading about her experience in Honduras is worth your time.

Review: The Jesus Storybook Bible

2009-09-08T21:00:00.002-05:00

I recently received a copy of The Jesus Storybook Bible by Sally Lloyd-Jones. I had heard some good things about it so decided to see what all the hype was about.

On immediate perception it is a very worthy entry into the genre of children’s Bible storybooks. As I looked through it I was more and more impressed. The author does a wonderful job of drawing the lines of redemptive history all the way through the entire Bible. The subtitle, “Every Story Whispers His Name,” is apt. The various stories are all connected as part of the larger story of Jesus coming to redeem man.

The book is valuable well beyond its nominal audience of children. As a pastor I am intrigued and instructed by her story telling and the wonderful way that she draws us into God’s plan for a redeemer to come. I believe that this book is a good addition to anyone’s library as it is very instructive and compelling in the storyline.

In October they will be releasing the deluxe edition that includes the complete book on audio CD read by award-winning British actor, David Suchet. I commend this to anyone in order to better understand how the story of redemption is told in all the stories of Scripture.

Delight in the Lord

2009-09-02T22:10:00.002-05:00

Trust in the Lord and do good;

dwell in the land and enjoy safe pasture.

Delight yourself in the Lord

and he will give you the desires of your heart.

Commit your way to the Lord;

trust in him and he will do this:

He will make your righteousness shine like the dawn,

the justice of your cause like the noonday sun.

(Psalm 37:3-6)

I have been meditating on what it means to delight in the Lord. The call that the Psalmist gives here is key to living the way God desires.

To delight in the Lord means to love the things he loves, to desire the things he desires, to be enamored with knowing him more. It means we look at the Savior and see him as glorious, as someone that we desire to be close to. It means that we seek any means possible to get to know him better. It means that when we realize that other priorities in our lives are crowding him out, we repent of them and turn to him.

To delight in the Lord means to trust him, to take him at his word. When he says, “I will never leave you nor forsake you,” he means just that. He doesn’t qualify that statement with saying “I will be with you as long as you follow me.” There is tremendous delight in having the confidence that his love for us is not dependent upon us.

When we delight in him we will act the way he wants us to. That is the natural response to his goodness, his love for us.

The basis for our delight is the sacrifice of Jesus for our sins. Throughout the Old Testament we read much about fearing God. When we consider our sin, to approach God is a fearful thing. I think of the response of Isaiah when he saw the holiness of God. He responded in abject fear, saying, “Woe is me.” It is truly only through the death of Christ on our behalf that we can have any other response to the holy God than Isaiah’s. We have had our sins paid for, our destinies changed, our inner man transformed by the the work on Calvary. This is greater delight than we can ever hope for.

When we consider the cross, the sacrifice of Jesus, then we can begin to delight in God. Meditate on him, delight yourself in his word, enjoy his presence.

The Glories of Christ

2009-07-25T09:27:00.001-05:00

The best advertisement is a satisfied customer. We all realize that. When we are looking to make a large purchase we frequently ask others what their experience has been. Their testimony is a major factor in helping us decide about who to buy from.

While certainly salvation is not a purchase we make, the principle still holds true. When we are joyful and enthused about Jesus, that is attractive to others and gives them good reason to consider the Gospel.

The greatest thing that we can do as believers is to truly worship the Lord Jesus. When we do that we honor him and we become the best testimonies of his grace. Consider who he is:

He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation. For by him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things were created by him and for him. (Col. 1:15-16)

The Son is the radiance of God’s glory and the exact representation of his being, sustaining all things by his powerful word. After he had provided purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty in heaven. (Heb. 1:3)

“I am the Alpha and the Omega,” says the Lord God, “who is, and who was, and who is to come, the Almighty.” (Rev. 1:8)

Consider what he did:

Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, but made himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself and became obedient to death—even death on a cross! (Phil. 2:6-8)

Consider where he is today:

Christ Jesus, who died—more than that, who was raised to life—is at the right hand of God and is also interceding for us. (Rom. 8:34b)

Meditate on the glories of God the Son. Rejoice in his person. Stand in awe of his being. Wonder at his love. Tell him how much you love him.

As you worship Christ constantly and consistently you will be the best testimony that the world can see. As Paul told Titus, you will “adorn the Gospel. . “ (Titus 2:10)

Blessings by the Minute!

2009-07-18T13:02:00.002-05:00

This morning I am sitting with a cup of coffee thinking back through this past week. As I contemplate the last 168 hours I am overwhelmed with the sense of God’s goodness.

Last Saturday the team from Evangel Baptist arrived and we got them situated. Sunday Morning was a blessing as they shared in our service, then in the evening service they ministered greatly to our hearts.

That was just the appetizer to what God had in store for us for the week.

These teens threw themselves into the work of ministering to the children we had come for VBS. Our adults had prepared and were just as enthusiastic. That combination achieved one of the most energetic and effective VBS’ that I have ever had the privilege to be a part of.

The numbers grew each day except the last. The enthusiasm was contagious and the love of God was evident. Our Bible teacher did a wonderful job of conveying the truth of God’s Word. The crafts were well thought out. The game time was exciting yet under control. The individual teachers were able to reinforce the truths that had been taught during the lesson time. I am so grateful for our director and how all of this was pulled together.

In the afternoons the team from Evangel dug in (literally) and accomplished some work projects we had. They cleaned out an old brush pile from the back corner, dug out an overgrown bush, scraped and painted an outdoor staircase, then dug out to the foundation of the building so we could waterproof it. That project alone would have occupied the men of the church for most of the summer, but praise God it was done in 4 days.

Thursday evening was special as we hosted a teen rally. The title for it was “Knights of the Burnt Marshmallow.” Our teen leader had games planned, food prepared and we had a marvelous time. At the end of the evening the Gospel was clearly presented by Pastor Pierpont. Praise God for His grace.

The week ended well as our closing program on Friday afternoon was attended by many of the parents. We presented the Gospel and are praying for God’s Spirit to be working in hearts.

The team from Evangel left on Friday afternoon and we are praying for God’s blessing to be upon them as He directs in these teens lives.

I am grateful for the vision of leadership at Evangel Baptist that is behind mission’s trips like these. The parents’ prayers and training is very evident. The commitment of the church to developing a heart for ministry is also evident.

God is always blessing us, it is extra special when he gives us such a week like this when his hand of blessing is even more evident.

Teen Servants

2009-07-13T07:22:00.006-05:00

A wonderful group of young people from Evangel Baptist Church in Taylor Michigan are with us this week. They have come to help out with our Vacation Bible School and a large Teen Outreach.

Yesterday they participated in our morning service, leading our singing. Then in the evening service they led they entire service. It was a blessing to have them minister in this way. Watching some young people that we watched grow up serve in such mature ways warmed Renee and my hearts. One of the young men preached in the evening service. His message was very pertinent and it was well done.

I am also humbled by the four adults who have taken a week of their lives and come along to help make this event happen. They truly are showing a servant’s heart.

We all are encouraged by the willingness of these young people to do whatever we need them to do. Their spirit is willing and eager to serve. God will greatly use that type of willingness. I am looking forward to watching how he chooses to use these young people over the next few years. I praise God for the vision that the leadership at Evangel Baptist has. Their commitment to raise up a new generation of Christian leaders has born much fruit. I am thankful that we at First Baptist can benefit from that vision.

Book Review: Notes From the Tilt-A-Whirl

2009-07-04T20:17:00.004-05:00

Notes From the Tilt-A-Whirl focuses one’s attention on the important questions of creation as the snapshot impressions taken during a year on the vast cosmic tilt-a-whirl are recorded. The amusement park ride is the metaphor for the globe spinning in multiple circles as it races through the universe. The various pictures are melded together and form a larger composition that distinctly shows the hand of a designer. Some of these observations are quick, drive by snapshots; others are examined in greater depth.

As I read the book there were times that I felt as if I were on an amusement park ride. The pictures flew by so fast that I had a hard time focusing. Then there are the times when Wilson stops the ride and lets us take a few deep breaths and examine a particular picture. His descriptions are thorough and he writes with good clarity. You truly are given a fresh glimpse of "wide-eyed wonder" as you consider the intricacies of even the most mundane of things. I appreciated the book as a good introduction to building a worldview. Nate Wilson does more than make observations; he draws lines to help us connect the dots so that the larger picture begins to emerge.

I recommend this book for any that are willing to look at the world with that "wide-eyed wonder" and then draw honest conclusions.

Thanks to Thomas Nelson for sending this for me to review as a member of their book review blogger program.

Review of Religion Saves & Nine Other Misconceptions

2009-06-30T20:33:00.004-05:00

In Religion Saves & Nine Other Misconceptions, Mark Driscoll tackles some of the thornier questions facing believers in the twenty-first Century. He takes a page from Paul’s answers to the questions the Corinthian Church asked and does a similar thing with questions that were posted on the Mars Hill website. The nine questions that he answers range from questions about birth control, sexual sin and dating to questions regarding style both in the preaching and in the worship, to theological questions on topics like predestination, grace, faith and works, and the doctrinal position (or lack of) of the Emerging Church.

Driscoll uses a blunt, bold style in answering, and he communicates well. He breaks difficult truths down so that they can be easily understood. While one may quibble with some of Mark’s style, his conclusions are well thought out and solid in substance.

I heartily recommend this as a book that cuts through a lot of the rhetoric that passes for Christianity.

Adopted for Life -- Review

2009-05-11T16:11:00.004-05:00

Adopted for Life is a compelling, thought provoking book that looks at a theology of adoption. Moore is the dean of the School of Theology and senior vice president for academic administration at the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary.

This is a very readable book that links adoption and the gospel in persuasive way. Moore has thought deeply about the doctrine of adoption and its intrinsic relationship to the gospel. He has also thought very deeply about adoption as a reality in today’s world. He and his wife have adopted two boys and are walking through the process of raising their family. His insights are moving; his style is gripping. As a pastor with families that have adopted, it has given me a fresh understanding of how to apply the gospel in that context.

The first part of the book is densely packed with parallels between the gospel message and adoption. The final chapters deal with some of the issues that adoptive parents face during the adoption process and after, as they raise their families.

Dr. Moore is passionate about this topic and he is very thoughtful of his exposition of pertinent Scriptures. That makes for a credible read. My eyes filled with tears more than once as I considered this vital topic.

I highly recommend this book for potential adoptive parents, for grandparents, for pastors, and for thoughtful Christians who want to be biblically informed regarding this topic.

The Case for Life -- Review

2009-05-09T15:32:00.003-05:00

In The Case for Life Scott Klusendorf has written a very readable guide to what is truly at stake in the debate regarding the lives of the unborn. The subtitle is Equipping Christians to Engage the Culture. This should be required reading for all church leaders. It should be on the recommended list in church libraries and every believer should be familiar with the approach to the abortion debate that is recommended.

His book is divided into four parts that address different needs for Christians: clarifying the debate, establishing a foundation for the debate, answering questions persuasively, and teaching and equipping.

In his preface and throughout the book Klusendorf strongly advocates graciousness in any debate regarding life issues. When pro-life people answer questions regarding abortion policies they should do it in a “winsome and attractive matter.” We must remember that as Christians we are ambassadors for Christ, we are his representatives in this world. That lays a deep responsibility on us to be gracious and polite even as we refute deadly arguments.

In part one, Klusendorf urges pro-lifers to clarify what is being debated. While often the popular debate centers on choice or privacy issues, Klusendorf persuasively makes the point that the rhetoric needs be stripped away and the debate focused on the issue of whether a human being is killed or not. He marshals the scientific and medical communities testimonies concerning the fact that at conception a human embryo is distinctly a human being. Once that is established he advocates some strategies to demonstrate what is truly at stake in the abortion discussion.

He suggests a very simple yet powerful strategy that he calls “trot out the toddler.” That is substitute a toddler for the unborn in any argument that advocates abortion. This puts the debate on the different plane than most abortion advocates want to be. Throughout the book Klusendorf gives examples of using these strategies in a gracious, kind, yet determined way.

The second part is devoted to deciphering what is truly being said in the debate, cutting through obscuring language. He deals with many relativistic presuppositions, subjecting them to logical analysis to see haw valid they truly are.

In part three he answers many of the objections that are raised about involvement in the Pro-life movement. Most of the answers go right back to the clarified debate, the issue is the taking of a human life. When that is clearly seen as the issue at stake it keeps the debate on moral grounds.

The final part of the book deals with broader strategies to equip churches and believers to deal wisely and persuasively with abortion advocates. He urges a strong biblical foundation on how life is viewed. He also advocates compassionate care for those that have had abortions.

I highly recommend this book for all Christians to read and evaluate so that they can understand and engage the culture

The Gospel and Idolatry

2009-05-08T19:43:00.003-05:00

I just listened to Tim Keller's message from the Gospel Coalition again. What an important reminder for us to be identifying idols and then exposing and destroying them. I highly recommend listening to this.

The Great Exchange

2009-04-10T14:45:00.005-05:00

Today we think about the death of our Savior. I am overwhelmed as I meditate on his willing sacrifice. He went to the cross in my place.

I am currently reading The Great Exchange by Bob Bevington and Jerry Bridges. I highly recommend this book. The topic is the exchange of Christ’s righteousness for my sin.

That is what the cross is all about, that is the Gospel, the good news. When we think about the cross, we have to see it for what it truly is. Sure, it was a diabolical instrument of torture, certainly it was an horrendous death for Christ to suffer, but it is so much more than that. It is Christ, the God-man dying in my place, taking my sin upon himself, and placing his righteousness on me. It is the great exchange.

Praise God for his mercy and grace. May he be glorified as we meditate on the Gospel.

Added: Read the prayer from Valley of Vision that Justin Taylor posted this morning.

Extravagant Worship

2009-04-02T11:31:00.001-05:00

Meditate on the extravagant gift that Mary of Bethany poured out on the Savior just two days before his death. She brought the most valuable item she owned and poured it out on his head. The perfume symbolized her devotion. (Read Mark 14:2-9)
She came in and just lavished her love on the one who was soon to pour out his life in an extravagant display of love for the world.

Of course there were those present who criticized her display of devotion. They said: “This is poor stewardship of the what God has given you. You should have sold this and used it to help multitudes of people. Just think what a waste this was to pour it out on one person!”

Jesus rebuked such indignant murmuring. He said that the devotion to him was of greater worth than anything else she could do. He commended her love, saying that she did all she could do. He said it would be talked about wherever the Gospel was preached.

As I meditate on this, I think about the way I worship the Savior. There are times when I am more concerned with being a good steward of my time than I am with worshiping the one who gave his life for me. I need to lavish in my devotion to him, I need to be extravagant as I worship.

Mary’s worship is spoken of wherever the Gospel is preached, is my worship in the same class? Even a hundred years from now, would anyone speak of my devotion? The best stewardship of my time is to devote it to Christ. May we all be as extravagant as Mary of Bethany.

How Great Is Our God

2009-03-27T11:51:00.002-05:00

One theme repeated throughout the Old Testament is the condemnation of graven images. The second commandment explicitly forbids the making and the worship of images. The prophets preach against it and condemn it in no uncertain terms. Yet Israel constantly succumbed to this temptation during the centuries of living in the land, from the time of the Judges until the time of the Babylonian exile.

It is not just Israel that had this problem. Throughout the world religion after religion makes images to bow down to and worship. From simplistic animistic religions of tribal people, to the complexity of a religion like Hinduism; even some forms of Christianity produce images to be ‘venerated.” Why is there such an attraction to images?

While many postulate that man simply needs a physical object to fasten upon, and that most are not truly worshipping that object, I believe that there is a much deeper thing going on here.

Creating an image to represent God is an attempt to reduce God to a manageable level; to “cut God down to size;” to put God on a plane where man can understand him; to control the deity.

Most Christians do not worship images. That is one of the commandments that seems to be a moot point in our modern and now postmodern era. Yet I think that we often violate the principle behind this command. We, in our attitudes and too often in our practice limit the infinite immensity of God. We limit the time that we ascribe to him, worshipping at only certain specified times, Sunday mornings or our devotional time in the morning. We limit the places we worship him, only in a church building. We limit our concept of him, thinking of him as a problem solver and only calling on him when we are in distress; or we think of him as a lawgiver, one to be obeyed or we face consequences.

He is all this and so much more.

We must meditate on the immensity of God, on his infinite being. We must marvel at the freedom of God, no one can rule him. We must bow before the majesty of God, he is more glorious than all creation. We must wonder at the might of God, the sovereign over all rulers. We must bask in the love of God, he sent his Son as the Savior. We must continually seek to know him, the unknowable, in a deeper and more intimate way.

C. S. Lewis reminded us that he is “not a tame lion.” We cannot contain nor control God, we can only worship him.

Book Recommendation

2009-03-24T10:13:00.002-05:00

I am currently reading and reviewing The Case for Life (Equipping Christians to Engage the Culture) by Scott Klusendorf.

Scott has written a very readable guide to what is truly at stake in the debate regarding the lives of the unborn. His book is divided into four parts that address different needs for Christians: clarifying the debate, establishing a foundation for the debate, answering questions persuasively, and teaching and equipping.

I am about halfway through the book and will post a complete review after I finish it.

In his preface and throughout the book Klusendorf strongly advocates graciousness in any debate regarding life issues. When pro-life people answer questions regarding abortion policies they should do it in a “winsome and attractive matter.” We must remember that as Christians we are ambassadors for Christ, we are his representatives in this world. That lays a deep responsibility on us to be gracious and polite even as we refute deadly arguments.

Klusendorf suggests a very simple strategy in debating with both abortion advocates and with those who are unwilling to take a definitive position. He calls it “trot out the toddler.” That is substitute a toddler for the unborn in any argument that advocates abortion. This puts the debate on the different plane than most abortion advocates want to be.

He then marshals the evidence that life begins at conception. This is a key point for the debate as it helps us see what is truly at stake.

Throughout the book Klusendorf gives examples of using these strategies in a gracious, kind, yet determined way. I highly recommend this book for all Christians to read and evaluate so that they can understand and respond to the culture that we are part of.

I will post a full review of this book later.

Compassion

2009-02-22T19:37:00.003-06:00

This Sunday we were reminded of the compassion and love and mercy that God has for us. It is only right for us to show compassion and love and mercy to others. Here is a ministry that is doing that in Ghana, West Africa.

Pray for the Volta Home for Children.

Pray for Glory

2009-02-18T23:08:00.006-06:00

We must ask to see God’s glory each day.

Consider the account of the golden calf at Sinai.

The children of Israel grew impatient as Moses was on the mountain. In their arrogant impatience they decided to make their own god and so fashioned a golden calf.

Moses went to God to plead for mercy for the people. After God promised mercy Moses had some other requests that culminated in his request to be shown God’s glory.

God’s reply was to tell Moses that no one could see God’s glory and live. However, he would place Moses in a hole and cover him with his hand and then pass by. After he had made his glory to pass by, God would remove his hand and Moses would then see the remnants of God’s glory.

And he passed in front of Moses, proclaiming, "The LORD, the LORD, the compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness, maintaining love to thousands, and forgiving wickedness, rebellion and sin. Yet he does not leave the guilty unpunished; he punishes the children and their children for the sin of the fathers to the third and fourth generation."

The glory of God is compassion and grace and patience and love and faithfulness and forgiveness and justice. The glory of God was nailed to the cross, providing man with grace and love and forgiveness as God’s justice was poured out on his son.

Reading this moves me to meditate on these attributes of God and to consider how I can demonstrate them in the fallen world we live in.

When we ask God for compassion and grace, or patience, or forgiveness, or for justice we are asking to see his glory. It is God's glory to love us.

Pray for his glory in your life, both because you need it and because everyone you come in contact with needs it as well.

Put Your Hope in God

2009-02-12T10:02:00.003-06:00

This morning for my devotions I read Psalm 42 and 43. These psalms fit together. Three times in these two psalms the psalmist asks this question, “Why am I so depressed, Why this turmoil within me?” This must have been dark days for him. There are times in all of our lives when we go through the darkness, the pain of doubting that things will ever get better.

At that time, when our souls are asking that questions, we have a choice in how we will answer. The psalmist answered it the same way every time, “Put your hope in God, for I will still praise Him,my Savior and my God.”

After I read in Psalms, I read Genesis 39, the account of Joseph in Egypt. In that difficult place Joseph kept his hope fixed on God. Despite temptation to follow the path of fleshly indulgence he kept his hope fixed on God. When lied about and unfairly punished he kept his hope fixed on God. In the typically terse language of Genesis, Moses assures us that God continued to bless Joseph, even in those dark circumstances.

After I read and meditated on that, I read 2 Chronicles 16. This chapter tells us of the last days of Asa, king of Judah, one of the good kings. Asa had instituted massive reforms in Judah, had turned the hearts of the people back to God, had seen God’s blessing throughout his long reign. We are told how Asa continually sought God until we get to chapter 16. Here, near the end of his life, Asa is confronted with an attack from his northern neighbor, Israel. Asa’s response this time is to seek help from Syria, instead of going to God. It is interesting how the Chronicler records the story. Asa is apparently successful, the King of Israel retreats and the immediate crisis is resolved. Then these verses are inserted: “At that time Hanani the prophet visited King Asa of Judah and said to him: “Because you relied on the king of Syria and did not rely on the LORD your God, the army of the king of Syria has escaped from your hand. . . ” The prophet goes on to remind Asa of how God has protected him in the past, how he would have had an even greater victory if he had just put his hope in God instead of the king of Syria. Instead of repenting, Asa gets angry and puts the prophet in prison.

The end of the chapter shows that the Chronicler understood completely the issue that was involved here. He says that after reigning for 39 years, Asa had a disease of his feet. Here is how it is put: “In the thirty-ninth year of his reign, Asa developed a foot disease. Though his disease was severe, he did not seek the LORD, but only the doctors. Asa passed away in the forty-first year of his reign.” For three years Asa suffered with this and did not put his hope in God, only in man’s wisdom.

As I meditate on the Psalmist’s words and these two godly men and their very different responses to dark trials, I am encouraged and I am admonished. I am encouraged that even in the deepest, darkest of times I can and I should put my hope in the Lord. He is accomplishing his purposes in my life and in the wider world around me. I am admonished that so often I forget this principle and blithely seek men’s wisdom instead of going to the Lord and trusting him.

Oh, that I might regularly remind my soul that I must hope in God first, that his mercies are great, that his concern is more than any man’s, that his way is perfect and that he will accomplish his purposes.

I am encouraged by the words of William Cowper’s poem, God Moves in a Mysterious Way.

God moves in a mysterious way 
His wonders to perform; 
He plants His footsteps in the sea 
And rides upon the storm.

Deep in unfathomable mines 
Of never failing skill 
He treasures up His bright designs
 And works His sovereign will.

Ye fearful saints, fresh courage take; 
The clouds ye so much dread 
Are big with mercy and shall break 
In blessings on your head.

Judge not the Lord by feeble sense,
 But trust Him for His grace; 
Behind a frowning providence 
He hides a smiling face.

His purposes will ripen fast, 
Unfolding every hour; 
The bud may have a bitter taste, 
But sweet will be the flower.

Blind unbelief is sure to err 
And scan His work in vain; 
God is His own interpreter, 
And He will make it plain.

That's My King

2009-02-01T19:13:00.002-06:00

I shared this with our people today after our lunch. This is a marvelous reminder of who Jesus is. A soul stirring presentation of the attributes of Christ.

Life Is Tough; God Is Good

2009-01-28T12:27:00.004-06:00

My Brother was laid off yesterday after 23 years with his company. My cousin was laid off last week after 8 years with his company. I just received an email from one of our church members that he was just given 2 weeks notice.

It is easy to despair during times like this. I understand the fear, the uncertainty, the shock, the anger that can come during a sudden, unexpected reordering of your life. We just lived through nearly four years of that uncertainty. My heart is burdened for these dear ones.

But my heart is encouraged as well because I know that this is in the vast, good plan of our loving Father.

When I talked with my brother yesterday I told him that he had an awesome opportunity to demonstrate the reality of his faith to his teenage children. Sure there are difficult emotions, there are all of the decisions that must be made, the efforts to update the resume, the networking that must be done. But first of all there is the time to praise God for his multiplied blessings. As I shoveled snow this morning I kept remembering the old Gospel Song: Count Your Blessings:

When upon life’s billows you are tempest tossed,
When you are discouraged thinking all is lost,
Count your many blessings, name them one by one
And it will surprise you what the Lord has done.

I was meditating on the truth in that short verse and the good advice.

I also began meditating on the Psalms and the times that the Psalmist said to just think back on the blessings of God. Over and over again the great things that God had done for Israel are reflected on. God’s graciousness is extolled.

One particular Psalm is slightly different. It is Psalm 73. In that Psalm Asaph is discouraged because it seems as if the wicked prosper and the righteous are always suffering. But when he reflects on the glory of God and on the big picture, i.e the judgment of the wicked, then he remembers that God is in control and that what we take for suffering is in the final result, God’s blessing.

As we face uncertain days may we continue to meditate on God’s character, his love, his sovereignty, his glory. That is the best thing that we can do to encourage our souls.

(Edited to add Psalm 103)

“Bless the LORD, O my soul: and all that is within me, bless his holy name.
Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits:
Who forgiveth all thine iniquities;
who healeth all thy diseases;
Who redeemeth thy life from destruction;
who crowneth thee with lovingkindness and tender mercies;
Who satisfieth thy mouth with good things; so that thy youth is renewed like the eagle’s.

The LORD executeth righteousness and judgment for all that are oppressed.
He made known his ways unto Moses, his acts unto the children of Israel.
The LORD is merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and plenteous in mercy.
He will not always chide: neither will he keep his anger for ever.
He hath not dealt with us after our sins; nor rewarded us according to our iniquities.
For as the heaven is high above the earth, so great is his mercy toward them that fear him.
As far as the east is from the west, so far hath he removed our transgressions from us.

Like as a father pitieth his children, so the LORD pitieth them that fear him.
For he knoweth our frame; he remembereth that we are dust.
As for man, his days are as grass: as a flower of the field, so he flourisheth.
For the wind passeth over it, and it is gone; and the place thereof shall know it no more.

But the mercy of the LORD is from everlasting to everlasting upon them that fear him,
and his righteousness unto children’s children;
To such as keep his covenant, and to those that remember his commandments to do them.
The LORD hath prepared his throne in the heavens; and his kingdom ruleth over all.

Bless the LORD, ye his angels, that excel in strength, that do his commandments, hearkening unto the voice of his word.
Bless ye the LORD, all ye his hosts; ye ministers of his, that do his pleasure.
Bless the LORD, all his works in all places of his dominion:
Bless the LORD, O my soul.”

(Psalms 103:0-22 KJV)

Praying for Our President

2009-01-21T21:14:00.005-06:00

Ligon Duncan has an excellent article on an appropriate way to pray for our new president. I am linking it here. I shared this with our church people tonight. I also referenced Psalm 20 in regard to praying for our leaders.

This Psalm is a coronation Psalm, given as a new king was crowned.

May the Lord answer you when you are in distress;
may the name of the God of Jacob protect you.
May he send you help from the sanctuary and grant you support from Zion.
May he remember all your sacrifices and accept your burnt offerings. Selah
May he give you the desire of your heart and make all your plans succeed.
We will shout for joy when you are victorious and will lift up our banners in the name of our God.
May the Lord grant all your requests.

Now I know that the Lord saves his anointed;
he answers him from his holy heaven with the saving power of his right hand.
Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the Lord our God.
They are brought to their knees and fall, but we rise up and stand firm.

O Lord, save the king! Answer us when we call!”
(Psalms 20:1-9 NIV)

God of the Ages

2009-01-05T12:16:00.001-06:00

This song sums up my sermon yesterday.

The Creator-Redeemer

2009-01-03T20:05:00.005-06:00

I am preaching on Colossians 1 tomorrow. As I have prepared this sermon I am in awe of the Redeemer.

He created and sustains this world. He is above all. He rules over all. He is the before all and the greatest of all. He is the image of God, revealing the Father to his creation. Yet the crown of his creation has chosen to rebel against him. Still he cares about his creation. He rules over it, he cares for it, ultimately he died to redeem it. I am reminded that Paul said in Romans 8 that all creation is groaning awaiting the time that all will be set free. We join in that groaning, looking for the day when we will be free from the effects of sin. Yet in a real sense when we know Christ as Saviour we are currently free, having already been redeemed by his death on the cross.

We rejoice in that redemption, living our lives for the sake of that Gospel. That impacts every area of our lives. All that we do, every activity that we engage in, should be done in the light of redemption. "So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God." (1 Corinthians 10:31 NIV)

Quite a testimony

2009-01-03T19:52:00.003-06:00

This is a video compiled about Tim Tebow. A friend of mine had it posted on Facebook and I thought it was worth posting here.

Good Bye to 2008; Hello to 2009

2008-12-31T15:40:00.003-06:00

2008 was an eventful year. Of course everyone looks at the world events of this last year and can say the same thing. For us it was personally eventful. Yet through out the year we were especially aware of God's provision.

One of the things that we learned was that God cares for us no matter what the circumstances. It has been our experience that when things go poorly we begin to think more about God and how he cares. But we have made a point of noting his provision and care in good times too.

Our desire for 2009 is that we will be even more aware of God's provision and care in the coming year. We desire to see the Gospel in all areas of our lives.

5 Browns Piano playing

2008-12-27T20:09:00.004-06:00

Just wanted to put this in, watch some amazing piano playing.

Artist Site

Christmas

2008-12-25T19:05:00.003-06:00

This is always a special time of the year. Last evening we had a wonderful Candlelight service at church. There were several special numbers, Bethany recited a dramatic presentation of the Christmas story from a shepherd's viewpoint. Then we lit candles as I recited Luke 2 and John 1. There were a good number of people out with some visitors.

After the service Renee and I and the girls went driving to look at Christmas lights. Then we came home and had cookies and eggnog while we each opened one gift. That has been a tradition our entire married life.

As I think about this Christmas the over-riding emotion I have is one of gratefulness. Certainly gratefulness for the gifts that I have received. But a greater thanksgiving for what God has done. I have been reminded anew of the great love that God had for us in sending his Son to die in our place. That remarkable event changed all of history, and truly it changed me. My gratitude this year is also directed at God's leading in our lives. This year seemed to be a tumultuous year when it started, but as we have arrived at the end we see the wonderful path that God took us down. He brought us here to a tremendous church where the people are especially loving. We praise him for his sovereign plan.

Missionary Christmas

2008-12-14T20:27:00.008-06:00

We just walked in the door after a blessed evening. First Baptist in Portage has a marvelous tradition of having a missionary in during December and having an evening dedicated to giving them Christmas gifts. The entire church participates.

This year we had Michael and Katrina Geurink and their four children. The Geruinks are ABWE missionaries to the upper Amazon in Brazil. We had a carry-in meal and had time to just talk and get to know Mike and Katrina. Then Mike presented his ministry for us. To see his heart for these Indians that need the Savior encouraged me. He told of one couple that had labored as Wycliffe missionaries for 55 years to translate the Bible into the language of the these people. He was so excited that he could step into this ministry and have a Bible to share and a written language to teach in. Had that been the end I would have left having been blessed by God. But there was more. We had a whole pile of presents on the platform and the Geurinks sat down and opened the gifts. My heart was stirred as I watched the excitement of the kids and the thankful hearts of the parents as they opened gift after gift.

Tonight as I write this my heart is so full. First from the blessing of seeing a young couple sold out for the Lord to take the Gospel to unreached people groups. Mike's presentation moved me to tears. Second I am blessed to have such a loving church family that knows how to share their love for others in tangible, special ways.

Both these blessings remind me of God's tremendous love in sending his Son as a gift to us to reach all the world, of of us were onetime an unreached people. All I can say is praise be to God on High.

I urge you to pray for this young couple returning for their second term as missionaries. Pray for their support, pray for their health, pray for their safety. Most importantly pray for their ministry to souls that need the Savior.

A REAL Christmas Tree

2008-12-08T17:47:00.003-06:00

We went out and cut a Christmas tree today. That is the way we always like to do it. Take a nice long walk through the woods across snow covered fields looking for the perfect tree. There are always many trees that look good from one side but then you walk around and you see how lopsided they are. There is a real art to picking a tree. Renee's criteria is simply that there is no bird's nest in it. We actually saw a couple of those. We found a couple that were close to being what we wanted, but did not want to settle for one that was just good enough. We walked on back to the next field looking for a better one. It is so nice in the woods with a fresh coating of snow over everything.

Sarah and Alex went with us looking for the tree. We had a good time looking. Finally we found the one that was just right for us. I pulled out a tape measure (I learned long ago they are much bigger than they look when they are outdoors.) Yes, this tree would do. Sarah held the tree while I cut it off at ground level. Then Alex pulled it back through the fields to the car. We loaded it in the trunk and tied the lid down. What a pleasant time it was.

When we got home Alex and I put it in the stand and now have it standing in a corner in the Family room. We will decorate it later, Renee will fix some hot chocolate, we will have some cookies and put the decorations on it. The smell of evergreen is permeating the room already. There is nothing like a real Christmas tree, the artificial ones may look nicer, but there is just something about the tree you picked out, cut down and hauled out on your own.

Thanksgiving

2008-11-26T20:47:00.004-06:00

We have much to be thankful for this year.

First I am thankful for my Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ. His willingness to obey the Father and come to this earth to die in my place is the greatest blessing in the world. I am in awe daily of his love for me.

Second we are thankful that Renee's parents are in the presence of the Savior. Our hearts have a heaviness because we miss their immediate presence, yet we also are rejoicing that they have the blessing of seeing Jesus.

We are also thankful that God has opened up the door for ministry for us in Portage. His timing is awesome and too wonderful for words. When we wait patiently for God's plan he blesses beyond our imagining. The people at Portage have been so loving and caring that we have the feeling of having God's arms wrapped around us.

"Bless the Lord, O my soul, and all that is within me, bless his holy name."

2008-11-12T14:22:00.003-06:00

We just finished loading the truck. Praise God!! Thanks George, Paul, Paul, Bob, Larry, Jim, Web, and Ralph! Everything is loaded tighter than I thought possible. It was also done much faster than I thought it could get done.

We will be leaving in the morning and driving to Portage. Then we have the privilege of taking everything off the truck and taking it into the house. We have so many boxes that did not get unpacked when we came to Mom and Dad's house that it will be like Christmas to open them.

I am looking forward to getting settled in and then I get to preach on Sunday.

I probably won't get to update this the rest of this week.

Good Friends

2008-11-09T20:50:00.004-06:00

Today our Adult Bible Fellowship had a farewell dinner for us. We have enjoyed ministering with them these last three years. It is good to see God's working in lives.

The time that we have spent at Evangel has been wonderful. We came here expecting that it would be a very short time, but God had other plans. He gave us the opportunity to serve here and be ministered to. We have grown richer in our spirits through the years we spent here. We will always remember Evangel and what God is accomplishing in Taylor. We will pray for the ministry here.

Now as we leave Michigan and go on to the ministry that God has prepared for us in Indiana we covet God's blessing on Portage as he blessed the ministry in Taylor.

Anticipation

2008-11-08T18:41:00.001-06:00

Today I finished one chapter of my life and I am looking forward to the next chapter. As Renee and I prepare to move to First Baptist Church we have much to be praise God for.

His timing is perfect in the events that he brings into our lives. We have been waiting for nearly four years to find a church to pastor. God kept closing the doors until both of Renee's parents had gone to glory. The very week that Renee's Mom passed we candidated at First Baptist and the next week they voted unanimously for us to become their new pastor.

Since then we have been preparing for the move. Right now the house is in chaos with boxes everywhere. Most of our belongings are packed and ready to load. Soon we will be in Indiana beginning this new ministry.

Today was my last day at the Home Depot. It is sad to leave behind many friends, but it is invigorating to know that I am moving into the place God has prepared for me.