I haven't said or written much on Harold Camping's prophecy concerning judgment day beginning today for two reasons. First, many other very capable, Biblical scholars have spoken on the matter much more clearly than I ever could. Second, to me the whole affair seemed very trivial (like casting pearls before swine). Nobody knows when this event will take place, nobody. Scripture teaches us this fact in various places such as Matthew 24:36. Therefore, any time anyone produces a "prophecy" or "revelation" concerning such events, there's no reason any Christian who understands his Bible should take it seriously.
Over the coming days there are many possibilities as to the outcome of this false prophecy. The "prophet" may appear and claim he was "slightly off" on the date and set a new one. Or, he may claim he misunderstood and the date was right only judgment has begun in the spiritual realm (perhaps those already dead are being judged and the date for those on the earth is just a little further out on the calendar!). But my prayer, as the pastor of a local Baptist church, is for my folks not to pay heed to such nonsense. Instead, I exhort my sheep and all born again Christians everywhere: do not share false revelation with the world, rather, share true revelation, the true and clear message God has chosen to reveal to us, namely, the Gospel!
1. Because of Adam's sin, everyone is conceived in sin (Psalm 51:5; Romans 5:12-14), do sin (Romans 3:9-18, 23), die as a result of sin (Romans 6:23), is under the condemnation and wrath of a just and holy God (Romans 5:18a; John 3:36), and is one heartbeat from eternal punishment in Hell (Matthew 25:46; Matthew 5:29-30; Revelation 20:15).
2. But God, rich in love, grace, and mercy, has made a way of escape through the ministry of His only Son, the Lord Jesus Christ. He was born of a virgin (Luke 1:34-35), lived a sinless life (Hebrews 4:15; 1 Peter 2:22), gave His life as a substitutionary, atoning, propitiating sacrifice in the place of those given to Him by the Father (1 Peter 2:24; Hebrews 10:12; 2 Corinthians 5:21; Romans 3:24-26; John 10:14-18), and was raised from the dead as evidence of God's acceptance of His ministry (1 Corinthians 15:1-28).
3. God, through His church, now calls all sinners to receive this great message, this good news, this Gospel by repenting (turning from) their sins and believing Christ (trusting your eternal soul to Him) (Mark 1:14-15; Acts 16:31; Acts 17:30; Romans 10:9-10,13; Ephesians 2:8-10).
4. Jesus Christ is the only hope for any and all men. He is the only way to forgiveness, justification, sanctification, and glorification (John 14:6; Acts 4:12; Romans 5:18-21; Romans 8:9-17). No other figure in history or mythology can provide a means of escaping your condemnation, future judgment, and eternal punishment. NO ONE.
5. Those who do turn from sin and trust Christ for their salvation will absolutely escape that great judgment and subsequent eternal punishment. Instead they will receive an eternal life of peace and joy (Revelation 20:11-15; John 3:16).
This message of good news HAS been revealed by God to us! Therefore, let us forget "prophecies and revelation" not found in God's Word and let us share true revelation with a lost world which needs THIS word.
Saturday, May 21, 2011
Thursday, March 17, 2011
"The Christian Lover": A Book Review
I own several works by Dr. Haykin and have enjoyed everything this Christian historian has written. Furthermore, it has been my privilege to hear him deliver conference presentations on various lessons from history and have never been disappointed. This book continues that perfect streak.
The Haykins present 12 chapters, each chapter covering a Christian couple from history. The chapter opens with a brief biographical sketch of the parties, setting the stage for what follows. And what follows the biography are one or more letters written between the two parties (usually husband and wife). These letters reveal the love life between them, presenting a wonderful picture of their humanity and what Christian marriage is about.
The 12 couples include Protestant Reformers Luther and Calvin, 19th century Baptists Judson and Broadus, as well as 20th century Christian heroes, Lloyd-Jones and Moltke. Some of the letters express feelings during periods of separation, some during times of loss, and one pending the end of life. In each one, the reader catches a glimpse of the true humanity of the author and the deep level of love the parties have for one another.
A couple of examples will suffice to reveal the wealth contained in these letters.
"Martin Luther to the holy lady, full of worries, Mrs. Katharina, doctor, the lady of Zolsdorf, at Wittenberg, my gracious, dear mistress of the house. Grace and peace in Christ! Most holy Mrs. Doctor! I thank you very kindly for your great worry which robs you of sleep."
Helmuth Moltke writing to his wife Freya from prison less than two weeks before his execution at the hands of the Nazis: "Without you I would have accepted love. ... But without you, my dear, I would not have "had" love. I should not think of saying that I love you; that would be quite false. Rather you are the one part of me, which would be lacking if I was alone. ... It is only in our union--you and I--that we form a complete human being. ... And that is why, my dear, I am quite certain that you will never lose me on this, my dear. I am quite certain that you will never lose me on this earth--no, not for a moment."
The book is excellent and I VERY highly recommend it.
BUT, I wish it was a bit longer!
Monday, March 7, 2011
"How to Study the Bible": A Book Report
The other three chapters lay the foundation for studying Scripture. They discuss the nature of Scripture, the importance of Scripture, and the use of Scripture in one's life. Also, there is a chapter which explains who can study the Bible. All of this is good information but really does not contribute much to the discussion on "HOW" to study the Bible.
Nevertheless, it is a MacArthur work and it is well done. I would recommend the book to anyone wanting more information on the nature and use of the Scripture.
Thursday, March 3, 2011
"The Dawkins Delusion? Atheist Fundamentalism and the Denial of the Divine": A Book Review
After plodding my way through its brief 118 pages, I have no idea why I was so excited to read it. The authors, Alister E. McGrath and Joanna Collicutt McGrath, take well known atheist Richard Dawkins to task on his denial of the existence of God and his mockery of religion. As they note:
"Every one of Dawkins's misrepresentations and overstatements can be challenged and corrected."
Sure they can. But these authors do so in such a cumbersome way, it is difficult to follow their argument and make it through the book, at least it was for me. They seem to jump from point A to point B without explaining the path they took, leaving the reader (i.e., ME) confused.
Another problem I have with the text is how they show possession. Perhaps this is acceptable in today's world of literature but it sure isn't how I was taught to write a possessive. If I want to show something belonging to Mr. Dawkins, I write Dawkins', NOT Dawkins's (see quote above). Maybe this is a minor thing, but everytime I read Dawkins's I wanted to scream!
Also there were moments when I wondered from where the authors learned orthodox Christianity. For example, on page 86 they write:
"Yes--contrary to what Dawkins assumes, orthodox Christianity understands Jesus to have been fully human and not omniscient."
Well, the Bible teaches Jesus was God in the flesh so certainly His divine nature was omniscient! I will concede that his human nature was not but the authors need to be a bit more careful when sharing orthodox Christianity's understanding on the person of Christ.
As you can tell, I was disappointed in the book. Maybe I had my hopes on what I would learn from reading this work set too high. But I really can not recommend this book to anyone UNLESS they really do believe Richard Dawkins is correct. In that case, the book may have some value.
Friday, February 18, 2011
"Slave: The Hidden Truth About Your Identity In Christ": A Book Review
The author is clear on the issue:
"...the Bible uses one metaphor more frequently than any of these. It is a word picture you might not expect, but it is absolutely critical for understanding what it means to follow Jesus. It is the image of a slave. ... the earliest believers referred to themselves in the New Testament as the Lord's slaves. For them, the two ideas were synonymous. to be a Christian was to be a slave of Christ." (pp. 12-13)
Over the next 200 plus pages, author John MacArthur carefully, forcefully, but clearly supports his premise that, for some time, Christians have not understand the true meaning of being a Christian due to the translation of the Greek word "doulos" to the English "servant" instead of its true meaning: "slave". MacArthur examines the view of ancient history concerning this truth and then presents the truth of the "master-slave" concept from the Scripture. For example, he writes:
"Jesus also used slave language to define the reality of what it means to follow Him. Discipleship, like slavery, entails a life of total self-denial, a humble disposition toward others, a wholehearted devotion to the Master alone, a willingness to obey His commands in everything, an eagerness to serve Him even in His absence, and a motivation that comes from knowing He is well pleased. Though they were once the slaves of sin, Christ's followers receive spiritual freedom and rest for their souls through their saving relationship with Him. Against the historical backdrop of slavery, our Lord's call to self-sacrifice becomes that much more vivid. A slave's life was one of complete surrender, submission, and service to the master--and the people of Jesus' day would have immediately recognized the parallel. Christ's invitation to follow Him was an invitation to that same kind of life." (p. 43)
The book consists of 225 pages divided into 13 chapters. Furthermore, there is a tremendous appendix entitled "Voices from Church History" containing quotes from various Christian scholars throughout the centuries supporting the concepts espoused in the book.
Simply stated, this book is a tremendous work and well worth the time it takes to read and devour. I sincerely wish every church-going person would do so. Some of them will discover they are still a slave to sin. Others will discover they have failed to obey their Master. In any case, the church will be blessed and the Lord will be glorified.
May each of us grasped the meaning of our slavery to Christ.
"The glorious reality is that, for all of eternity as His slaves, you and I and every other believer from all of human history will joyfully worship and exalt our heavenly Master--the King of kings and the Lord of lords." (p. 38)
I would truly hope those who read this new work by John MacArthur would come away converted, grateful, and committed.
Thanks to Thomas Nelson for providing a copy of this book for review. No other compensation was provided.
"...the Bible uses one metaphor more frequently than any of these. It is a word picture you might not expect, but it is absolutely critical for understanding what it means to follow Jesus. It is the image of a slave. ... the earliest believers referred to themselves in the New Testament as the Lord's slaves. For them, the two ideas were synonymous. to be a Christian was to be a slave of Christ." (pp. 12-13)
"Jesus also used slave language to define the reality of what it means to follow Him. Discipleship, like slavery, entails a life of total self-denial, a humble disposition toward others, a wholehearted devotion to the Master alone, a willingness to obey His commands in everything, an eagerness to serve Him even in His absence, and a motivation that comes from knowing He is well pleased. Though they were once the slaves of sin, Christ's followers receive spiritual freedom and rest for their souls through their saving relationship with Him. Against the historical backdrop of slavery, our Lord's call to self-sacrifice becomes that much more vivid. A slave's life was one of complete surrender, submission, and service to the master--and the people of Jesus' day would have immediately recognized the parallel. Christ's invitation to follow Him was an invitation to that same kind of life." (p. 43)
The book consists of 225 pages divided into 13 chapters. Furthermore, there is a tremendous appendix entitled "Voices from Church History" containing quotes from various Christian scholars throughout the centuries supporting the concepts espoused in the book.
Simply stated, this book is a tremendous work and well worth the time it takes to read and devour. I sincerely wish every church-going person would do so. Some of them will discover they are still a slave to sin. Others will discover they have failed to obey their Master. In any case, the church will be blessed and the Lord will be glorified.
May each of us grasped the meaning of our slavery to Christ.
"The glorious reality is that, for all of eternity as His slaves, you and I and every other believer from all of human history will joyfully worship and exalt our heavenly Master--the King of kings and the Lord of lords." (p. 38)
I would truly hope those who read this new work by John MacArthur would come away converted, grateful, and committed.
Thanks to Thomas Nelson for providing a copy of this book for review. No other compensation was provided.
Tuesday, December 14, 2010
Enslaved
During my message this past Sunday morning, I shared some thoughts I had on the word "enslaved" in Galatians 4:3. The root of the word is "doulos" often translated "servant" in English. But I have known for some time there are other Greek words meaning "servant" and the best translation of "doulos" is "slave". Paul repeatedly refers to himself as the "slave of Christ". In English, there is quite a difference in meaning when you compare "servant" to "slave".
My thinking on "doulos" has been supported in my reading of earlier Christian authors and preachers. English preachers such as Spurgeon will translate the word as "bond slave". Augustine refers to Christians as "slaves of Christ". There are many examples of such usage by a variety of authors, too many to list in a simple post.
Then, a few years ago, I chose to use the Holman Christian Standard Bible (HCSB) for my daily Bible readings. I was blown away when I read its translation of the New Testament and saw "doulos" consistently translated "slave"!
In Galatians 4:3, Paul explains how, prior to Christ, we were enslaved to the elementary principles of the world. We were in bondage! Reformed folks frequently describe the depravity of man by noting that apart from Christ we are in "bondage to sin", a phrase using the imagery of slavery. Yet, for some reason, we do not press the usage of the word bondage and the concept of slavery when we think of our position in Christ. Why is that? Did He not buy us with a price? Are we not His peculiar possession? Do we not call Him Lord (which means "master")?
Yes, over the past couple of years I have become convinced we need to speak and write more on the subject of our "slavery to Christ". We are not simply His servants; we are truly His slaves! We are not free to our lives how we want and call ourself Christian. No, we are to live our lives as He demands!
By the Providence of God, a book from Thomas Nelson publishers arrived at my home yesterday. I am a "blogger" reviewer. I chose this book as the next one I wanted to review simply for one reason: it is written by John MacArthur. I knew the title was "Slave" but assumed Dr. MacArthur was writing on the Bible and the subject of physical slavery perhaps from a historical perspective. Needless to say, I was blown away today when I opened the first chapter and read:
"Yet, the Bible uses one metaphor more frequently than any of these. It is a word picture you might not expect, but it is absolutely critical for understanding what it means to follow Jesus. It is the image of a slave." (page 12)
Sure enough, Dr. MacArthur is writing on the Biblical usage of the word "doulos" and how it should be translated "slave" and what that image should teach us about living as a Christian. Forget the "healthy, wealthy, and wise" preachers. The Bible tells us we are to live in Christ as a slave.
Now that's radical!
I'm grateful God has put this book into my hands at this moment. In two days I will be on my December vacation and one of my objectives is to devour this book and to seek the Lord to help me better understand how I should live not simply as a Christian but as a slave of Christ.
May He be praised!
My thinking on "doulos" has been supported in my reading of earlier Christian authors and preachers. English preachers such as Spurgeon will translate the word as "bond slave". Augustine refers to Christians as "slaves of Christ". There are many examples of such usage by a variety of authors, too many to list in a simple post.
Then, a few years ago, I chose to use the Holman Christian Standard Bible (HCSB) for my daily Bible readings. I was blown away when I read its translation of the New Testament and saw "doulos" consistently translated "slave"!
In Galatians 4:3, Paul explains how, prior to Christ, we were enslaved to the elementary principles of the world. We were in bondage! Reformed folks frequently describe the depravity of man by noting that apart from Christ we are in "bondage to sin", a phrase using the imagery of slavery. Yet, for some reason, we do not press the usage of the word bondage and the concept of slavery when we think of our position in Christ. Why is that? Did He not buy us with a price? Are we not His peculiar possession? Do we not call Him Lord (which means "master")?
Yes, over the past couple of years I have become convinced we need to speak and write more on the subject of our "slavery to Christ". We are not simply His servants; we are truly His slaves! We are not free to our lives how we want and call ourself Christian. No, we are to live our lives as He demands!
By the Providence of God, a book from Thomas Nelson publishers arrived at my home yesterday. I am a "blogger" reviewer. I chose this book as the next one I wanted to review simply for one reason: it is written by John MacArthur. I knew the title was "Slave" but assumed Dr. MacArthur was writing on the Bible and the subject of physical slavery perhaps from a historical perspective. Needless to say, I was blown away today when I opened the first chapter and read:
"Yet, the Bible uses one metaphor more frequently than any of these. It is a word picture you might not expect, but it is absolutely critical for understanding what it means to follow Jesus. It is the image of a slave." (page 12)
Sure enough, Dr. MacArthur is writing on the Biblical usage of the word "doulos" and how it should be translated "slave" and what that image should teach us about living as a Christian. Forget the "healthy, wealthy, and wise" preachers. The Bible tells us we are to live in Christ as a slave.
Now that's radical!
I'm grateful God has put this book into my hands at this moment. In two days I will be on my December vacation and one of my objectives is to devour this book and to seek the Lord to help me better understand how I should live not simply as a Christian but as a slave of Christ.
May He be praised!
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
"5 Cities that Ruled the World": A Book Review
“5 Cities that Ruled the World: How Jerusalem, Athens, Rome, London, and New York shaped Global History” by Douglas Wilson briefly examines the history of these cities. Mr. Wilson presents the significance of each city on world history in general and the city’s impact on the West in particular. Mr. Wilson approaches the history from the perspective of a Christian, noting the hand of God in the rise (and fall) of these metropolitan areas.
At the outset I must confess I struggled reading this book. The Introduction grabbed my attention and I was ready to charge into the meat of the work. But something happened when I entered the first chapter on the city of Jerusalem. I felt like I was trying to walk from one side of a swimming pool to another in four feet of water. It was a very, very, slow read.
As a result, I put the book aside not for a few hours or a few days but for several months. Something inside of me did not want to pick it back up and read another word. But, I finally did and I am grateful I pressed forward. After a few more difficult pages in the Jerusalem chapter, suddenly the book seemed to open up and my reading pace picked up speed. The more I read, the more I wanted to read. I completed the book in only a matter of days.
I’m not sure why I struggled with the early part of the work but overall I found Mr. Wilson’s book enjoyable, informative, and even inspirational. The book contains 236 pages and 14 of them are footnotes. When you read the book, do not skip the footnotes. They contain wealth of information as well.
“5 Cities that Ruled the World” is an interesting work and I encourage you to pick it up and press on when you feel as though you cannot read another word. Your diligence will be well rewarded.
I want to thank Thomas Nelson for providing a copy of this book for review. No other compensation was provided.
I’m not sure why I struggled with the early part of the work but overall I found Mr. Wilson’s book enjoyable, informative, and even inspirational. The book contains 236 pages and 14 of them are footnotes. When you read the book, do not skip the footnotes. They contain wealth of information as well.
“5 Cities that Ruled the World” is an interesting work and I encourage you to pick it up and press on when you feel as though you cannot read another word. Your diligence will be well rewarded.
I want to thank Thomas Nelson for providing a copy of this book for review. No other compensation was provided.
Thursday, October 28, 2010
Saved By Faith Youth Challenge (SBFYC 2011)
Check out the SBFYC site here for next year's conference info.
Conference #25: Paul Washer is speaking.
Mark your calendars and save your money!
Conference #25: Paul Washer is speaking.
Mark your calendars and save your money!
Thursday, October 14, 2010
"The Prayer of the Lord": A Book Review
This particular work focuses on what we commonly know as "The Lord's Prayer". It recognizes the prayer to be a model for the prayers of all believers, an example for us on how to prayer. The prayer was given by our Lord in response to a request from His discisples to teach them how to pray.
The book is a mere 130 pages (including indices) but is loaded with a wealth of practical advice. There are 10 chapters, 8 of them focusing on the actual phrases of the prayer (e.g., "Hallowed Be Your Name"). Dr. Sproul begins the book by discussing what prayer is not to be since that is where the Lord began his response to His own disciples. The 10th and final chapter are questions and answers on the matter of prayer.
Here are some samples from this work:
"You should remember who is being addressed and who is doing the speaking. That is, the first thing you are to remember in prayer is who it is you're talking to, because nothing will condition your prayer life more deeply than remembering that you're in conversation with God, the sovereign Creator and Ruler of the universe. Second, you are to remember who you are. You are not God. You are a creature. So prayer is not a conversation between peers; it is not a fireside chat among equals. This is the creature speaking to his sovereign Creator."
"Thus, far from teaching the universal fatherhood of God, the Bible teaches the particular fatherhood of God. Therefore, to call God 'Father' in the New Testament sense of the word, in the sense of the word the way the church expresses it as the family of God, is to affirm the very uniqueness of Christianity. ...The brotherhood of which the New Testament speaks is the brotherhood or sisterhood of fellowship enjoyed by all those who are adopted into the family of God and who are in Christ. ... Not all men are my brothers, only those who are in Christ. However, all men are my neighbors, and I am required by God to treat these people as I would expect them to treat me. I am required to love my neighbor as much as I love myself. Jesus made it clear that the neighborhood is not restricted to the brotherhood."
"...come to God in a spirit of humble dependence, asking Him to provide what we need and to sustain us from day to day. We are not given license to ask for great riches, but we are encouraged to make our needs known to Him, trusting that He will provide."
"Jesus taught His disciples that their prayers should be centered on the glory of God, and it is only after we spend time praising on the glory of God, and it is only after we spend time praising and adoring Him that we should shift to focusing on our needs..."
"We may come to God and speak to Him in these terms of personal intimacy, in a familial way, for we are part of His family. However, we must keep the rest of the character of God in mind. We must always remember that this One whom we address as Father is holy."
Yes, I loved the book. Get it. Read it. Learn from it.
Tuesday, September 21, 2010
"Finally Alive": A Book Review
The subtitle of this book is "What Happens When We Are Born Again" and that tells the reader exactly what the book is about. The Table of Contents reveals a work of 203 pages in length consisting of 15 chapters (plus a conclusion) divided into 5 sections. To get a flavor of Dr. Piper's book, here at the titles of those 5 sections:
I. What Is The New Birth?
John Piper is always easy to read even when he is dealing with a profound theological subject such as regeneration. This book is loaded with Scripture and is an outstanding modern work on the new birth, one many who are sitting in church pews on Sundays need to read. Note the following remarks of Piper early in the book:
"I want to say loud and clear that when the Barna Group uses the term born again to describe American church-goers whose lives are indistinguishable from the world, and who sin as much as the world, and sacrifice for others as little as the world, and embrace injustice as readily as the world, and covet things as greedily as the world, and enjoy God-ignoring entertainment as enthusiastically as the world--when the term born again is used to describe these professing Christians, the Barna Group is making a profound mistake."
Dr. Piper then plunges into the Scripture and reveals the divine creation of spiritual life. Such life is necessary for, by nature, we are spiritually dead, enslaved to sin and Satan. Faith in Christ is demanded but, apart from a supernatural work by the Holy Spirit, faith is absent. We need to be born again. Once we are born again, faith follows leading to justification, adoption, and glorification.
John Piper is Reformed in his theology and that is evident in this book. The ordo salutis he presents clearly places the new birth before faith, regeneration before conversion. Yet, as those who read Piper already know, he is very evangelistic. The last 2 chapters, which comprise the 5th section of the book, clearly bring this fact to the light. For example, he writes:
"God's role in bringing about the new birth is decisive, and our role in bringing about the new birth is essential. ... Tell people the good news of Christ from a heart of love and a life of service. ... If people are to be born again, it will happen by hearing the word of God, centered in the gospel of Jesus Christ. They will be 'born again through the living and abiding word of God...the Gospel.' God's work and your work come together like this:
This book is a solid explanation of the doctrine of regeneration. It is very readable even for those with little theological understanding. I strongly recommend "Finally Alive".
I. What Is The New Birth?II. Why Must We Be Born Again?
III. How Does The New Birth Come About?
IV. What Are The Effects Of The New Birth?
V. How Can We Help Others Be Born Again?
John Piper is always easy to read even when he is dealing with a profound theological subject such as regeneration. This book is loaded with Scripture and is an outstanding modern work on the new birth, one many who are sitting in church pews on Sundays need to read. Note the following remarks of Piper early in the book:
"I want to say loud and clear that when the Barna Group uses the term born again to describe American church-goers whose lives are indistinguishable from the world, and who sin as much as the world, and sacrifice for others as little as the world, and embrace injustice as readily as the world, and covet things as greedily as the world, and enjoy God-ignoring entertainment as enthusiastically as the world--when the term born again is used to describe these professing Christians, the Barna Group is making a profound mistake."
Dr. Piper then plunges into the Scripture and reveals the divine creation of spiritual life. Such life is necessary for, by nature, we are spiritually dead, enslaved to sin and Satan. Faith in Christ is demanded but, apart from a supernatural work by the Holy Spirit, faith is absent. We need to be born again. Once we are born again, faith follows leading to justification, adoption, and glorification.
John Piper is Reformed in his theology and that is evident in this book. The ordo salutis he presents clearly places the new birth before faith, regeneration before conversion. Yet, as those who read Piper already know, he is very evangelistic. The last 2 chapters, which comprise the 5th section of the book, clearly bring this fact to the light. For example, he writes:
"God's role in bringing about the new birth is decisive, and our role in bringing about the new birth is essential. ... Tell people the good news of Christ from a heart of love and a life of service. ... If people are to be born again, it will happen by hearing the word of God, centered in the gospel of Jesus Christ. They will be 'born again through the living and abiding word of God...the Gospel.' God's work and your work come together like this:
- "God causes the new birth through the seed of the word, the gospel.
- "God brings about the new birth through your telling people the gospel.
- "God regenerates people through the news about who Christ is and what he has done on the cross and in the resurrection.
- "God gives new life to dead hearts through your words when you speak the gospel."
This book is a solid explanation of the doctrine of regeneration. It is very readable even for those with little theological understanding. I strongly recommend "Finally Alive".
"Divorce & Remarriage: A Permanence View": A Book Review
Based on conversations I have had with many professing Christians, the authors' conclusions are not going to be welcomed by many. Most modern day expositors teach at least 2 Biblical exceptions to the permanence view of marriage, namely, adultery and abandonment. However, these godly authors attack these exceptions with God's Word clearly and carefully. Here is a brief sample:
"...there is no text of Scripture that conclusively proves that God permits divorce in cases of adultery, while several passages prohibit divorce categorically. ... Matthew 19:9 is, at best, inconclusive on the subject of remarriage after divorce, and in Matthew 5:32 Jesus clearly prohibits remarriage after divorce, even for the innocent spouse, by specifying that though she was not guilty of adultery prior to the divorce, she commits adultery when she remarries."
The authors summarize their understanding of the teaching of Scripture on marriage, divorce, and remarriage at the very beginning of the book:
1. The one-flesh union created in marriage is permanent until death.
2. Initiating a divorce is never lawful.
3. Remarrying after divorce is an act of adultery if a former spouse is living.
Part 1 of the book examines the Biblical texts on the subject. Part 2 of the book discusses applications of their conclusions. The second part is extremely valuable since it contains answers to many of the situations which often confront pastors in their ministry to troubled marriages (or second marriages).
I suspect many will disagree with their conclusions. Those who do, however, must provide a more convincing interpretation of the Scriptural passages examined by this work. Opinion, pragmitism, and philosophical arguments will not suffice. The authors have based their conclusions on Scripture. Those opposed must do likewise.
Personally, I enjoyed reading the work. My own view on this matter has undergone considerable change over the past couple of years thanks, in part, to the work of John Piper. Basically, I came to the same conclusions as the authors roughly a year ago. Their work confirms my view on marriage.
I do remain in disagreement with the book's position on the matter of divorce as it relates to the qualifications for a pastor. The authors conclude that those men who have divorced their wives and remarried remain qualified for the pastorate. They provide their arguments for their position in the "application" section near the end of the book. However, I am not yet convinced of their position and the interpretation they are giving to the 1 Timothy 3 passage.
Though I disagree with their position on pastoral qualifications, I support the remainder of their book. I highly recommend it to others, especially those who are still struggling with the subject of divorce and remarriage.
Thursday, September 9, 2010
What Are We Teaching Our Children?
I am not a legalist. The Bible clearly reveals that a saving relationship with God is received only by faith in Christ and not by any works which we may do. We cannot keep the law perfectly and keeping it only occasionally will never earn us anything but wrath!
I am not a legalist. Once God has caused us to be born again by the regenerating power of His Spirit and we have repented of our sins and trusted Christ for salvation, we do not keep that salvation by obeying God’s commands. Again, we continue to fail from time to time even after we are saved. Keeping us in a “saving” relationship with Christ is also the work of God. It is He who preserves us and our salvation to the end.
BUT, the Bible does teach that those who have been born again will keep God’s commandments. In other words, our desire has now changed and we long to be obedient, not because it earns or keeps our salvation but because we have been born again. Our new spiritual nature, received at our new birth, guides us to do good works and to obey the Word of God.
“If you love me, you will keep my commandments” said our Lord in John 14:15.
“Everyone who believes that Jesus is the Christ has been born of God, and everyone who loves the Father loves whoever has been born of him. By this we know that we love the children of God, when we love God and obey his commandments” writes the Apostle John in 1 John 5:1-2. Evidence of one’s new birth is his love for God and his obedience to God’s commandments.
Throughout Scripture, God has called His children to set aside a day to remember Him. God wants us to join together with other brothers and sisters on that day and worship Him. According to the New Testament, the principal day for a church (brothers and sisters in Christ) to worship together is the first day of the week, the Lord’s Day, our Sunday.
“And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near” the author of Hebrews records in 10:24-25. The Lord desires His children, His church, to meet together and not to neglect such meetings. In other words, He wants us worshiping Him with our church on the Lord’s Day.
But what are we teaching our children about our love of God, our love of our fellow believers, our love of our church, and our love of worship? Are we telling them and showing them that the worship of God with the church on the Lord’s Day is important and necessary?
A very noticeable trend has been developing over the past couple of decades. With their lips many believers are telling their children of the importance of worshiping God on the Lord’s Day with the church. But they are teaching them something entirely different with their lives. Essentially, their lives are saying, “Yes, worshiping God with our church family on Sunday is our #1 priority for the day UNLESS you have to participate in a sporting activity or attend some school activity or go fishing with someone, etc.”
Sports have probably been the most significant culprit in this trend. Parents and their children have elevated the importance of sports above the importance of God. Those individuals who have children presently engaged in sports are likely screaming “No” even as they read this. But face facts, folks. When you pull your child away from the worship of the Lord on Sunday morning to permit them to participate in a voluntary activity such as baseball, football, soccer, or any other sport, you are teaching them the sporting event is more important than the worship of God. If you did not believe so you would not let them participate in the activity.
Look at it from another angle. If you were to tell your child they are going to have to miss worship service in order to participate in a sporting event, almost without exception the child will NOT be disappointed (and you probably aren’t either). But tell that child they must miss the sporting event to participate in the worship of God and see who gets upset! Now tell me which is more important in their life, God or sports? The fact they become upset reveals which “god” they love the most. Jesus said, “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also” (Matthew 6:21).
I can’t fault sports alone. In today’s culture, the school system seems to find new ways to pull families out of church on the Lord’s Day. “We have to be at Busch Stadium by 11:30 in order to prepare to play the National Anthem so we can’t make church today.” Why can’t they play the anthem any other day of the week? “We have such and such event out of town this Sunday so we will miss church.” Why is the event not held on Friday and Saturday only? Even some schools now have their graduation services on the Lord’s Day.
When we parents yield to the demands of athletic teams, school systems, and other organizations and allow our children to “skip” church in lieu of whatever the activity may be, we are teaching them this event is more important than the worship of God. In fact, we are telling them this event is our god.
Again, I am not a legalist. There are some professions which demand individuals work on Sunday mornings. Medical personnel are needed on the Lord’s Day. Businesses sometimes require operating on Sundays. I, myself, have had to work on the Lord’s Day and miss worship services on a few occasions over the years. Why, even families taking a vacation will miss Sunday worship from time to time. Missing the Lord’s Day worship is not necessarily wrong or evil. Sometimes it is unavoidable. This is not what I am talking about.
Parents, you have authority over your children. If you are permitting them to participate in activities which draw them away from their worship of God then you are, like it or not, teaching them that activity, no matter what it is, is more important than God. Period.
Those parents who are, in fact, engaged in such “education” are probably thinking they are stuck. They have a child who, for example, loves football. He plays for a football team in some local organization and some of their games are Sunday mornings. What can you do?
You can do plenty. You can teach your child the importance of being with their church on the Lord’s Day worshiping God by telling them they will not participate in any sporting event (or other activity) which requires them to “skip” the service. “But the team is counting on them.” Well, before the season begins, have a discussion with the coach and tell him your child will not play on Sundays. Tell your child this as well. Set the ground rules up front. We do not miss worshiping the Lord on Sunday mornings for sporting events. Find another league which does not schedule games on Sunday mornings. If enough Christians “stuck to their guns” on the issue of Sunday activities, the organizations would be more likely to eliminate those Sunday activities.
I am not a legalist. As a pastor, I do not keep a record of who is at church and who is away at some sporting event. Skipping worship services for sporting events or other activities does not cost you your salvation. But it is teaching your child a very dangerous lesson. Which “god” do you want your child to serve when they get older?
I am not a legalist. Once God has caused us to be born again by the regenerating power of His Spirit and we have repented of our sins and trusted Christ for salvation, we do not keep that salvation by obeying God’s commands. Again, we continue to fail from time to time even after we are saved. Keeping us in a “saving” relationship with Christ is also the work of God. It is He who preserves us and our salvation to the end.
BUT, the Bible does teach that those who have been born again will keep God’s commandments. In other words, our desire has now changed and we long to be obedient, not because it earns or keeps our salvation but because we have been born again. Our new spiritual nature, received at our new birth, guides us to do good works and to obey the Word of God.
“If you love me, you will keep my commandments” said our Lord in John 14:15.
“Everyone who believes that Jesus is the Christ has been born of God, and everyone who loves the Father loves whoever has been born of him. By this we know that we love the children of God, when we love God and obey his commandments” writes the Apostle John in 1 John 5:1-2. Evidence of one’s new birth is his love for God and his obedience to God’s commandments.
Throughout Scripture, God has called His children to set aside a day to remember Him. God wants us to join together with other brothers and sisters on that day and worship Him. According to the New Testament, the principal day for a church (brothers and sisters in Christ) to worship together is the first day of the week, the Lord’s Day, our Sunday.
“And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near” the author of Hebrews records in 10:24-25. The Lord desires His children, His church, to meet together and not to neglect such meetings. In other words, He wants us worshiping Him with our church on the Lord’s Day.
But what are we teaching our children about our love of God, our love of our fellow believers, our love of our church, and our love of worship? Are we telling them and showing them that the worship of God with the church on the Lord’s Day is important and necessary?
A very noticeable trend has been developing over the past couple of decades. With their lips many believers are telling their children of the importance of worshiping God on the Lord’s Day with the church. But they are teaching them something entirely different with their lives. Essentially, their lives are saying, “Yes, worshiping God with our church family on Sunday is our #1 priority for the day UNLESS you have to participate in a sporting activity or attend some school activity or go fishing with someone, etc.”
Sports have probably been the most significant culprit in this trend. Parents and their children have elevated the importance of sports above the importance of God. Those individuals who have children presently engaged in sports are likely screaming “No” even as they read this. But face facts, folks. When you pull your child away from the worship of the Lord on Sunday morning to permit them to participate in a voluntary activity such as baseball, football, soccer, or any other sport, you are teaching them the sporting event is more important than the worship of God. If you did not believe so you would not let them participate in the activity.
Look at it from another angle. If you were to tell your child they are going to have to miss worship service in order to participate in a sporting event, almost without exception the child will NOT be disappointed (and you probably aren’t either). But tell that child they must miss the sporting event to participate in the worship of God and see who gets upset! Now tell me which is more important in their life, God or sports? The fact they become upset reveals which “god” they love the most. Jesus said, “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also” (Matthew 6:21).
I can’t fault sports alone. In today’s culture, the school system seems to find new ways to pull families out of church on the Lord’s Day. “We have to be at Busch Stadium by 11:30 in order to prepare to play the National Anthem so we can’t make church today.” Why can’t they play the anthem any other day of the week? “We have such and such event out of town this Sunday so we will miss church.” Why is the event not held on Friday and Saturday only? Even some schools now have their graduation services on the Lord’s Day.
When we parents yield to the demands of athletic teams, school systems, and other organizations and allow our children to “skip” church in lieu of whatever the activity may be, we are teaching them this event is more important than the worship of God. In fact, we are telling them this event is our god.
Again, I am not a legalist. There are some professions which demand individuals work on Sunday mornings. Medical personnel are needed on the Lord’s Day. Businesses sometimes require operating on Sundays. I, myself, have had to work on the Lord’s Day and miss worship services on a few occasions over the years. Why, even families taking a vacation will miss Sunday worship from time to time. Missing the Lord’s Day worship is not necessarily wrong or evil. Sometimes it is unavoidable. This is not what I am talking about.
Parents, you have authority over your children. If you are permitting them to participate in activities which draw them away from their worship of God then you are, like it or not, teaching them that activity, no matter what it is, is more important than God. Period.
Those parents who are, in fact, engaged in such “education” are probably thinking they are stuck. They have a child who, for example, loves football. He plays for a football team in some local organization and some of their games are Sunday mornings. What can you do?
You can do plenty. You can teach your child the importance of being with their church on the Lord’s Day worshiping God by telling them they will not participate in any sporting event (or other activity) which requires them to “skip” the service. “But the team is counting on them.” Well, before the season begins, have a discussion with the coach and tell him your child will not play on Sundays. Tell your child this as well. Set the ground rules up front. We do not miss worshiping the Lord on Sunday mornings for sporting events. Find another league which does not schedule games on Sunday mornings. If enough Christians “stuck to their guns” on the issue of Sunday activities, the organizations would be more likely to eliminate those Sunday activities.
I am not a legalist. As a pastor, I do not keep a record of who is at church and who is away at some sporting event. Skipping worship services for sporting events or other activities does not cost you your salvation. But it is teaching your child a very dangerous lesson. Which “god” do you want your child to serve when they get older?
Thursday, September 2, 2010
Congregational Church Government
Let me immediately say this post has nothing to do with "eldership" and church polity. I realize the concept of "ruling elders" is very prevalent in Baptist circles these days but that discussion is for another day, at least on this forum.
Baptists have practiced a congregational form of church government (congregational polity) for years. They have done so based on their conviction this is the form of polity taught in the Scripture. Both the 1963 and 2000 Baptist Faith and Message promote congregational polity.
"This church is an autonomous body operating through democratic processes under the Lordship of Jesus Christ. In such a congregation, members are equally responsible." (1963 BF&M)
"Each congregation operates under the Lordship of Christ through democratic processes. In such a congregation each member is responsible and accountable to Christ as Lord." (2000 BF&M)
Congregational polity means each member of a given local church has both responsibility and accountability in the affairs of the church. No one individual or group directs the affairs of the church. Rather, each and every member, operating as a servant of Christ, has a voice in the working of the church.
Baptists, of course, do not receive everyone who comes to a church as a member. Baptists teach that only regenerated (born again) and Scripturally baptized individuals may be members. Therefore, the members of a local church are brothers and sisters in Christ, each a servant of our Lord, and each a possessor of the Holy Spirit.
So, if you are born again, baptized by immersion, and a member of a local church, you have the privilege, responsibility, and accountability to seek the Spirit and voice your say in the affairs of your church's government. You have an equal vote with every other member in the congregation, including the deacons and the pastor.
Well, maybe not...
There are many churches which say they support this view of church government but they do not practice this form of church government. Oh, most members get to vote on every issue that comes before the church; but not all. If God has graciously saved you and you have been Scripturally baptized and have united with a local church BUT are a child or youth, you may be excluded from some votes arising before the church. Why? Because you are "too young" to understand the issue facing the church. "You would simply vote as your parents instruct you to vote and we can't have that."
Now, I confess, there are issues which come before every church in which younger members probably have no clue what the issue is about or how they should vote. But I also have seen adults struggle in understanding some of these same issues. Yet, no one denies them their vote.
I have seen children and youth who have been saved for several years and have more spiritual wisdom than some adults who have been saved for decades. Yet, they cannot vote due to their physical age. I have seen adults, lost for many, many years, saved, baptized, and voting as a church member within a month of their salvation yet youth, saved for over 10 years, denied their privilege, responsibility, and accountability to vote.
No, I say if we truly believe Scripture teaches congregational polity then let us practice congregational polity. Let each MEMBER seek their Lord and the guidance of the indwelling Spirit when confronted with a church matter and then express their conclusion by voting in church business.
Let us trust the Lord to speak to those true converts who do not understand a specific matter and instruct them not to vote on specific issues due to their lack of spiritual wisdom. Let us teach parents to exercise their right and responsibility when it comes to their children, who are members, and to either give their children the information they need to make a wise decision OR to instruct their children not to vote on a specific matter.
If we set church guidelines which prevent members who are children, youth, mentally challenged, or senile senior adults from having a say in the governing of the church then we no longer practice congregationalism. Rather, we are teaching a form of church government that is less than congregational, more than elder led, but, most likely, not Biblical.
Baptists have practiced a congregational form of church government (congregational polity) for years. They have done so based on their conviction this is the form of polity taught in the Scripture. Both the 1963 and 2000 Baptist Faith and Message promote congregational polity.
"This church is an autonomous body operating through democratic processes under the Lordship of Jesus Christ. In such a congregation, members are equally responsible." (1963 BF&M)
"Each congregation operates under the Lordship of Christ through democratic processes. In such a congregation each member is responsible and accountable to Christ as Lord." (2000 BF&M)
Congregational polity means each member of a given local church has both responsibility and accountability in the affairs of the church. No one individual or group directs the affairs of the church. Rather, each and every member, operating as a servant of Christ, has a voice in the working of the church.
Baptists, of course, do not receive everyone who comes to a church as a member. Baptists teach that only regenerated (born again) and Scripturally baptized individuals may be members. Therefore, the members of a local church are brothers and sisters in Christ, each a servant of our Lord, and each a possessor of the Holy Spirit.
So, if you are born again, baptized by immersion, and a member of a local church, you have the privilege, responsibility, and accountability to seek the Spirit and voice your say in the affairs of your church's government. You have an equal vote with every other member in the congregation, including the deacons and the pastor.
Well, maybe not...
There are many churches which say they support this view of church government but they do not practice this form of church government. Oh, most members get to vote on every issue that comes before the church; but not all. If God has graciously saved you and you have been Scripturally baptized and have united with a local church BUT are a child or youth, you may be excluded from some votes arising before the church. Why? Because you are "too young" to understand the issue facing the church. "You would simply vote as your parents instruct you to vote and we can't have that."
Now, I confess, there are issues which come before every church in which younger members probably have no clue what the issue is about or how they should vote. But I also have seen adults struggle in understanding some of these same issues. Yet, no one denies them their vote.
I have seen children and youth who have been saved for several years and have more spiritual wisdom than some adults who have been saved for decades. Yet, they cannot vote due to their physical age. I have seen adults, lost for many, many years, saved, baptized, and voting as a church member within a month of their salvation yet youth, saved for over 10 years, denied their privilege, responsibility, and accountability to vote.
No, I say if we truly believe Scripture teaches congregational polity then let us practice congregational polity. Let each MEMBER seek their Lord and the guidance of the indwelling Spirit when confronted with a church matter and then express their conclusion by voting in church business.
Let us trust the Lord to speak to those true converts who do not understand a specific matter and instruct them not to vote on specific issues due to their lack of spiritual wisdom. Let us teach parents to exercise their right and responsibility when it comes to their children, who are members, and to either give their children the information they need to make a wise decision OR to instruct their children not to vote on a specific matter.
If we set church guidelines which prevent members who are children, youth, mentally challenged, or senile senior adults from having a say in the governing of the church then we no longer practice congregationalism. Rather, we are teaching a form of church government that is less than congregational, more than elder led, but, most likely, not Biblical.
Thursday, July 15, 2010
"The Truth of the Cross": A Book Review
One of the benefits of attending this year’s “Together for the Gospel” meeting in Louisville was receiving many FREE books. Among these “friends” was a small gem (167 pages), “The Truth of the Cross” by R. C. Sproul.
Dr. Sproul beautifully presents the meaning, significance, and purpose of the cross according to the Scripture and he does so in an easy to read, enjoyable way. As is typical in his writings, this work includes great illustrations both from the author’s own life as well as from history. For example, to introduce a discussion on the vicarious atonement, Dr. Sproul recalls his attendance at the deciding game of the NBA Eastern Conference championship between Orlando and Indiana. He brings his illustration to a close in this way:
…if we like the outcome, we have a tendency to say, “We won.” We identify so closely with our favorite teams that when they’re victorious we include ourselves in the victory. …This is what is known as a vicarious experience.But the book is not simply a collection of personal illustrations. It is loaded with Biblical truth and solid application. Early in the book, Dr. Sproul discusses people in general and the subject of the atonement.
…I came to the conclusion that people are not concerned about an atonement. They are basically convinced they have no need for it. They aren’t asking: “How can I be reconciled to God? How can I escape the judgment of God?” If anything has been lost from our culture, it is the idea that human beings are privately, personally, individually, ultimately, inexorably accountable to God for their lives.”Or, here is another classic paragraph from this work on the matter of justification:
The prevailing doctrine of justification today is not justification by faith alone. It’s not even justification by good works or by a combination of faith and works. The prevailing notion of justification in Western culture today is justification by death. It’s assumed that all one has to do to be received into the everlasting arms of God is to die.“The Truth of the Cross” opens with a description of mankind’s condition. It moves to a discussion of the person of Jesus Christ, our Redeemer. With a firm Biblical understanding of man and of Christ, Dr. Sproul then uses the Scripture to explain the nature and purpose of the atonement. And he does all this clearly and concisely.
I strongly recommend reading this book. Those who do not know Christ will be presented with the truth of their condition and their need for the atoning work of Jesus. Those who are believers will be encouraged and strengthened in the faith by what they read.
Wednesday, July 14, 2010
A General Statement on Comments to this BLOG
Originally I permitted anyone's comments to this blog at any time. But, after some comments using very foul language were posted, I decided I needed to moderate all such requests. So, when you try to comment on any article on this post, I receive the comment first in my e-mail and then decide whether to permit or prohibit it from being posted.
I have no issues posting comments which disagree with anything I am saying. But I will NOT post comments which contain profane language or blasphemes my Lord. You can take your vile words elsewhere.
I also will NOT post comments which I can not read. Repeatedly I have had "anonymous" bloggers attempt to comment in Asian languages. I speak English and all posts to this blog will be in English. If you do not like that, go to some other blog. If I can't read every word of your comment, I will not post it. Actually, I believe many of these posts contain spam or a virus, another reason I will not post.
It's my blog and those are my rules. If you don't like them, start your own blog.
I have no issues posting comments which disagree with anything I am saying. But I will NOT post comments which contain profane language or blasphemes my Lord. You can take your vile words elsewhere.
I also will NOT post comments which I can not read. Repeatedly I have had "anonymous" bloggers attempt to comment in Asian languages. I speak English and all posts to this blog will be in English. If you do not like that, go to some other blog. If I can't read every word of your comment, I will not post it. Actually, I believe many of these posts contain spam or a virus, another reason I will not post.
It's my blog and those are my rules. If you don't like them, start your own blog.
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