We cannot treat the Bible as a collection of therapeutic insights. To do so distorts its message and will not lead to lasting change. If a system could give us what we need, Jesus would never have come. But he came because what was wrong with us could not be fixed any other way. He …
Category: Wisdom
Unity
Has it ever occurred to you that one hundred pianos all tuned to the same fork are automatically tuned to each other? They are of one accord by being tuned, not to each other, but to another standard to which each one must individually bow. So one hundred worshipers met together, each one looking away …
Discerning or just plain judgmental?
Having received “interesting” responses to comments I made in a recent sermon, I appreciated even more Jerry Bridges’ warning. Jerry Bridges, from his book Respectable Sins: The sin of judgmentalism is one of the most subtle of our “respectable” sins because it is often practiced under the guise of being zealous for what is right. …
Functional Legalism
The middle section of the book of Colossians (chapters 2-3) deal with shadows versus substance. Â Or put another way, the reality of a transformational relationship with Jesus Christ and the failure of man-made rule. What Paul teaches is not that sin doesn’t matter, but that self-effort and outside rule themselves will not overcome our sinful …
Amazed by Grace, a sign of spiritual vitality
I just finish teaching a lesson on confession, forgiveness and restoration–the story of David and Bathsheba (2 Samuel 11-12; Psalm 51 and 31). I was focusing more on David’s confession than on his sin. One of the points that we discussed was the bestowal of mercy and grace by God (preserving David’s life and loving …
Free Christmas Music
A few sources for free Christmas music First from North Point Ministries, a great new song, Everything Changes, by Eddie Kirkland, from the North Point Christmas album. Two sound from Sojourn Music, from the album Advent Songs, you can download two songs for free at Justin Taylor’s blog. And, though I have mentioned them before, …
Wisdom
The Greatest Offer For God – the Greatest Lover So Loved – the Greatest Degree The World – the Greatest Company That He Gave – the Greatest Act His Only Son – the Greatest Gift That Whoever – the Greatest Opportunity Believes – the Greatest Simplicity In Him – the Greatest Attraction Should Not Perish …