When the people saw the sign that he had done, they said, "This is indeed the Prophet who is to come into the world!" - John 6:14 (ESV)
After Jesus feeds the 5000, he was quickly identified with being the Prophet. An interesting conclusion; I might have gone with, "This is indeed the Caterer who is to come!" or something like that. Why does this sign connect to a Prophet? Is Jesus really this prophet? And who really cares anyway?
The Prophet (Deuteronomy 18:15) is predicted by Moses to be (1) like him and (2) from the people of Israel (your brothers). Moses was a prophet during the time when the manna came; Elijah was a prophet that provided cakes for the widow of Zarephath (1 Kings 17); Elisha was a prophet who multiplied 20 barely loaves to 100 men with leftovers (2 Kings 4). There is an association with the Prophet and one who brings food. Well, more specifically, a type of bread.
Jesus does more here than simply bring the bread (and fish) to the people. John quickly turns our attention to the next day when the people question Jesus' departure. Jesus scolds them for wanting normal bread and not wanting the bread that leads to eternal life. And then the shocker of shockers, Jesus declares that He is the Bread of Life (v 35). They must eat His flesh and drink His blood (vv 53-58); a notion that did not sit well with the crowd that had followed Him (v 66).
What do we want from Jesus? What do we expect Him to give us? We are so often encapsulated and defined by our immediate surroundings and circumstances, that our desires for God's provision reflect this. But at the heart of what Jesus offers is Himself. That is what He still offers. We can watch religious TV with all of its promises of material prosperity, buy handkerchiefs that promise healing, and get the latest self-help book that promises emotional nirvana and miss out on what God is offering to us.
During this time of giving, getting, and making a better you, my hope is that we would all find our greatest satisfaction in the what Jesus offers to us - Himself.
12/16/2007
12/12/2007
John 2 - The real bridegroom
The master of the feast called the bridegroom and said to him, “Everyone serves the good wine first, and when people have drunk freely, then the poor wine. But you have kept the good wine until now.” - John 2:9-10 (ESV)
This seems to be a case of mistaken identity, or at least a misplaced comment. What is also curious is that the comment is about social norms and the virtues of various wines. The whole thing seems a bit unnecessary. Yet here it is, taking up the better part of two verses.
(1) The comment:
Common sense tells us that the first impression is usually the lasting impression and, therefore, most people put out the best first. While the master of the feast is taking about the wine, the comment is really about Jesus. In this instance however, the best is the last. God's best - temple, high priest, prophet, king, kingdom, covenant, etc. - is now seen here in the coming of Christ.
(2) The bridegroom:
While the master of the feast congratulated the wrong person, at least he got the category right. The bridegroom was responsible. It just wasn't the guy in the tux (or black-tie robe). It was the real bridegroom, Christ. This connection is reinforced in the next chapter by John the Baptist's comment on Jesus increasing while he decreases (John 3:29-30).
This miracle concludes with two important words. The first is manifested. The point of this whole ordeal and miracle was to show people something. Some people think the point was to show Jesus' views on wine, others think it was to show that Jesus doesn't let you down during crunch time (crunch time here = not having enough for the guests). But Jesus was displaying His glory. In a big way, Jesus was showing people who He really was. Much like when Moses (after the golden calf incident) asked to see God's glory, God revealed Himself (Exodus 34).
The second important word is the word believed. The result of this manifestation was belief among the disciples. Do we see Him as a fancy bartender/vendor or do we see Him as someone that we should place our hope in? While Jesus may be handy to have around (especially if you do a bunch of catering), is He worth leaving everything behind?
This seems to be a case of mistaken identity, or at least a misplaced comment. What is also curious is that the comment is about social norms and the virtues of various wines. The whole thing seems a bit unnecessary. Yet here it is, taking up the better part of two verses.
(1) The comment:
Common sense tells us that the first impression is usually the lasting impression and, therefore, most people put out the best first. While the master of the feast is taking about the wine, the comment is really about Jesus. In this instance however, the best is the last. God's best - temple, high priest, prophet, king, kingdom, covenant, etc. - is now seen here in the coming of Christ.
(2) The bridegroom:
While the master of the feast congratulated the wrong person, at least he got the category right. The bridegroom was responsible. It just wasn't the guy in the tux (or black-tie robe). It was the real bridegroom, Christ. This connection is reinforced in the next chapter by John the Baptist's comment on Jesus increasing while he decreases (John 3:29-30).
This miracle concludes with two important words. The first is manifested. The point of this whole ordeal and miracle was to show people something. Some people think the point was to show Jesus' views on wine, others think it was to show that Jesus doesn't let you down during crunch time (crunch time here = not having enough for the guests). But Jesus was displaying His glory. In a big way, Jesus was showing people who He really was. Much like when Moses (after the golden calf incident) asked to see God's glory, God revealed Himself (Exodus 34).
The second important word is the word believed. The result of this manifestation was belief among the disciples. Do we see Him as a fancy bartender/vendor or do we see Him as someone that we should place our hope in? While Jesus may be handy to have around (especially if you do a bunch of catering), is He worth leaving everything behind?
11/28/2007
Living the Cross Centered Life - review
Living the Cross Centered Life by C.J. Mahaney helps us to know and experience a life where the cross of Christ is at the heart. An easy book to read, and one that will hopefully reorient your life towards the gospel.
For a taste, Mahaney on legalism:
A legalist is anyone who behaves as if they can earn God's forgiveness through personal performance. ... Thomas Schreiner writes that "legalism has its origin in self-worship. If people are justified through their obedience to the law, then they merit praise, honor, and glory. Legalism, in other words, means the glory goes to people rather than God."
That's how serious legalism is. The implications are staggering, because legalism claims in essence that the death of Jesus on the cross was either unnecessary or insufficient. It says to God, in effect, "Your plan didn't work. The cross wasn't enough and I need to add my good works to it to be saved." ...
Legalists assume that godly practices and good works somehow contribute to their justification. But God's Word is clear: "For by works of the law no human being will be justified in his sight." (Romans 3:20 ESV) None of us earn God's approval and love by our good works. None of us can add to the finished, complete work of Jesus on the cross. He paid the price of our sins. He satisfied God's wrath. ...
Not one of our good spiritual activities adds to our justification. We're never "more saved" or "more loved" by God. Our work is motivated by the grace God has poured out in our lives. (excerpts from pp 112-120)
11/16/2007
11/07/2007
The Christian's Secret of a Happy Life - review
The Christian's Secret of a Happy Life by Hannah Whitall Smith is a guide for Christian living written in 1870. This book, which was a gift, came recommended to me by at least two people that I respect as believers in Christ. Even with such commendation, I had a hard time with this book. It seemed disjointed and at times I wondered if Smith had talked herself in a circle. I applauded parts; others I didn't. My apologies to fans of Smith.
The book had some points I did enjoy, however. Here is a lament on Christian service done simply by our own power:
I was expected to visit the sick, and pray beside their beds. I was expected to attend prayer-meetings, and speak at them. I was expected, in short, to be always ready for every effort in Christian work, and the sense of these expectations bowed me down continually. At last it became so unspeakably burdensome to me to live the sort of Christian life I had entered upon, and was expected by all around me to live, that I felt as if any kind of manual labor would have been easier; and I would have infinitely preferred scrubbing all day on my hands and knees to being compelled to go through the treadmill of my daily Christian work. p 192
While Smith goes on to talk about how joy in service comes through yielding to Christ and taking pleasure in being used by the Lord, I enjoyed her honesty.
11/06/2007
2 Kings 19 - The Lord Reigns
Assyria taunts
Who among all the gods of the lands have delivered their lands out of my hand, that the Lord should deliver Jerusalem out of my hand?
‘Do not let your God in whom you trust deceive you by promising that Jerusalem will not be given into the hand of the king of Assyria. Behold, you have heard what the kings of Assyria have done to all lands, devoting them to destruction. And shall you be delivered? Have the gods of the nations delivered them, the nations that my fathers destroyed, Gozan, Haran, Rezeph, and the people of Eden who were in Telassar? Where is the king of Hamath, the king of Arpad, the king of the city of Sepharvaim, the king of Hena, or the king of Ivvah?’
2 Kings 18:35; 19:10-13 (ESV)
Hezekiah prays
Truly, O Lord, the kings of Assyria have laid waste the nations and their lands and have cast their gods into the fire, for they were not gods, but the work of men's hands, wood and stone. Therefore they were destroyed. So now, O Lord our God, save us, please, from his hand, that all the kingdoms of the earth may know that you, O Lord, are God alone.
2 Kings 19:17-19 (ESV)
The Lord demonstrates His plan and His power
Have you not heard that I determined it long ago? I planned from days of old what now I bring to pass, that you should turn fortified cities into heaps of ruins ... For I will defend this city to save it, for my own sake and for the sake of my servant David.
2 Kings 19:25, 34 (ESV)
And that night the angel of the Lord went out and struck down 185,000 in the camp of the Assyrians. ... Then Sennacherib king of Assyria departed and went home and lived at Nineveh. And as he was worshiping in the house of Nisroch his god, Adrammelech and Sharezer, his sons, struck him down with the sword and escaped into the land of Ararat.
2 Kings 19:35-37 (ESV)
Without a firm understanding of the Lord's sovereignty, our emotional stability would rise and plummet as we read the morning paper. Notice that the ultimate goal of Hezekiah's prayer was the glory and renown of the Lord, not simple relief from imminent danger. When we know that the Lord really does rule from on high and that the events of this world happen according to His greater plan, there is a confidence to pray for the Lord's glory, even in the most difficult of situations.
* Note on the relief: In an attack in Babylonia (indicated by the date palms), the Assyrians have built a siege ramp against the walls, which they attack with a battering-ram. An enemy archer is being killed beside the palm-tree that has been felled, and there are headless corpses around the city. This relief is found at the British Museum in London.
10/19/2007
A prophetic duo
The Chaldeans answered the king and said, “There is not a man on earth who can meet the king's demand, for no great and powerful king has asked such a thing of any magician or enchanter or Chaldean. The thing that the king asks is difficult, and no one can show it to the king except the gods, whose dwelling is not with flesh.”
Daniel 2:10-11 (ESV)
Do not despise prophecies, but test everything; hold fast what is good.
1 Thessalonians 5:20-21 (ESV)
Predictive prophecies and individual revelation. Surprisingly, I encounter these more than you might think. There are several people who often preface their decisions with the phrase, "The Lord told me..."
In the majority of these cases, they are drawing from a clear command from Scripture that establishes the pattern of what it is like to be a follower of Christ - ex: "The Lord told me that I need to quit looking at explicit junk on the web." At other times it is more hazy - not contrary to Scripture, but yet unclear.
There is a need to communicate the great danger of misrepresenting the Lord and to listen with eyes pouring over pages of Scripture. For some, it may be a way to ratchet up the drama and importance (as they see it) in their lives; they become a local Christian seer. But there are times where it does seem like the Lord spoke to them.
These verses were on the same M'Cheyne day. They are helpful because they communicate that (1) there are things that people don't know and God does - Daniel communicates this more clearly later on - and (2) we should test and evaluate, but not despise.
Daniel 2:10-11 (ESV)
Do not despise prophecies, but test everything; hold fast what is good.
1 Thessalonians 5:20-21 (ESV)
Predictive prophecies and individual revelation. Surprisingly, I encounter these more than you might think. There are several people who often preface their decisions with the phrase, "The Lord told me..."
In the majority of these cases, they are drawing from a clear command from Scripture that establishes the pattern of what it is like to be a follower of Christ - ex: "The Lord told me that I need to quit looking at explicit junk on the web." At other times it is more hazy - not contrary to Scripture, but yet unclear.
There is a need to communicate the great danger of misrepresenting the Lord and to listen with eyes pouring over pages of Scripture. For some, it may be a way to ratchet up the drama and importance (as they see it) in their lives; they become a local Christian seer. But there are times where it does seem like the Lord spoke to them.
These verses were on the same M'Cheyne day. They are helpful because they communicate that (1) there are things that people don't know and God does - Daniel communicates this more clearly later on - and (2) we should test and evaluate, but not despise.
10/18/2007
Dominion - review
Dominion by Randy Alcorn (audio) is a novel that centers around issues of race, justice, and faith. The setting is primarily in Portland, Oregon, and hits many arenas of life: politics, crime, family devotion, church, friends, the police, and Jesus Christ.
One of the main themes in the book was racism. Told in a compelling fashion, it was amazing to get in touch with people of a different skin color - to attempt to see and experience the world as someone else would see and experience the world. Preconceived ideas about people run deep and the messages one sends to others can be telling. Alcorn makes the point that in this area, especially as believers, we still have quite a bit of growth. The Church should be leading the way in racial harmony, not being dragged by the culture.
While I enjoyed Safely Home more, this was a book. There were a few jumps since it was an abridged audio book. But 9+ hours of listening was enough to get a person engaged in the issues and story while feeling like there was resolution.
10/13/2007
The Dangerous Book for Boys - review
The Dangerous Book for Boys by Conn and Hal Iggulden is a series of articles that constitute what boys need to know. The articles vary from making fire-proof cloth, encoding secret messages, famous battles, and learning proper grammar. The authors are weary of the cell-phones, TV, and video games that captivate our young men and seek to reclaim Sunday afternoons and long summer days. Thematically, the book is laid out like bathroom reader, jumping from subject to subject.
The articles in the book are well written and concise. There are many chapters that are simply reference, rather than story. It is quite entertaining and informative. I particularly liked the battle recaps, especially after being disappointed by another book devoted to battles last year.
On Dog Tricks:
Teaching a dog simple tricks helps the bond between you. Dogs enjoy pleasing their owners and a well-trained dog is a happy dog! The only difficulty is in making the dog understand what you want. Commands should be given in a firm, low voice. Don't expect them to understand perfectly the first time. Be prepared to come back to the same commands again and again, leaving a few days between. Most dogs are perfectly willing to jump through hoops (literally) for their owners.
The authors then list 15 commands your dog can learn.
We got this book as a present for a relative, but due to an extended time at Kohl's, I was able to read a large portion of this book, finishing it this morning. I really enjoyed most of it and see it as a good gift to any young man under 18.
10/10/2007
How to read Proverbs - review
How to read Proverbs by Tremper Longman III is a short guide to navigating the book of Proverbs. Longman is a frequent lecturer on Proverbs and has written extensively on the OT.
This book is divided into three portions: Understanding Proverbs, Reading Proverbs in Context, and Following the Themes in Proverbs. Longman is straight-forward in his analysis of the book, as well as showing how Proverbs relates to other wisdom literature, such as Ecclesiastes and Job. The final three chapters take a thematic look through Proverbs on the subjects of money, sex, and speech.
Two chapters were particularly interesting. One is Longman's comparison of Proverbs to other ancient wisdom literature. The second is where Longman looks at Woman Wisdom and compares her to Jesus Christ. Longman's observations about the similarities and the cautions of interpreting metaphorical language are instructive.
The book was a good introduction to Proverbs and one that I would recommend to someone that knows little and wants to learn more. Bruce Waltke gave a series of lectures at Dallas Theological Seminary which were more helpful to me than Longman. Depends on what roads you have traveled on in your journey through Proverbs, I guess.
10/09/2007
Cora smiles
Cora smiles a lot. Who would have thought that such a simple thing would be so fascinating?
New pictures for those who are interested.
10/08/2007
Why Pro-Life? - review
Why Pro-Life? by Randy Alcorn is a simple and brief argument for the pro-life perspective. The book is easy to read, well documented, and up to date.
Alcorn speaks to the issue of abortion by using arguments from outside of Scripture (although he does talk about forgiveness and guilt at the end). The book was compelling and thoughtful, considering aspects that I had not thought of (such as the racial bias Planned Parenthood has in where they set up their clinics). He concludes with some helpful pointers on what we can be doing to help.
This is one of 'the' social issues of our time. It seems to me that we are guilty of turning children into commodities that exist simply to please us. When they don't please us, we kill or beat them (surprisingly strong correlation on the incidences of increased child abuse and abortion). The facts regarding abortion are absolutely stunning. Wherever you stand on this issue, I would recommend that you read this book. It is not long and for many, it is very eye-opening.
This was a free book at the Desiring God Conference. I can see why Alcorn and the DCM organizers were giving it to the people at the conference - extremely persuasive material.
Some booklets: In Our Joy & Sexual Temptation - review
(As I look at the title of this post, I realize that it is an odd pairing of reviews.)
In Our Joy is a book(let) from the Desiring God Conference. It is a condensed version of John Piper's What Jesus Demands from the World.
In Our Joy has six chapters:
Part One: The Hard Road of the Christian Life
(1) Coming to Jesus is not easy
(2) Following Jesus is a hard road
(3) The road is hard, but it is not joyless
Part Two: Jesus, Joy, and Striving to Enter the Kingdom
(4) Strive to enter the narrow door
(5) Without Jesus our striving would be losing
(6) Our joy sustains our striving
The second booklet is Randy Alcorn's Sexual Temptation: How Christian Workers Can Win the Battle. Very brief and quite good. He give some great practical advice to those in ministry. Here is an example:
You can get a free copy here.
In Our Joy is a book(let) from the Desiring God Conference. It is a condensed version of John Piper's What Jesus Demands from the World.
In Our Joy has six chapters:
Part One: The Hard Road of the Christian Life
(1) Coming to Jesus is not easy
(2) Following Jesus is a hard road
(3) The road is hard, but it is not joyless
Part Two: Jesus, Joy, and Striving to Enter the Kingdom
(4) Strive to enter the narrow door
(5) Without Jesus our striving would be losing
(6) Our joy sustains our striving
"If you follow Jesus only because he makes life easy now, it will look to the world as though you really love what they love, and Jesus just happens to provide it for you. But if you suffer with Jesus in the pathway of love because he is your supreme treasure, then it will be apparent to the world that your heart is set on a differene fortune than theirs." pp 21-22
The second booklet is Randy Alcorn's Sexual Temptation: How Christian Workers Can Win the Battle. Very brief and quite good. He give some great practical advice to those in ministry. Here is an example:
"Some years ago my copastor and friend Alan Hlvaka and I each developed a list of all the specific consequences we could think of that would result from our immorality. The lists were devastating, and to us they spoke more powerfully than any sermon or article on the subject."
"Periodically, especially when traveling or when in a time of temptation or weakness, we read though his list. In a personal and tangible way it brings home God's inviolate law of choice and consequence. It cuts through the fog of rationalization and fills our hearts with healthy, motivating fear of God. We find that when we begin to think unclearly, reviewing this list yanks us back to reality and the need both to fear God and the consequences of sin." pp 28-29
You can get a free copy here.
10/02/2007
Pastors and Wives refresher
The three of us went down to Hidden Acres to this year's Pastors and Wives refresher. Like the times before, it was great to see friends we have made since coming to the area.
This year the speaker was John Nyquist on NT Models of Evangelism. Dr. Nyquist is professor of mission and evangelism and Trinity International University. (Even though he has been there for quite some time, I took the evangelism class from another professor. We did however have a great conversation in the hallway.) There was a strong encouragement for us, as pastors, to be involved in personal evangelism.
Lots of conferences in September! It is good to get a fresh perspective. I am eagerly waiting the Desiring God Pastor's Conference with D.A. Carson and Crawford Loritts!!
Stand - Desiring God National Conference
Stand: A Call for the Endurance of the Saints
This is our second time going to the conference. We enjoy this time because we get to see some of our old friends from college as well as other people we have met since we have moved to Iowa. In addition to the wonderful teaching, we also like eating at some of the restaurants and getting lots of new books.
We got to hear from John MacArthur, Jerry Bridges, Randy Alcorn and Helen Roseveare. Cora did OK, but she was more interested in looking at the ceiling than listening to MacArthur exegete 2 Corinthians 4. The book packet that they gave was great as well. I have read through three of the smaller books and look forward to digesting the others.
If you want to listen to the conference, it is online for free. Just go here.
10/01/2007
Elevate
Elevate is the retreat for leaders in Student Ministries held at Hidden Acres. My friend, Tim Olsen, led this year's Elevate and he was gracious enough to ask me to come and speak. My seminar was called An Orange Theology, and it involved using some resources to grow in our understanding of who the Lord is and what He is saying through Scripture.
As always Tim, an excellent time.
8/24/2007
Shepherding a Child's Heart - review
Shepherding a Child's Heart by Tedd Tripp is a book on parenting. Not having read a lot of books on parenting, I am not quite sure what my expectations should be or how to evaluate it. By looking at the Amazon reviews, it seems that you either love this book or hate it. This comes recommended by a fellow pastor with young children and a godly couple within the church. So, I am inclined to appreciate Tripp's insights, even though I cannot evaluate what is said from experience.
With that being said, the main idea of this book I agree with whole-heartedly and without reservation: parenting needs to aim at the heart - not to modify behavior or to fulfill our own deficiencies. Tripp gives some excellent biblical advice on how to think about raising kids in a godly home. He does a great job of bringing that simply point home, both through positive and negative examples, scripture, and the evaluation of other methods of parenting.
This emphasis is the fundamental tenet of this book: the heart is the wellspring of life. Therefore, parenting is concerned with shepherding the heart. You must learn to work from the behavior you see, back to the heart, exposing heart issues for your children. In short, you must learn to engage them, not just reprove them. Help them see the ways that they are trying to slake their souls' thirst with that which cannot satisfy. You must help your kids gain a clear focus on the cross of Christ. (p 6)
I enjoyed the book; I am sure that it will inform my parenting. I also hope I have several more months before I need to be working my way back to heart issues in Cora :)
8/20/2007
Jeremiah 46-49 - The undoing of all
Concerning Egpyt
Concerning the Philistines
Concerning Moab
Concerning the Ammonites
Concerning Edom
Concerning Damascus
Concerning Kedar
and the kingdoms of Hazor
Concerning Elam
Jeremiah 46-49
With the impending (and in some cases, current) occupation by Babylon, the fate of many nations in the Near East is in question. Just as God as told Israel their fate, so now He declares the fate of the ten nations that surround Israel. Listed here are the first nine, sorted nicely in west to east fashion. From a theological perspective, you do not want to move from west to east (for example, see Ezekiel 11:23) . Other gods like Chemosh (Moab) and Milcom (Ammon) cannot save from the imminent destruction. Trusting in a supposed powerhouse like Egypt does you no favors either.
In a world of upheaval, there is a temptation to turn to various answers - like moving, money, vocation, etc - hoping that these will deliver. We forget that the Lord is sovereign over all the nations; He speaks to all peoples. He is the impartial judge and simply experiencing short-term victories does not mean long-term favor.
By being immersed in chaos and certain destruction, these chapters emphasize the need for a True Savior - Jesus Christ. He is the only one that delivers from wickedness and a self-inflicted demise. Reading these chapters makes you want to cry, "If only you would have turned to the Lord!" May reading these chapters drive us to make the cry that these nations did not.
Concerning the Philistines
Concerning Moab
Concerning the Ammonites
Concerning Edom
Concerning Damascus
Concerning Kedar
and the kingdoms of Hazor
Concerning Elam
Jeremiah 46-49
With the impending (and in some cases, current) occupation by Babylon, the fate of many nations in the Near East is in question. Just as God as told Israel their fate, so now He declares the fate of the ten nations that surround Israel. Listed here are the first nine, sorted nicely in west to east fashion. From a theological perspective, you do not want to move from west to east (for example, see Ezekiel 11:23) . Other gods like Chemosh (Moab) and Milcom (Ammon) cannot save from the imminent destruction. Trusting in a supposed powerhouse like Egypt does you no favors either.
In a world of upheaval, there is a temptation to turn to various answers - like moving, money, vocation, etc - hoping that these will deliver. We forget that the Lord is sovereign over all the nations; He speaks to all peoples. He is the impartial judge and simply experiencing short-term victories does not mean long-term favor.
By being immersed in chaos and certain destruction, these chapters emphasize the need for a True Savior - Jesus Christ. He is the only one that delivers from wickedness and a self-inflicted demise. Reading these chapters makes you want to cry, "If only you would have turned to the Lord!" May reading these chapters drive us to make the cry that these nations did not.
8/16/2007
Preachers and Preaching - review
Preachers and Preaching by Martyn Lloyd-Jones is an excellent resource from the straight-talking London preacher from the middle of the 1900's. The Doctor gives helpful advice that is not only practical, but that is also spiritually astute.
Here are some selected passages:
On time:
There are many dangers in the life of a minister. ... One of these is the danger of just frittering away your time, particularly in the morning. You start with the newspaper, and it is very easy to spend a great deal of time on this, quite unconsciously. Then there are weekly magazines and journals, and interruptions on the telephone and so on. You may well find that your morning has gone whether you are working in your home or in an office in your church. So I felt always, and increasingly with the years, that one of the great rules for a preacher is to safeguard the mornings. p 166
On reading and study:
Time must be found for reading ... There is no greater mistake than to think that you finish theology when you leave a seminary. ... I have known men in the ministry, and men in various other walks of life who stop reading when they finish their training. They think they have acquired all they need; they have their lecture notes, and nothing further is necessary. The result is that they vegetate and become quite useless. Keep on reading; and read the big works. p 177
On 'purple patches':
[Thomas Goodwin] was asked to preach the University (Cambridge) sermon, and, of course, instinctively, he began to preparing and writing in the classical manner which he had so admired. He produced a great sermon with wonderful purple patches and literary embellishments which thrilled him and moved him as he thought of them and wrote them. But the Spirit of God, and his own conscience, began to work in him and he went through a terrible struggle. ... Thomas Goodwin now realised that he had to preach to those servant-maids as well as to the others, and he knew that these purple patches would not only mean nothing to these ordinary people but might be a hindrance. What should he do? At last, with his heart almost bleeding and breaking, he excised the purple patches from the sermon and never delivered them. p 218
On quotes:
Do not try to think of quotations. ... In other words, only use a quotation when it comes to your mind and when it seems to you to be inevitable. Or, if you like, only use a quotation when it seems to say perfectly the thing that you were trying to say. p 221
On altar-call decisions:
I have heard evangelists say that they never expect more than one-tenth [of those who come forward] to hold. ... The practice seems to have introduced a new kind of mentality, a carnality expressing itself as an unhealthy interest in numbers. ... I believe that the minister should always make an announcement in some shape or form that he is available to talk to anybody who wants to talk to him about their soul and its eternal destiny. pp 280-2
An excellent book - well written, thoughtful, and applicable.
8/15/2007
Psalm 19 - A simple thought
My prayer for today:
Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer.
Psalm 19:14 (ESV)
Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer.
Psalm 19:14 (ESV)
Jeremiah 43 - Movin' on up?
“You are telling a lie. The Lord our God did not send you to say, ‘Do not go to Egypt to live there,’"
And they came into the land of Egypt, for they did not obey the voice of the Lord.
"Thus says the Lord of hosts, the God of Israel: Behold, I will send and take Nebuchadnezzar the king of Babylon, my servant, and I will set his throne above these stones that I have hidden, and he will spread his royal canopy over them. He shall come and strike the land of Egypt..."
Jeremiah 43:2, 7, 10-11 (ESV)
Although the Lord (through Jeremiah) told them to go to Babylon, some of the Judeans did not listen. They fled to Egypt hoping to find safety and security outside of Nebuchadnezzar's reach. Instead of being safe, Nebuchadnezzar will simply follow them to Egypt.
Sure we can have our own way, but ultimately God will have His. Sometimes our future is one of hardship, but to disobey what the Lord wants is a hardship of a different caliber. Prosperity and poverty are secondary issues in light of following Christ. It is better to heed His voice over the voices of those around us - no matter how compelling the other voices might be.
And they came into the land of Egypt, for they did not obey the voice of the Lord.
"Thus says the Lord of hosts, the God of Israel: Behold, I will send and take Nebuchadnezzar the king of Babylon, my servant, and I will set his throne above these stones that I have hidden, and he will spread his royal canopy over them. He shall come and strike the land of Egypt..."
Jeremiah 43:2, 7, 10-11 (ESV)
Although the Lord (through Jeremiah) told them to go to Babylon, some of the Judeans did not listen. They fled to Egypt hoping to find safety and security outside of Nebuchadnezzar's reach. Instead of being safe, Nebuchadnezzar will simply follow them to Egypt.
Sure we can have our own way, but ultimately God will have His. Sometimes our future is one of hardship, but to disobey what the Lord wants is a hardship of a different caliber. Prosperity and poverty are secondary issues in light of following Christ. It is better to heed His voice over the voices of those around us - no matter how compelling the other voices might be.
8/13/2007
Proverbs 26:10 - the Life Builders controversy
Proverbs 26:10 has been called by D.C. Snell as the most obscure verse in the entire book. The problem has to do with the actual translation of the Hebrew. Below is the actual Hebrew (BHS). I will be referring to the numbers above the words so everyone can follow along.
This verse has had a rough history as noted by the following ancient translations:
All flesh of fools endures much hardship, for their fury is brought to naught. - Greek Septuagint
The flesh of the fools suffers much, and the drunkard passes over the sea. - Aramaic Targum
Judgment determines cases, and he who lays silence on the fool alleviates rage. - Latin Vulgate
There are so many problems with these translations, it is hard to know where to begin. So how do our modern translations fare? A little better, but not much. As we look at Proverbs 26:10, we see three basic modern translations of this verse:
a) Like an archer who wounds everybody, is one who hires a passing fool or a drunkard.
(Representative translations: NRSV, RSV, ESV)
This verse takes [1] as meaning 'an archer' and the current, po'el participle, form of [2] as meaning 'pierces,' 'piercing' or 'wounds' thus giving the translation, "Like an archer who wounds everybody." The comparative 'like' is added to assist in smoothing out the English.
In the second line, however, these translations repoint [6] so that it says 'drunkard' not the participle 'one who hires'. What you have then are two groups that are both governed by the first participle [4] 'one who hires' and modified by the participle [7] 'passing by.' The resulting translation: “is one who hires [either] a passing fool or a [passing] drunkard.” The 'passing' participle is plural, therefore it applies to the plural set.
Note: words bracketed and italicized are not actually in the Hebrew (BHS) text but are added for clarity or to show additional options.
b) The great One that formed all, both rewards the fool, and rewards transgressors.
(Representative translations: NKJV, KJV, YLT)
This verse takes [1] as meaning 'many' or 'great,' which is spelled and pointed the very same way as 'archer' in examples (a) and (c). The participle [2] is taken as a substantive and the meaning is from the Hiphil form of the verb meaning 'begin.' Thus you have the translation, “The great One [or God] that began [or formed] all.”
The second line follows the Hebrew (BHS) by having both [4] and [6] be participles that mean 'hire' which these translations imply means 'give' or 'reward.' The second line takes [7] to mean 'transgressors' from the verb 'pass over' or 'cross.' This, from a gloss standpoint, is acceptable, since the alternative in this case, ' passers-by' do not make as much sense.
c) Like an archer who wounds everyone, so is he who hires a fool or who hires those who pass by.
(Representative translations: NASB, NIV, NLT)
Line one here is exactly translated like line one in example (a). This is a stronger translation because [2] is a po'el participle, not a Hiphil form, and one would expect [1] and [2] to go together – an archer who pierces.
The second line follows example (b) except that [7] is taken as 'passers-by' rather than 'transgressors.' Within the context of the verse, the 'passers-by' seem to be the better translation.
According to Bruce Waltke, this translation, example (c), is the best translation since it follows the Hebrew (BHS) and takes into account nuances such as meter (which I cannot explain).
For reference: Waltke, Bruce. Proverbs 16-31. The New International Commentary on the New Testament. Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 2005. See page 339; use the Search Inside function at Amazon.
This verse has had a rough history as noted by the following ancient translations:
All flesh of fools endures much hardship, for their fury is brought to naught. - Greek Septuagint
The flesh of the fools suffers much, and the drunkard passes over the sea. - Aramaic Targum
Judgment determines cases, and he who lays silence on the fool alleviates rage. - Latin Vulgate
There are so many problems with these translations, it is hard to know where to begin. So how do our modern translations fare? A little better, but not much. As we look at Proverbs 26:10, we see three basic modern translations of this verse:
a) Like an archer who wounds everybody, is one who hires a passing fool or a drunkard.
(Representative translations: NRSV, RSV, ESV)
This verse takes [1] as meaning 'an archer' and the current, po'el participle, form of [2] as meaning 'pierces,' 'piercing' or 'wounds' thus giving the translation, "Like an archer who wounds everybody." The comparative 'like' is added to assist in smoothing out the English.
In the second line, however, these translations repoint [6] so that it says 'drunkard' not the participle 'one who hires'. What you have then are two groups that are both governed by the first participle [4] 'one who hires' and modified by the participle [7] 'passing by.' The resulting translation: “is one who hires [either] a passing fool or a [passing] drunkard.” The 'passing' participle is plural, therefore it applies to the plural set.
Note: words bracketed and italicized are not actually in the Hebrew (BHS) text but are added for clarity or to show additional options.
b) The great One that formed all, both rewards the fool, and rewards transgressors.
(Representative translations: NKJV, KJV, YLT)
This verse takes [1] as meaning 'many' or 'great,' which is spelled and pointed the very same way as 'archer' in examples (a) and (c). The participle [2] is taken as a substantive and the meaning is from the Hiphil form of the verb meaning 'begin.' Thus you have the translation, “The great One [or God] that began [or formed] all.”
The second line follows the Hebrew (BHS) by having both [4] and [6] be participles that mean 'hire' which these translations imply means 'give' or 'reward.' The second line takes [7] to mean 'transgressors' from the verb 'pass over' or 'cross.' This, from a gloss standpoint, is acceptable, since the alternative in this case, ' passers-by' do not make as much sense.
c) Like an archer who wounds everyone, so is he who hires a fool or who hires those who pass by.
(Representative translations: NASB, NIV, NLT)
Line one here is exactly translated like line one in example (a). This is a stronger translation because [2] is a po'el participle, not a Hiphil form, and one would expect [1] and [2] to go together – an archer who pierces.
The second line follows example (b) except that [7] is taken as 'passers-by' rather than 'transgressors.' Within the context of the verse, the 'passers-by' seem to be the better translation.
According to Bruce Waltke, this translation, example (c), is the best translation since it follows the Hebrew (BHS) and takes into account nuances such as meter (which I cannot explain).
For reference: Waltke, Bruce. Proverbs 16-31. The New International Commentary on the New Testament. Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 2005. See page 339; use the Search Inside function at Amazon.
8/02/2007
Things that keep me from posting
Baby Cora wanting to be held when I'd normally blog
Starting a sermon series in 1 Samuel
Relatives coming over to visit the baby
But the number one reason that I haven't blogged this week was the Kossuth County Fair.
Yes, that is my kohlrabi (it's like cabbage).
I can't wait to wear my blue ribbon around town :P
Starting a sermon series in 1 Samuel
Relatives coming over to visit the baby
But the number one reason that I haven't blogged this week was the Kossuth County Fair.
Yes, that is my kohlrabi (it's like cabbage).
I can't wait to wear my blue ribbon around town :P
7/25/2007
Pastoral language resource
For those of you that wish to continue to sharpen your Greek and Hebrew skills and like to have a lecturer walk through passages with you, then maybe you'd like iTunesU put out by Concordia Seminary.
These are a set of podcasts that are offered free of charge and are updated regularly (note: you need iTunes to subscribe to the podcasts). Two that I enjoy are Hebrew Club and Lectionary at Lunch. Both are rather short (~20 to 25 minutes) and walk you through the text in the original language. They include quite a bit of parsing, deal with grammatical issues, etc.
These podcasts are very helpful to me.
These are a set of podcasts that are offered free of charge and are updated regularly (note: you need iTunes to subscribe to the podcasts). Two that I enjoy are Hebrew Club and Lectionary at Lunch. Both are rather short (~20 to 25 minutes) and walk you through the text in the original language. They include quite a bit of parsing, deal with grammatical issues, etc.
These podcasts are very helpful to me.
7/24/2007
Jeremiah 20 - Fire and the sword
For whenever I speak, I cry out, I shout, "Violence and destruction!"
For the word of the LORD has become for me a reproach and derision all day long.
If I say, "I will not mention him, or speak any more in his name,"
there is in my heart as it were a burning fire shut up in my bones, and I am weary with holding it in, and I cannot.
For I hear many whispering. Terror is on every side!
"Denounce him! Let us denounce him!" say all my close friends, watching for my fall.
"Perhaps he will be deceived; then we can overcome him and take our revenge on him."
But the LORD is with me as a dread warrior; therefore my persecutors will stumble; they will not overcome me.
- Jeremiah 20:8-11 (ESV)
Jeremiah has the difficult job of preaching a very unpopular and disastrous oracle to Judah. Judah is about to be overtaken by the Babylonians and there are some religious figures, like Pashhur, that don't like hearing that sort of message.
Two points:
1) The message, even if it is one of impending danger, cannot be held in. We must be willing to proclaim the words of God. There is a "burning fire" and we become weary (or eventually immune to the pain) if we withhold the message of God meant for other people.
2) The dangers or sufferings are real. But ultimately God is with us as a "dread warrior." The Lord is battle-hardened soldier; a champion that no one wants to face. Our danger does not come from the armies of men nor the political maneuvering of our opponents. The danger is not aligning ourselves with the One who will win.
Dear friends, do not be weary or afraid. Put your hope in Him who will lead you victory.
For the word of the LORD has become for me a reproach and derision all day long.
If I say, "I will not mention him, or speak any more in his name,"
there is in my heart as it were a burning fire shut up in my bones, and I am weary with holding it in, and I cannot.
For I hear many whispering. Terror is on every side!
"Denounce him! Let us denounce him!" say all my close friends, watching for my fall.
"Perhaps he will be deceived; then we can overcome him and take our revenge on him."
But the LORD is with me as a dread warrior; therefore my persecutors will stumble; they will not overcome me.
- Jeremiah 20:8-11 (ESV)
Jeremiah has the difficult job of preaching a very unpopular and disastrous oracle to Judah. Judah is about to be overtaken by the Babylonians and there are some religious figures, like Pashhur, that don't like hearing that sort of message.
Two points:
1) The message, even if it is one of impending danger, cannot be held in. We must be willing to proclaim the words of God. There is a "burning fire" and we become weary (or eventually immune to the pain) if we withhold the message of God meant for other people.
2) The dangers or sufferings are real. But ultimately God is with us as a "dread warrior." The Lord is battle-hardened soldier; a champion that no one wants to face. Our danger does not come from the armies of men nor the political maneuvering of our opponents. The danger is not aligning ourselves with the One who will win.
Dear friends, do not be weary or afraid. Put your hope in Him who will lead you victory.
7/23/2007
Desiring God: Meditations of a Christian Hedonist - review
Desiring God: Meditations of a Christian Hedonist by John Piper is arguably his most defining work. This is an updated version (from the original 1986 version) containing more robust appendices and refined chapters. Having read The Dangerous Duty of Delight, this book drew out the principles Piper brought out in that smaller work.
Desiring God was excellent. There is much that can be said since Piper touches on many areas. One particular thing that struck me though, was an excerpt from George Muller on prayer and the Word:
"Formerly, when I rose, I began to pray as soon as possible, and generally spent all my time till breakfast in prayer, or almost all the time. At all events I almost invariably began with prayer. ... But what was the result? I often spent a quarter of an hour, or half an hour, or even an hour on my knees, before being conscious to myself of having derived comfort. encouragement, humbling of soul, etc.; and often after having suffered much from wandering of mind for the first ten minutes, or quarter of an hour, or even half an hour, I only then began to really to pray."
"I scarcely ever suffer now in this way. For my heart being nourished by the truth, being brought into experimental fellowship with God, I speak to my Father and to my Friend (vile though I am, and unworthy of it!) about the things that He has brought before me in his precious Word." (pp 156-7)
I also like his comments on how no one told him this, in book or in person. Well the cycle of secrecy is broken - what a wonderful insight to break distracted praying and turn it into true prayer!
7/21/2007
The Best of Jonathan Edwards Sermons (Audio) - review
The Best of Jonathan Edwards Sermons is a compilation of three of Jonathan Edwards' sermons on audio. This was one of the free audio books that was given out by ChristianAudio.com. The three sermons are: his farewell sermon (June 1750), Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God, and A Divine and Supernatural Light. These sermons are excellent, free, and meant to be listened to versus read. The key is to get in a place where you can listen without distraction.
I will give some brief excerpts from two of the sermons.
His farewell sermon (June 1750) (A caution to pastors)
"Ministers, and the people that have been under their care, must be parted in this world, how well soever they have been united. … It often happens, that those who seem most united, in a little time are most disunited, and at the greatest distance. Thus ministers and people, between whom there has been the greatest mutual regard and strictest union, may not only differ in their judgments, and be alienated in affection, but one may rend from the other, and all relation between them be dissolved. The minister may be removed to a distant place, and they may never have any more to do one with another in this world. But if it be so, there is one meeting more that they must have, and that is in the last great day of accounts."
Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God
"The subject that very much enrages an arbitary prince, is liable to suffer the most extreme torments, that human art can invent or human power can inflict. But the greatest earthly potentates, in their greatest majesty and strength, and when clothed in their greatest terrors, are but feeble despicable worms of the dust, in comparison of the great and almighty Creator and King of heaven and earth: it is but little that they can do, when most enraged, and when they have exerted the utmost of their fury. All the kings of the earth before God are as grasshoppers, they are nothing and less than nothing: both their love and their hatred is to be despised. The wrath of the great King of Kings is as much more terrible than theirs, as his majesty is greater."
I will give some brief excerpts from two of the sermons.
His farewell sermon (June 1750) (A caution to pastors)
"Ministers, and the people that have been under their care, must be parted in this world, how well soever they have been united. … It often happens, that those who seem most united, in a little time are most disunited, and at the greatest distance. Thus ministers and people, between whom there has been the greatest mutual regard and strictest union, may not only differ in their judgments, and be alienated in affection, but one may rend from the other, and all relation between them be dissolved. The minister may be removed to a distant place, and they may never have any more to do one with another in this world. But if it be so, there is one meeting more that they must have, and that is in the last great day of accounts."
Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God
"The subject that very much enrages an arbitary prince, is liable to suffer the most extreme torments, that human art can invent or human power can inflict. But the greatest earthly potentates, in their greatest majesty and strength, and when clothed in their greatest terrors, are but feeble despicable worms of the dust, in comparison of the great and almighty Creator and King of heaven and earth: it is but little that they can do, when most enraged, and when they have exerted the utmost of their fury. All the kings of the earth before God are as grasshoppers, they are nothing and less than nothing: both their love and their hatred is to be despised. The wrath of the great King of Kings is as much more terrible than theirs, as his majesty is greater."
7/19/2007
Cora Elizabeth Hessel 07.16.07
On July 16th, 2007 at 8:00pm Cora Elizabeth Hessel came to join the rest of us in the world. She was 11 lbs 3oz and 22 inches long.
Carrie had a rough go of it - a long day of labor and pushing only to end in a C-section. But it was all in the Lord's hands and He was gracious to us.
Here are a few pictures from the hospital:
For a few more pictures visit here.
7/10/2007
Safely Home - review
Safely Home by Randy Alcorn is a novel about Christianity in China. While it is fiction, Alcorn does say this novel is a composite of actual accounts by and about believers in mainland China.
This was a page-turner of a book, especially at the beginning. Alcorn is able to present a compelling picture by contrasting a so-called American faith with a genuine Chinese faith. The book often had cut scenes to heaven and the unseen spiritual world, which to me were reminiscent of a Frank Peretti novel (but I have only read one of Peretti's books). This was distracting at times (Alcorn isn't afraid to create a robust picture), but these scenes were helpful in showing the need for God's justice. However, I was humbled and driven to follow Christ more fully. Do I really consider all else rubbish when compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord?
I would certainly recommend this book. Now I really want to know more about following Christ in China - so that I can follow Him better in the US. He gives some helpful resources at epm.org. Plus, the royalties of this book go towards helping the persecuted church.
7/05/2007
The Treasure Principle - review
The Treasure Principle by Randy Alcorn is a short book that seeks to demonstrate the joy that there is to be had in giving. In creating a foundation for joy-filled giving, he brings out six Treasure Principle keys.
1) God owns everything. I'm His money manager.
2) My heart always goes where I put God's money.
3) Heaven, not earth, is my home.
4) I should live not for the dot but for the line. (The dot represents our present life on earth while the line is our home in eternity.)
5) Giving is the only antidote to materialism.
6) God prospers me not to raise my standard of living, but to raise my standard of giving.
Alcorn is short, sweet, and to the point in this book. The highlight of the book was his own personal situation where he was sued by a couple of abortion clinics, so he divested himself of all his assets in order to prevent them from using his money to further their practices. At the time of this book, he does not make more than minimum wage, makes no money from his book royalties, and had to resign from the church he worked at to protect them from the lawsuits as well. God used these events to teach him the joy of giving. This book is a worthwhile read.
7/03/2007
Above All Earthly Pow'rs - review
Above All Earthly Pow'rs by David Wells is an assessment of what it means to be a follower of Christ and a part of the Church in a postmodern world. This book is the final volume in a trilogy by Wells.
Wells starts by giving us an overview of what 'modern' and 'postmodern' outlooks to the world. He describes the harsh reality of our time: living in a consumer culture, with no truth and with no purpose. Enter Christ into such a world. Wells lays out Christ in a 'spiritual' world, in a meaningless world, in a decentered world. He wisely critiques church methods that are mere cultural adaptions, but gives some missionary direction for the Church.
This book was one of the books we received at the Desiring God Conference. Wells spoke at the conference and, while he may not be the most flamboyant speaker, his passion for Christ is evident. I know that some who read this blog have been po-mo'd to death and another book assessing the culture will have you looking for a bridge. But this book is excellent and the direction and insight Wells gives is quite incredible. Highly recommended - especially for those in ministry.
6/30/2007
Titus 3 – The quick ticket out
As for a person who stirs up division, after warning him once and then twice, have nothing more to do with him, knowing that such a person is warped and sinful; he is self-condemned. – Titus 3:10-11 (ESV)
Warped. A word you use to describe someone who paints their bedroom black. Not a word we use to describe a person who stirs up trouble.
At Titus' church you a couple of shots at showing unity before you're shown the door. It is important to get along.
Warped. A word you use to describe someone who paints their bedroom black. Not a word we use to describe a person who stirs up trouble.
At Titus' church you a couple of shots at showing unity before you're shown the door. It is important to get along.
6/29/2007
Titus 2 – The favorite teacher
in your teaching show integrity, dignity, and sound speech that cannot be condemned – Titus 2:7-8 (ESV)
This passage is weird because it doesn’t emphasize funny anecdotes or compelling stories in teaching. You can get a lot of good comments if you tell a good joke in your message.
It is rare for someone to comment on a message using words like integrity or dignity. Hopefully that isn't because such adjectives aren't appropriate for the messages that are given.
This passage is weird because it doesn’t emphasize funny anecdotes or compelling stories in teaching. You can get a lot of good comments if you tell a good joke in your message.
It is rare for someone to comment on a message using words like integrity or dignity. Hopefully that isn't because such adjectives aren't appropriate for the messages that are given.
6/28/2007
Titus 1 - Being pure
To the pure, all things are pure, but to the defiled and unbelieving, nothing is pure - Titus 1:15 (ESV)
Often we see good and evil in defined actions: you help an elderly person across the street (good), you trip them as they walk away (evil). Certainly our actions demonstrate evil, even if our lips say something different. But looking only at the surface of things does not see the inner attitude; the rationale for why we act a certain way is still obscured.
Tim Keller says this regarding idolatry:
Often we see good and evil in defined actions: you help an elderly person across the street (good), you trip them as they walk away (evil). Certainly our actions demonstrate evil, even if our lips say something different. But looking only at the surface of things does not see the inner attitude; the rationale for why we act a certain way is still obscured.
Tim Keller says this regarding idolatry:
The Bible does not consider idolatry to be one sin among many (and a rare sin found only among primitive people). Rather, all our failures to trust God wholly or to live rightly are at root idolatry—something we make more important than God. There is always a reason for a sin. Under our sins are idolatrous desires.This means that every Boy or Girl Scout needs Christ. Our actions don’t recommend us to God. Here Paul is talking to Titus about people that are leading others astray. Their impure intentions taint the obedience they are trying to solicit. They may help the elderly get through a busy intersection, but yet they do for themselves, not to glorify God.
6/27/2007
Of the Mortification of Sin in Believers - review
Of the Mortification of Sin in Believers by John Owen (or you can buy an updated version here) is a classic that was originally written in 1656. I pursued this book because of a review being done by a friend of mine and for a message that I recently gave. It was a helpful, Christ-centered way of seeing how sin is mortified in the life of the believer.
Here are some snippets from a chapter that really intrigued me concerning the consoling peace we often give ourselves concerning sin:
In case God disquiet the heart about the guilt of its distempers, either in respect of its root and indwelling, or in respect of any eruptions of it, take heed thou speakest not peace to thyself before God speaks it; but hearken what he says to thy soul.
When men are wounded by sin, disquieted and perplexed, and knowing that there is no remedy for them but only in the mercies of God, through the blood of Christ, do therefore look to him, and to the promises of the covenant in him, and thereupon quiet their hearts that it shall be well with them, and that God will be exalted, that he may be gracious to them, and yet their souls are not wrought to the greatest detestation of the sin or sins upon the account whereof they are disquieted, — this is to heal themselves, and not to be healed of God.
Whoever speaks peace to himself upon any one account, and at the same time hath another evil of no less importance lying upon his spirit, about which he hath had no dealing with God, that man cries “Peace” when there is none.
And some final considerations:
Consider his mercifulness, tenderness, and kindness, as he is our great High Priest at the right hand of God. Assuredly he pities thee in thy distress; saith he, “As one whom his mother comforteth, so will I comfort you,” Isa. lxvi. 13.
Consider His faithfulness who hath promised; which may raise thee up and confirm thee in this waiting in an expectation of relief. He hath promised to relieve in such cases, and he will fulfill his word to the utmost.
6/13/2007
The Reformed Pastor - review
The Reformed Pastor by Richard Baxter is a classic (first published in 1656) that still has great insight for ministry today. I have read this book before, and now I have listened to it as I traveled around. The eight hours plugged into my mp3 player could scarcely have been better spent. This is one of those books that you read every year or two.
Here is some of the wisdom that Baxter brings on Acts 20 and the pastoral duty:
Let us set before us the pattern in our text and learn thence our duty. O what a lesson is here before us! But how ill is it learned by those who still question whether these things be their duty! I confess, some of these words of Paul have been so often presented before my eyes, and impressed upon my conscience, that I have been much convinced by them of my duty and my neglect. And I think this one speech better deserveth a twelve month’s study, than most things that young students spend their time upon. O brethren! write it on your study doors – set it in capital letters as your copy, that it may be ever before your eyes. Could we but well learn two or three lines of it, what preachers should we be!
[a] Our general business – Serving the Lord with all humility of mind and with many tears.
[b] Our special work – Take heed to yourselves and to all the flock.
[c] Our doctrine – Repentance toward God and faith toward our Lord Jesus Christ.
[d] The place and manner of teaching – I have taught you publicly and from house to house.
[e] His diligence, earnestness, and affection – I ceased not to warn every one night and day with tears. This is that which must win souls, and preserve them.
[f] His faithfulness – I kept back nothing that was profitable unto you, and have not shunned to declare unto you all the counsel of God.
[g] His disinterestedness and self-denial for the sake of the gospel – I have coveted no man’s silver or gold or apparel: yea these hands have ministered unto my necessities and to them that were with me remembering the words of the Lord Jesus, how he said, it is more blessed to give than to receive.
[h] His patience and perseverance – None of these things move me neither count I my life dear unto me, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry which I have received of the Lord Jesus.
[i] His prayerfulness – I commend you to God and to the word of his grace which is able to build you up, and to give you an inheritance among all them which are sanctified.
[j] His purity of conscience – Wherefore I take you to record this day that I am pure from the blood of all men.
6/12/2007
Five Views on Law and Gospel - review
Five Views on Law and Gospel edited by Stanley Gundry (series editor) places five different views of how the biblical Christian looks at the relationship between the Law and the Gospel. The authors in this volume are: Willem A VanGemeren (non-theonomic Reformed), Greg Bahnsen (theonomic Reformed), Walter Kaiser (called 'evangelical' because there isn't another good label to put on his view), Wayne Strickland (Dispensational), and Douglas Moo (a modified Lutheran position).
Well, it took me a while to get through this book. In fact, I wouldn't have done it except a friend of mine told me to just read the last argument (Moo) and I would be fine. So I finished it off.
This is thick reading at times. They really do go after some of the finer points of the OT Law and how it applies to the Christian. Each author formulates their argument differently. Sometimes the responses rabbit trail. But it was helpful, even if it was a bit of work for me to finish off.
6/11/2007
Ministering to the Mourning - review
Ministering to the Mourning by Warren and David Wiersbe, is a practical guide for the Christian minister in dealing with death.
Wiersbe and Wiersbe give a rather broad assessment of dying. They start with a biblical assessment then turning to look at death from the perspective of physicians, funeral directors, and other caregivers, while discussing how Americans see death as a culture. The authors then give solid, practical wisdom on what the pastor should consider and do when someone dies.
This is an excellent book; highly recommended for anyone who deals with death on a somewhat regular basis. The annotated bibliography is very helpful as are the ideas for actually performing the various types of funerals one may run across. This is an extremely valuable addition to any pastoral library.
5/24/2007
Juarez, Mexico
Our church has a ministry that we partner with in Juarez called Broken Hearts Ministries. Jim and Peggy Warren, who head up this ministry, serve the people of Juarez by presenting Christ to them and by working with them in their areas of need. Jim and Peggy also served the EFCA in New Orleans for six months by coordinating the service trips to the devastated area.
A small team from our church, including myself, are heading down to Juarez. I hate leaving my incredible wife, especially with the baby on the way, but this should be an exciting trip.
My Spanish is a bit rusty. I remember how to ask for the bathroom and how to tell others that my shoe is blue, but beyond that I am struggling.
If you are a reader of my ramblings on this blog, I would appreciate your prayers for this trip. I simply ask that our Lord would be glorified by the changed lives - theirs and ours.
Grace and peace,
A small team from our church, including myself, are heading down to Juarez. I hate leaving my incredible wife, especially with the baby on the way, but this should be an exciting trip.
My Spanish is a bit rusty. I remember how to ask for the bathroom and how to tell others that my shoe is blue, but beyond that I am struggling.
If you are a reader of my ramblings on this blog, I would appreciate your prayers for this trip. I simply ask that our Lord would be glorified by the changed lives - theirs and ours.
Grace and peace,
5/22/2007
2 Timothy 4 - Loving His appearing
Henceforth there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, will award to me on that Day, and not only to me but also to all who have loved his appearing. - 2 Timothy 4:8 (ESV)
While this verse seems to tip the 'appearing' to Christ's return, I could see this referring back to His first appearing as seen in v 1:10 (and thus dragging the 4:1 'appearing' with it). The part that struck me wasn't which 'appearing' Paul is talking about, but loving this appearing.
There is a crown for those who loved His appearing. Not a love that was once held but now is gone. Instead a love that has been established in the heart of the lover. And the object of this love - His appearing. Jesus in all His glory revealed is the recipient of this love.
In one sense, it doesn't matter which appearing Paul is talking about here, either first or second. We are, in fact, to love both. We love both because we love our Lord.
What do I long for? Where does my desire rest? The possibility of not paying bills or having car problems? A corruption-free and efficient government? No, our hope must rest of Christ alone. We must love His appearance in our lives; we must eagerly await His return for us.
While this verse seems to tip the 'appearing' to Christ's return, I could see this referring back to His first appearing as seen in v 1:10 (and thus dragging the 4:1 'appearing' with it). The part that struck me wasn't which 'appearing' Paul is talking about, but loving this appearing.
There is a crown for those who loved His appearing. Not a love that was once held but now is gone. Instead a love that has been established in the heart of the lover. And the object of this love - His appearing. Jesus in all His glory revealed is the recipient of this love.
In one sense, it doesn't matter which appearing Paul is talking about here, either first or second. We are, in fact, to love both. We love both because we love our Lord.
What do I long for? Where does my desire rest? The possibility of not paying bills or having car problems? A corruption-free and efficient government? No, our hope must rest of Christ alone. We must love His appearance in our lives; we must eagerly await His return for us.
5/21/2007
The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde - review
The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde by Robert Louis Stevenson is a short book about a guy who transforms into a rather nasty creature. I guess I kind of knew the tale, but I had never read (or listened) to it. Friday was my day off, so I did just that (to the neglect of my other books - but I was also able to listen and do a bit of plumbing as well). Much like other works published in the 1800's, this story is filled with detail. This particular story involves very little action but has quite a bit of conversation. - Spoiler alert -
I was surprised that the story wound up being a lesson on the nature of sin: it's intrigue and then it's enslaving power.
- Spoilers end here -
I got this audio off of librivox.org, a nice website for free classical works - highly recommended. The contributors that I have heard are excellent.
2 Timothy 3 - Warnings about love and godliness
...lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, having the appearance of godliness, but denying its power. Avoid such people. - 2 Timothy 3:4-5 (ESV)
This is a good warning about others and a firm rebuke to the state of our own souls.
1) The King James says “lovers of pleasure more than lovers of God” (emphasis mine) where as almost every other translation reads "lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God." Interesting, but what's the point?
There is a way to enjoy the things in this world in such a way as it glorifies the Creator. By enjoying our Creator first, I believe we can legitimately and more fully enjoy that which He has made. But there is another pseudo-satisfaction that can be had from the stuff of earth, but in the end our desire for it supplants our desire for God.
While the transition from 'more than' in the KJV to 'rather than' in the NKJV, NASB, ESV, NIV, etc. was probably done on grammatical grounds, it highlights an important point. God is to be loved fully, not partially. There isn't a scale that reads - "you loved God more than golf today, so you're OK" or "you have loved God for 2 hours so you can only watch TV for 2 hours otherwise your life is out of balance." No, if we are to love God, TV and golf must be enjoyed to His glory or they replace love that should be going towards God.
2) (Especially after some conversations I had today) We must be careful who we follow. There are a bunch of people who appear to be doing good stuff, but yet the is a serious disconnect from the cross.
May our godliness be from the power of Christ - not just an illusion fabricated for the benefit of others, an apparition to placate our own delusions.
This is a good warning about others and a firm rebuke to the state of our own souls.
1) The King James says “lovers of pleasure more than lovers of God” (emphasis mine) where as almost every other translation reads "lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God." Interesting, but what's the point?
There is a way to enjoy the things in this world in such a way as it glorifies the Creator. By enjoying our Creator first, I believe we can legitimately and more fully enjoy that which He has made. But there is another pseudo-satisfaction that can be had from the stuff of earth, but in the end our desire for it supplants our desire for God.
While the transition from 'more than' in the KJV to 'rather than' in the NKJV, NASB, ESV, NIV, etc. was probably done on grammatical grounds, it highlights an important point. God is to be loved fully, not partially. There isn't a scale that reads - "you loved God more than golf today, so you're OK" or "you have loved God for 2 hours so you can only watch TV for 2 hours otherwise your life is out of balance." No, if we are to love God, TV and golf must be enjoyed to His glory or they replace love that should be going towards God.
2) (Especially after some conversations I had today) We must be careful who we follow. There are a bunch of people who appear to be doing good stuff, but yet the is a serious disconnect from the cross.
May our godliness be from the power of Christ - not just an illusion fabricated for the benefit of others, an apparition to placate our own delusions.
5/17/2007
When the Darkness Will Not Lift - review
When the Darkness Will Not Lift by John Piper is an expansion of a chapter from his larger work, When I Don't Desire God: How to Fight For Joy. It is an excellent and brief (only 79 pages) book on the Christian who struggles with feelings of despair and melancholy. Rather than summarize, I gave some snippets that give you a taste of the book's flavor.
Where should you start? Start at the easiest place for those in darkness. Start with despair. Despair of finding any answer in yourself. I pray that you will cease from all efforts to look inside yourself for the rescue you need. I pray that you will do what only desperate people can do, namely, cast yourself on Christ. (p 21)
It is utterly crucial that in our darkness we affirm the wise, strong hand of God to hold us, even when we have no strength to hold him. (p 37)
Stop looking at your faith, and rivet your attention on Christ. Faith is sustained by looking at Christ, crucified and risen, not by turning from Christ to analyze your faith. (p 41)
We must say that joy is part of your duty. The Bible says, “Rejoice always” (1 Thess. 5:16). And in regard to the duty of giving, it says, “God loves a cheerful giver” (2 Cor. 9:7). In regard to the duty of service, it says, “Serve the Lord with gladness” (Ps. 100:2). In regard to the duty of mercy, it says do it “with cheerfulness” (Rom. 12:8). In regard to the duty of afflictions, it says, “Count it all joy” (James 1:2). (p 49)
Be sure to thank God as you work that he has given you at least the will to work. ... Your aim in loosing your tongue with words of gratitude is that God would be merciful and fill your words with the emotion of true gratitude. You are not seeking the praise of men; you are seeing the mercy of God. You are not hiding the hardness of ingratitude, but hoping for the inbreaking of the Spirit. (p 51)
Sometimes the darkness of our souls is owing in part to the fact that we have drifted into patterns of life that are not blatantly sinful but are constricted and uncaring. ... Paradoxically, depressed persons may say that they must care for themselves and cannot take on the problems of the world, when in fact part of the truth may be that their depression is feeding on the ingrown quality of their lives. (pp 61-2)
I would mention in particular the life-giving, joy-producing effect of sharing your faith with unbelievers by word and deed. ... Joy in Christ thrives on being shared. That is the essence of Christian joy: It overflows or dies. (pp 64-5)
If you pour yourself out for the hungry and satisfy the desire of the afflicted, then shall your light rise in the darkness and your gloom be as the noonday. And the LORD will guide you continually and satisfy your desire in scorched places and make your bones strong; and you shall be like a watered garden, like a spring of water, whose waters do not fail. Isaiah 58:11-12 (ESV)
The book can be read online or downloaded for free at Desiring God .
5/15/2007
Your accent
Having lived in Chicago and South Carolina for a while and now living in northern Iowa, I've wondered how much my 'accent' from Missouri has changed. Not enough to move me out of my region of origin. Take the quiz yourself. (HT: Matt B)
| What American accent do you have? Your Result: The Midland "You have a Midland accent" is just another way of saying "you don't have an accent." You probably are from the Midland (Pennsylvania, southern Ohio, southern Indiana, southern Illinois, and Missouri) but then for all we know you could be from Florida or Charleston or one of those big southern cities like Atlanta or Dallas. You have a good voice for TV and radio. | |
| The West | |
| Boston | |
| North Central | |
| The Inland North | |
| The South | |
| Philadelphia | |
| The Northeast | |
| What American accent do you have? Quiz Created on GoToQuiz | |
5/11/2007
Good to Great - review
Good to Great by Jim Collins analyzes eleven companies that made the jump from good to great. To provide some perspective, Collins includes eleven direct comparison companies that did not make the leap. The research is well documented throughout the book and there is considerable discussion as to which companies were chosen and why.Collins and his team of researchers make 7 observations of what these good to great companies had: level 5 leadership (a humble yet driven leader), assembling (or recognizing) the team then figuring out what to do, willingness to look at the facts, simple (yet defined) concepts, discipline, proper use and understanding of technology, and a slow, steady build-up.
One part that struck me was Hedgehog Concept - being centered around a simple idea. The hedgehog only has one defense - roll up in a ball. But this simple defense always withstands the attacks by the creative fox. While there were three parameters that govern this concept, simply being focused made it easy for these companies to say yes and no to opportunities. This saved them from the disaster that often accompanied the comparison companies.
This book was recommended by a friend and I enjoyed it quite a bit. It proves out concepts of humility, focus, determination, and discipline versus getting rich all of a sudden by one good idea. This book, even though it was written later, is actually a prequel to Collin's other famous work - Built to Last.
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