Church Issues Faced by the Modern Church

The posts below offer critiques, insights and suggests about some of the current issues that the modern day church faces from worldly to theological to societal.

Thumbnail image for Are SBC Resolutions Only Valid for One Year?

Are SBC Resolutions Only Valid for One Year?

While citing the Southern Baptist Convention website on resolutions for yesterday’s applied ethics post1 I noticed a interesting statement about resolutions. Note the following from the SBC website [emphasis added]. 21. How do I find out the official SBC stance on various issues? The Southern Baptist Convention makes official statements regarding specific issues by means [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Ethics: Anti-Calvinism Resolution at the Southern Baptist Convention

Ethics: Anti-Calvinism Resolution at the Southern Baptist Convention

What would you do Wednesday! The annual Southern Baptist Convention (SBC) meeting is two months away1 so a situation that could take place during this meeting may provide an interesting discussion. In order to help those who are not Southern Baptists better participate in this topic, a few citations expressing Southern Baptist positions are provided [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Ethics: Leaking Confidential Meeting Details

Ethics: Leaking Confidential Meeting Details

What would you do Wednesday! The characters: You are one of twenty board members of a local Christian school. You have a friend who writes an online column for a local newspaper. The situation: Your friend has recently written critically in his online column about some of the recent decisions of the Christian school. You [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Ethics: George Zimmerman Secretly Visits Your Church

Ethics: George Zimmerman Secretly Visits Your Church

What would you do Wednesday! The tragic shooting death of Trayvon Martin by George Zimmerman that happened in Sanford, FL has taken over the internet recently.1 Passionate replies have been poured out from both Martin and Zimmerman supporters. Many in the court of public opinion have already tried Zimmerman and found him guilty of murder. [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Ethics: Pastoral Search Committee Asks for Online Passwords

Ethics: Pastoral Search Committee Asks for Online Passwords

What would you do Wednesday! Today’s topic comes at the suggestion of a Georgia pastor friend. He tweeted an article to me titled Want a Job? Fork Over Your Facebook Password, Employer Says.1 The suggestion was to substitute ‘search committee’ for ‘employer’. Great idea! Sitting before a pastoral search committee during what will most likely [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Subjectivity in Modern Preaching

Subjectivity in Modern Preaching

I was recently listening to a pastor preach on the importance of prayer in pastoral ministry. Prayer is certainly important in the life of a pastor (or any Christian). The context was that this pastor was teaching future pastors. Giving his time to such teaching is a great service. However, the text he used to [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Ethics: Betting On NCAA March Madness Brackets

Ethics: Betting On NCAA March Madness Brackets

What would you do Wednesday! It’s March and NCAA March Madness is here! March Madness inspired me to a little blog madness for today’s ethical scenario. Of course, we all know that Christians should not only not play the NCAA brackets, but we should especially not play those brackets with money… …or should we? March [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Megachurch Wal-Mart Effect

Megachurch Wal-Mart Effect

I came across an interesting observation in a book I am reading for one of my classes. In the book Shepherd Leader, author Timothy Witmer points out what he calls the “Wal-mart effect” among megachurches. The truth of the matter is that much of the growth of megachurches is drawn from smaller churches in the region. [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Ethics: Baptist Professor Drinking Beer in Public

Ethics: Baptist Professor Drinking Beer in Public

What would you do Wednesday! Today’s scenario involves a Southern Baptist seminary professor who is seen by a student drinking beer at a local restaurant. As always, anyone is free to comment. You, dear reader, are a seminary student out to dinner with some friends who are visiting for the weekend. While being seated at [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Bisagno On Extending the Gospel Invitation

Bisagno On Extending the Gospel Invitation

One of the books assigned to read for one of my classes is Pastor’s Handbook by John R. Bisagno which offers a lot of practical advice. The advice is mostly pragmatic seemingly from a consequentialist perspective. That is, Bisagno writes from experience with little Scriptural support for his advice. Bisagno’s advice is not intrinsically good [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Ethics: Pastor Introduces ‘Kings Way’ to Reach Muslims

Ethics: Pastor Introduces ‘Kings Way’ to Reach Muslims

What would you do Wednesday! Today’s situation is inspired by the recent Christian-Muslim relationship controversy surrounding Rick Warren. Warren has attempted to set the record straight concerning the recent reporting of his position on Christian-Muslim interaction.1 This post is not about Rick Warren although the information used below is from sources affiliated with the Christian-Muslim [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Baptist College President Offers Calvinist Vision?

Baptist College President Offers Calvinist Vision?

Breaking News: Southern Baptist College President Offers Calvinist Vision! Imagine if that were a real headline. Surely, that college president would be universally welcomed by Baptists with open arms and a warm embrace. Call me a skeptic, but I doubt it. The very presence of Calvinists seemed to set off alarms for Christian Index editor [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Letter to the editor of ‘The Christian Index’ by Marty King

Letter to the editor of ‘The Christian Index’ by Marty King

Editorial not worthy of editor or Index Dear Gerald, As a former Georgia Baptist, I appreciate you and your service as Index editor. But, your Feb. 10 editorial was not your best. The level of research, organization, and writing are simply not up to what Georgia Baptists have come to expect. Let me share with [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for The Calvinists: a Reply to Gerald Harris Part II

The Calvinists: a Reply to Gerald Harris Part II

The following is part II of a reply to Gerald Harris recently published the article “The Calvinists are here.” The article was published in The Christian Index, the Georgia Southern Baptist newspaper, of which Harris is the editor. If you have not read part I, follow this link to do so: The Calvinists: a Reply [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for The Calvinists: a Reply to Gerald Harris Part I

The Calvinists: a Reply to Gerald Harris Part I

Gerald Harris, editor of the The Christian Index, the Georgia Southern Baptist newspaper, recently published the article “The Calvinists are here.”1 There have been two immediate responses to Harris’ piece including one by former Calvinist William Birch2 and an article in the Baptist Press in which some of the people mentioned by Harris answered his [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Ethics: Leaving a Gospel Tract for a Tip

Ethics: Leaving a Gospel Tract for a Tip

What would you do Wednesday! I’m sure many Christians have handed out gospel tracts. There are a variety of tracts and some are even made to look like money. There is a million dollar bill tract which, of course, does not look real, but there are a few in lower denominations such at $10 and [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Ethics: Seminary Student Preaches Someone Else’s Sermons

Ethics: Seminary Student Preaches Someone Else’s Sermons

What would you do Wednesday! Today I’m going to pick-on set the situation within the realm of Southern Baptists since I are one. It is also more culturally acceptable to use your own as an example, right? (Don’t worry, non-Southern Baptists may also comment.) The created situation involves a seminary student who preaches someone else’s [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Ethics: the Deacons are Freemasons!

Ethics: the Deacons are Freemasons!

What would you do Wednesday! Freemasonry is not as active as it was in the past. It was already on the decline when I left the lodge 13 years ago. Although I imagine the Shriners, of whom all are Masons, are still pretty active. Freemasonry was once a concern in Southern Baptist life. In fact, [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for TD Jakes Reviews: Elephant Room and 11 Various Books

TD Jakes Reviews: Elephant Room and 11 Various Books

First, James White weighs in on his Dividing Line radio show for two hours. There were so many listeners that the servers crashed. Find the link and a description below. A Mega-Friday DL on TD Jakes and Elephants in the Room In any case, I addressed the TD Jakes: is he a Trinitarian? issue head [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Angry Apostles and the Trinity

Angry Apostles and the Trinity

On the Trinity First, Pastor Tom Chantry has provided a actual transcript of T.D. Jakes words on the Trinity from The Elephant Room 2, session 4.1 Chantry then made a follow-up post in which he shares his thoughts in the following five points.2 1. Jakes masterfully deconstructs the entire practice of theology. 2. Driscoll and [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Ethics: Church Discipline Contract Issued

Ethics: Church Discipline Contract Issued

What would you do Wednesday! Today’s situation deals with the uncomfortable issue of church discipline. To make the situation more uncomfortable a church discipline contract will also be involved. The scenario is inspired by real circumstances surrounding a former Mars Hill Church member named Andrew who was issued a church discipline contract to sign.1 Imagine [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for On Public Rebuke

On Public Rebuke

As far as I know, being rebuked is not something to which most Christians look forward, especially, being publicly rebuked. However, Scripture says it is good for rebuke (2 Tim. 3:16). Scripture even includes the well-known example of one Apostle publicly rebuking another Apostle (Gal. 2:11, 14). Today, there is no shortage of Christians rebuking [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Ethics: Prominent Pastor Plagiarizes?

Ethics: Prominent Pastor Plagiarizes?

What would you do Wednesday! The question of plagiarized sermons comes up every now and then. Whether or not one should preach someone else’s sermons has been debated in the blogosphere, too. Selling sermons must not be too bad of a business considering the eight sites listed on Sermon Source that continue to sell sermons. There [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Ethics: Church to Lose Funding Over Homosexual Adoption

Ethics: Church to Lose Funding Over Homosexual Adoption

What would you do Wednesday! The New York Times reported that Roman Catholic charities in Illinois must comply with a new requirement to “consider same-sex couples as potential foster-care and adoptive parents if they want to receive state money.”1 Catholic bishops claim that these requirements infringe on freedom of religion. Catholic charities in other cities [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Elephant Room II and TD Jakes’ Oneness Association

Elephant Room II and TD Jakes’ Oneness Association

Elephant Room II is only 20 days away. T.D. Jakes is still on the schedule.1 Several of us disagreed with Jakes being a participant2, including Mark Dever who withdrew3, but I did suggest some questions for Jakes.4 Although I am still not very excited about Jakes participation, I am interested in what he will have [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Top 10 Posts for the Second Half of 2011

Top 10 Posts for the Second Half of 2011

The following top 10 posts are those that received the most traffic from July 2011 through December 2011. The amount of attention some of these topics received on the web at the time they happened is amazing. However, thinking over the topics now is like thinking about ancient history that happened years ago. We really [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Ethics: Renting to a Homosexual Couple

Ethics: Renting to a Homosexual Couple

What would you do Wednesday! The Michael Medved Show recently covered the topic of the discrimination lawsuit filed against Aloha Bed & Breakfast by a lesbian couple. The B&B owner, Phyllis Young, allegedly denied the couple a room due to her Christian views on homosexuality. The lesbian couple is suing claiming a violation of Hawaiian law [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Ethics: Don’t Quote Me, Bro!

Ethics: Don’t Quote Me, Bro!

What would you do Wednesday! Today’s scenario is an interesting one involving blogging, although it could be applied to any online writing. The online exchange of words and ideas is amazingly fast. If a blogger has any kind of audience and he posts something that challenges that audience there is probably going to be a [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Ethics: Pastor Opposes Tim Tebow Preaching

Ethics: Pastor Opposes Tim Tebow Preaching

What would you do Wednesday! NFL quarterback Tim Tebow gets a lot of news coverage because of the way he and the Broncos are winning football games and, more specifically, for his outspoken faith in Jesus Christ. It could be argued that his Christianity has become more of a story than the last minute wins. [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Ethics: High School Football Practice Changed for Ramadan

Ethics: High School Football Practice Changed for Ramadan

What would you do Wednesday! In one of the episodes of TLC’s new TV show All-American Muslim a local high school football team changed their practice time for the observance of Ramadan.1 Ramadan is a month of Islamic fasting where “Muslims refrain from eating, drinking, smoking and sex during daylight hours.”2 Today’s scenario is based [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Preaching On Sin and Responsibility

Preaching On Sin and Responsibility

Sin and responsibility may not be the most comfortable topics about which to talk or preach. No one really wants to consider that they are responsible for something they did i.e. sin. It is much easier to blame sins on someone else as if they some how caused the sin and, therefore, avoid personal responsibility. [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Ethics: Pastor Admits to Homosexual Orientation

Ethics: Pastor Admits to Homosexual Orientation

What would you do Wednesday! Thanks to my friend Rhology for this week’s topic. Your main preaching pastor is about to offer a Sunday morning pastoral prayer. Before praying one of your associate pastors steps up to the pulpit to make an important announcement and asks everyone for prayers on the issue. He begins. As [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for The Gospel in the Liquor Store

The Gospel in the Liquor Store

The following true story is about a seminary student sharing the gospel in a liquor store. The student is an acquaintance and the story is shared with permission. This is all that will be revealed of this student. One of the most divisive disagreements among conservative Christians is the subject of Christians drinking alcohol. Tim [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Ethics: Christian Converts to Islam to Marry Muslim

Ethics: Christian Converts to Islam to Marry Muslim

What would you do Wednesday! TLC’s new TV show All-American Muslim recently had an episode where a Roman Catholic converted to Islam so he could marry a Muslim woman.1 My wife and I had some interesting discussions about this situation. The Roman Catholic mother and father did not seem to be bothered as much as [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for So You Want My Daughter?

So You Want My Daughter?

I’ve always been intrigued about why a Christian would want to date or marry a non-Christian. A solid biblical case can be made that a Christian should only date or marry another Christian.1 In a mixed dating situation the Christian is not trusting Christ nor finding Him sufficient, but is looking elsewhere to satisfy certain [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Reformation Day 2011: Luther on the Power of God’s Word

Reformation Day 2011: Luther on the Power of God’s Word

Love, therefore, demands that you have compassion on the weak, as all the apostles had. Once, when Paul came to Athens, a mighty city, he found in the temple many altars, Acts and he went from one to the other and looked at them all, but did not touch any one of them even with [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Exterminating the Canaanites

Exterminating the Canaanites

Richard Dawkins recently explained why he would not debate William Lane Craig.1 Dawkins does not like that Craig defends God’s commands to the Israelites in the Old Testament to destroy certain people groups that were inhabiting the Promised Land. He claims that Craig has a “dark side” and that “Most churchmen these days wisely disown [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for What I Wish TV Hosts Would Ask Christians

What I Wish TV Hosts Would Ask Christians

Trevin Wax has an excellent post on how he wishes the homosexuality debate would go between TV hosts and pastors.1 Trevin offers an example of good dialogue with the Christian re-directing the conversation so it is not concentrating on homosexuality. The dialogue could actually work with a dose of patience, focus and enough time. I [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Servetus Asked for Calvin’s Death

Servetus Asked for Calvin’s Death

Geoff Ashley of The Village Church recently wrote an article on John Calvin’s role in the death of Michael Servetus.1 Ashley gives seven points to consider before “harshly judging Calvin a heartless tyrant.” While not absolving Calvin of any and all wrong doing for his role in Servetus’ trial it may be pointed out that [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for An “in Christ” Mindset

An “in Christ” Mindset

Paul and Timothy, servants of Christ Jesus, To all the saints in Christ Jesus who are at Philippi, with the overseers and deacons: Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. (Philippians 1:1-2 ESV) Notice how Paul begins the letter to the Philippians. He calls Paul and Timothy “servants” [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Did Mark Dever Withdraw from Elephant Room 2?

Did Mark Dever Withdraw from Elephant Room 2?

I my previous post I shared that I leaned toward Mark Dever withdrawing from participating in Elephant Room 2(ER2) due to T.D. Jakes scheduled participation.1 A commenter on that post informed me that Dever’s bio, pictured above, is missing from the ER2 website. If Dever does or did withdraw from the event it should not [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for What Would You Ask TD Jakes at Elephant Room 2?

What Would You Ask TD Jakes at Elephant Room 2?

The announcement T.D. Jakes participation at Elephant Room 2 (ER2) has generated much digital ink in the last week. I’ve shared some of the trouble I have with Jakes participation.1 Other Christians have provided more thorough responses than I explaining their concern over James MacDonald inviting T.D. Jakes.2 Note that no one is disputing that [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for TD Jakes: Association Lacking Discernment?

TD Jakes: Association Lacking Discernment?

It has been recently revealed that T.D. Jakes will be a participant in Elephant Room round 2.1 Elephant Room is hosted by James MacDonald and Mark Driscoll. Its format is for influential pastors to have “blunt conversations” around “differing approaches to ministry” with the purpose of modeling “loving confrontation and gracious disagreement that honors relationship [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Would You Pray at Ground Zero?

Would You Pray at Ground Zero?

An interfaith prayer vigil will be held at the National Cathedral for the tenth anniversary of the September 11 terrorist attacks. It seems that no Evangelicals were invited to participate along side the “dean of the Cathedral, the Bishop of Washington, a rabbi, Buddhist nun and incarnate lama, a Hindu priest, the president of the [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Servant Evangelism: Gimmick or Grace?

Servant Evangelism: Gimmick or Grace?

Steve Sjogren is know for what is called Servant Evangelism which, as I understand it, is a way of doing outreach through acts of kindness in hopes of sharing the gospel. At SermonCentral.com Sjogren has an article titled 94 Servant Evangelism Ideas for Your Church. The ideas he lists are certain good, kind things to [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Preaching: Young, Restless and Four?

Preaching: Young, Restless and Four?

Paul wrote to Timothy and stated, ” Let no one despise you for your youth, but set the believers an example in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, in purity.” (1 Timothy 4:12 ESV) I don’t think Paul had a four year old preacher in mind as one way this Scripture may be applied. [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Brewing Controversy: A Respectful Disagreement with John MacArthur

Brewing Controversy: A Respectful Disagreement with John MacArthur

[The following reply is a guest post originally published on spencernix.com (hyperlink removed the site is currently hacked) by friend and fellow blogger Spencer Nix. Spencer is a north Georgia native and Lead Pastor of Isaac's Keep in Canton, Georgia. He enjoys connecting with people and their story and living life simply and beautifully in [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Alcohol: Of Greeks and Barbarians

Alcohol: Of Greeks and Barbarians

There has been enough talk about alcohol on Christians blogs lately to make readers drunk with words. While alcohol is always a favorite topic on Southern Baptist blogs1 one of the well-esteemed pastors of our day, John MacArthur, also felt the need to address the topic2. MacArthur was answered by the accused, Erik Raymond3 and [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Church Sign of the Week: King James Only

Church Sign of the Week: King James Only

This photo was taken in the Smoky Mountains while on vacation. We had just driven onto Cherokee land when we passed this church sign. So we turned the car around and took a picture of it. The church name is included in the original picture, but I cut that part out. For the record, the [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Surry Baptist Association-Flat Rock Baptist Timeline

Surry Baptist Association-Flat Rock Baptist Timeline

Flat Rock Baptist Church (FRBC) was recently removed from fellowship in the Surry Baptist Association (SBA) for calling a female to the pastorate. Some have disagreed with the way SBA removed them seemingly so quickly1 while others disagree with the removal at all2. The background of the situation may be found in those posts or [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for IMB Missionary Interview for LovingMuslims.com

IMB Missionary Interview for LovingMuslims.com

The International Mission Board (IMB) of the Southern Baptist Convention recently launched a website to encourage Christians reach out to their Muslim neighbors. The website is LovingMuslims.com and the timing of the launch was no mistake as the 10 year anniversary of 9/11 approaches. I had the privilege to send a few question to the [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Mark Driscoll On Prophetic Dreams and Seeing the Future

Mark Driscoll On Prophetic Dreams and Seeing the Future

Fellow blogger (of ill-repute) and friend, Frank Turk recently wrote an Open Letter to Mark Driscoll. In the letter Turk took Driscoll to task over some of the things he said about cessationism. The summary of Driscoll’s view may be most clearly seen when he said that “cessationism is worldliness” and then sealed the deal [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Discipleship Through Judgement

Discipleship Through Judgement

Look at the word discipleship. There within it is the word disciple, which is obviously related to the word discipline. In view of the next section on corrective church discipline, I would point out that discipleship is the other side of the coin—it is formative church discipline. These words, discipleship/discipline/ disciple, all connote ideas of [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for On Frivolous Prayer and Reverence

On Frivolous Prayer and Reverence

Given the discussions on the recent NASCAR prayer both here (A NASCAR Prayer, Parody or Blasphemy?) and elsewhere the commentary below from Calvin offers helpful perspective to consider on prayer. In the first quote, Calvin addresses the state of the mind and reverence to God in prayer. Let the first rule of right prayer then [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for A NASCAR Prayer, Parody or Blasphemy?

A NASCAR Prayer, Parody or Blasphemy?

Below is a transcript and video of the invocation “prayer” that Pastor Joe Nelms of Family Baptist Church in Lebanon, TN (near Nashville) recently gave at a NASCAR event. I’m not sure how to respond other than to scratch my head and think of this in light of the state of American Christianity. Of course, [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Popping Off Is Not Pastoral

Popping Off Is Not Pastoral

Christianity in America seems to be in a constant state of decline rather than a constant state of repentance. One sign of this decline is the way in which celebrity rather than Scripture seems to have become the lens through which certain pastors are evaluated. This type of bias undermines the witness of the Church [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Top 10 Posts for 2011 at the Halfway Point

Top 10 Posts for 2011 at the Halfway Point

The Shack Review – I’m amazed at the visits (and sometimes comments) that this post continues to get. I may soon be giving away a copy of Burning Down ‘The Shack’: How the ‘Christian’ bestseller is deceiving millions. A Look at Passion City Church – The comments here come with some emotion and healthy discussion. [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Ironic Church Sign of the Week

Ironic Church Sign of the Week

The above picture was taken by one of my pastors right down the road from our church building. Can you spot the irony?

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for A Response: Patriotism and Christian Worship

A Response: Patriotism and Christian Worship

Pastor David Brumbelow recently posted Patriotism and Christian Worship at SBC Voices. I will admit upfront that I disagree with Brumbelow on this topic. I’ve even written about patriotic worship in the past on more than on occasion. Christians will probably continue to disagree about this topic this side of heaven. Make no mistake that [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Freedom: More Than An American

Freedom: More Than An American

Christian, what will be at the forefront of your mind during corporate worship this 4th of July weekend? (HT: John Strickland)

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Transcript and Commentary: Al Mohler On Homosexuality at the SBC

Transcript and Commentary: Al Mohler On Homosexuality at the SBC

Dr. R. Albert Mohler, President of Southern Seminary, recently answered a question from Dr. Peter Lumpkins concerning alleged comments he made about Evangelicals and homosexuality. The question was answered from the floor of the 2011 Southern Baptist Convention’s annual meeting during his report on Southern Seminary. Dr. Mohler confirmed that the statements in question were [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for A Teenager On Youth Ministry

A Teenager On Youth Ministry

I’m recycling a post about a teenager named Erica who was given an assignment to write an editorial on the subject of her choice. She choose youth ministry. Youth ministry is difficult. Questions are often asked about how to best reach and minister to youth. It can be hard to get into the mind of [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for The Southern Baptist Phantom Menace

The Southern Baptist Phantom Menace

Imagine for a moment that a church friend comes to you and expresses his frustration over another member of the church. Your friend mentions that he is tired of Sunday School at various times. He does not like the way things are taught sometimes or some of the methods used in the lessons. In his [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Southern Baptist Church Offices, Elders et al. (Update)

Southern Baptist Church Offices, Elders et al. (Update)

Update below. A simple Google search will yield discussions concerning Southern Baptists and the subject of having a plurality of elders/pastors in place in the local church. It is understandable that there are biblical interpretive disagreements on how a church ought to fill its offices, on congregational involvement, etc. Hopefully, all local congregations seek to [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Did the Gay Clergy Lie?

Did the Gay Clergy Lie?

The StarTribune reports that Presbyterians to allow gays to be ordained ministers. Note: Those Presbyterians would be of the PCUSA branch. I’m sure many would call them PiNO’s (Presbyterian in name only.) Thankfully, some in the PCUSA spoke against the newly affirmed policy which will now allow openly gay and lesbian members to be ordained [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Did Mark Richt Make Me A Dawgs Fan?

Did Mark Richt Make Me A Dawgs Fan?

Being a graduate of Georgia Southern University (GSU) hasn’t really influenced me to be a Georgia Bulldogs (UGA) fan. I was actually not a fan for a few years after I got to see how poorly Dawg fans treated GA Southern fans when played against each other. See, UGA and GSU play each other every [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Camping Missed It: Judgement Day is Everyday

Camping Missed It: Judgement Day is Everyday

Unfortunately, by now Harold Camping is probably a household name. A household name that is probably not widely cherished among households. Camping will most likely be known as that false Christian Judgement Day teacher until the day he dies. Since he is approaching 90 years old he probably will not be with us much longer. [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Keller On Fanatical Christians (with example?) Update

Keller On Fanatical Christians (with example?) Update

Update Just as I was about to post the quote below I was notified about the above tweet. I read it and thought about Keller’s words below. I wondered – does that tweet fit the definition of a fanatical Christian that Keller writes about? Here are two quotes from two professing Christians with whom I [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Sermon: Drinking Is Not Drunkeness

Sermon: Drinking Is Not Drunkeness

Eddie Exposito, a pastor friend from Louisiana, preached a sermon about the biblical approach to alcohol. The sermon, linked below, is called Drinking Is Not Drunkenness. He addresses some of the unbiblical approaches to alcohol that are prevalent today and offers a corrective, biblical view. I thought some of you would appreciate this sermon. Drinking [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Lord’s Day 05/08/11 Spurgeon On Mothers

Lord’s Day 05/08/11 Spurgeon On Mothers

Happy Mother’s Day! Below are some excerpts from the section “Early Religious Impressions” found in Charles Spurgeon’s Autobiography. I thought they would be appropriate for Mother’s Day. Yet I cannot tell how much I owe to the solemn words of my good mother. It was the custom, on Sunday evenings, while we were yet little [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Hell Now

Hell Now

Whatever change of trouble a child of God meets with, it is all the hell he shall have. Whatever eclipse may be upon his name or estate, I may say of it, as Athanasius of his banishment, it is a little cloud that will soon be blown over, and then his gulf is shot his [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Daily Appropriating the Gospel

Daily Appropriating the Gospel

When we look at Paul’s letter to the Galatians, we realize that it is easy for us to follow false gospels of various kinds. We need to remind ourselves that all of us follow and lean on various false gospels. Detecting them is difficult because they often are below our theological radar. Few well-churched Christians [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for On the Sermon Series

On the Sermon Series

Tim Hawkins on the sermon series…

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Universalism: Rob Bell and Paul Dean

Universalism: Rob Bell and Paul Dean

Even before the release of his latest book, Love Wins: A Book About Heaven, Hell, and the Fate of Every Person Who Ever Lived, Rob Bell set the blogosphere ablaze. The biggest charge against Bell is that of him being a universalist. In a recent interview with Newsweek’s Lisa Miller, Bell first states, with qualifications, [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for The SBC and Calvinism: Three Reviews of Whosoever Will

The SBC and Calvinism: Three Reviews of Whosoever Will

The Journal for Baptist Theology and Ministry, Spring 2010, is out. This issues deals with “Baptists and the Doctrine of Salvation.” There are three reviews of two recent books by Southern Baptists dealing with salvation. Whosoever Will: A Biblical-Theological Critique of Five-Point Calvinism, editors David L. Allen and Steve W. Lemke, reviewed by: Gregory A. [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Advanced-Objective-Relevant Conference?

Advanced-Objective-Relevant Conference?

Beyond the Basics? Advanced, Objective, Relevant? I can across the above conference advertisement today. It looks like an interesting conference, doesn’t it? Great graphics. Would you attend? Wait! What kind of conference? A Christian conference? What do you think?

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Is T.D. Jakes Now Trinitarian?

Is T.D. Jakes Now Trinitarian?

In light of the recent concerns over Modalism and the SBC Pastors’ Conference, it has been said that T.D. Jakes no longer holds to a form of Modalism or to a Onesness Pentecostal view of God. There are plenty of resources (I don’t have time to note them here) online and in books that document [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Open Email: SBC Pastors’ Conference 2011 Doctrinal Concern

Open Email: SBC Pastors’ Conference 2011 Doctrinal Concern

Please note: Mr. Jones’ name and the link to the Potter’s House website have been removed from the Pastor’s Conference website. On Feb. 17th I sent an email to Vance Pitman, President of the 2011 Southern Baptist Pastors’ Conference about a doctrinal concern. The email is posted below and contains within it the first email [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Michael Horton: What is the Gospel?

Michael Horton: What is the Gospel?

(Source: What is the Gospel?) Horton states that the Gospel is “a very precise term. It is not equivalent to whatever is good and important in Christianity. Gospel is a very particular word, or kind of speech in the Bible. From Genesis to Revelation the Gospel is God’s promise of a Son who will crush [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for “Live the Gospel” Charles Spurgeon Advised

“Live the Gospel” Charles Spurgeon Advised

Can anyone but Christ live the gospel? Disagreements on the answer to this question can be seen from Open Letters to The Fear of Antinomianism. I wonder if the disagreements lie within what one means when challenging others to “live the gospel.” I don’t know of anyone who uses this phrase to mean that Christians [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for What If Governor Robert Bentley Instead…

What If Governor Robert Bentley Instead…

Newly elected Alabama Governor Robert Bentley made headlines recently while speaking at a church in celebration of Martin Luther King Day. His words were delivered right after he was sworn in as governor. There may be more of a timing issue here because though he was speaking at a church, the offending words were his [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Church Sign: Gospel or Moralism?

Church Sign: Gospel or Moralism?

In a message this morning about post-modernism the church sign pictured above was put up as an example of what post-modernists are rebelling against in the modernist Christian culture. The question that crossed my mind is whether this picture is an example of reaching out with the gospel or with moralism?

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Paul Washer: The Great Sin of the American Pastor

Paul Washer: The Great Sin of the American Pastor

Below is an excerpt of Paul Washer from the DVD Divided by Philip Leclerc. Because we have dumbed-down the gospel. Because we’re not preaching the true gospel and we are using carnal means to attract people. If you use carnal means to attract men you’re going to attract carnal men and you’re going to have [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for A Grinch Alert?

A Grinch Alert?

I’m convinced that the celebration of Christmas is always going to be a point of contention somewhere. Whether it’s from anti-Christian secularists, Christians who are convicted that it is not a holiday to be celebrated or corporations that embrace the holiday season in general simply as a means for revenue. Scripture gives Christians no direct [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Spurgeon on Impressive and Borrowed Sermons

Spurgeon on Impressive and Borrowed Sermons

Justin Taylor recently posted TGC Asks Don Carson: When Has a Preacher Crossed the Line into Plagiarism in His Sermon? Carson starts by explaining that it is always wrong to preach someone else’s sermon as if it were your own. A related question is whether it’s right or wrong for a preacher to admittedly deliver another’s [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Six Megaproblems and the Gospel Ain’t One (via Barna)

Six Megaproblems and the Gospel Ain’t One (via Barna)

Yesterday, Barna posted the results of a the study – Six Megathemes Emerge from Barna Group Research in 2010. The six points are numbered below in bold. The research is based research conducted throughout 2010. I’m unsure how many polls or people in total were involved. It gives me no pleasure to read these conclusion, [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Mad At God?

Mad At God?

Eric stormed into my office and flopped into a chair. “I’m really mad at God.” Having grown up in a strong church family, he’d met and married a Christian girl. Now he was the picture of misery. “Okay…so why are you mad at God?” “Because,” he said, “last week I committed adultery.” Long pause. Finally [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Contentment and Pride

Contentment and Pride

Another rule is, that those in narrow and slender circumstances should learn to bear their wants patiently, that they may not become immoderately desirous of things, the moderate use of which implies no small progress in the school of Christ. For in addition to the many other vices which accompany a longing for earthly good, [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Giveaway- Justified: Essays on the Doctrine of Justification

Giveaway- Justified: Essays on the Doctrine of Justification

I’m giving away a copy of Justified: Modern Reformation Essays on the Doctrine of Justification (Volume 1) edited by Ryan Glomsrud and Michael S. Horton. You can find this book on Amazon or find even more information, including the introduction, on the White Horse Inn site. So how do you enter the giveaway? You must [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Evangelical Identity

Evangelical Identity

I wonder if description below would be true of evangelical Christians as they are known today. If not, I wonder if this should be the description and if it’s a place worth trying to get to. Conclusion: Evangelical Identity Evangelicals believe, first of all, the gospel as it is set forth in the Bible. The [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Ridiculous Item: ‘Jesus was HIV Positive’

Ridiculous Item: ‘Jesus was HIV Positive’

Apparently, South African pastor, Xola Skosana, has claimed that Jesus was HIV positive to raise awareness about how poorly churches treat people who are HIV positive. This report comes from the Daily Mail Reporter story ‘Jesus was HIV-positive’: South African pastor sparks outrage with bizarre claim. A bizarre claim and then some. ‘Wherever you open [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Poll: Is the Reformation Over?

Poll: Is the Reformation Over?

Reformation Day 2010, October 31, falls on this coming Sunday. In light of this, I thought this would be an interesting question to ask. Are the theological positions of the Protestant Reformation and the Council of Trent now reconciled? Or are we still divided? Does it matter? What do you think? Discussion welcomed.

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Is Your Church White?

Is Your Church White?

Is your church white? That is the disturbing question what was email to a church in Apex, NC. Ken Keathley recently shared this inquiry over at Between the Times in his post A Shocking Question. The context of this disturbing question was: We know the Lord loves all of us, but we believe in honoring [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Scientific Deconstruction of Science

Scientific Deconstruction of Science

All of us tempted to swallow this popular pill, cunningly served up with our secular education, should appreciate that the empiricists have not shown that the Creator has not spoken in his creation or in the Christ of Scripture. In the process of their argument they annihilate empirical science itself, the very thing that they [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Christians Are Jerks! Update

Christians Are Jerks! Update

Jennifer Johnson on The Examiner offers more insight of this story in Local church makes headlines. She quotes the people behind the billboard, Pastor Chris Beard of Christ Covenant Church. “We actually blew up a lot bigger than we ever expected,” Beard told The Examiner. “We talked with (CNN’s) Headline News today (Oct. 15). We [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Positive Thinking With Apostle Paul

Positive Thinking With Apostle Paul

For I do not understand my own actions. For I do not do what I want, but I do the very thing I hate. Now if I do what I do not want, I agree with the law, that it is good. So now it is no longer I who do it, but sin that [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for 9Marks at Southeastern Seminary Audio Available

9Marks at Southeastern Seminary Audio Available

On September 10-11, 2010 Southeastern Seminary held it’s annual conference in partnership with 9Marks ministries. The theme this year was biblical theology. The presenters were Mark Dever, Thabiti Anyabwile, Danny Akin, Matt Chandler and David Platt. If you’re like me, you wanted to attend, but could not. Thankfully, the audio is now available for download. [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Thomas Brooks’ Four Prime Things

Thomas Brooks’ Four Prime Things

I did some quote mining from Thomas Brooks Precious Remedies Against Satan’s Devices from the chapter ‘The Epistle Dedicatory’. I found Brooks’ words to be very insightful, practical and challenging. The ‘The Epistle Dedicatory’ is a letter he wrote to his congregation. He was very humble in the letter which can be seen in the prayers [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Calvin the Evangelist

Calvin the Evangelist

Reprinted by permission of Reformed Theological Seminary. This article was first published in the Reformed Quarterly Magazine Fall 2001. There are many popular misconceptions about John Calvin. Who is the true Calvin behind the image? Will Durant, the famous author of the eleven-volume series on the History of Western Civilization, said of Calvin: “We shall [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Rick Warren, John Calvin and Quoting Heretics

Rick Warren, John Calvin and Quoting Heretics

What ever your theological position you will find other positions that just make you squirm. And the people that make statements supporting those other position might make you squirm even more. I get that. For example, I get nervous when Protestants quote Chesterton, a man who championed the Papacy. In my mind the reader of [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Did Jesus Preach Paul’s Gospel?

Did Jesus Preach Paul’s Gospel?

As I was thinking recently about faith and justification a commenter made an assertion about a conflict between Jesus’ and Paul’s gospel. I was reminded John Piper’s excellent talk from T4G 2010 where he answers the question: Did Jesus preach Paul’s gospel? The text Piper spoke on was from Luke 18:9-14 about the Pharisee and [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Thoughts on Moore on Glenn Beck and the Gospel

Thoughts on Moore on Glenn Beck and the Gospel

Glenn Beck as been a recent driving force for (neo?) Conservative politics in America. His big push is to bring God back to the center of American life both politically and socially. I understand his sentiment. There is a sense in which I agree. In recent times when Glenn Beck has spoken on the issue [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Study Your Sin

Study Your Sin

Should Christians study their sin? Do we have a tendency to take sin for granted? Each person must answer that question for themselves. The answer may become clear upon an individual’s study of their sin. It reminds me of hearing Paul Washer’s challenge, “Do you have a new relationship with sin? Because, if you don’t [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Don’t Waste Your Life Sentence Livestream Tonight

Don’t Waste Your Life Sentence Livestream Tonight

Don’t Waste Your Life Sentence Voices from the Louisiana State Penitentiary This video will be streamed live tonight at 7:30 CT/ 8:30 EST. Click here for the live stream location. I’m looking forward to it. If you want to know more about this powerful trailer, below is the description from the Desiring God website. The [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Driscoll: Discerning the Current Vampire-esque Teen Books

Driscoll: Discerning the Current Vampire-esque Teen Books

What books are being promoted for teens and pre-teens to read these days? Better yet, what books are they actually reading? Are there underlying spiritual issues involved? How do parents handle it? Are parents discerning enough? As a parent, I am concerned. This brings me to Mark Driscoll’s video below. I appreciate what he has [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Themelios Journal July 2010

Themelios Journal July 2010

Volume 35, Issue 2 – July 2010 of the Themelios Journal is out! The content looks great. Lots to read. Check it out. Minority Report: Not in the Public Interest by Carl Trueman Suffering, marginalization, and the abuse of power are now the stock in trade not only of literary theorists but also of many [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Does Literally Carrying A Cross Spread The Gospel?

Does Literally Carrying A Cross Spread The Gospel?

‘Deeds, not creeds’ brings a connotation with it that Christians’ actions carry more weight than their verbalized beliefs. An older, more popular version is the out of context quote of Francis of Assisi – Preach the gospel always, if necessary use words. (Some question whether he really said it or not.) There is some wisdom [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Teaching The Bible: Still Unpopular, Still Essential by Phillip Jensen

Teaching The Bible: Still Unpopular, Still Essential by Phillip Jensen

Below is an article written by Phillip Jensen, founder of Matthias Media and writer of the gospel outline in Two Ways To Live. Though the article is a few years old I found it extremely relevant and helpful. Teaching The Bible: Still Unpopular, Still Essential by Phillip Jensen Yoga is to Hinduism what Billy Graham [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Art! Drama! Worship?

Art! Drama! Worship?

J.D. Greear has written Artistry, Excellence, and the Mission in which he asks – What is the role of artistic excellence in a local church’s “production”? This is not a new question in today’s culture. Nor will it be going away anytime soon. The production factor in the lives of Americans continues to increase. Millions [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for On Altar Calls And Gospel Proclamation

On Altar Calls And Gospel Proclamation

Recently, brother Les Puryear posted an article on the issue of altar calls – Differences Between Reformed and Southern Baptist Churches: Altar Calls vs No Altar Calls. Please not that Les calls himself a Calvinist, but not Reformed which is a fair position. As one might imagine from the title some debate took place in [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for A Sign of Judgment Day?

A Sign of Judgment Day?

Someone is always predicting the end of the world. It reminds me of the chorus from that Telsa song Signs. Signs, signs, everywhere there’s signs

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Norman Geisler: Context, Application and Defense

Norman Geisler: Context, Application and Defense

Upon discovering Dr. Norman Geisler’s first defense of Dr. Ergun Caner I wondered how he would address the evidence. Some responded that Geisler did not answer well and ignored the context of some of Dr. Caner’s statements. Geisler then responded with a follow-up article – In Further Defense of Ergun Caner. He attempted to seemingly [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Will A Christian Nation Earn God’s Favor?

Will A Christian Nation Earn God’s Favor?

Dr. Michael Youssef answers the questions, “How can you say America is a Christian Nation? How can a country be Christian?” in Can there be a Christian nation? He answers that it is the individuals, not a country or culture, that are Christian. He explains that people refer to America’s Christian heritage by the moral [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for SB1070: Take illegal immigrant to church, get arrested?

SB1070: Take illegal immigrant to church, get arrested?

Is it possible to get arrested for driving an illegal immigrant to a church service under Arizona law SB1070? This is what E. J. Montini proposes at The Arizona Republic in his article Church, state clash coming under SB 1070. Montini begins: “The first person arrested under SB 1070 might not be an illegal immigrant, [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Liberty University, Glenn Beck and the Gospel

Liberty University, Glenn Beck and the Gospel

On April 23, 2010 Liberty University announced that Glenn Beck would deliver the Commencement speech for Liberty University’s Class of 2010. The graduation took place on Saturday, May 15. Beck’s speech can be viewed online at The Rightscoop. Success came early for Beck when just before his speech, Liberty conferred an honorary Doctorate of Humanities [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Real Calvinism

Real Calvinism

Update: One of my facebook “friends” commented (seemingly at random): If a Pentecostalist, Arminian, Charismatic, Revivalist, or Anabaptist, please defriend or delete me. Or send me your name. I’ll help you. That is the unhelpful attitude the articles below address. There are two recent articles for the Calvinist to consider. The first is from the [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Black Church White Church

Black Church White Church

Below is a hip-hop song dealing with something we are all familiar with. Racial segregation on Sunday morning in our local churches. The song is from Voice’s new album Christ the King. Black Church White Church by avoice Below is the third verse of the song. Whatever version of American English you speak, whatever your

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for A Memorial Day Prayer

A Memorial Day Prayer

Heavenly Father, as an American, thank you for this great country. I am not proud, but humbled, that in Your sovereignty I was born in such a Nation. Thank You for those serving in the military that you have used to help raise up and protect America. Thank you for those men and women in [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Mercy Ministry: Church or World?

Mercy Ministry: Church or World?

In 2006, Modern Reformation Magazine provided two articles from a series entitled Mercy Ministries: Two Perspectives. The articles were written by William H. Smith and Randy Nabors. I’ve numbered them I and II, respectively, and linked them below with selective quotes and bullet points. In article I, Smith argues that the mercy ministry of the [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for A note on selfishness

A note on selfishness

How many times does a mother say,”Billy, share your toys with Bobby” or “Bobby, you musn’t grab toys from Billy like that”? As Billy and Bobby grow older, they learn that such obvious acts of selfishness are socially unacceptable, so their selfish acts become more subtle, but

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for My take: On fear, faith and being a sinner

My take: On fear, faith and being a sinner

The CNN Belief Blog recently published My Take: On fear, faith and being gay by Jennifer Knapp. So I thought I’d give my take. As a young boy I learned to take risks. Climbing trees and jumping ramps on a bicycle will do that to a boy. Falling down from a tree or flying off [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for All things to all people?

All things to all people?

First, go to Seeker-centered Buddhism and watch the modern outreach methods some Buddhists are using today. Would that inspire you to become a Buddhist? Now watch the video below. The Daily Show With Jon Stewart Mon – Thurs 11p / 10c God Smacked www.thedailyshow.com Daily Show Full Episodes Political Humor Tea Party Would that inspire [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Vindication of popular ministers

Vindication of popular ministers

How dare you speak of him that way! Do you know who he is? Do you know what he’s done for the Kingdom? Look at all the people he’s ministered to! So goes the argument. It’s been stated before. It’ll be stated again. It recently reared its head in the blogosphere. But what argument is [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Adrian Rogers on integrity

Adrian Rogers on integrity

Ephesians 6:14a Stand therefore, having girded your waist with truth (NKJV) The Girdle Of Truth – The Believer’s Integrity A soldier in Paul’s day had a leather girdle that he tightened about his waist to protect his loins and carry his weapons of warfare, such as a dagger or sword. The belt also held his [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for T4G2010: Brian Habig-Fears of the Minister (Update)

T4G2010: Brian Habig-Fears of the Minister (Update)

(Update: Audio now available see the handout below.) Brian Habig lead one of the breakout sessions at T4G2010. His topic was The Fears of the Minister. Part 1 and part 2 of an interview with Habig can be found on the T4G blog. Part 2 includes: 7) What will you be speaking on at T4G? [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Sermon listening

Sermon listening

Most Christians listen to sermons weekly. And many listen to some other kind of biblical teaching during the week. How often is a second thought given about what exactly is going on in our mind when listening? In other words, how do we listen? Challies has a review of a book called Expository Listening by [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Quote on Southern Baptist Cooperation

Quote on Southern Baptist Cooperation

Matt over at SBCVoices wrote an interesting post called Arminio and Calvinito: Best Friends? In light of the recent Great Commission Resurgence, he lays out where some unnecessary Southern Baptist infighting takes place. Of course, the ultimate solution is the gospel. I was reminded of a quote that grabbed my attention from a book I [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Passing of Michael Spencer the iMonk 1956-2010

Passing of Michael Spencer the iMonk 1956-2010

Sadly, this week Michael Spencer, the Internet Monk, passed away. He was no stranger to expressing his views and stirring up conversations on them, both for and against, in the blogosphere. It is no surprise that his death is stirring up the blogosphere. This time though the conversations are that of grace and appreciation. It [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Three Questions

Three Questions

As I consider my upcoming attendance in the 2010 Band of Bloggers, the topic Internet Idolatry and Gospel Fidelity really stick out in my mind. Why? Because it’s so easy to create idols using the internet and live in infidelity to the gospel. Is this especially so over the internet? Maybe. Which brings me to [...]

Click to read->

John Piper and Rick Warren on the gospel

Recently it’s been stated as confirmed that Rick Warren will be speaking at John Piper’s National Desiring God Conference for 2010. I thought it would be interesting to hear each of them on the gospel. I believe the videos are a few years old. I’m curious about whether or not people think we can be [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Hermeneutics Quiz

Hermeneutics Quiz

A good friend recently sent me this Hermeneutics Quiz. It’s a couple of years old, but interesting nonetheless. So, I took the quiz and scored it. It’s only 20 questions and it doesn’t take long. Give it a shot and let me know what you scored. It would also be interesting to hear what others [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Heresy Two-step

Heresy Two-step

On a recent Fighting for the Faith radio program host Chris Rosebrough had Pastor Bryan Wolfmueller as a guest to help with a sermon review. During the sermon review Wolfmueller mentioned something he called a heresy two-step. It’s a process that some might use to preach heresy or some position/doctrine that that is not from [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Thinking about American Christianity

Thinking about American Christianity

What do you think of when you think of American Christianity and the American church? Just stop and think about that for a moment before reading further. Think a little more… OK, ready? Below is a quote from

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for How often church attendance?

How often church attendance?

In a recent post I asked two questions in relation to the Super Bowl and church attendance. The comment thread turned into a debate over Sabbatarianism and the place of the Lord’s Day in the Christian’s life. This is understandable to a point, yet I did receive some off-line comments which would have added to [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Church attendance and the Super Bowl: two questions

Church attendance and the Super Bowl: two questions

Every year during the Super Bowl the question of church attendance arises. Should a person skip church for the Super Bowl? If he/she skips their regular Sunday evening church service are they sinning? There seem to be two main positions on this. Those who are more sabbatarian minded fall along the lines of a person [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Defining Missional

Defining Missional

What exactly does the term missional mean? Attempts to answer this question can be found in books, videos, sermons, blog posts, theological ejournals, conference presentations, magazine articles, etc. Depending on who you ask will depend on the answer which may be good, bad or ugly. You get to decide which is which. Where do we [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Poll: Does “success” mean God is honoring a ministry?

Poll: Does “success” mean God is honoring a ministry?

Many times a ministry/person is defended, regardless of their teachings, because they are popular or successful. Not only are ministries defend as such, but they also come to a place where they can do no wrong. They might be betrayed as above any type of criticism or biblical correction. Such ministries might be defended in [...]

Click to read->

Seeker-centered Buddhism

Buddhism’s numbers are apparently shrinking. They aren’t growing. They’re answer? Hip-hop and alcohol? “This is an old, old story, a fantasy and longing cosmology. Hey, hey, what’s the story about? It’s about the Buddha, yo. Hey brother, listen carefully! You got it? No? You don’t? Okay, baby, no problem.” That is one hip-hop (can we [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for A letter to Francis Chan

A letter to Francis Chan

In Francis Chan’s sermon Beware of Good Liars, he reads a letter from a single mother seeking his advice. I’m curious how others would respond. I won’t comment yet. Just read it. Pastor Francis, I made a covenant promise to a ministry [a TV ministry] in January for $100 a month. I’m a single mom [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for True aim of Roman Catholic ecumenism

True aim of Roman Catholic ecumenism

Ecumenism today can be seen in social/political change in the name of the ‘greater good’. Or in doctrinal statements drafted and signed by different “Christian” sects. When dealing with such issues many Protestants speak up when it seems the Gospel is at stake. Other Protestants don’t always take to kindly to this. It seems no [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Was Jesus a victim?

Was Jesus a victim?

Taking the position of the victim is a popular offensive today. It is a way to turn the tables and draw sympathy from others. Kevin DeYoung posted a great article on this very subject – Why Are We So Offended All the Time? (cross-post). In his post he made the following statement. As Christians, we [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for New Year’s Unity

New Year’s Unity

On January 1, 1865, Charles Spurgeon preached a sermon entitled True Unity Promoted. Given the recent disagreements over signing The Manhattan Declaration this is a very interesting sermon on unity. In the first paragraph Spurgeon states, “It is an old saying that England never prospers so well as when the Pope curses her. I hope [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for On serving others

On serving others

Fellow Southern Baptist and blogger Trevin Wax tweeted something today that really stuck. The world estimates your importance by how many people are serving YOU. God estimates your importance by how many people YOU are serving. First, the world does measure one’s importance by their popularity in one vein or another. Tiger Woods is a [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Congregational Prayer Requests

Congregational Prayer Requests

Can asking for prayer ever be a burden? That might sound like a strange question. It just might be right now, but hear me out. I am not talking about prayer requests that turn into gossip. Those requests that ask for prayer for uncle Bill’s and aunt Martha’s marriage only to go on to give [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Church is boring

Church is boring

Church is boring. Right? No matter what setting one is in the same basic activities are done each worship service. Sing, pray, Scripture reading, announcements, some sort of preaching, fellowship. Did I mention singing? However a worship service is set-up it is most likely going to be similar week after week. Even if worship time [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for To Sign Or Not To Sign

To Sign Or Not To Sign

To sign or not to sign the Manhattan Declaration(MD)? That… is a good question. For the most part it seems to have been received on a positive note. There has been some push back though. For example, Albert Mohler felt the need to explain why he signed the MD. Fellow blogger Frank Turk explained why [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Poll: Can Evangelism Be An Idol?

Poll: Can Evangelism Be An Idol?

In An Idol Called Evangelism Dr. Roy Hargrave states that evangelism rather than the glory of God is driving many churches today. That might be too strong a position for some to fathom. Maybe unbiblical for others. It is not often that evangelism is spoken of in terms of idolatry. It is an uncomfortable question. [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Trent: Let Me Be Anathema

Trent: Let Me Be Anathema

The sixth session of the Council of Trent,the Canons Concerning Justification, anathematizes me how many times? Else where in the meta Dan Phillips mentioned to me that we should have a contest. “How many Romish anathemas can you rack up?” I decided to count the number of anathemas that I am under from the 33 [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Blog Action Day 2009: Climate Change

Blog Action Day 2009: Climate Change

Today is Blog Action Day 2009. The topic this year is climate change. The most talked about in this area may be global warming. Global warming is here to stay. The question becomes – What are we going to do about it? Global warming is here, but not necessarily in a literal sense. It exists [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Poll: Does Christian Hip-Hop Harm the Gospel?

Poll: Does Christian Hip-Hop Harm the Gospel?

My friend and brother Nathan and I have had a short twitter discussion on whether Christian hip-hop harms the Gospel. This issue came up in reference to Mark Dever’s recent interview with Christian rappers Shai Linne and Voice. I actually interviewed Christian hip-hop Artist Sho Baraka. Then, I attended the the Don’t Waste Your Life [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Gospel Then Morality: Lesson From Abortion Counseling

Gospel Then Morality: Lesson From Abortion Counseling

What can Christians learn about the Gospel and change from abortion counseling? I recently attended a fundraiser for Cobb Pregnancy Services (CPS). It was a great night of fellowship and celebration of what God is doing at this organization. A young pregnant lady gave her testimony of how God used CPS to convince her to [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Tullian Tchividjian to Stay at Coral Ridge: Lessons?

Tullian Tchividjian to Stay at Coral Ridge: Lessons?

Tullian Tchividjian will stay as pastor of Coral Ridge Presbyterian Church per a congregational vote of 69%-31% this morning. “I’m staying!!,” wrote pastor Tchividjian in the title of today’s blog post about the future of his pastoral role at Coral Ridge.The pressure on this new pastor must have been unbelievable in anticipation of this vote. [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Westboro Baptist Revealed: Evangelized, Interviewed, Reviewed (Updated)

Westboro Baptist Revealed: Evangelized, Interviewed, Reviewed (Updated)

If the messages on the signs are not disturbing enough, how about the people holding them? They are children! My heart breaks to see a picture like this just hoping it is a photo-shopped picture. Unfortunately, it is not. Last week I wrote Westboro Baptist To Share Hate In Atlanta to give folks a heads [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Poll: Should Christians Just Say No?

Poll: Should Christians Just Say No?

Should Christians feel guilty about just saying ‘no‘ when asked to do something for the church/member? When the answer is ‘no‘ is an explanation needed? Do you feel an explanation is demanded? Do you feel like you’re sinning if you just say ‘no‘? Do you feel the need to explain every detail of the last [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Lord Kill Me If I Don’t Preach the Gospel

Lord Kill Me If I Don’t Preach the Gospel

So I’m driving. I hear “Lord kill me If I don’t preach the gospel.” What? Did I hear that right? Rewind! Again. Yep! That line really hit me. It made me think. Imagine singing that in church to the tune of Amazing Grace. This was not from a hymn though. (Maybe we can add it [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Book Review: Dear Timothy Letters On Pastoral Ministry

Book Review: Dear Timothy Letters On Pastoral Ministry

Dear Timothy: Letters on Pastoral Ministry edited by Tom Ascol. Cape Coral: Founders Press, 2004. 384 pages. Many times in life we wish we had a practical “how to” guide for the various activities of which we are involved (i.e. new job, volunteer work). Dear Timothy: Letters on Pastoral Ministry edited by Thomas Ascol is [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for John Hagee Clarifies: Jesus is Messiah

John Hagee Clarifies: Jesus is Messiah

Not long ago many people came to the conclusion that John Hagee denied that Jesus was the Messiah in his book In Defense of Israel. I was one of those people. What drove my conclusion was reading parts of the book and listening to audio of Hagee. Despite our theological disagreements this alleged belief of [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Why Worship?

Why Worship?

As you go to worship tomorrow or whenever the next Lord’s Day is think about why your worshiping. Are you worshiping as a means to find total satisfaction in God? What might be some wrong motivations? Below I’ve reformatted a paragraph from Brothers, We Are Not Professionals by John Piper, page 240. Read this list [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Southern Baptist Disclosure and Unity

Southern Baptist Disclosure and Unity

So what do you do believe pastor? Do you hold to X-theology or Y-theology? Which is it Xism or Yism? If you hold to Xism we must have full disclosure! OK, those aren’t exactly real questions. Though it’s been said more than once in Southern Baptist life that if a pastor holds to X-theology, he [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Gospel Coalition or Assertions?

Gospel Coalition or Assertions?

David Fitch has asked if we agree or disagree with his views on the work of The Gospel Coalition (TGC). His views are expressed at Christianity Today’s Out of Ur blog post: Gospel Coalition or Expedition? How effective will The Gospel Coalition be in post-Christendom? One of the problems with Fitch’s approach can be seen [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Alcholism Vs Legalism

Alcholism Vs Legalism

If you’ve read my testimony you’ll see that I grew up in a legalistic religion. I could never be good enough. I was the on the receiving end of the the never ending road of legalism. Whether it was a cuss word or a beer, I was done.

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Should “Celebrity” Pastors Offer Disclaimers?

Should “Celebrity” Pastors Offer Disclaimers?

Warning. Caution. Disclaimer. These are popular words. We see them on everything and everywhere today. They are good, bad, indifferent and life saving. Should we have something of those words at our Christian conferences where “celebrity” pastors and theologians speak? Maybe. There are many good, Gospel-centered conferences offered these days. I was at one of [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Advance09 Makes Local News

Advance09 Makes Local News

How awesome is it to for a Christian conference to make the local news? The final day was good. I’m too tired to write out any notes. I hope to have some final reflections on the event soon. I was certainly blessed by the messages and fellowship. Check out the news story. There’s about 2,900 [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Advance09 Day Two

Advance09 Day Two

Today was day two at Advance09 here in Durham, NC. It was another good day. To catch up you can find all of the uploaded audio for you to download here: Advance09 Session MP3′s. Order of Events

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Advance09 Day One

Advance09 Day One

I’m having a great time at the Advance09 Conference. A great time of learning and conviction. I’m rooming with a brother named Kris from NC who also put some notes up. I’m going to give you today’s line-up and some highlights from my notes. You can go over to DesiringGod.org and download The First Three [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Memorial Day 2009 Worship Service

Memorial Day 2009 Worship Service

It was a mostly normal Sunday morning. My wife and I left for church wondering if it would happen. It did. The Pledge of Allegiance was said. The National Anthem was sung. Everyone stood. We sat. It was uncomfortable, I admit.

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Uncommon Prayer Requests

Uncommon Prayer Requests

It’s Sunday morning. Sunday School has started. It’s time for prayer requests. What do you think about? What is your prayer request going to be? The common habit is to ask for healing for illness, disease, broken limbs, etc. These are good prayer requests. However, we can expand our prayer lives. There are greater things [...]

Click to read->

When I Hear Southern Baptist

What do you think when you hear “Southern Baptist”? This was the question from Thom Rainer, president and CEO of LifeWay Christian Resources, that came across Twitter last week. My answer in Twitter fashion was: @ThomRainer ‘Southern Baptist’? 1-my church.Then sad-easy believism, weak Gospel overshadowed by “conservative” politics but much potential. Dr. Rainer weighed in [...]

Click to read->

Proposition What? Rick Warren Did Not Lie

If you watch this video: News & Views 10/23/2008 Part 3 (Prop 8 ) at about the 30 second mark you will hear the following. “We support Proposition 8 and if you believe what the Bible says about marriage, you need to support Proposition 8.” If you read this transcript Interview with Pastor Rick Warren [...]

Click to read->

Wisdom From A Teenager On Youth Ministry

A teenager, named Erica, was recently given an assignment to write an editorial on the subject of her choice. Her topic? Youth ministry. Below is the editorial exactly as sent to a fellow blogger who is also a family friend of Erica. Did I mention that she is only 15? Wow! ——————————————————— A new phenomena [...]

Click to read->

Passion Church Part 2

Below is my response to Randy’s original comment to my post. I’m going to most post my reply rather than copy and paste the whole exchange. You can read it at comment #9. My initial post was me grabbing comments that stood out for one reason or another and then responding to them. This post [...]

Click to read->

Ask John Piper: Pornification of the Pulpit

John Piper is taking questions again: Ask John Piper a Question on Twitter (Note: you don’t have to use twitter, check the link.) My question via twitter is: @desiringgod #apj Pastor John, what did you think of Phil Johnson’s recent sermon on “Pornification of the Pulpit”? Why ask this? If you aren’t familiar with this [...]

Click to read->

9 Marks Journal: Young Pastors

Church members: read these articles to help see where you may be a problem and how you may help with the solution for your pastor and the health of your local church. The latest 9Marks eJournal is out. The topic is young pastors and it looks very good. It’s good for the church to understand what pastor’s go [...]

Click to read->

How Is Your Marriage? Deal of the Week

When Sinners Say “I Do”: Discovering the Power of the Gospel for Marriage by Dave Harvey looks like an excellent book. This week Westminster Bookstore has the book for only $8.37 which is 40% Off. You can purchase it at Westminster Bookstore online and read excerpts, an author interview and endorsements. Check out the table [...]

Click to read->

A Look at Passion City Church

A new church is coming here to Atlanta. It’s called Passion City Church and it stars will be lead by Louie Giglio, Matt Redman, and Chris Tomlin. (Don’t throw stones, I’m only kidding.) ChristianityToday recently had a Q&A with Louie Giglio about the coming church plant. Let’s take a look at the plans for this [...]

Click to read->

Apostle Paul On Inauguration Day

There’s been mixed reviews of Rick Warren’s Inauguration Day prayer (a transcript) for President Barack Obama. The reviews have been critical and grateful. Like the mixed reviews I have mixed feelings. I don’t want to talk about my reaction though. I read what Mark Driscoll said and thought about one of Driscoll’s points. If you [...]

Click to read->

Santa Nicer Than Jesus?

The last post with quotes from Michael Horton is similar to these below from Dr. Packer. They both deal with a misunderstanding and even neglect of who God is. Below Packer points out that the severity of God is passed over in favor of viewing God as only delivering goodness. In all of the things [...]

Click to read->

Christian Criticism

I’m not very good at receiving compliments as my wife can attest. I’m equally not very good at receiving criticism. I suppose this makes me like a wooden dummy that just spits out information where people are listening or not. Thankfully, the Lord sanctifies me and conforms me more and more to be like Christ. [...]

Click to read->

Christless Christianity Q and A With Michael Horton

On October 31 Michael Horton appeared live on washingtonpost.com’s Viewpoint. Horton was answering questions about his new book Christless Christianity that was released on November 1. The book has been doing well selling over 7,000 copies and the live chat at Viewpoint was the best so far. This is great news! It would be nice [...]

Click to read->

Horner vs DeMar on Endtimes, Israel, Replacement Theology

This is part of the Grace Reformation Church Forum 2008. Topic – Orthodoxy:Unity and Diversity in the Midst of Christ’s Church Introduction of Saturday Speakers Dr. Barry Horner on Matthew 24 – Is it Future or Fulfilled Dr. Gary DeMar on Matthew 24 – Is it Future or Fulfilled Matthew 24 Forum Dr. Gary DeMar [...]

Click to read->

John 3:16 Conference, Together for the Gospel and Poor Arguments

One of the concerns raised by Steve Lemke at the John 3:16 Conference (J316C) is the current trend of baptists organizing conferences with Presbyterians. As I lived blogged, Dr. Lemke mentioned that when baptists team up with Presbyterians is causes confusion. As Lemke explained in an email to Ed Stetzer one aim of this conference [...]

Click to read->

A Seminary Student’s Thoughts on the John 3:16 Conference-Update

Update: Todd Burus shares a great letter written prior to the conference. Read it: Calvinism in the SBC- An Open Letter to Johnny Hunt and Jerry Vines One of the people I was at the John 3:16 Conference with is a seminary student working towards an M.Div. He attends an SBC seminary and was asked [...]

Click to read->

Southern Baptist Pastors: A Must Read Letter

Open Letter to All Pastors of Churches in the SBC Dear Pastor, Let me first clarify that this letter is for Southern Baptist Convention (SBC) pastors in general. I am well aware that what you are about to read does not include all pastors – at least not in totality. …What is really so remarkable [...]

Click to read->

John 3:16 Conference 60 minute Q&A

John 3:16 Conference live blogging links in order Welcome Part 1 Part 2 (T) Part 3 (U) Part 4 (L) Part 5 (I) Part 6 (P) Part 7 And the downloadable handout from Dr. Allen with updated cleaner charts thanks to Tony Byrne. UPDATE: James White and Phil Johnson have answered David Allen concerning the [...]

Click to read->

John 3:16 Conference Charles Stanley – John 3:16 to the World

Dr. Stanley starts telling that he grew up in a pentecostal holiness church. He wasn’t raised with the belief that we can have assurance of salvation. He then came to understand in the substitutionary sacrifice of Christ. Stanley doesn’t like this new move of talking about raising up “leaders” and such. Instead we need to [...]

Click to read->

John 3:16 Conference Ken Keathley – Perseverance of the Saints

Quote from I.H Marshall – 2 Tim. 1:12 – Two components – One is presently saved – you can know that you are saved – One who in a state of grace will remain in the state of grace –>This is the perseverance What is the basis for assurance? Asahel Nettleton says “I think it [...]

Click to read->

John 3:16 Conference Steve Lemke – Irresistible Grace

Desires to go forward in unity. Those these discussions are appropriate. References Dordt and it being a response to the Remonstrance. Reads some long quotes of God’s grace that man has not saving grace within himself, etc. that we can’t do anything that is good. All good deeds must be ascribed to the grace of [...]

Click to read->

John 3:16 Conference David Allen – Limited Atonement

Dr. Allen starts with John 3:16. He plans on quoting only Calvinsts to prove his case against limited atonement. Calvinists are going to be “shocked.” What two things to these men have in common – Calvin, Bunyan, Bullinger, Watts, Brainerd, Hodge, Edwards, Shedd, Barnes, Strong, etc. etc.? (I couldn’t get them all) Dr. Allen wants [...]

Click to read->

John 3:16 Conference Richard Land-Unconditional Election

Dr. Vines starts the morning explaining that disagreeing is not a bad thing. He has many Calvinist friends with whom he disagrees. He claims man can still make a choice and that though depraved not so much to as to say our capacity to chose is ruined. He does not mention God’s grace and how [...]

Click to read->

John 3:16 Conference Jerry Vines-John 3:16

Dr. Vines, as far as I can tell, is preaching the same message on John 3:16 that he preached at SBTS chapel earlier this year. You can listen here: “The Inexhaustible Love of God” (John 3:16). Since you can go and listen I may not say too much on this. We’ll see. From what I [...]

Click to read->

John 3:16 Conference Welcome Message by Johnny Hunt

As I blog through the John 3:16 Conference I will try to follow the schedule. Jerry Vines introduces the conference and Johnny Hunt. He says this conference is designed to be a biblical and theological response to five point Calvinism. Johnny Hunt gets a show of hands and about 90% of the attendance are pastors [...]

Click to read->

John 3:16 Conference Questions

As many of you know (or maybe not) I will be attending the John 3:16 Conference this week. The very last item on the schedule is a 60 minute Q&A. So… I’d love to hear from blogdom out there as to what questions you’d like answered. Maybe, just maybe I could get to ask or [...]

Click to read->

Reformation Day 2008: Protestant Courage

I remember several years ago while talking to a Roman Catholic about doctrine. Though she had just left the convent and would no longer be in process to become a nun, she was a devout Roman Catholic as far as I could tell. She left the convent and married a friend of mine. We were [...]

Click to read->

Calvinism or Just a John 3:16 Kind of Guy III

Calvinism or Just a John 3:16 Kind of Guy Part III This is the third and final installment of this series. This will finish up part I and part II and my review of Dr. John Compton’s sermon “What is Calvinism?” I want to take a look at Dr. Compton’s three concerns, his theology of [...]

Click to read->

Calvinism or Just a John 3:16 Kind of Guy II

Calvinism or Just a John 3:16 Kind of Guy Part II This is a continuation of the previous post. We start this section with the claim of the over-emphasis of God’s sovereignty above man’s free-will. An assertion based on what? We aren’t told. A side observation is that rarely are objections raised when a preacher [...]

Click to read->

Calvinism or Just a John 3:16 Kind of Guy I

Calvinism or Just a John 3:16 Kind of Guy Part I Fellow SBC blogger Timmy Brister linked to a sermon telling us why it’s important to combat false representations of Calvinism within the Southern Bapitst Convention. Note: If you want to see why it is so necessary to publicly debunk errors by Lemke and others, [...]

Click to read->

Christianity Without Christ?

What happens when we take Christ out of Christianity? That’s the question Michael Horton asks in his new book Christless Christianity. This book follows this year’s theme of “Christless Christianity” on the White Horse Inn radio show. I was excited when I first got the email about the book. Then I read that this discounted [...]

Click to read->

Issues Etc vs KFUOAM Stats

Recently, on the Issues, Etc. Radio Program, Pastor Todd Wilken, the host, and Jeff Schwarz, the producer, went over answers to questions as to why their radio show was canceled. Those answers were given by David Strand, the LCMS Executive Director on the Board for Communication Services. Issues, Etc. is a great radio show. One [...]

Click to read->

Are Megachurches Healthier?

Are megachurches healthier than smaller churches? According to the Institute for Studies of Religion at Baylor University as reported by the Washington Post 1 the answer seems to be yes. According to the article megachurch congregations tithe more, are committed to attendance and build better relationships. This seems to be contrary to how many people [...]

Click to read->

The Shack Is Only Fiction?

I wanted to take a few moments to respond to some of the comments from one of my posts The Shack Review. Interesting review. Unfortunately, I think it not only misses the point of the book but seems to find criticism for the sake of criticism. Advice to Christians to be discerning is excellent. However, [...]

Click to read->

The Metaphorical Safety of The Shack

So far I have two reviews of The Shack posted. One, The Shack Review, by a dear brother and fellow church member Wayne Elliott. The other, Uncovering The Shack, by local yet widely known Pastor Michael Youseff. Now, I have another dear brother who I recently had a good Southern Baptist dinner with. For folks [...]

Click to read->

Should A Woman Be Vice-President?

There’s been some discussion from the conservative Christian perspective as to whether or not Sarah Palin should be able to be Vice-President due to the fact that she’s a woman. I would just like to high-light some good posts addressing this subject. Jason Robertson over at Fide-O writes about Work From Home Moms. Christians who [...]

Click to read->

Uncovering The Shack

My fellow church member bro. Wayne whose review of The Shack I recently posted informed me of another review of The Shack. Michael Youssef, pastor of Church of the Apostles, one of our neighboring churches, has reviewed The Shack in a recent sermon. Dr. Youseff’s review, Uncovering The Shack, can be downloaded directly on mp3 [...]

Click to read->

Roman Catholic Baptist?

Peter Smith of the courier-journal out of Louisville gives us an interesting story morning Married, ex-Baptist minister to become Catholic priest. Sad, but interesting story about former baptist pastor David Harris converting to Catholicism. So why the question “Roman Catholic Baptist?” Smith’s story begins. David Harris never considered his conversion to Catholicism six years ago to [...]

Click to read->

Sin Sells But Who’s Buying?

Sin sells, but who’s buying? If we were to answer this question based on the recent success of Katy Perry today vs. Katy Perry Hudson several years ago, I’d say that many are buying. Just consider the two Christianity Today articles from back in 2001 and today in 2008. It seems as though Hudson, though [...]

Click to read->

Faith and Reason

Without faith reasoning becomes impossible. So do I believe this on the basis of reason or faith? Well, it all depends on how you want to state it. I believe it on the basis of faith, but faith which saves reasoning and, therefore, it’s the most reasonable thing to do. So that’s my reason for [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for The Shack Review

The Shack Review

A friend from church wrote a brief review of The Shack that touches on some key points as to why we should be cautious about this book. Or maybe even disregard it all together. He gave me permission to share this review. SHACK ATTACK – OR A CALL TO DISCERNMENT? “Discernment is not simply a [...]

Click to read->

Sermoneutics

I would like to introduce you to my first official sniglet, sermoneutics. sermoneutics (ˈsər-məˈnü-tik) – n. The art of interpreting Scripture in a sermon by giving its meaning as an abstract, peripheral idea that is not the main point of the text. My motivation for the above word is Dr. John Walton’s post Hermeneutics and [...]

Click to read->

Calvinism, Hyper-Calvinism and Arminianism

I thought this might be a good suggestion for the week with the continuous talk of Calvinism and Hyper-Calvinism, etc. This is a revised and updated version of this book written in 1985. Description: Confused about the differences between Calvinism and Arminianism? Tired of uneducated clergy and layman confusing “classical Calvinism” with the error of [...]

Click to read->

Beckwith The Protestant Roman Catholic

The much awaited book by both Roman Catholics and Protestants is here. It is none other than former President of the Evangelical Theological Society, Dr. Francis J. Beckwith’s new book Return to Rome: Confessions of an Evangelical Catholic. Quite the title, huh? This is the reason this book will appeal to both Catholics and [...]

Click to read->

Talk to Ravi Zacharias

Our friend Chris Arnzen, host of the Iron Sharpens Iron Radio Show, is having Christian apologist, Ravi Zacharias as a guest. As I understand listeners will be able to call in with questions and a downloadable mp3 will be available after the show. He will be speaking on the theme of his book NEW BIRTH [...]

Click to read->

What Hymn Is This?

Below is a song that is full of biblical theology. Is it a hymn? What kind of song do you think it is? I recently got the current album of this musician from iTunes. Can you guess where lyrics below come from? TRIUNE PRAISE LYRICS VERSE 1 Praise God the Father, the Immortal Creator (1 [...]

Click to read->

Of Cavalier Attitudes

I was recently left a very cavalier comment by a pastor. You may read it here. I will leave the comment for now although I don’t really want to clutter that particular page with such exchange. So I will reproduce the comment here with some interaction. I will try not to trade insult for insult [...]

Click to read->

Patriotic Worship

Brother Stan has posted some great thoughts over at the Reformed Baptist Fellowship blog about patriotic worship services. A typical patriotic service might include a presentation of the American flag, singing of patriotic hymns, and a message centered around the Christian roots of the United States and a call to return to them. Are these [...]

Click to read->

Dangers Church Members Face

As church members we are often in danger particularly when we don’t understand how to live. From being overly concerned about how we look to over analyzing the words we use in prayer to getting caught up in the snare of thinking that we don’t spiritually measure up to everyone else, we have a tendency [...]

Click to read->

Views on homosexuality

LifeWay has just released research on views of homosexuality from a telephone survey. The groups included in the survey were Americans in general, Roman Catholics, Protestants and another called “born-again, evangelical or fundamentalist Protestants.” I’m not quite sure of the distinction of the last group from the Protestants. A quote from the article by friend [...]

Click to read->

Hyper-Calvinism and Southern Baptists

Many times in the Southern Baptist Convention (SBC) we hear concerns over Calvinism and how it can split a church or destroy evangelism. And just as many times the Calvinist answers that those charges are not true. But are they true? Well, theology in the hands of sinful men can do much harm to a [...]

Click to read->

SBC Membership Resolution Passes

My good friend John Jordan called me this morning from the Convention floor to tell me that the resolution on regenerate church membership passed. He said it was just wonderful to be there and watch the support for the resolution as the amendments were initially not being fully supported. As resolutions go, whatever it ends [...]

Click to read->

Deeper Conference in Atlanta: Paul Washer

UPDATE: Paul Washer in Atlanta/Woodstock audio here! No, the above video isn’t from the Deeper Conference. It’s the famous (infamous?) shocking youth message that Paul Washer delivered. It’s a kind of preaching that you don’t hear so much of and it’s good for the soul. If you’ve never heard or watched the above I encourage [...]

Click to read->

Courage to Be Protestant: Marketing the Gospel

“That is where this gospel really parts company from the way in which products and services are marketed in our modernized world. These products and services are nothing more than products and services. They are simply there for our use. The gospel is not. The gospel calls us not to use it but to submit [...]

Click to read->

Dawkins Converts Corner

Richard Dawkins has a place on his website called Converts Corner. He states: Please write in to Converts’ Corner if you have lost your religion (or have been encouraged to come out of the closet) as a result of reading The God Delusion or other Dawkins books. If you read through the stories it seems [...]

Click to read->

T4G 2008 MP3s – Together for the Gospel

T4G 2008 wishing I were there… Session I – Ligon Duncan MP3 Sound Doctrine: Essential to Faithful Pastoral Ministry: A Joyful Defense and Declaration of the Necessity and Practicality of Systematic Theology for the Life of Church Session II – Thabiti Anyabwile MP3 Bearing the Image: Identity, the Work of Christ, and the Church Session [...]

Click to read->

Who Are They Really Angry At?

In James White’s debate this weekend against Muslim apologist Jalal Abualrub, Mr. Abualrub said the following: So don’t think you can come here and act you’re angry, because we are angry. Because Allah doesn’t have a son. He told you so. Jesus never said I am Lord, I am divine, I am the God, the [...]

Click to read->

Tim Keller on the Laura Ingraham Show

Today, Tim Keller was interviewed on the Laura Ingraham Show about his newest book The Reason for God. I only picked up the conversation towards the end so I will have to go back and listen to the podcast. I usually enjoy her show when she engages politics and such although sometimes that stuff just [...]

Click to read->

Who said that?

No googling or wagering! We are to copy the views and virtues of the men who found they could remain under the Pope, and especially of one who actually died for the supremacy of the Pope. We are to throw away practically every rag of thought or theory that was held by the people who [...]

Click to read->

Dr. Hargrave addresses Southern Baptists & Calvinism

An astute reader informed me of this video. As the screen shots tell us, yet again, Calvinism and hyper-Calvinism must be distinguished from one another for SBCers. Gene Bridges recently addressed this same issue. Dr. Hargrave gives an important message to consider in the SBC. Dr. Hargrave talks about labels and being honest about them. [...]

Click to read->

Extra: Baptists to Debate Calvinism at Liberty!

A debate on Calvinism is scheduled to be held in a month at Liberty University. You read right, at Liberty! Is this the debate we’ve been waiting for between James White and Ergun Caner? Well…no, unfortunately, it won’t be. However, it will be between two Liberty students who are good friends and hold each other [...]

Click to read->

Young Life: Doctrine Divides Staff?

There has been an internal disagreement that has caused all 10 staffers of Young Life at the Chapel Hill, NC office to leave voluntarily or otherwise. It seems that more than disagreements were heating up as the article on CT Gospel Talk was having a server overload earlier. You may also read an article about [...]

Click to read->

Straight Answers from a Mormon

Today many Mormons in the public eye answer theological questions using phrases that sound evangelical. Such as referring to Jesus using phrases like “personal Saviour” as Mormon presidential candidate Mitt Romney did in a recent press conference. This has caused at least one uninformed mega-church leader, Joel Osteen, to say he accepts Mormons as Christians. [...]

Click to read->

Joel Osteen and becoming a better Mormon?

Our friends Steve Camp and James White has recently pointed out Joel Osteen’s answer to whether or not a Mormon is a true Christian. They’ve documented and said what needs to be said on the topic. The transcript reads as follows: WALLACE: And what about Mitt Romney? And I’ve got to ask you the question, [...]

Click to read->

The Story of Jesus’ Birth by Martin Luther

I. The Birth of Jesus Christmas Text: Luke 2:1-14 The Story of Jesus’ Birth 1. It is written in Hag 2:6-7, that God says, “I will shake the heavens; and the precious things of all nations shall come.” This is fulfilled today, for the heavens were shaken, that is, the angels in the heavens sang [...]

Click to read->

The Assembly Interview: A Pastor with a Church in Need

I met a couple of pastors, Charlie Scalf and Adam Fann, at the Southern Baptist Building Bridges Conference a few weeks ago. They pastor a church called The Assembly Baptist Church in downtown Johnson City, TN. I met them through my good friends John and Shannon Jordan who I have known for several years. I [...]

Click to read->

Paul Washer Highlights: Conviction

This video is called “Paul Washer Jam” and it’s a great short video of clips. This is not your everyday preaching. Talk about conviction!

Click to read->

Modalism Revisted: Phillips, Craig & Dean

Update, on 04/01/2010 A third party has contacted me claiming that PD&C are not Modalists per a correspondence from PD&C. The email does not give a clear expression of their doctrine and I would like to hear from them directly with clear expressions of what they believe. A response is forthcoming. This probably hasn’t been [...]

Click to read->

WDJD

The WWJD acronym took Christian marketing by storm, had it’s 15 minutes of fame and still lingers and reappears at times. In my experience, most of the time when “WWJD” is brought up it’s in the context of being kinder, gentler and nicer to those around us. Or to a certain situation currently being dealt [...]

Click to read->

Hard but true words from John Piper

In other words, in this research the term “born again” refers to people who say things. They say, “I have a personal commitment to Jesus Christ. It’s important to me.” They say, “I believe that I will go to heaven when I die. I have confessed my sins and accepted Jesus Christ as my Savior.” [...]

Click to read->

Vote for Timmy’s question for Mark Driscoll

If you don’t mind, would you give your votes to Timmy Brister’s question to Mark Driscoll at his Ask Anything blog. Go here to vote and give him the 10 votes you’re alloted per day. His question is: Do you believe that the Scripture not only regulates our theology but also our methodology? In other [...]

Click to read->

Darrin Patrick on the Emerging Church at Covenant Seminary (Update II)

It looks like the audio of part 1 (are there more parts?) of Darrin Patrick on the Emerging Church is now available. The interview is part of the Fall 2007 Francis A. Schaeffer Lectures entitled A Dialogue on the Emerging Church. The MP3 is available. I haven’t heard it yet, but I look forward to [...]

Click to read->

Southern Baptists and a Great Commission Resurgence?

Beyond Calvinism This post will refer to cleaning our house beyond Calvinism though it stems from talks from Calvinism. Last week I attended the Southern Baptist Building Bridges Conference and Dr. Danny Akin in his presentation said we need a Great Commission Resurgence. Tim Rogers who I had the pleasure of meeting at the conference [...]

Click to read->

The Final Apologetic

At the recent Southern Baptist Building Bridges Conference I sat and listened to Tom Ascol deliver one of the closing sermons. He mentioned Schaeffer’s “Final Apologetic” in reference to those of us of different theological perspectives should love and treat each other. He is part of this topic by Schaeffer to reflect on. The Final [...]

Click to read->

Heaven, it’s easy!

Family Christian is selling this little number for $9.99. Isn’t that great? I really hesitated to include the link, but I did least someone think I made this up. The marketing of Christianity is unbelievable today. I told my wife and she was disgusted. She wondered how someone could say this and added that dying [...]

Click to read->

Southern Baptists Building Bridges: Reflections

The Building Bridges Conference was a great experience. By now most people probably know that the audio is online at Lifeway.com and presentations are available at Ed Stetzer’s blog. I would have gotten to this sooner, but I could not get my friends router to connect with my wireless card. I decided not to try [...]

Click to read->

Piper responds to Witherington

John Piper responds to Ben Witherington about God being a narcissist. Piper says that Witherington’s conclusion is “astonishing for five reasons”. Read it. God’s Loving Self-Exaltation: A Response to Ben Witherington It’s encouraging that pastors like John Piper take time to respond to criticism such as this. Mark

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Georgia Baptist Blogging Resolution

Georgia Baptist Blogging Resolution

Last week in Augusta, GA I was a messenger to the Georgia Baptist Convention. Two resolutions passed one on appreciation and another on blogging. Fellow Georgia Baptist blogger Roger Ferrell recently commented on this resolution over at sbc IMPACT! I pretty much agree with his observations. I also appreciate that Timmy Brister has chimed in [...]

Click to read->

The Gospel and Evangelism: 60 Seconds

In Mark Dever’s book The Gospel & Personal Evangelism he writes on at the end of chapter 2 page 42-43. In our church in Washington, I always ask our prospective members to tell me the gospel in one minute or less. How would you do that? What would you say the message is? I’ve thought [...]

Click to read->

Muslim-led Interfaith Service Unwelcome

Fox News reports. A Muslim-led interfaith Thanksgiving service in Austin, Texas, was forced to move to another location at the last minute after a Baptist church objected to non-Christians worshipping on its property. Apparently Hyde Park Baptist Church didn’t realize that “interfaith” meant different religions rather than different Christian denominations. When the leadership realized they [...]

Click to read->

Piper, Justification, ETS and Theories

A theological issue came up on Justin Taylor’s blog in his blurb about ETS from Christianity Today’s interview about ETS’s annual convention. In the interview, Francis Beckwith and the upcoming papers at ETS are mentioned about which I had my own blurb. The topic that came up on Taylor’s blog, of course, was justification and [...]

Click to read->

Does Justification Matter at ETS?

Earlier this year Frank Beckwith stepped down as president of the Evangelical Theological Society (ETS). His actions were the right thing to do as he returned to the Roman Catholic Church, IMO. But maybe I and others who agree with me were wrong. Upon reading CT’s short q&a State of the Society with ETS’s current [...]

Click to read->

John MacArthur’s Truth War

I picked up The Truth War by John MacArthur on CD. So far I’ve only gotten through the first of three CDs. For the folks who think MacArthur is somehow mean and unloving maybe listening to him read his book will change your mind. For that matter, just listening to his sermons should help understand [...]

Click to read->

MO Southern Baptists: Towards an Unbiblical Position

The annual Missouri Baptist Convention just wrapped up. Tim Townsend of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports that there was talk and debate about the topic of, what else, alcohol. Now I don’t know if alcohol was taking over the Missouri Baptists, but apparently, Rodney Albert of Hallsville Baptist Church has a great quote that made [...]

Click to read->

Reformation Day 2007: The Sinner’s Justification

Today, we don’t hear as much about sin from the pulpit as was once popular. I’m not talking about just preaching hellfire and damnation either. I’m talking about our actual biblical stance as a sinner before a holy God. I know it’s not PC to talk about sin in such a way because it’s not [...]

Click to read->

Seeker-obsessed Willow Creek Repents?

Recently, the net was buzzing about the article Willow Creek Repents? with mixed feelings. I was happy at first and then unsure. Now, BlogOManiac PyroManiac, Phil Johnson, has responded to a criticism of the style of his criticism towards Willow Creek. I, like others, think Willow Creek is just going to replace their old programs [...]

Click to read->

Rain

Rain. We try not to go out in it or drive in it if we can help it. We put on special water proof clothes and use umbrellas to keep from getting wet from it. But at the same time we can’t live without the water it brings. Water is a sustainer of life and [...]

Click to read->

The Weight of Gluttony No More

Not long ago I posted Southern Baptists and the Weight of Gluttony. And God has blessed me from that post through a commenter named Jane. She went through the course I listed in the above mentioned post and has a great testimony I thought should have it’s own entry and I don’t want to take [...]

Click to read->

Mike Corley blogs Emergence Conference

Over at The Expositor Mike Corley has two brief posts on the 2007 Emergence Conference he just attended in Austin, TX. Mike gave his insights about days one and two. He was challenged by an emailer to give specifics of his criticisms. Mike plans on doing this on his radio show Monday which I hope [...]

Click to read->

Bush vs. Carter: Theological Differences?

Very recently at Emory University former President Jimmy Carter gave a talk about faith. The difficulties of being theologian and chief international religious conflict came up. On the topic of international religious conflict, President Carter referred to his term in office. “I was president once, in ancient times,” he joked, adding, “I had some difficult [...]

Click to read->

Southern Baptists, Investing and Morality

The ChristianNewsWire has an interesting story Investments In and Profits from Abortion and Pornography Loom Large for Protestants/Catholics Alike that reveals investments in companies that are somehow involved in immorality. The world’s two largest “ultra-conservative” denominations currently invest hundreds of millions (if not billions) of dollars in companies that profit from and/or promote what their [...]

Click to read->

Worship and the Theology of the Cross In One Sentence

I just want to share some thoughts as we prepare for the Lord’s Day. Why are we going to worship the Lord tomorrow or any other day? Are we going to get an experience out of it like a trip to the zoo? Are we to seek an emotional experience like you get at the [...]

Click to read->

Joel Osteen’s AIROST: Your Best Flight Now

Now this is too brilliant not to post here, especially, given my recent post about Joel Osteen which included his “confession”. AIROST: Your Best Flight Now This is my airplane: I am seated where I am supposed to be; I have what I’m supposed to have; I can do only what the flight attendants say [...]

Click to read->

Habits resulting in death?

We all have habits both good, bad and indifferent. One of my habits that may fit into any of those catergories on any given night is that while channel surfing I see someone like Joel Osteen “preaching” so I stop and listen. I did this last night and just in time to hear Joel’s “This [...]

Click to read->

What some fear about Southern Baptists and Calvinism

What am I talking about? The fear that there is a movement of sorts in the Southern Baptist Convention to remove those who hold to the Doctrines of Grace from serving. Just as Calvary Chapel did with Daniel Cassady in which his embracing of the DoG resulted in his Ordination Removal. It’s a very interesting [...]

Click to read->

Southern Baptists and the Weight of Gluttony

As the annual Southern Baptist Convention meeting draws near a resolution on gluttony may be proposed and I hope it is. This resolution is written in the spirit of and response to last years Resolution 5 on alcohol. There have been various responses around the blogging world and then some which you can easily search [...]

Click to read->

Rick Warren Vs. John Piper on the Gospel

First, I think Godtube is cool and I hope WordPress will allow their videos to be posted. I went there to see Dr. White’s videos he posted. And I also wanted to see the site after hearing about it in a news report today. I got to browse around a little. Then, I read centuri0n’s [...]

Click to read->

Engage: Scot McKnight at North Point

Last Saturday I spent the morning at a seminar called Engage. It took place at North Point Community Church where Andy Stanley pastors. I got to listen to Dr. Scot McKnight speak about engaging the culture. He has blogged about the event too. First, I want to say that Scot McKnight is a man of [...]

Click to read->

Mark Driscoll on the White Horse Inn

The latest White Horse Inn show features and interview with Mark Driscoll of Mars Hill Church in Seattle, WA. The guys on the WHI are known for addressing theological issues head on. The interview was nice and cordial and it would be interesting if Driscoll were on again to tackle some more questions. Give it [...]

Click to read->

N.T. Wright and Leonard Sweet and A Radio Show

It looks as if the local Atlanta Christian talk radio station 970 & 1400 AM WNIV will have at least two special guests on next week. Leonard Sweet and N.T. Wright will be interviewed on these stations on the John Young Show. Currently, there is no show archive, but the show repeats a few times [...]

Click to read->

What if the Super Pastor left?

I ran into an old friend the other day. We caught up a little bit about our churches and some of the churches in the metro Atlanta area. He brought up a certain church that has three campuses in addition to its main church location. The campuses will play videos of sermons from the main [...]

Click to read->

How do Americans view Mormons?

I wish the unfavorable numbers were higher, but they are better than expected as “46 percent of Americans say they have an unfavorable opinion of the Mormon religion.” So reports The Christian Post according to this article which references a Gallup poll of 1,018 people. Now get this. Liberals are more likely to have an [...]

Click to read->

What are the most common objections to Calvinism?

For imformational purposes I’d like to get some of your input. I am not looking for a debate though. A. Total Depravity B. Unconditional Election C. Limited Atonement D. Irresistible Grace E. Perseverance of the Saints And if you would like to add these additional items that would be great too. – Brief Presentation of [...]

Click to read->

An Idol Called Evangelism booklet now out

Last year I learned of a sermon from James White’s blog called An Idol Called Evangelism. This sermon is by Pastor Roy Hargrave of Riverbend Church. A few folks blogged about it including Jeff Fuller and friend Howard Fisher. Well, now the talked about booklet is out and can be ordered online. Here is the [...]

Click to read->

Will Anglicans Become Roman Catholic?

The Timesonline has reported that Churches back plan to unite under Pope. It looks as though this path may be offered as a solution to the liberalism that plagues the Anglican church. The Anglicans will attempt to resolve their differences today by publishing a new Anglican Covenant, an attempt to provide a doctrinal statement under [...]

Click to read->

The Altar Question: Southern Baptists and Others?

I have mostly heard and seen this in Southern Baptist churches. I am not talking about altar calls where unbelievers are being called forward which is another topic for another time. I am talking about going forward to pray and/or renew your commitment to Christ. I have asked about this practice before on this and [...]

Click to read->

A Conversation on Calvinism

I was talking to an old friend from high school recently and we talked of many things about church. I’ve run into this old friend in the church we now attend which is some 250+ miles away and 15+ years ago from High School. We caught up a little bit on old friends and old [...]

Click to read->

So this is Christmas

The Baptist Press has reported Poll: Americans want to see ‘Merry Christmas’ in stores. This is preferred to simply saying ‘Happy Holidays’. Wonderful, right? Yes, maybe, but why? I really wish the poll had included a “why” section. I would like to hear the reasons. I want to make a couple of general observations and [...]

Click to read->

Pro-abortion: Honoring Christ’s Teachings or Obama’s?

In many news and blog articles Rick Warren is being criticized for having Senator Barack Obama speak at Saddleback’s AIDS Conference. The controversy involves Obama’s pro-abortion position which is in opposition to Warren’s position and, of course, against the biblical position. I want to take a look at a brief response by Obama from an article [...]

Click to read->

Calvinists are Evangelical

Below is a response I sent to The Christian Index in reply to a reader’s recent submission entitled Evangelical Calvinism is an oxymoron. Let’s see if it gets published. Calvinists are Evangelical I can’t believe some who professes to be Protestant know all that the original Protestants professed. If Southern Baptists wish to continue to [...]

Click to read->

Dear Emir and Ergun Caner: A Calvinist History Lesson

To Emir and Ergun and those who fall inline with their anti-Calvinist, I’m a Southern Baptist not a Calvinist position. It’s been a long weekend and I’m tired so I won’t write much. Someone from my local state SBC paper wrote out some factual points very well. So please read Baptist Identity and Calvinism. Since [...]

Click to read->

Thanksgiving Day 2006

As I thought about making a Thanksgiving Day post I really wasn’t sure where to go with it. I have so much to be thankful for, but it’s so much easier to look at all that I “want” that I don’t “have” rather than looking at all that I “have” that I don’t “need”. Isn’t [...]

Click to read->

Church Fundraising: How?

I have given a few passing thoughts lately to church fundraising. I know there are times when churches need money just to meet their normal budget since the congregation doesn’t normally give well. However, I am speaking more of raising money for extra projects like new building additions, rennovations or a new multi-million dollar sanctuary [...]

Click to read->

Jesse Mercer’s Eternal Concerns of a Slave

In Nathan Finn’s recent post 19th Century Baptists, Slavery, and Christian Civility: Some Lessons from the Past in he tells of a new book he is about to publish entitled Domestic Slavery Considered as a Scriptural Institution. Read his post for more information. It’s looks to be an interesting read and will shed some light [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Volunteering for Dave Ramsey

Volunteering for Dave Ramsey

I spent this Saturday from 9am to 8pm (7-8 was dinner) volunteering for a Dave Ramsey Live event at First Baptist Woodstock. Some will see the irony in the location. Anyways, my wife and I donated our time for this event. It was long and tiring, but more than that it was fun and rewarding. We arrived, [...]

Click to read->

Being More Holy: Forward to the Altar Steps

Is there something more spiritual about going forward, kneeling down and praying on the steps around the pulpit (sometimes called the altar)? It sure seems like there is. My wife and I recently experienced this call. After a very sharp appeal to the emotions in reference to serving God and prayer there was a strong [...]

Click to read->

Agreeing with Al Sharpton about the Gospel

You read that right! Al Sharpton and I agree about an aspect of the Gospel. There are not many times that Al Sharpton and I fully agree. And since I’ve never heard him preach nor speak clearly about theology this was a suprise to me when I discovered this last night. There was a story [...]

Click to read->

Hollywood and the Gospel

ScrippsNews has a short interview called The gospel according to Stephen Baldwin. The article starts Actor Stephen Baldwin (youngest of the acting Baldwin brothers) has become an impassioned Christian after living the wild Hollywood lifestyle. In his New York Times best-selling book, “The Unusual Suspect: My Calling to the New Hardcore Movement of Faith” (September [...]

Click to read->

Arab Vision, Is Ours Clouded?

I recently listened to and spoke with missionary and one of the founders of Arab Vision. It seems as though we, as local churches, are neglecting the Arab world in our missions and evangelism. If I remember correctly, something like only 22% of the Arab world has heard the Gospel. If I am wrong please [...]

Click to read->

Does God want you rich?

Okay, so I am taking this from Melvin Jones’ post over at Pulpit-pimps.org and I thank him for posting it. It’s funny and sad in that it describes these prosperity preachers perfectly. Maybe I am suprised that an album like this hasn’t actually been made yet. It would go along perfectly with the whole “name [...]

Click to read->

Article Rich with Sadness and Poor Theology

The Miami Herald’s article A rich Jesus? Debate flares over his finances gives us the same ole story about the WoF prosperity “gospel”. The article states: But when the Rev. Creflo Dollar looks inside that manger, he doesn’t see a poor baby. He sees a baby born into wealth because the kings visiting him gave [...]

Click to read->

Deal and sermon of the week

Deal of the Week Tom Ascol over at Founders Ministries has blogged that James P. Boyce’s Abstract of Systematic Theology is back in print. Not only that, but for a limited time it’s available for only $12.50 plus $3.50 for postage and handling which will be priced at $29.95 once this deal expires. You can [...]

Click to read->

Spurgeon for Today

Controversy is never a very happy element for the child of God: he would far rather be in communion with his Lord than be engaged in defending the faith, or in attacking error. But the soldier of Christ knows no choice in his Master’s commands. He may feel it to be better for him to [...]

Click to read->

Southern Baptists the coffins are here and Voddie’s got the hammer!

Do you want to here the straight truth about what’s going on in the SBC? Inflated baptismal numbers? Unregenerate members? Actually preaching the Gospel? Church discipline? Want to hear about “the dance”? You can hear about all of these things and more at this years Eastern Evangelism Conference in Hampton Voddie Baucham brings it. My [...]

Click to read->

Reformation Day Reflections 2006

The famous quote attributed to Johan Tetzel, “As soon as the coin in the coffer rings, the soul from purgatory springs” probably doesn’t mean much to many in the church today. If it weren’t for my own studying and reading, as a layman, it probably wouldn’t mean much to me either. The struggle today is [...]

Click to read->

Could Jesus be a student at Liberty University?

You can read the whole code of conduct from Reprimands and Consequences portion of Liberty’s website. The original link has been made private now. You can get the pdf version made from the archived Reprimands and Consequences. Let’s look at a few fines and reprimands below. 4 Reprimands + $10 Fine – Improper personal contact [...]

Click to read->

Blog bites: Voddie Baucham at the Piper Conference

First, listen to all of the conference: Desiring God Conference 2006. I am working my way through and am listening to Voddie this morning. He said something that we should think about as Christians. He was address the question of “Why are we here?” It will make us reflect on God’s grace and love and [...]

Click to read->

Blog bites: Remembering our past theological heros and the Joshua Convergence

A quick and dirty to the summary of my thoughts on the recent Joshua Convergence on the topic of gratitude. The speaker on this topic was local pastor Jeff Crook. Quoting from this article in the Florida Baptist Witness he comments. “Gratitude and honor are inseparable,” Crook said. “To not give honor is to not [...]

Click to read->

The Segregated Life

In my previous post I encouraged folks to see the movie The Second Chance which touches on race relations in the church and neglect of those needing Christ in our own backyards. In the blog world I came across something that goes on the black community that I don’t know much about. It is a [...]

Click to read->

The Second Chance on dvd: watch it

Last night my family and I watched a movie I rented upon recommendation from a friend at church. He said it was a great movie so I made a special trip to Blockbuster and rented it. They actually had several copies and only two were in. The movie is called The Second Chance starring Michael [...]

Click to read->

Blog bites: Warrenism Splits Church

Yes, that’s Warrenism named after Rick Warren. I wondered if anyone had used that term before so just Google it and see. When I say Warrenism splits church I am referring to a story by Suzanne Sataline in the Wall Street Journal entitled A Popular Strategy For Church Growth Splits Congregants. It was only a [...]

Click to read->

Southern Baptists & the Alcohol Resolution: How?

There have been numerous bloggers writing on Resolution No. 5 On Alcohol Use in America from this years Southern Baptist Convention. The first “RESOVLED” of this resolution says, “RESOLVED, That the messengers to the Southern Baptist Convention meeting in Greensboro, North Carolina, June 13-14, 2006, express our total opposition to the manufacturing, advertising, distributing, and [...]

Click to read->

Blog Bites: Appealing to Free Will

I was flipping channels the other day and came across something on Daystar. I think it was Daystar. Anyways, it was some sort of Bible teaching and I was just thankful that it was the ole health and wealth stuff that is often on as Bible teaching. Well, I hear a statement that went something [...]

Click to read->

Lord’s Day Reflection

Last week I bought John Piper’s DVD set Blazing Grace. We’ve been watching it as a family and he really breaks down God’s glory and sovereignty in a way that my teen daughter or anyone else for that matter can understand. I mentioned it to the youth minister and he wants to borrow it when [...]

Click to read->

Frank Page: Calvinism Manmade Not Bible-based

Just scroll down to the bottom of the article Frank Page discusses SBC theological issues. Many felt that Dr. Page would be a great moderate voice towards the Calvinists in the SBC despite his book The Trouble with TULIP (reviewed here). You can read an interview with Dr. Page in which he states, I have [...]

Click to read->

Sovereign Over Sovereignty?

I read that Roger Olson has a new book out called Arminian Theology: Myths and Realities. (Not to be confused with Gordon Olson who I’ve blogged about.) I searched and found in The Baptist Standard an article written by Roger Olson entitled God is sovereign over his sovereignty. What does that even mean? Is this [...]

Click to read->

Rome and Evangelicalism: Cults with the Same Gospel?

On a recent program of Issues, Etc. that is worth listening to host Todd Wilkin said something very interesting. The show is from Tuesday, July 25 entitled “Audio Open Lines: The Journey Home Broadcast Featuring a Roman Catholic Convert from Lutheranism”. Actually he said many true and interesting things. I want to quote one here [...]

Click to read->

Frank Page and Alcohol Use: Heart of the Disagreement

First, I don’t believe anyone has been clearer nor dealt as exegetically with the issues in this debate in the SBC of alcohol abstinence vs. moderation than the material by ConcernedSBCer. This issue has been dealt with on this blog without using the iron fist in the lace glove technique. Brad Reynolds has quoted an [...]

Click to read->

Worship Your Way

Brother Frank* posted some good thoughts DGM’s interview with Mark Driscoll. I read his post and then a little later read an article from the Boston Globe entitled New approaches to worship emerge. Please be aware that I am in no way affiliating Mark Driscoll to the likes of denomination nor practices listed in the [...]

Click to read->

James White to debate Caner brothers…possibly

Yes, it’s true that the brothers Caner, Emir and Ergun, may be debating James White and (someone else). Can’t say who that someone is yet, but I hope the time can be “found” by him. There are two potential locations for the debate. Though I may not be at liberty to say as everyone may [...]

Click to read->

James Swan responds to Ray’s comment from this blog

I posted one of James’ articles before he pleasantly suprised us by starting his own blog. The article was essentially about Norman Geisler, Gordon Olson and Calvinism. Someone named Ray commented on my original post of James’article and now James has responded on his blog.

Click to read->

Grace No More

In a recent Barna Group article the title One-Quarter of Self-Described Born Again Adults Rely On Means Other Than Grace to Get to Heaven says it all. It’s an interesting read. The article states Overall, 80% of adults in the U.S. call themselves “Christian.” In comparison, the phrase “a committed Christian” is embraced by two [...]

Click to read->

The McCainian Lutheran Nicene Creed

After reading Steve Hays answer to Paul McCain’s claims about Calvinism I wanted to attempt to apply his Lutheran hermeneutic to the Nicene Creed. I will use the method McCain complains that Calvinism does not use, but should. My attempt below, though tongue in cheek, should provide an interesting read and comparison. McCain’s complaint is [...]

Click to read->

Thumbnail image for Keeping Christ in Christmas so we can sleep in?

Keeping Christ in Christmas so we can sleep in?

I just Googled “Christ out of Christmas.” With quotes I got 88 results and 1,950 without quotes. There has been much talk of companies taking Christ out of Christmas. Talk done by governments, news organizations, department stores, etc. Many of these places are replacing the Christmas tree with “Holiday” tree or have rules which forbid [...]

Click to read->

Moore, Pearce, Camp and a Lecture

I read through Steve Camp’s The Top Ten Turkey Awards of 2005 and his post Double standards. Number eight on the list is Russell Moore (the Henry Institute and Southern Baptist Theological Seminary) for having Roman Catholic Joseph Pearce speak at the Gheens Lectures. Dr. Moore is, however, a very solid theologian. These lectures are [...]

Click to read->

Blogging issues etc.?

I really don’t understand Todd Wilken who hosts the Issues, Etc. radio show. Recently, on one of Paul McCain’s anti-calvinist blog posts Wilken shared a few of his anti-calvinist ideas. “Jesus” When you read that word, a picture popped into your mind, right? The iconoclastic Calvinist or Zwinglian cannot escape THAT image. Lutherans are comfortable [...]

Click to read->

The Mohler – Patterson “discussion”

When I first read that Al Mohler and Paige Patterson were going to “debate” Calvinism I was excited. I was glad a prominent Calvinist was finally going to correct and properly represent the Calvinists positions and all of its misrepresentations. I thought, “Finally, an answer!” The more I thought about it the more I wonder [...]

Click to read->

Purpose driven crystal meth?

Earlier this year Brian Nichols was in custody at the courthouse in downtown Atlanta and about to go to trial on rape charges. Nichols got free, killed four people and escaped. He ran to a suburb and ended up at Ashley Smith’s apartment. Smith talked him into giving himself up and allegedly used Rick Warren’s [...]

Click to read->

Thanks Dave Hunt. Glad I was a Calvinist afterwards! Whew!

In Dave Hunt’s recent Berean Call newsletter we find the question and the end of the answer below. Question: In the July ’05 Letters section,“TF of Ireland,” a self-proclaimed “Calvinist,” acknowledged that Tom and Dave are saved. Is it possible for someone who believes only in the soteriology of Calvin to be saved? Specifically, that [...]

Click to read->

SBTS, Mohler & Moore: Alcohol &

First, I want to thank my good friend Russ for pointing me to this issue over at Steve McCoy’s blog. And thank you, Steve and all the others for the good and brotherly insight and engagment on this issue. Dr. Russ Moore opens with a wonderful prayer and thanks all for being there and being [...]

Click to read->

The report is that the White vs. Crossan debate went well.

No, unfortunately I wasn’t there and nor was I able to go on the cruise this year. James White briefly mentioned the debate on his blog and a few others commented on it in #prosapologian. During last night’s debate Dr. White told Dr. Crossan that he’d make a great Calvinist. I heard the expression on [...]

Click to read->

The Albert Mohler Program

I listened to The Albert Mohler Program episode entitled The Pope: Taking the Measure of the Man. This is just a part of the program where he answers a caller’s question about the Pope’s salvation. Mohler said some interesting things and did not sacrifice the truth in order to be politically correct. Dr. Mohler said [...]

Click to read->

Ravi Zacharias at the Mormon Tabernacle?

This past weekend Zacharias spoke at the Mormon Tabernacle. It was a joint effort together with Greg Johnson’s Stand Together Ministries. I don’t know a whole lot about this ministry, but from what I’ve read it seems too “ecumenical” towards Mormons if there can be such a thing from the Christian perspective. So far the [...]

Click to read->

CRI, Roman Catholics and Salvation

Hank Hanegraaff recently wrote an article entitled Catholics and Salvation. Whenever I hear Hank or CRI talk about Roman Catholics I am reminded of the debate I have between Dr. Bob Morey and Elliot Miller called The Ecumenical Debate. Elliot Miller was and maybe still is (I don’t know) the editor-in-chief of The Christian Research [...]

Click to read->

Justification Debate Update White vs. Wilson

Special thanks to Richard Barcellos, managing editor of the Reformed Baptist Theological Review, for the debate update. Again, this is Rich working from memory and not from the mouth or keyboard of Dr. White. Below are Rich’s highlights of the debate (with permission). The debate went as expected; no surprises. Both men were cordial and [...]

Click to read->

Justification debate update

There is to be a new update sometime tomorrow on this blog. After talking with Rich it was decided that a little more thought out review is in order since the first was done first thing in the morning after the debate off the top of ye ole head. I want to make sure that [...]

Click to read->

40 Days of a new Reformation?

During Rick Warren’s recent appearance on the Today Show he made the following statement. “I believe that we are possibly on the verge of a New Reformation in Christianity and another Great Awakening in our nation,” said Warren. “The signs are everywhere, including the popularity of this book.” Interesting that the popularity of Warren’s The [...]

Click to read->

Quote of the Day

“But let me ask: If it be so very absurd, to worship the work of other men’s hands what must it be, to worship the works of our own hands? Perhaps, you may say, “God forbid that I should do so.” Nevertheless, let me tell you, that trust, confidence, reliance, and dependence, for salvation, are [...]

Click to read->

Church History

Recently, I have been thinking about the role that Church History plays in Biblical authority, sola scripture, etc. And also, how do the classic creeds and confessions of Christianity play into this. In the January issue of the Reformed Baptist Theological Review there was a great article by Sam Waldron entitled The Meaning of Sola [...]

Click to read->

Joel Osteen’s church “confession”

The following is the confession that Joel Osteen of Lakewood church in TX gives at the opening of every or most church services. I have been listening to the radio show Issue’s Etc. critique Osteen these last couple months. I found this “confession” on Lakewood’s homepage. Joel says the confession while the congregation repeats the [...]

Click to read->

Poisoning Calvin’s Well

The attempted argument against Calvinism goes something like this, “Was the burning of Michael Servetus a justified, godly thing to do?” The person making this argument is usually trying to blame John Calvin as a person who single-handedly convicted, tied-up and lit the match that started the burning of Servetus. Then, the conclusion which is [...]

Click to read->

Morning has broken

I listened to a couple songs from Derek Webb’s new House CD today on the way to work. This CD is several of his songs with a few previously unreleased which are recorded live in front of small “house” audiences. Listening to Derek introduce his previously unreleased song I Repent was interesting. I listened to [...]

Click to read->

Comments
Popular
Recent
Book Reviews

The World-Tilting Gospel by Dan Phillips

Why I Still Believe by Joe Boot

The Divided States of America? by Richard Land

Marks of the Messenger by Mack Stiles

Preaching That Connects by Mark Galli and Craig Brian Larson.

The Trellis and the Vine by Colin Marshall and Tony Payne

Christianity In Crisis: The 21st Century By Hank Hanegraaff

Fearless: Imagine Your Life Without Fear By Max Lucado

Dear Timothy: Letters On Pastoral Ministry Edited by Tom Ascol

Religion Saves by Mark Driscoll

Brothers, We Are Not Professionals by John Piper

Godology by Christian George

Taking Three by Mark McCallum

The Noticer by Andy Andrews

Get Outta My Face! by Rick Horne

Knowing God by J.I. Packer

The Shack by William P. Young

Do Hard Things By Alex & Brett Harris

Your Best Life Now by Joel Osteen

wordpress statistics