Praise

The posts below offer information to help the Christian praise God either directly or indirectly through material that may be praise worthy and edifying.

Thumbnail image for Sunday Considerations: Comparing Lives

Sunday Considerations: Comparing Lives

J.C. Ryle offers some advice to help rightly count the cost of the Christian life. Consider the words below as you prepare for and worship corporately with the body of Christ. Count up and compare, for another thing, the life that now is and the life to come, if you are a true-hearted and holy [...]

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Sunday Considerations: Forsaken by Man

Consider Jesus– as Forsaken by Man “Then all the disciples forsook Him, and fled.” –Matt. 26:56 What a sad contrast does this picture present to the one we have just been viewing–”Jesus, our fellow-sufferer.” His time of suffering has now come, but, lo! “all His disciples have forsaken Him, and fled.” Is there nothing, my [...]

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Thumbnail image for Sunday Considerations: My Lord and My God

Sunday Considerations: My Lord and My God

Thomas, one of Jesus’ chosen twelve Apostles, initially doubted that Jesus had risen from the dead. Thomas’ story is recorded in the gospel of John chapter 20. He was not with the other disciples when they saw Jesus. Thomas declared that unless he could see and touch Jesus he would not believe. Thomas did see [...]

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Thumbnail image for Sunday Considerations: Outdo One Another

Sunday Considerations: Outdo One Another

Competition moves, feeds, and entertains the world. Competition can be a positive or a negative in life. I would like to encourage a biblical competition that I fail at often. Christian, think about your attitude and actions toward those in your own home and in the household of faith. How do you think about those [...]

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Thumbnail image for Sunday Considerations: Called to Die

Sunday Considerations: Called to Die

Christians are called to come together for corporate worship with one another. As many of us prepare for corporate worship I’d encourage each Christian to ask themselves what else Christ has called you to. Christ has called us to die to self and take up our cross daily. The cross is laid on every Christian. [...]

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Thumbnail image for Sunday Considerations: This Year Also

Sunday Considerations: This Year Also

In preparation for the new year, Charles Spurgeon wrote the following sermon excerpts from his bed while he was sick. The sermon is based on three words from Luke 13:8,  “this year also.” Spurgeon’s words put new year’s resolutions and goals into a Kingdom perspective. However, there should be no dispute that a kingdom is [...]

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Thumbnail image for Friday Photos: Civil War Reenactment

Friday Photos: Civil War Reenactment

It has been said that, “Beauty is in the eye of the beholder” though I have also read somewhere that,”Beauty is in the eye of the beerholder.” Whichever you are, I hope you enjoy a few pictures from my wife’s photo shoot at the Civil War reenactment that took place in Richmond Hill, GA at [...]

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Thumbnail image for What Will You Do with the Christmas Gift?

What Will You Do with the Christmas Gift?

Another Christmas has come and gone and a new year is around the corner. A year lies ahead both to use this year’s Christmas gifts and think about next year’s. However, some gifts are all ready used up although some are advertised as gifts that keep on giving. There is only one gift that keeps [...]

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Thumbnail image for Sunday Considerations: What is Christmas? A Spoken Word

Sunday Considerations: What is Christmas? A Spoken Word

[Note: I wrote the poem below in the spirit of spoken word poetry.] What is Christmas? “What Child is This?” we sing, He is the One who is to be King. It’s the time of year to celebrate His birth, Which began His life of eternal worth. This baby Jesus was born to die, And [...]

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Thumbnail image for Sunday Considerations: Prepared for the Lord

Sunday Considerations: Prepared for the Lord

In the excerpt below, Spurgeon is preaching on the past phrase of Luke 1:17 (ESV) “To make ready for the Lord a people prepared.”  During this Christmas season as non-Christians are invited to and attend various Christmas services, these words are a great reminder that sinners bring nothing to Christ for salvation. Just as the [...]

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Thumbnail image for Sunday Considerations: Heaven Desired

Sunday Considerations: Heaven Desired

O MY LORD, May I arrive where means of grace cease and I need no more to fast, pray, weep, watch, be tempted, attend preaching and sacrament; where nothing defiles, where is no grief, sorrow, sin, death, separation, tears, pale face, languid body, aching joints, feeble infancy, decrepit age, peccant humours, pining sickness, griping fears, [...]

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Thumbnail image for Win the Logos John Piper Collection!

Win the Logos John Piper Collection!

Logos Bible Software is promoting their new Christian ebook service Vyrso! by teaming up with Desiring God to offer John Piper’s A Holy Ambition a free download until December 25. Logos is also giving away their John Piper Collection. This collection is a digital 24-volume digital set with a print value of $395! Each book [...]

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Thumbnail image for A Quick Note of Thanks!

A Quick Note of Thanks!

I would like to thank all of my friends in the real world and those in the cyber-world via twitter, Facebook and blogs who help get the word out to vote for me for the $10,000 Blogging Scholarship.1 I was overwhelmed by all of the support. It meant a lot! A special word of thanks [...]

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Thumbnail image for Sunday Considerations: With Thanksgiving

Sunday Considerations: With Thanksgiving

Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. (Philippians 4:6 ESV) Always must we offer prayer and supplication with thanksgiving. No matter though the prayer should struggle upward out of the depths, yet must its wings be silvered o’er with [...]

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Thumbnail image for Sunday Considerations: Pure and Holy

Sunday Considerations: Pure and Holy

Grant, Almighty God, that as we are prone to every kind of wickedness, and are so easily led away to imitate it, when there is any excuse for going astray and any opportunity is offered, – O grant, that being strengthened by the help of thy Spirit, we may continue in purity of faith, and [...]

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Thumbnail image for Scholarship Voting Reset: I Need Your Help Please!

Scholarship Voting Reset: I Need Your Help Please!

OK, folks. I recently asked for your vote for the $10,000 Blogging Scholarship which, if I won, I would use to pay for seminary.1 Some people were getting votes that were off the charts in comparison to the amount of monthly website visits they get.  A few of us on twitter noticed this trend of [...]

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Thumbnail image for Help! I’ve Got a Serious Problem

Help! I’ve Got a Serious Problem

My buddy Frank says I’ve got a serious problem.1 But then my buddy James says that I’m good folk.2 Are they just playing good-friend/bad-friend? Who are you going to believe? Hint: They are both friends who are trying to help me with the same cause. And I need your help too! I recently wrote an [...]

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Thumbnail image for Sunday Considerations: But in the Cross

Sunday Considerations: But in the Cross

Then seeing Christ and his dear disciples have glorified God with their tribulations, let us also embrace them joyfully, saying with Saint Paul, God forbid that I should glory but in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ. And let us work and behave ourselves in such sort that the world (to his own hurt) [...]

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Thumbnail image for Happy Veterans Day 2011

Happy Veterans Day 2011

Those who live today remember those who do not. Those who know freedom remember today those who gave up life for freedom. Today, in honor of the dead, we conduct ceremonies. We lay wreaths. We speak words of tribute. And in our memories, in our hearts, we hold them close to us still. Yet we [...]

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Thumbnail image for Sunday Considerations: The Special Consideration

Sunday Considerations: The Special Consideration

It is a special consideration to enhance the love of God in giving Christ, that in giving him he gave the richest jewel in his cabinet; a mercy of the greatest worth, and most inestimable value, Heaven itself is not so valuable and precious as Christ is: He is the better half of heaven; and [...]

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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 [...]

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Thumbnail image for Sunday Considerations: Behold Each Other’s Graces

Sunday Considerations: Behold Each Other’s Graces

It is sad to consider that saints should have many eyes to behold one another’s infirmities, and not one eye to see each other’s graces, that they should use spectacles to behold one another’s weaknesses, rather than looking-glasses to behold one another’s graces. Flavius Vespasian, the emperor, was more ready to conceal the vices of [...]

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Thumbnail image for Sunday Considerations: The Paymaster

Sunday Considerations: The Paymaster

Sin is a debt–Jesus paid it when He bore our sins in His own body on the tree. Obedience is a debt–Jesus paid it when, by the obedience of One, many were made righteous. Death is a debt–Jesus paid it when He bowed His head on the cross and gave up the spirit. And when [...]

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Thumbnail image for Sunday Considerations: A Thankful Meditation

Sunday Considerations: A Thankful Meditation

Meditation May 11, 1661 by Anne Bradstreet My thankful heart with glorying tongue Shall celebrate Thy name, Who hath restored, redeemed, recured From sickness, death, and pain. I cried, Thou seem’st to make some stay, I sought more earnestly And in due time Thou succour’st me And sent’st me help from high. Lord, whilst my [...]

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Thumbnail image for Sunday Considerations: Overlooking the Gospel

Sunday Considerations: Overlooking the Gospel

How long has it been since you looked up from the earthly details of life and came face to face with the Grand Canyon of what God has done for us in the gospel—his unfathomable grace in forgiving people who have rebelled against him, his breathtaking plan to send his Son to suffer and die [...]

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Thumbnail image for Sunday Considerations: Blessing of the Trinity

Sunday Considerations: Blessing of the Trinity

THE BLESSING OF THE TRINITY A true and accurate knowledge of the Trinity is a blessing in and of itself. Any revelation of God’s truth is an act of grace, of course, but the Trinity brings to us a blessing far beyond the worth normally assigned by believers today. Why? Because, upon reflection, we discover [...]

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Sunday Considerations: Humility

Thumbnail image for Sunday Considerations: Humility

Humility makes a man peaceable among brethren, fruitful in well-doing, cheerful in suffering, and constant in holy walking (1 Pet. 5:5). Humility fits for the highest services we owe to Christ, and yet will not neglect the lowest service to the lowest saint (John 13:5). Humility can feed upon the lowest dish, and yet it [...]

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Thumbnail image for Sunday Considerations: Contentment

Sunday Considerations: Contentment

Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. (Philippians 4:11 ESV) Timeless words from A.W. Pink on contentment. Discontent! Was there ever a time when there was so much restlessness in the world as there is today? We very much doubt it. [...]

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Thumbnail image for Sunday Considerations: Comfort In Affliction

Sunday Considerations: Comfort In Affliction

This is my comfort in my affliction, that your promise gives me life. (Psalm 119:50 ESV) The worldling clutches his money bag and says, “this is my comfort”; the spendthrift points to his gaiety, shouts, “this is my comfort”; the drunkard lifts his glass, and sings, “this is my comfort”; but the man whose hope [...]

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Thumbnail image for Sunday Considerations: Look Backward and Forward

Sunday Considerations: Look Backward and Forward

Living between the two comings of Christ, Christians are to look backward and forward: back to the manger, the cross, and the empty tomb, whereby salvation was won for them; forward to their meeting with Christ beyond this world, their personal resurrection, and the joy of being with their Savior in glory forever. New Testament [...]

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Thumbnail image for Preach the Law to Rest In the Gospel

Preach the Law to Rest In the Gospel

5. Those who already believe. We must teach them: (i) The gospel: the biblical teaching on justification, sanctification and perseverance. (ii) The law: but as it applies to those who are no longer under its curse, so that they may be taught how to bear the fruit of a new obedience in keeping with their [...]

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Thumbnail image for For Sale: Hand-Carved Five Solas Plate

For Sale: Hand-Carved Five Solas Plate

The above plate was hand-carved by my wife’s Uncle Rodger McKinney, a retired minister on disability. He made my wife and I a beautiful plate for our wedding day. He also made one for our daughter’s high school graduation which was a hit with all of her friends. He has made plates as well as [...]

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Thumbnail image for Sunday Considerations: End of All Love

Sunday Considerations: End of All Love

The end of all love is the good or the happiness of its object, as that happiness is conceived of by its subject. The great end which Christian brotherly love contemplates, is the well-being of its object, viewed as a Christian man; his deliverance from ignorance, and error, and sin, in all their forms and [...]

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Thumbnail image for Free: Online Video Teaching Series by RC Sproul

Free: Online Video Teaching Series by RC Sproul

Ligonier Ministries is offering several free online video teaching series by R.C. Sproul. Below is the first video from each series that are available to watch for free. The Holiness of God 1. The Importance of Holiness 2. The Trauma of Holiness 3. Holiness and Justice 4. The Insanity of Luthe Chosen By God 1. [...]

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Thumbnail image for A Rough Seminary Semester, Part II

A Rough Seminary Semester, Part II

In part I, I shared about some of the issues my family and I faced during the 2011 spring semester which ran from January – May. God taught me a lot during that time. Some of what He taught me I’m still digesting while other lessons He taught me I’m not sure exactly how to [...]

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Thumbnail image for Sunday Considerations: Earthly Comforts

Sunday Considerations: Earthly Comforts

Meditate upon the uncertainty of all earthly comforts. Creature-delights have their flux and reflux. How oft does the sun of worldly pomp and grandeur goes down at noon. Xerxes was forced to fly away in a small vessel, who but a little before lacked sea-room for his navy. We say everything is mutable; but who [...]

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Thumbnail image for Sunday Considerations: Hearing the Word

Sunday Considerations: Hearing the Word

We may bring our bodies to the preaching of the Word with ease—but not our hearts, without offering violence to ourselves. When we come to the Word preached, we come to a business of the highest importance, therefore should stir up ourselves and hear with the greatest devotion. Luke xix. 48. “All the people were [...]

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Thumbnail image for Sunday Considerations: Hidden Treasure

Sunday Considerations: Hidden Treasure

When you read the Word, look on it as a soul-enriching treasury. Search it as for hidden treasure! Proverbs 2:4. In this Word are scattered many divine sayings; gather them up as so many jewels. This blessed book will enrich you; it fills your head with divine knowledge, and your heart with divine grace; it [...]

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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 [...]

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Thumbnail image for Sunday Considerations: Read the Word

Sunday Considerations: Read the Word

Read the Word as a book made by God Himself. It is given “by divine inspiration” 2 Tim. iii.16. It is the library of the Holy Spirit. The prophets and apostles were but God’s amanuenses to write the law at his mouth. The Word is of divine original, and reveals the deep things of God [...]

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Thumbnail image for The Church Tomb of George Whitefield in Pictures

The Church Tomb of George Whitefield in Pictures

Some friends of mine were recently in Maine visiting family. While there they visited the Old South Church which was founded by George Whitefield in Newbury, MA. Not only did Whitefield found this church, but he is also buried there below the pulpit. I asked for the pictures so I could share them here and they [...]

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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 [...]

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Thumbnail image for Sunday Considerations: Glory of Redemption

Sunday Considerations: Glory of Redemption

Faith is a sensibleness of what is real in the work of redemption; and as we do really wholly depend on God, so the soul that believes doth entirely depend on God for all salvation, in its own sense and act. Faith abases men and exalts God, it gives all the glory of redemption to [...]

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Thumbnail image for Sunday Considerations: Alive or Dead

Sunday Considerations: Alive or Dead

Sunday Considerations attempts to offer something edifying for Christians to consider as they prepare to come together as the body of Christ to worship. Below are a few words from J.C. Ryle to consider. I speak to you yourself, and to none else—not to your neighbor—but to you, not to Africans or New Zealanders—but to [...]

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Thumbnail image for Sunday Considerations: Humility

Sunday Considerations: Humility

Labor to be clothed with humility. Humility makes a man peaceable among brethren, fruitful in well-doing, cheerful in suffering, and constant in holy walking (1 Pet. 5:5). Humility fits for the highest services we owe to Christ, and yet will not neglect the lowest service to the lowest saint (John 13:5). Humility can feed upon [...]

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Thumbnail image for Mini-Movie: Bahnsen vs. Stein on the Laws of Logic

Mini-Movie: Bahnsen vs. Stein on the Laws of Logic

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Thumbnail image for Sunday Considerations: Christian Citizenship 7/3/11

Sunday Considerations: Christian Citizenship 7/3/11

“But our citizenship is in heaven, and from it we await a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ.” (Philippians 3:20 ESV) So with Christians here. They are content very much to let the potsherds strive with the potsherds of the earth. Their politics concern their own country, they do not care much about any other. As [...]

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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)

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Thumbnail image for Sunday Considerations: Make Me Ashamed 6/26/11

Sunday Considerations: Make Me Ashamed 6/26/11

As many Christians prepare for corporate worship I offer an excellent prayer to consider from Charles Bridges’ exposition of Psalm 119:25* which states: My soul clings to the dust; give me life according to your word! O Lord, make me more deeply ashamed, that “my soul should cleave to the dust.” Breathe upon me fresh [...]

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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 [...]

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Thumbnail image for More Photos of Alabama Tornado Damage

More Photos of Alabama Tornado Damage

I recently posted about an area in Alabama that did not get much media coverage and is in need of help. (See: Help Needed for Overlooked Alabama Tornado Victims) The folks mention in that post can still use your help. I’m thankful and encouraged by the responses to help so far. I’ve been sent some [...]

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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 [...]

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Thumbnail image for Sunday Considerations 6/19/11 Come Holy Spirit

Sunday Considerations 6/19/11 Come Holy Spirit

Come, Holy Spirit, heavenly Dove, With all Thy quick’ning powers; Kindle a flame of sacred love In these cold hearts of ours. Look how we grovel here below, Fond of these trifling toys; Our souls can neither fly nor go To reach eternal joys. In vain we tune our formal songs, In vain we strive [...]

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Thumbnail image for Help Needed for Overlooked Alabama Tornado Victims

Help Needed for Overlooked Alabama Tornado Victims

The recent tornadoes that ripped through Alabama left several devastated victims. Unfortunately, over 200 of those victims died and most of the survivors are now rebuilding their lives. As far as I know many of the tornado hit areas received national or regional news coverage. I am writing today about an area that did not [...]

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Thumbnail image for Sunday Considerations 06/12/11 Joys of Heaven

Sunday Considerations 06/12/11 Joys of Heaven

There is no good in this life but what is mingled with some evil; honours perplex, riches disquiet, and pleasures ruin health. But in heaven we shall find blessings in their purity, without any ingredient to embitter, with everything to sweeten them. O! who is able to conceive the inexpressible, inconceivable joys that are there? [...]

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Thumbnail image for Sunday Considerations 06/05/11 Be Stripped

Sunday Considerations 06/05/11 Be Stripped

Let us “look off unto Jesus.” Away from past failure and success; away from human applause and blame; away from the gold pieces scattered on the path, and the flowers that line either side. Do not look now and again, but acquire the habit of looking always, so that it shall become natural to look [...]

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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 [...]

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Thumbnail image for Lord’s Day 5/29/11 Let All the Nations Sing

Lord’s Day 5/29/11 Let All the Nations Sing

O God, to us show mercy and bless us in Thy grace; Cause Thou to shine upon us the brightness of Thy face; That so Thy way most holy on earth may soon be known, And unto every people Thy saving grace be shown. O God, let all men praise Thee, let all the nations [...]

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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 [...]

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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 [...]

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Thumbnail image for Lord’s Day 03/13/2011 Mourning Hearts Revive

Lord’s Day 03/13/2011 Mourning Hearts Revive

Now let our mourning hearts revive, And all our tears be dry; Why should those eyes be drowned in grief Which view a Savior nigh? What though the arm of conquering death Does God’s own house invade? What though the prophet and the priest Be numbered with the dead?

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Thumbnail image for Lord’s Day 2/27/11 Forever

Lord’s Day 2/27/11 Forever

“Forever with the Lord!” Forever in His will, The promise of that faithful word, Lord, here in me fulfill. With You at my right hand, Then I shall never fail; Uphold me, Lord, and I shall stand, Through grace I will prevail. So when my latest breath Breaks through the veil of pain, By death [...]

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Thumbnail image for Lord’s Day 2/20/11 Pray for Kingdom Advancement

Lord’s Day 2/20/11 Pray for Kingdom Advancement

As you are gathered together for worship this weekend and are thinking about prayers and prayer requests, remember Jesus’ words (emphasis mine). Pray then like this: Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name. Your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. (Matthew 6:9-10 ESV) If you don’t have [...]

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Thumbnail image for Lord’s Day 1/6/11 Persuaded To Love

Lord’s Day 1/6/11 Persuaded To Love

Let us be persuaded to love God with all our heart and might. O let us take our love off from other things, and place it upon God! Love is the heart of religion, the fat of the offering; it is the grace which Christ inquires most after, John xxi. 15, “Simon lovest thou me [...]

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Thumbnail image for Lord’s Day 1/30/11 Other Christians

Lord’s Day 1/30/11 Other Christians

How should we think of our fellow Christians? As many of us prepare to worship corporately with our fellow Christians it may be a good question to consider. While it”s always a good question to consider we often see people in corporate worship who we don’t see at other times during the week. Yes, even [...]

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Thumbnail image for Wisdom of Solomon, Obama and Abortion

Wisdom of Solomon, Obama and Abortion

This article was originally published on Nov 19, 2008. In light of Dr. Mohler’s post today, In His Own Words: A Radical Pro-Abortion President, I thought I would re-publish my post below. Obama and Solomon There has been much past discussion about Obama concerning his stance on abortion.  This discussion is not going to end [...]

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Thumbnail image for Lord’s Day 01/01/11 Another Year Is Dawning

Lord’s Day 01/01/11 Another Year Is Dawning

Another year is dawning, dear Father, let it be In working or in waiting, another year with Thee. Another year of progress, another year of praise, Another year of proving Thy presence all the days. Another year of mercies, of faithfulness and grace, Another year of gladness in the shining of Thy face; Another year [...]

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Thumbnail image for A Word for the New Year and My Top 10 for 2010

A Word for the New Year and My Top 10 for 2010

First, I leave you with some words of encouragement to take into the 2011 New Year from Thomas Watson’s A Body of Divinity. Then, my top 10 popular posts for 2010. How diligent and zealous should we be in glorifying God, that we may come at last to enjoy him! If Tully, Demosthenes, and Plato, [...]

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Thumbnail image for Lord’s Day 12/26/2010 Joy Born at Bethlehem

Lord’s Day 12/26/2010 Joy Born at Bethlehem

“‘Twas mercy filled the throne, And wrath stood silent by, When Christ on the kind errand came To sinners doomed to die.” Rejoice, ye who feel that ye are lost; your Saviour comes to seek and save you. Be of good cheer ye who are in prison, for be comes to set you free. Ye [...]

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Thumbnail image for Lord’s Day 12/19/10 The Real God

Lord’s Day 12/19/10 The Real God

God the Father is altogether Jesus-like!—it is the most breathtaking news that anyone can ever hear. But do we attend to what is revealed? I fear not.Imagination takes over again. What do we do? We imagine a clash between the presentations of God in different parts of the Old Testament, and between the entire Old [...]

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Thumbnail image for Lord’s Day 12/12/10 A Son Given

Lord’s Day 12/12/10 A Son Given

Bright and joyful is the morn, For to us a Child is born; From the highest realms of Heaven, Unto us a Son is given. On His shoulders He shall bear Power and majesty, and wear On His vesture and His thigh, Names most awful, names most high.

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Thumbnail image for I’m A Christian by Tim Hawkins (Bon Jovi Tune)

I’m A Christian by Tim Hawkins (Bon Jovi Tune)

This is probably my favorite Tim Hawkins parody song (if you can call it that since there’s no joking). It’s sung to the tune of Wanted Dead Or Alive by Bon Jovi. The title is either I’m A Christian or What I Believe. Either way it’s a keeper.

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Thumbnail image for Lord’s Day 12/05/10 Knowing Forgiveness

Lord’s Day 12/05/10 Knowing Forgiveness

“So let us be clear about this. It is no sign of humility, no mark of saintliness, to go into the presence of God doubting whether God is forgiving you. That is unbelief, lack of faith. That is a failure to understand the truth. So, my friend, never again try to give the impression that [...]

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Thumbnail image for Lord’s Day 11/28/10 Thanks Feeling

Lord’s Day 11/28/10 Thanks Feeling

“There is such a thing as thanks-feeling—feeling thankful, and this ought to be the general, universal spirit of the Christian. Suppose, my dear brother, you are not rich, be thankful that you have to eat and to drink, and wherewithal you may be clothed. Suppose, even, that you had not a hope of heaven, I [...]

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Thumbnail image for Gee, Thanks

Gee, Thanks

It’s The Hurt That Counts Marie Paule Thielle of Metz, France, who is only 3 years old, has received the Bronze Medal for “an act of courage and dangerous sacrifice.” But the one she rescued does not like her. The story: When Marie’s playmate, two-year-old Denis fell into the municipal pool, she grabbed him by the [...]

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Thumbnail image for Lord’s Day 11/21/10 Fellowship

Lord’s Day 11/21/10 Fellowship

If you would walk with God, you will associate and keep company with those that do walk with him. ‘My delight’, says holy David, ‘is in them that do excel’ in virtue. They were, in his sight, the excellent ones of the earth. And the primitive Christians, no doubt, kept up their vigor and first [...]

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Thumbnail image for Lord’s Day 11/14/10 Burden Bearer

Lord’s Day 11/14/10 Burden Bearer

Jesus Christ gives eternal life for all those believing in Him. Below is a hymn by Fanny Crosby that is a great reminder of life without Christ and then with Him that comes from His work on the cross. When the Burden Bearer Came On a desert wild and lonely, Where no hope I dared [...]

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Thumbnail image for The Blogging Scholarship: Thanks, Thoughts, and Cheating

The Blogging Scholarship: Thanks, Thoughts, and Cheating

The 2010 Blogging Scholarship contest is over. I had a good run and ended up placing 3rd. I’d like to say thank you to some folks, give some brief thoughts about the competition and look at the cheating allegations. Thank you! I’d like to thank those who promoted me on their blogs (I tried my [...]

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Thumbnail image for Lord’s Day 11/07/10 Hypocritical Prayer

Lord’s Day 11/07/10 Hypocritical Prayer

Hypocritical Prayer I knelt to pray when day was done, And prayed, “O Lord bless every one, Lift from every saddened heart the pain, And let the sick be well again.” And then I woke another day, And carelessly went upon my way. The whole day long I did not try To wipe a tear [...]

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Thumbnail image for Lord’s Day 10/31/10 A Mighty Fortress

Lord’s Day 10/31/10 A Mighty Fortress

A Mighty Fortress Is Our God, written by Martin Luther in 1529, is an appropriate hymn for Reformation Sunday. This hymn is special to the Reformation as it was also called The Battle Hymn of the Reformation. It is also a great hymn on its own and the first song my wife and I heard [...]

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Thumbnail image for 10,000 Reasons to Vote for Me?

10,000 Reasons to Vote for Me?

I asked for help for The Blogging Scholarship and shared my essay. You answered. Guess what? Praise the Lord, I made the top 10! Please CLICK HERE to vote for me, Mark Lamprecht, to help me win a $10,000 scholarship to help pay for seminary. That is 10,000 reasons to vote for me and I’d [...]

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Thumbnail image for My Hymnbook Helps Church Planting

My Hymnbook Helps Church Planting

Matt Henslee has put together a project called My Hymnbook where he uses his musical gifts to raise money for church plants. He is taking songs from an old Psalter or Hymnbook and putting them to a simple new tune. My Hymnbook: Volume I, which you can listen below, will send 80% of the proceeds [...]

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Thumbnail image for Lord’s Day 10/24/10 the Gospel Mystery

Lord’s Day 10/24/10 the Gospel Mystery

…because the most comfortable thing we know in the gospel is that it is the will of God to save sinners. Mark what I say – if you knew all that God knows (which is saying something very great) but you not know that His mind and will were to save sinners, you would be [...]

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Thumbnail image for My Blogging Scholarship Essay

My Blogging Scholarship Essay

I recently asked my readers if they would consider nominating me for The Blogging Scholarship which, if won, would help me pay for seminary. I truly appreciate all who nominated me. Thank you! Today is the last day to submit a nomination or to apply for yourself if you’re a blog owner. I applied today [...]

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Thumbnail image for Lord’s Day 10/17 The King’s Child

Lord’s Day 10/17 The King’s Child

A Child of the King by Harriet E. Buell, 1877. My Father is rich in houses and lands, He holdeth the wealth of the world in His hands! Of rubies and diamonds, of silver and gold, His coffers are full, He has riches untold. Refrain I’m a child of the King, A child of the [...]

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Thumbnail image for A Letter From Hell

A Letter From Hell

Pastor Jeremy Rhode of  Faith Lutheran Church in Capistrano Beach, CA has graciously allowed me to publish the text of his sermon A Letter From Hell. This sermon is based on the parable of The Rich Man and Lazarus from Luke 16:19-31. Pastor Rhode offers what a letter from the rich man writing from hell may look [...]

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Thumbnail image for Seminary Can Be Expensive So…Nominate Me?

Seminary Can Be Expensive So…Nominate Me?

As many of you know, I’m currently enrolled in seminary working towards an M.Div. As many of you may also know, seminary is not free. Throw in a family which includes a teenager and an injured wife with medical bills, and seminary seems even more expensive. Wait – don’t leave – I’m not asking you [...]

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Thumbnail image for Lord’s Day 10/10/10 Christ is All

Lord’s Day 10/10/10 Christ is All

In preparation to worship with your church family this weekend, I offer some wonderful words from Jeremiah Burroughs to reflected on concerning contentment in Christ, that He is all in all. If Christ is all in all, then let us bless God that ever we knew Christ, and that the great mystery of the gospel [...]

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Thumbnail image for Thabiti On the Gospel and Witnessing, Secrets and Tricks

Thabiti On the Gospel and Witnessing, Secrets and Tricks

Desiring God 2010 National Conference Thabiti Anyabwile’s topic was Thinking for the Sake of Global Faithfulness: Confronting Islam with the Mind of Christ. Of all the good words Thabiti shared one thing stood out as a great reminder for all Christians. Although he was speaking about witnessing to Muslims, any type of person or group [...]

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Thumbnail image for Lord’s Day 10/03/10 Walk Cheerfully

Lord’s Day 10/03/10 Walk Cheerfully

Ought Christians glorify God in their attitudes? We should. We have so much to be thankful for. Just think , Christ was nailed to a cross and hung there to die for us; all we are called to do is pick up our cross. What a great time to reflect on our attitudes through the [...]

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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. [...]

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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 [...]

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Thumbnail image for Lord’s Day 09/26 Set Free

Lord’s Day 09/26 Set Free

My soul is filled with joy and gladness Since Jesus came to me. His love has banished all my sadness, From sin I am set free. The Comforter divine is dwelling Within my soul today; His love to others I am telling Since Jesus came to stay.

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Thumbnail image for Describing the Rejoicing of the Heart

Describing the Rejoicing of the Heart

The precepts of the LORD are right, rejoicing the heart. (Psalm 19:8a, ESV) Last night in men’s Bible study we used this verse in part of the lesson. One of the things our teacher asked us is to explain what it is for God’s word and the gospel to rejoice the heart. Several of us [...]

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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 [...]

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Thumbnail image for Lord’s Day 09/19 Love Jesus

Lord’s Day 09/19 Love Jesus

Will­iam R. Fea­ther­ston wrote My Jesus, I Love Thee in 1864 when he was on­ly 16 years old. When singing hymns like this during certain season in life it makes me stop and think. I search my heart and think – Do I really love Jesus? I know I’m singing that I do, but do [...]

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Thumbnail image for Church Greeting Teams and Hand Sanitizer: Good Idea?

Church Greeting Teams and Hand Sanitizer: Good Idea?

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Thumbnail image for Help Request for a Metro-Atlanta Mission

Help Request for a Metro-Atlanta Mission

The Sandy Springs Mission is at that point of the year again where they need help! Yes, it is fund raising time. Praise the Lord as He has blessed and continues to provide for this Mission. The challenge is to raise $50,000 by Friday, October 8, 2010. The money is needed to continue the work [...]

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Thumbnail image for Lord, Help Me Submit to the Pain

Lord, Help Me Submit to the Pain

Below is a guest post from my wife. As my family, church family, friends and many readers know my wife suffered back injuries from a car accident in August 2008. It’s been a long two years. Two years of needles, meds and prayer. The Lord has guided us to a procedure that may finally give [...]

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Thumbnail image for Lord’s Day 09/12 Adopted Life

Lord’s Day 09/12 Adopted Life

Grant, Almighty God, that as thou hast once adopted us, and continues to confirm this thy favour by calling us unceasingly to thyself, and dost not only severely chastise us, but also gently and paternally invite us to thyself, and exhort us at the same time to repentance, — O grant that we may not [...]

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Thumbnail image for Lord’s Day 09/05 Example of Christ

Lord’s Day 09/05 Example of Christ

The Example of Christ We who are strong have an obligation to bear with the failings of the weak, and not to please ourselves. Let each of us please his neighbor for his good, to build him up. For Christ did not please himself, but as it is written, “The reproaches of those who reproached [...]

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Thumbnail image for Lord’s Day 08/29 Pass Me Not

Lord’s Day 08/29 Pass Me Not

Pass Me Not, O Gentle Savior Pass me not, O gentle Savior, Hear my humble cry; While on others Thou art calling, Do not pass me by. Savior, Savior, Hear my humble cry; While on others Thou art calling, Do not pass me by.

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Thumbnail image for Lord’s Day 08/22 Thy Will

Lord’s Day 08/22 Thy Will

I am no longer my own, but thine. Put me to what thou wilt, rank me with whom thou wilt. Put me to doing, put me to suffering. Let me be employed for thee or laid aside for thee, exalted for thee or brought low for thee. Let me be full, let me be empty. [...]

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Thumbnail image for Lord’s Day 08/15 Glorified Fruit

Lord’s Day 08/15 Glorified Fruit

Grant, Almighty God, that since thou art pleased kindly to invite us to thyself, and hast consecrated thy word for our salvation, — O grant that we may willingly, and from the heart, obey thee, and become so teachable, that what thou hast designed for our salvation may not turn to our perdition; but may [...]

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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 [...]

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Thumbnail image for Lord’s Day 08/08 Adversities

Lord’s Day 08/08 Adversities

Grant, Almighty God, that since we are by nature so prone to rash judgement, we may learn to submit to thee, and so quietly to acquiesce in thy judgements, that we may patiently bear whatever chastisements thou mayest daily allot to us, and not doubt but that all is done for our well-being, and never [...]

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Thumbnail image for Robbery Ends After Talk of Jesus

Robbery Ends After Talk of Jesus

Wow! Christians seem to have a tough time talking about Jesus in everyday causal settings, but at gunpoint? During a robbery? I wonder how many others would react this way. Makes me wonder a lot of things… Are you convicted? (HT: Ray Ortlund)

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Thumbnail image for Lord’s Day 08/01 Wonderful Jesus

Lord’s Day 08/01 Wonderful Jesus

I stand all amazed at the love Jesus offers me, Confused at the grace that so fully He proffers me; I tremble to know that for me He was crucified— That for me, a sinner, He suffered, He bled, and died. I marvel that He would descend from His throne divine, To rescue a soul [...]

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Thumbnail image for Lord’s Day 07/25 Christ Is All

Lord’s Day 07/25 Christ Is All

The exhibition of the Christ-life in the saints is the legitimate inference from the fact that Christ is all to them. If Christ is all, and yet I being a Christian am not like Christ, my Christianity is a transparent sham, I am nothing but a base pretender, and my outward religiousness is a pompous [...]

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Thumbnail image for Lord’s Day 07/18 About Sin

Lord’s Day 07/18 About Sin

We argue endlessly over matters of religion and philosophy, about ethics and politics but each person must ultimately face the personal issue squarely: “What do I do about my sin?” That I sin and that you sin is debated by none save the most dishonest of men. We sin. We violate each other. We assault [...]

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Thumbnail image for Lord’s Day 07/11 Tune of Life

Lord’s Day 07/11 Tune of Life

Some years ago, musicians noted that errand boys in a certain part of London all whistled out of tune as they went about their work. It was talked about and someone suggested that it was because the bells of Westminster were slightly out of tune. Something had gone wrong with the chimes and they were [...]

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Thumbnail image for Lord’s Day 07/04 Fourth of July Prayer

Lord’s Day 07/04 Fourth of July Prayer

O God, whose Name is excellent in all the earth, and Thy glory above the heavens; who on this day didst inspire and direct the hearts of our delegates in Congress to lay the foundations of our national peace, liberty, and safety; We bless and adore Thy glorious Majesty for all Thy loving kindness manifested [...]

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Thumbnail image for Lord’s Day 06/27 counted free

Lord’s Day 06/27 counted free

The verses below from the hymn Before the Throne of God Above were written in 1863 by Charitie L. Bancroft. Almost 150 years later these verses are an wonderful summation of what Jesus accomplished on the cross for all who would believe in Him. How can a sinner like me deserve an innocent Jesus to [...]

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Thumbnail image for Father to Father to Father

Father to Father to Father

A Father’s Day Limerick At this time of year I’m not sure what to say, A time to honor dads in a special way. So I think really hard End up buying a card, All just to say “Happy Father’s Day!” I wrote that limerick for my father inside his Father’s Day card. It’s hard [...]

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Thumbnail image for Lord’s Day 06/20 forsake me not

Lord’s Day 06/20 forsake me not

I will keep your statutes; do not utterly forsake me! (Psalm 119:8 ESV) Forsaken we may be—but not utterly. David was forsaken, not like Saul. Peter was forsaken, not like Judas, utterly and forever. What foreboding have you of such desertion? Is your heart willing to forsake Him? Have you no mournings and thirstings for [...]

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Thumbnail image for Lord’s Day 06/13 awake my soul

Lord’s Day 06/13 awake my soul

Awake, my soul, and with the sun Thy daily stage of duty run; Shake off dull sloth, and joyful rise, To pay thy morning sacrifice. Thy precious time misspent, redeem, Each present day thy last esteem, Improve thy talent with due care; For the great day thyself prepare. Heav’n is, dear Lord, where’er Thou art,

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Thumbnail image for Lord’s Day 06/06 my Redeemer

Lord’s Day 06/06 my Redeemer

I will glory in my Redeemer Whose priceless blood has ransomed me Mine was the sin that drove the bitter nails And hung Him on that judgment tree I will glory in my Redeemer Who crushed the power of sin and death

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Thumbnail image for Lord’s Day 05/30 life’s battle

Lord’s Day 05/30 life’s battle

To us, also, in due time, shall be brought the message, “The Master is come and calls for you.” My ear hears a voice crying aloud, “Set your house in order; for you shall die and not live.” Will not you hear it? Will any one of you refuse the voice which speaks from Heaven? [...]

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Thumbnail image for Lord’s Day 05/23 Christian needs

Lord’s Day 05/23 Christian needs

Oh! it is impossible relief can now come; What? Are not all things possible to him that hath all things in his hand? Yea, “All things are possible to him that believeth;” and it is possible for you to do all things through Christ strengthening you, even to overleap the highest walls, to break bows [...]

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Thumbnail image for Lord’s Day 05/16 death transformed

Lord’s Day 05/16 death transformed

Death was transformed for the believer when God sent His Son into the world and placed Him on the cross. Jesus Christ experienced the second death on behalf of His people – second death is biblical shorthand for the eternal judgment and punishment that awaits those who have not trusted in the Lord Jesus Christ. [...]

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Thumbnail image for Lord’s Day 05/09 mothers

Lord’s Day 05/09 mothers

I praise the Lord for the mother He has given me. (Ephesians 6:2a “Honor your father and mother” [ESV]) I praise Him even more the mother He has given me in my wife. (Proverbs 31:28 Her children rise up and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her: [ESV]) The blessings that the [...]

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Thumbnail image for Lord’s Day 04/18 Jesus, my life

Lord’s Day 04/18 Jesus, my life

But as I ran my hell bound race Indifferent to the cost You looked upon my helpless state And led me to the cross And I beheld God’s love displayed You suffered in my place You bore the wrath reserved for me Now all I know is grace -Chorus- Hallelujah! All I have is Christ [...]

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Thumbnail image for Note on T4G 2010

Note on T4G 2010

Together for the Gospel 2010 is over. It was fun while it lasted. Seriously, it was a great time. I was thankful to even be able to attend. Even more, I was thankful I was able to attend with my church’s staff and a couple other church members. This was my first time attending. I [...]

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Thumbnail image for Lord’s Day 04/11 conformed to Christ

Lord’s Day 04/11 conformed to Christ

Consider Christ upon the cross as a public person, that when He was crucified, and when He died, He died for your sins, and this knowledge of Christ will be a crucifying knowledge. This will stir up your heart to use your corruptions as your sins used Christ; as He hated your sin, so it [...]

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Lord’s Day 04/04 He is risen!

But on the first day of the week, at early dawn, they went to the tomb, taking the spices they had prepared. And they found the stone rolled away from the tomb, but when they went in they did not find the body of the Lord Jesus. While they were perplexed about this, behold, two [...]

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Thumbnail image for Lord’s Day 03/28 God our help

Lord’s Day 03/28 God our help

Our God, our help in ages past, Our hope for years to come, Our shelter from the stormy blast, And our eternal home. A thousand ages in Thy sight Are like an evening gone; Short as the watch that ends the night Before the rising sun. Time, like an ever rolling stream, Bears all its [...]

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Thumbnail image for Lord’s Day 03/21 every blessing

Lord’s Day 03/21 every blessing

It’s such a blessing to be able to worship God and be together with His people on the Lord’s Day. Every blessing is from Him and because of Him. It’s amazing that Jesus seeks and saves undeserving sinners like me. No matter how hard I tried to pay Him back, if I did try, I [...]

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Thumbnail image for Lord’s Day 03/14 the Lord’s care

Lord’s Day 03/14 the Lord’s care

Lord, it belongs not to my care by Richard Baxter Lord, it belongs not to my care whether I die or live; to love and serve thee is my share, and this thy grace must give. If life be long,O make me glad the longer to obey; if short,

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Thumbnail image for Lord’s Day 03/07 worshipping who?

Lord’s Day 03/07 worshipping who?

A visiting minister was substituting for the famed pastor Henry Ward Beecher. A large audience had assembled to hear the popular pastor. At the appointed hour, the visiting minister entered the pulpit. Learning that Beecher was not to preach, several began to move toward the doors. The visiting minister stood and called out, “All who [...]

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Thumbnail image for Lord’s Day 02/28 confidence in Christ

Lord’s Day 02/28 confidence in Christ

You don’t have to go worship God this weekend with His people. You get to go worship God this weekend with His people. You get to do what God’s past people could only dream of, worship God openly, directly and corporately through the Messiah. Think and reflect on the words below as you savor the [...]

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Thumbnail image for Lord’s Day 02/21 feeding on Christ

Lord’s Day 02/21 feeding on Christ

“Bread of Heaven! on Thee I feed, For Thy flesh is meat indeed! Evermore my soul be fed With this true and living Bread! Day by day with strength supplied Through the life of Him who died. “Vine of Heaven! Thy blood supplies This vast cup of sacrifice. ’Tis Thy wounds my healing give; To [...]

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Thumbnail image for Lord’s Day 02/14 loving Jesus

Lord’s Day 02/14 loving Jesus

If Christ has our love, he has our all; and Christ never has what he deserves from us, till he has our love. True love withholds nothing from Christ, when it is sincerely set upon him. If we actually love him, he will have our time, and he will have our service, and he will [...]

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Thumbnail image for Lord’s Day 02/07 crumbs of mercy

Lord’s Day 02/07 crumbs of mercy

Never was a poor sinner more unworthy of favor from God or His people than myself. I deserve not a name and a place among the children, but am as vile as a dog, and would be glad for crumbs of mercy that fall from the children’s table. But such is the free grace of [...]

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Thumbnail image for Lord’s Day 01/31 rejoice in suffering

Lord’s Day 01/31 rejoice in suffering

In the face of suffering, the believer is not to look for the “hidden God”-that is, God in his secret majesty. We cannot even attempt to figure out by speculation why we are suffering. We can only, with Moses, look upon God’s “back-side,” his compassion and mercy as revealed in Christ and his cross. While [...]

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Thumbnail image for Lord’s Day 01/24 Jesus our priest

Lord’s Day 01/24 Jesus our priest

Many people offer up sacrifice, and they think that is enough; but the people of God they rest not only in the duty, no, nor in the spirituality of the duty, though that be counted a great matter: but they go one step higher, and so must you in all the duties you tender up [...]

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Thumbnail image for Lord’s Day 01/17 poor sinners

Lord’s Day 01/17 poor sinners

Poor sinner, something to consider as you undeservedly get to worship the Savior with other poor sinners. Christ’s Love to Poor Sinners Let us stand still, and admire and wonder at the love of Jesus Christ to poor sinners; that Christ should rather die for us, than for the angels. They were creatures of a [...]

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Thumbnail image for Lord’s Day 01/10 trusting Jesus

Lord’s Day 01/10 trusting Jesus

This week many have been in an uproar for Brit Hume simply telling Tiger Woods that he needs to turn to Christ for forgiveness and redemption. This is true as it is what Jesus taught. Through all of lives trials Jesus is the only consistent thing in the Christians life. It seemed appropriate to post [...]

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Thumbnail image for Lord’s Day 01/03 the story

Lord’s Day 01/03 the story

It is the first Lord’s Day of the new year. The first day many will gather together to worship corporately.We will gather together to worship God because of Jesus’ story – the gospel. Many times this year we will come together because of this story, but will we tell it? Will we tell it daily [...]

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Thumbnail image for Lord’s Day 12/27 Immanuel

Lord’s Day 12/27 Immanuel

From The Squalor Of A Borrowed Stable (Immanuel) From the squalor of a borrowed stable, by the spirit and a virgin’s faith; to the anguish and the shame of scandal came the Saviour of the human race! But the skies were filled with the praise of heav’n, shepherds listen as the angels tell of the [...]

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Thumbnail image for Lord’s Day 12/20 poor and needy

Lord’s Day 12/20 poor and needy

Below is a great poem/hymn by Joseph Hart. It is a great evangelistic call and a great reminder that even Christians need to continue to rest upon Christ. A Christian’s need for the Savior never ends. It seem appropriate so I moved the refrain of this hymn to the end as the last stanza as [...]

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Thumbnail image for Lord’s Day 12/13 first and best

Lord’s Day 12/13 first and best

While preparing to gather with a local body of believers, Who will you worship? Pause for a moment and contemplate-try to wrap your mind around-Who. Who is this that we worship? The Baptist Catechism asks about Who God is and gives some Scriptural insight. What a wonderful question, answer and,

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Thumbnail image for Lord’s Day 11/06 righteousness

Lord’s Day 11/06 righteousness

Je­ho­vah Tsid­ke­nu is a name for God which means “The Lord Our Right­eous­ness.” This is easily forgotten today with the emphasis on doing good deeds for God. Preaching the Gospel to yourself is a great reminder that deeds do not save. It is the Gospel of grace through faith alone that saves. Jesus Christ is [...]

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Thumbnail image for Internet fellowship

Internet fellowship

The internet can be used for good, bad, stupid, indifferent, etc. like many things in life. The more sinful people get involved with these things the more we mess them up. Please, don’t look around the internet. Take my word for it. Funny, we still cannot stand in God’s way. God sovereignly works through the [...]

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Thumbnail image for Thanksgiving Grace

Thanksgiving Grace

Life. It is busy and demanding. Each day can bring new challenges. Some easy and routine. Some hard. Others life changing. How these challenges and demands are received can make all the difference in one’s attitude and thought life. During this time around Thanksgiving Day every year people are asked to think about life and [...]

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Thumbnail image for Lord’s Day 11/22 Hard Worship

Lord’s Day 11/22 Hard Worship

Life is hard. Worshiping God can be harder. At times life seems to get in the way of God. Actually, it is our sinfulness that is in the way. The problem only gets bigger because without God there is no way for us. Thankfully, Jesus Christ has done for us in the Gospel what we [...]

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Thumbnail image for Comfort in God’s Sovereignty and Goodness

Comfort in God’s Sovereignty and Goodness

My good friends John and Shannon Jordan are going through one of those unexpected trials of life. On October 31 their six year old son Gideon was diagnosed with a brain tumor. They started a Facebook group (link at the end) for prayers and updates on Gideon. In less than a month, over 1,800 members [...]

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Thumbnail image for Lord’s Day 11/15 Petition and Confession

Lord’s Day 11/15 Petition and Confession

Confession and Petition Holy Lord, I have sinned times without number, and been guilty of pride and unbelief, of failure to find Thy mind in Thy Word, of neglect to seek Thee in my daily life. My transgressions and short-comings present me with a list of accusations, but I bless Thee that they will not [...]

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Thumbnail image for Lord’s Day 11/08 Faith Undeserved

Lord’s Day 11/08 Faith Undeserved

Many Christians around the world are preparing to worship. Nothing as powerful as God’s word to reflect on worship. When we understand just how sinful we are it is easier to truly appreciate God’s grace in saving us. It is a blessing to gather together as a community of Christians petitioning God directly. An undeserved [...]

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Thumbnail image for Christmas On 20 Bucks

Christmas On 20 Bucks

You might be thinking – Can I really do Christmas for 20 bucks? Yes, you can. You can do it for someone else. Children. Children in need. The Christmas list for these children does not include an Xbox, Wii, iPhone, Karaoke machine, laptop, remote controlled helicopter, a robot, DVD, etc. etc. They will not complain [...]

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Thumbnail image for Lord’s Day 11/01 Faith and Doubt

Lord’s Day 11/01 Faith and Doubt

Doubt sees the obstacles, Faith sees the way! Doubt sees the darkest night, Faith sees the day! Doubt dreads to take a step, Faith soars on high! Doubt questions, “Who believes?” Faith answers, “I!” ~author unknown

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Thumbnail image for Happy Reformation Day 2009

Happy Reformation Day 2009

On October 31, 1517 Martin Luther kicked off the Protestant Reformation. His purpose was to reform the church. That did not work, however, and the Catholic church instead responded with the Council of Trent. Today the protest continues as Trent stands in opposition to the biblical and Protestant understanding of the Gospel. Many of us [...]

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Thumbnail image for Lord’s Day 10/25 Gospel and Legalism

Lord’s Day 10/25 Gospel and Legalism

Christians are good at replacing the gospel with religious duties. There is a performance aspect to the Christian life that says-I got saved and now I’m going to do all this stuff to give back to God. It is a tendency to become either practical or actual legalists. Consider this definition of legalism in light [...]

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Thumbnail image for Lord’s Day 10/18 Joy

Lord’s Day 10/18 Joy

Joy and Peace in Believing By John Newton 1. Sometimes a light surprises The Christian while he sings; It is the Lord who rises With healing in his wings: When comforts are declining, He grants the soul again A season of clear shining, To cheer it after rain.

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Thumbnail image for Lord’s Day 10/11 the Incarnation

Lord’s Day 10/11 the Incarnation

Praise for the Incarnation by John Newton Sweeter sounds than music knows Charm me in Immanuel’s name; All her hopes my spirit owes To his birth, and cross, and shame. When he came, the angels sung, “Glory be to God on high;” Lord, unloose my stamm’ring tongue, Who should louder sing than I? Did the [...]

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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 [...]

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Thumbnail image for Lord’s Day 09/13 Unity

Lord’s Day 09/13 Unity

The Apostle Paul on unity and community in the local church. Volumes have been written about the text of the Bible. Sometimes Scripture gets overlooked for these volumes about Scripture. Sometimes Christians get too caught up in reading these other works. Upon returning to Scripture they find that there is nothing as sweet as reading [...]

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Thumbnail image for Lord’s Day 09/13 You

Lord’s Day 09/13 You

Mirror, mirror on the wall. How can God accept me at all? As Christians grow in their walk with Jesus they become more and more aware of their sinfulness. This is certainly my experience. As Christians gather to worship corporately what does each person bring with them? Do Christians gather with others in mind? With [...]

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Thumbnail image for Great Night: Don’t Waste Your Life Concert

Great Night: Don’t Waste Your Life Concert

Thanks to Lecrae for the video below. You can hear everyone yelling, “Send me. I’ll go.” It was an awesome night! We took some of our youth group and they really enjoyed it. Even one of my pastors was there who is a few generations removed from the hip-hop era. It was a good night [...]

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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 [...]

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Thumbnail image for Help Needed for Local Atlanta Mission

Help Needed for Local Atlanta Mission

I need your help! Sandy Springs Mission needs your help! Who? What? The Sandy Springs Mission needs help for their after-school program. They minister to low-income elementary and middle-school children and their families in this Metro Atlanta community.These young people get help they might not otherwise receive. The mission helps in these areas.

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Thumbnail image for Lord’s Day 08/23 Holy Inability

Lord’s Day 08/23 Holy Inability

What do we do to be holy? What abilities do we have to achieve holiness? None! It is Jesus who is holy. It is He who makes us holy. It is only because of Him and his work on the cross for us. As we go to worship this weekend here is something to think [...]

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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 [...]

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Thumbnail image for Lord’s Day 08/16 the Gospel

Lord’s Day 08/16 the Gospel

Last week I offered some thoughts on preparing for the Lord’s Day by meditating on the sufferings of Christ and understanding your own brokenness. During our worship services we will all (I hope) hear the Gospel. Many times there is this idea that Christians don’t really need the Gospel anymore. The Gospel is really just [...]

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Thumbnail image for How To Meditate On Scripture

How To Meditate On Scripture

How do you meditate on Scripture? I’ve heard the question many times. I’ve even asked it myself many times. Even when the question is answered it isn’t always clear. The real question is – What is the process for meditation? What exactly do I do? In this post I’m going to (hopefully) give you the [...]

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The Homeschool Family

Another hit from Tim Hawkins… …now that’s funny!

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Thumbnail image for Rejoice On the Lord’s Day

Rejoice On the Lord’s Day

The Lord’s Day is approaching. I won’t be with my local church family due to celebrating my anniversary. However, I will still worship with my larger church family in the area in which we are staying. I leave you with these thoughts from The complete works of Richard Sibbes ( 74), as we all prepare [...]

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My Wife, My Helper

It’s that time of year again. A time that men love to hate and always forget. That is, if you believe the comedians. I mentioned it last year and it’s hear again. My wedding anniversary! Contrary to the funny people I do remember and look forward to my anniversary. We will be in a little [...]

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Thumbnail image for Book Review: Brothers We Are Not Professionals

Book Review: Brothers We Are Not Professionals

Brothers, We Are Not Professionals: A Plea to Pastors for Radical Ministry by John Piper. B&H Publishing Group, 2002. 286 pages. The Review Brothers We Are Not Professionals by John Piper is a very encouraging book. It is written to pastors as a call to for Jesus Christ to be the center of every aspect [...]

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Walking with God

Jesus saves us from ourselves, our sin and His wrath.  He does this inspite of ourselves.  Think on this as you worship with your brothers and sisters on the Lord’s Day.  Love Jesus, love your church family.  Think about where you were or where you would be if it weren’t for Jesus.  Go. Worship together. [...]

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Thumbnail image for Happy 500 John Calvin

Happy 500 John Calvin

Today is John Calvin’s 500th birthday. (See cake at left)  Whatever our disagreements with Calvin it cannot be denied that Protestants (everyone?) owe much to his theological study.  God certainly gifted him in areas many of us only wish our minds could go. Calvin was more than a mind though.  He had deeds along with [...]

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Thumbnail image for Be Happy God Says

Be Happy God Says

Did you know that God commands you to be happy? Serve the LORD with gladness! Psalm 100:2 Delight yourself in the LORD and he will give you the desires of your heart. Psalm 37:4 The best news in the world is that there is no conflict between your greatest possible happiness and God’s perfect holiness. [...]

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Free Bibleworks8 Software?

Would you like a free copy of Bibleworks8?  I know I sure would!  It would be especially helpful if I start seminary soon as planned. Fellow blogger Nathan W. Bingham over at Cal.vini.st (Cool url!) is offering a way to get this software…for free! Want in on this? Find out how to register to win: [...]

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Thumbnail image for Fatherhood: Appreciation, Humility, Ministry, Reflections

Fatherhood: Appreciation, Humility, Ministry, Reflections

Another year.  Another Father’s Day.  A useless holiday that we made up to spur the economy i.e. to get people to spend money.  That’s just about what I used to think anyways.  Not so much anymore. Today when I think of Father’s Day I think of my father, myself as a father and my heavenly [...]

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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 [...]

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Thumbnail image for Heavy Hearts Good Words

Heavy Hearts Good Words

Five minutes to leave.  We’ve got to go!  We’re going to be late. C’mon traffic!  Move cars! The interview is in a week.  How do I answer those questions again?  I’ve got to say it just right. What if I don’t get that job.  I need it.  I should check my email again to see [...]

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Thumbnail image for Angels and Demons A Novel Idea

Angels and Demons A Novel Idea

The folks at Westminster Seminary have shined some light for truth.  They’ve put together a great new site responding to the movie “Angels and Demons” based on Dan Brown’s novel.  The site is The Truth About Angels & Demons.

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Thumbnail image for Good Enough To Be A Saint

Good Enough To Be A Saint

Who is a saint?  A holy person?  One who is above and more deserving than others?  One who stands out because of their works?  Specific Christians who’ve reached a certain level of holiness in their walk?  Recently in my small group we touched on this very topic as we discussed Ephesians 1:1. Paul, an apostle [...]

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Prayer and Devotion Online

I can’t believe that I will have been blogging for five years come June 2009.  Blogs and websites come and go.  I’m not sure how or even why I’ve perservered so far.  Looking back, I’ve come a long way.  Looking ahead, I’ve got a long way to go. Two Quick Items There are so many [...]

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Christ Our Righteousness Is Risen

We have finished the doctrine of Christ’s humiliation, wherein the Sun of righteousness appeared to you as a setting sun, gone out of sight; but as the sun when it is gone down to us, begins a new day in another part of the world, so Christ, having finished his course and work in this [...]

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Behind the Pulpit

Last night I had the opportunity to lead my church in a devotion for our evening service.  (A devotion is like a mini-sermon and mine was about 14 minutes.)  It’s been several years since I’ve preached at all.  I’ve taught classes and done a few presentations, but no sermon-like activities.  I was very honored when [...]

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Jesus the Answer

Enjoy worshiping on the Lord’s Day with His people.  Below are some wonderful words to think on from John Newton which were written a few years after he wrote Amazing Grace. I heartily sympathize with you in your complaints; but I see you in safe hands. The Lord loves you, and will take care of [...]

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Starting the Week

I started this morning reading Psalm 116 and 117. Go read Psalm 116. Even if you don’t get to read it right now, 117 is such a great, profound yet simple summary of praising the Lord. Psalm 117 (NASB) A Psalm of Praise. 1 Praise the LORD, all nations; Laud Him, all peoples! 2 For [...]

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Win a Calfskin Bibleball!

What’s a Bibleball?  Well, I really don’t know since I just made it up.  But what you can win is a Calfskin ESV Study Bible which sells for $239.99! So how do you get a chance at getting on of these fine Bible’s for free?  Okay okay…here’s what you do. Just head over to A [...]

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My Birthday 2009

Today,  I am officially one year older.  Yeah, it’s my birthday.  My awesome wife came through again and gave me a great gift.  Her gift is my enrollment in a class: Pastoral Theology with Tom Ascol.  I pray this will be a gift that will keep on giving.  More on this later as I give [...]

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John Newton On Our Hope

A gem to meditate on for the Lord’s Day. “Our righteousness is in Him, and our hope depends, not upon the exercise of grace in us, but upon the fullness of grace and love in Him, and upon His obedience unto death” – John Newton Grace to you, Mark

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Free Atlanta Area Worship Conference With Don Kistler

Thanks to the alert by fellow blogger Brian Thornton at Voice of the Sheep.  It is Brian’s church that is hosting this conference.  This looks like a great conference.  Its’ in my backyard and I plan on being there! WHO: Don Kistler, Founder of SDG Books & The Northampton Press WHAT: Winter Bible Conference – [...]

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Spiritual Warfare Sunday School

This past Sunday I got to substitute teach in Sunday School.  I was jumping in the middle of teaching on spiritual warfare.  The topic I was to cover was spiritual warfare and church leaders.  I was asked if I would share my notes here so I will.  I wasn’t sure at first, but someone may [...]

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Top 100 Theology Blogs: I Made It

Jessica Merritt has posted a list of the Top 100 Theology Blogs.  I made the list at # 17 and want to say thank you.  I can’t believe it, but I appreciate it.  How did I make it?  I don’t know, but if anyone is going to put my blog in the top 100 of [...]

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A Christmas Meditation

The Fall of Man Then the man and his wife heard the sound of the LORD God as he was walking in the garden in the cool of the day, and they hid from the LORD God among the trees of the garden. But the LORD God called to the man, “Where are you?” He [...]

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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 [...]

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Praising God When Your Baby Passes Away

Could you praise God in all things? Do you?  Could you praise God if He took a 3 month old infant to go home with Him?  Could you preach the funeral of this child?  How about preaching the Gospel at the funeral including mentioning that all are sinners?  Could you speak about the glorifying God [...]

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Ten Indictments Against the American Church by Paul Washer

A practical denial of the sufficiency of Scripture. An ignorance of God. A failure to address man’s malady. An ignorance of the gospel of Jesus Christ. An ignorance of the doctrine of regeneration.* An unbiblical gospel invitation. Ignorance regarding the nature of the Church. A lack of loving and compassionate Church discipline. A silence on [...]

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Giving Thanks

O Lord, remember not, How I once stood. Before mine own reflection, Worshiping what I thought was good. Long did I look, For life’s answers I sought. Only emptiness grew, Only death was I taught. I saw death as inevitable, A hopeless situation. Laboring for self in this life, This was my salvation. Grabbing hold [...]

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Book Review: Knowing God

I recently had the opportunity to write a book review for our church newsletter.  I was very appreciative to be asked do so.  And a big thanks my wonderful wife for being editor who helped me condense the review from 1,200 words down to less than 800.  Below is the review. Knowing God by J.I. [...]

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A Calvinist Helping Missions?

Dear Readers, I still need your help in being sponsored and this is the last week! This Friday, November 21st, I will be joining 30 other men to help raise money for the Sandy Springs Mission in Atlanta, GA.  I found out last week that this mission will most likely run out of money in [...]

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A Lord’s Day Reflection: Richard Baxter

This is a wonderful poem to meditate upon.  It reminds me of how short I fall and how great a Savior we have in Jesus! Lord, it belongs not to my care Lord, it belongs not to my care Whether I die or live; To love and serve thee is my share, And this thy [...]

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A Calvinist Missionary and Other Notables

When it comes to missions and evangelism in the Southern Baptist Convention today’s hot button is Calvinism and it’s resurgence among younger Southern Baptists.  Is the concern that Calvinism does and will stifle missions and evangelism in the SBC valid?  The answer seems to depend on who you ask.  Regardless of theology, it’s a Gospel [...]

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Reformation Radio

Friend and co-blogger James Swan will be on Chris Arzen’s Iron Sharpens Iron radio show. Schedule and Topics James will be on the show Wednesday (today), Oct. 29 and Thursday, Oct. 30 from 3-4pm. Wednesday James will cautiously tackle the problem of Martin Luther’s Antisemitism. Thursday’s topic will be: Martin Luther: Madman, Heretic, Prophet, or [...]

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Blog Action Day 2008:Poverty

What is poverty?  How do we fight poverty?  Can we do more?  How do we do more?  What is particular day all about? What is Blog Action Day? Today thousands of bloggers will unite to discuss a single issue – poverty. We aim to raise awareness, initiate action and to shake the web! (click the [...]

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Thank You Issues Etc

The best I can tell is that I have been listening to Issues, Etc. since sometime in 2004. That is the date that my oldest mp3′s I have of the program.  And I have been appreciating the show since I started listening. As many listeners know this show was canceled by KFUO AM earlier this [...]

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Fundraising Auction for AOMin.org has Ended!

Bidding is closed.  We have a winning bid donation of $114 that will go directly to AOMin.org.  Thanks to everyone who bid in support of this ministry. Update: For anyone interested this auction is ending this Sunday night at 10pm est. (I will leave this up as the lead post for the weekend.) I have [...]

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A Wedding Anniversary – Mine

Today is my third wedding anniversary. I just want to say that I have a wonderful wife! As I told my wife, I would never have dreamed of having her as my wife. That is because my dreams have never been to beautiful and wonderful! Praise the Lord! I will share one more thing with [...]

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My Testimony Podcast

I started playing around with podcasting and figured that recording my testimony was a good place to start.  I don’t know what, if anything, I will do in the future with audio. Anyways, if anyone wants to hear my brief testimony you can listen or download it below.

For what it’s worth… Mark

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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 [...]

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Christians Laugh Too

My wife and I watched Tim Hawkins not too long ago.  He was absolutely hilarious! Among other laughs the above video clip will help men to know what NOT to say to your wife! This clip gives you a little insight about Tim leading “worship” before he was a Christian. Those are from his Full [...]

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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 [...]

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Friday fotos

Below are two photos from James White’s Atlanta visit. They were taken by my good friend and fellow church member, Smith. I finally got around to posting them. This is a picture of the #pros friends that were present for the presentation on Islam.  It was great seeing everyone! This picture was an “accident” by [...]

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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 [...]

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James White Speaking in Atlanta

Dr. James White of Alpha and Omega Ministries will be speaking in the Atlanta area Saturday, June 7th, 7pm at the Aletheia Foru. The topic is: How Islam Defines Itself Through a Denial of Christian Belief. Full details here.  And a flyer. Lord willing, I will be attending. Mark p.s. James White will also be [...]

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Do Hard Things

The brothers Harris, Alex & Brett, who run the very popular teen blog, TheRebelution have written a very practical Christian book for teens, Do Hard Things. I recently picked up this book for my daughter. Of course, I had to read through it myself first. The book is easy to read and lays out a [...]

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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 [...]

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Good Books from Goodwill

A few years ago a couple of good friends turned me on to shopping for Christian books at Goodwill.  You can also find some good reference books for JWs and LDS too. Above are my recent purchases (I hope my wife doesn’t read this) which I got for $1.50 each. On top from left to [...]

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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 [...]

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Before You Die: Hip-Hop Outreach

I thought this was creative, interesting and very well done. I’d be interested in hearing how this is received in all communities including hip-hop and non hip-hop as well as by believers and unbelievers. Mark (HT: Lionel)

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March 2008 Book Giveaway at Beggars All!

Go here to sign up!

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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. [...]

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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 [...]

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Prayers Needed: The Katrina Aftermath

My very good friend Russ has asked for prayers in his Rebuilding Lakeshore post. The damage in this area is more than many of us realize. I guess if it doesn’t serve the political interest of certain groups nor sell articles and papers then those whose lives were drastically affected aren’t so important anymore. I [...]

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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 [...]

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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 [...]

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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!

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Eat on $32 a month!

Can you eat on only $32 a month? “Impossible,” you say? It may not be possible for you, but let me tell you about a some people for whom it is possible. The children that you can sponsor at Compassion is who they are. This is not about what just over $1 a day gets [...]

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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 [...]

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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.” [...]

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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 [...]

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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 [...]

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Building Bridges: Southern Baptists and Calvinism

I’d just like to answer Nathan Finn’s question about who is going to the National Founders Conference. Lord willing, I will begin my drive tomorrow morning. As to the other part of Nathan’s question I’m not sure what my attire will be. The edgy Calvinist look, traditional SBC CR 1970′s look, my regular business casual [...]

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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 [...]

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A Sinner’s Testimony

I’ve had many clicks on the ‘My Testimony’ link at the top of my blog. It’s been empty for a while until now. I’ve written about the beginning of my journey. I say beginning because my testimony ends where my new life in Christ began which is when I came to faith in Jesus Christ. [...]

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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 [...]

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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 [...]

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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 [...]

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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 [...]

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I’m Thankful…

Lately, I’ve been thinking more about ways and opportunities to share the Gospel. And I do mean verbalize it with actual words that don’t begin and end with “Why don’t you come to church?” I’ve been lamenting my past and potential future short comings in this area. Sure, sharing the Gospel isn’t necessarily “easy” but [...]

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Lord’s Day Reflections: Marriage

Since we are in Savannah most of this week and all weekend visiting friends and relatives I thought this might be appropriate to reflect on. Above is the little church were my wife and I married. It’s in a beautiful location on the coast of Savannah on Moon River. We were blessed with how everything [...]

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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 [...]

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Lord’s Day Reflections: God’s Glory Among Us

This is a shot from the patio in the back of my office building.  It’s a beautiful sight.  Sometimes I forget what’s right outside my door while I am working all week.  Then, I remember and I go outside, slow down and just take it all in.  I get so caught up on all of [...]

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Worshiping with Ed Stetzer

This past Sunday my best man at my wedding, Russ, and his wife were in town. I was also his best man at his wedding. Neat, huh? We met and worshiped with Ed Stetzer at his church plant Lake Ridge Church which is about a year old. I found out the people was very welcoming. [...]

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A little help for AOMin if you can, please

It wasn’t a good night for James White and Rich Pierce over at Alpha & Omega Ministries. They were robbed of a laptop, PalmPilot and iPod. Here is the story. It’s very sad and very untimely given Dr. White’s current schedule. Of course, burglaries are never timely. If you can and would like to donate [...]

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Blog bites: Reformed Gangstas

Check out this rap. There are some local, metro area black reformed Christians. Mark

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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 [...]

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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 [...]

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Dr. James White vs. John Shelby Spong on homosexuality

The 2006 AOMin Cruise’s theme is Pulpit Crimes: The Criminal Mishandling of God’s Word. As usual, a day or so prior to the cruise a formal debate takes place. This year it will be Dr. White debating Bishop Spong. The debate: IS HOMOSEXUALITY COMPATIBLE WITH AUTHENTIC, BIBLICAL, ORTHODOX CHRISTIANITY? will take place on November 3, [...]

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Please welcome James Swan to the blogging world!

I have known/interacted with James Swan on the net for probably around four years. Well, now our friend has decided to join the blogging world with his new blog Beggars All: Reformation and Apologetics. Glad to see he’s making time to join the bloggers. I believe he can contribute much to the blogging world. He’s [...]

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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 [...]

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Just got back from visiting with Dr. James White

What a wonderful weekend with great fellowship and bright sweaters. Saturday we received apologetic teaching against the Da Vinci Code and post modernism. Then, we had a some great fellowship over dinner at Pastor Randy’s house. Sunday morning arrived and Dr. White taught Sunday School as well as preached the sermon while our friend Colin(cds) [...]

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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 [...]

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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 [...]

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