Book Recommendation

I have just finished The God Who Draws Near by Michael Haykin. I don't have the time to post a full review. However, I would highly recommend it. The subtitle, "An introduction to biblical spirituality" explains the heart of this work.

Many of us have steered clear of the word 'spirituality' because of New Age misuse of this word. The author lays out a biblical foundation that will help clarify what it truly means to be spiritual as a Christian. This is a great read for new believers as well as more mature Christians. Haykin has a way of weaving church history and key historical figures into the book too. The examples of the Puritans are especially encouraging and convicting.

When you buy this book you might want to get two. You'll want to give one away, it's that good.

Defining Worship pt. 1

I had a great conversation today with someone about worship. Although we all think we know what the word "worship" means, it can be a bit slippery to nail down. It is certainly a bigger idea than merely "the music at the beginning of our Sunday morning service."

So, what do YOU think? Anyone out there willing to provide a comment to share your idea about the definition of Worship?

I'll think more and write more tomorrow.

Calvinists Should Be Cautious

I will never forget a conversation I had with a good friend about 12 years ago. He had just come to a biblical understanding of God's sovereignty and had begun to embrace the doctrines of grace. He had been a Christian for many years and involved in church most of his life. However, h had never heard anyone teach or preach about total depravity, unconditional election or particular redemption. His brother, upon hearing John MacArthur preach on the radio, introduced him to the famous "five points" and my friend was quite angry at first. Not to be outdone he began to read his Bible with great urgency. He soon came to see the truth about man's ruined condition and inability before a holy and sovereign God. He rejoiced in God's amazing grace.

After that initial conversation we would have hundreds of discussions about theology and doctrine. At that time in my young Christian life I already had a clear understanding of Calvinism and accepted it as an accurate representation of God's Word as it relates to man's salvation. I was raised in a church that had long ago taken a stand on the doctrines of grace. But, like many who first come to this theological position, my friend was very adamant and some of his discussions got a bit heated. I find this is often the case with many young Calvinists, if they are not cautious.

When I moved to Louisville to attend Southern Seminary I began to see many things in a new perspective (no, not that 'new perspective'). I grew much more comfortable with my understanding of theology and I was much less interested in "arguing" about it. There were many on the SBTS campus that held a reformed position. And, there were a lot of them who wanted to 'convert' everyone to Calvinism. I have always seen this as a very tenuous activity that should be avoided. Obviously, it is the Holy Spirit that is the best teacher when it comes to the finer points of theology and doctrine.

Kirk Wellum has a great post that speaks to this issue. His words are on point and so timely. Given the recent trend, especially among young believers, it would be wise for all of us to hear these words and proceed with caution.

Victory and Peace

We have just come through the celebration of Easter. One of the primary themes we celebrate around the cross and the empty tomb is that of victory. Jesus Christ's death and resurrection won the victory over sin and the grave. All of those who place their faith in him share this same victory. The picture to the right shows Winston Churchill during the time of WWII flashing the "V for Victory" sign. Maybe this picture was taken on an Easter Sunday. Just a thought.

In addition to victory, those who are in Christ have peace with God. We are no longer his enemies. Moreover, we experience the peace that comes to our hearts in knowing we are forgiven and have come into a right standing with our Creator. You might call this the peace of God. In the 1960's during the Vietnam war there were many who used the same sign as the "V for Victory" but they called it the "peace sign." It is really both for Christians. As followers of the Lord Jesus we have victory and peace.

Allow these truths to encourage you in your walk with Him today.

When Christians Read

Christians ought to be readers. I have heard individuals say, "I'm not a reader." I sense that some Christians struggle with knowing what to read, so they don't read anything. Moreover, there is that group who will not read anything that does not line up with their entire theology and belief structure. Here is a list of insights found in Foundations for Soul Care by Dr. Eric Johnson. I think this information (which I have paraphrased) will be helpful especially for Christians who find it challenging to know what to read.


1. Regardless of the type of reading material, the goal is always the same for the Christian: growing in Christ likeness. So, what we read should get us closer to this goal.


2. As believers we have assistance, the Holy Spirit. This should be a great encouragement for us.


3. Seek wisdom in the wisdom of others. Reading can serve us well in this task.


4. We must prioritize what we read. Johnson suggests the following hierarchy: The Bible, which will guide us and sharpen us as we read other things; Christian Classics, helpful to expand our understanding of various doctrines. God has equipped many throughout church history, we would be foolish not to read these texts; Other valuable texts, this could encompass a range of genres. Of course we read them through our God-centered lens; Inferior texts, many of these are not helpful reading. Discernment is important here; Bad texts, usually not worth reading. Yet, someone with a solid Christian worldview needs to read these in order to respond to them and educate others; Banned texts, these would be harmful and should be avoided. However, care must be taken not to be over zealous and put everything in this category that is not Christian.

5. Any text we read, save the Bible, should be read with "both trust and suspicion." We read literature, science, non-fiction and all of it with confidence in what we know to be truth. Yet, we ask questions and use discernment realizing that there is good to be gleaned, taking it all captive to Christ.

6. Recognize the value and wisdom of non-Christian texts. Almost like looking at the other team's playbook. This type of reading will sharpen our understanding and maybe even reveal some of our own "blind spots."

The key for believers is to read with discernment. That is why the Bible is our first source. Everything else is read through the lens of Scripture. So, Christian, take up and read.

We Have Power

I had to wait three days before I could write this post. On Tuesday night a strong storm passed through Louisville and we lost our power. Sixty-four hours later all has been restored. For three nights our family huddled in our little house in the pretty, but not so warm, glow of candlelight. Since our house is only about 150 feet from the church (and the church had partial electricity) we ran a very long extension cord to the house in order to have limited power. Actually we had to save the fish, priorities you know. So, we have been without electricity, hot water and heat for three days and it has been a challenge.

Spiritually speaking, as those who are in Christ, we have the ultimate power source. Scripture is clear that all power belongs to God. Those who are in a right relationship with Him, through Christ, are have His power.

We need not look to another source. Christ is all we need. The world, great books, friends, money, sex, career and on the list goes, will never be enough. Just like the extenstion cord we used recently provided us with some power, ultimately it was not sufficient for our needs.

Tonight our family will enjoy a comfortable evening in a cozy warm house, because we have power. Moreover, I am comforted to know that through faith in Christ I am plugged in to the primary power source. That truth is much more comforting.

Milestones Along the Road

I stand amazed over and over again at how the Lord works. I preach about it, I read about it, and still when I experience it in my own life it floors me. Today it happened. Just as clear as a bell, God was reminding me of who He is and where I stand because of Christ.

Today it was through the writing of Mr. Spurgeon that I was reminded. I won't give you the pitiful details of my shallow sinfulness. Instead, suffice it to say I was a bit down. Until I opened my copy of Morning and Evening. Here is a brief excerpt of what I read:

"Though thou art gloomy now, canst thou forget that blessed hour when Jesus met thee, and said, "Come unto me"? Canst thou not remember that rapturous moment when He snapped thy fetters, dashed thy chains to the earth, and said, "I came to break thy bonds and set thee free"? Or if the love of thine espousals be forgotten, there must surely be some precious milestone along the road of life not quite grown over with moss, on which thou canst read a happy memorial of His mercy towards thee?"

These words rang so clear in my soul that I wept with joy. There are milestones along the road for me. What about for you? It is often the case that we travel along and find ourselves quite disoriented. (Surely I am not the only one.) As the "Prince of Preachers" points out, we can certainly find our way again when we revisit those places and times when God's presence was so dear and his hand so evident. Still more, when we meditate on the sacrifice made on our behalf and the gracious call that came to our hearts.

Wow, isn't it amazing to be united to such a One as this? May your journey go well this day, and may you unearth a milestone along the road. All to the glory of God.

Quotable - Accountability

"I charge you, by the concern we bear for one anothers souls, and by the love of God, that you warn and exhort me with patience if you see in me those turnings back of heart which I do not perceive in the blindness of my flesh." Jim Elliot in a letter to a friend, Shadow of the Almighty, pg. 104

These are wise words spoken out of a heart that was tuned towards God. We do not walk this way alone. While we certainly have the guiding hand of God, He has also blessed us with other like minded pilgrims. We need to utilize the counsel, encouragement and exhortation of others on this road. God may use a dear brother or sister to open our eyes to a misstep that is leading us to sin. Loving counsel and encouragement of a partner in ministry can be an invaluable tool, especially in the life of a pastor.

Being Encouraged

On two occasions in the past day and a half I have intentionally gone to visit folks to try and offer them some encouragement. The result: I was encouraged! This is a fascinating situation. One that I am certain is the way God intends it to be.

Yesterday I went to a nearby nursing home to do a Bible study with a few residents. There were about 8 who attended. All but one had to be brought to the room in their wheelchairs. The only one who came on her own power was a little lady who just celebrated her 100th birthday! We sang a few old hymns, read some Scripture and had prayer. It was wonderful. I'm not sure what the residents got out of it, but the Lord really blessed me.

Today I went to visit with a church member who has been sick and unable to come out. She hasn't been to church in nearly a month. She is our oldest member, and also one of our most faithful. Missing church is very hard on her. She told me that not coming to church makes her feel "hollow inside." We talked for a long while, read Scripture, prayed and shed some tears. After I had read from 1 Peter chapter 1 she said, "That just makes you want to say hallelujah!" Wow, what a blessing.

So, that's how God works. I'm going along trying to do a little bit for someone else and wham! He does one of those indescribable God-things. What a joy He is. And, what a real encouragement too. Kind of makes me want to say "hallelujah!"

[The picture above is my favorite lighthouse, Corolla, NC. Doesn't have much to do with the post, I just like it.]

Slacker

I have been away for the holidays and it clearly shows from my lack of posting that I am a slacker.

Time spent with family and friends in WV was very nice. I will be back to serious blogging in short order. I will try to get something meaningful posted before the end of the year.

For now, just enjoy the picture of the lighthouse, a great symbol of the Christian life as well as the gospel. This lighthouse is located at Sea Lion Point, OR.

Introspection

I read several blogs. But, the ones listed on my blog roll are of course my "standards." Today I was struck by a thread that seemed to run through two of these blogs. Read Ian's page and Thad's page and see if you detect a similar theme. Maybe it's just my weird way of thinking, who knows?

While these two posts are not identical, I believe they both speak to our need for introspection. I'm not talking about merely self examination. (Navel gazing?) I am of course taking about looking at our life over against the fixed standard of the gospel and Christ.

Nearly always when I do this I am brought to a place of humility. And I find myself marveling all the more at the boundless grace of God experienced by me a wretched sinner. Try a little introspection today. Compare yourself with the "ideal" and see how you stack up.

Update: See what Mr. Spurgeon had to say today. Good stuff.

Fall is My Favorite Season

I have to say that Fall is my favorite time of year. The breeze turns a bit cool and the leaves are ablaze with color. Shorts and t-shirts are replaced with jeans and comfortable sweaters. In my home state of West Virginia the hills are so vivid and remind me of the power and glory of God.

Many, here locally, are concerned that because of the drought conditions there will be little or no color this Fall. The fear is that the leaves will simply turn a dingy brown and fall unceremoniously to the ground. This "non event" will usher in the grey days of winter. A cold and quiet time.

I can't help but see illustrations of the Christian life here. Have you ever gone through a dry spell in your walk with the Lord? I certainly have. Continual dryness will lead us not to a blaze of glory, but to a dingy brown, drifting and falling. It is this danger that should prompt us to seek the face of the Lord and the strength of his Word all the more. At the hint of a drought we should rush to the source of living water and plunge in deep.

It is a challenge. It is a daily pursuit. And it will lead us into a joyful life that is ablaze with the Glory of our Lord Jesus Christ.

[The picture above captures the beauty of Babcock State Park - where else? West Virginia!]

Duties of Professing Christians

"I don't understand prayer." That was the comment of a friend who saw me reading an article on prayer in J. C. Ryle's book Practical Religion: Plain Papers on the duties of Professing Christians. It may shock some of you to know I was in Starbucks, of all places, when this conversation took place. [hint of sarcasm detected]

I am preparing to teach on the subject of prayer and Ryle (d. 1900) provides great insight. His 19th century perspective is sharp and challenging. Here are a few samples.

Speaking of prayer as a certain mark of a genuine believer:

"The first act of faith will be to speak to God. Faith is to the soul what life is to the body. Prayer is to faith what breath is to life. How a man can live and not breathe is past my comprehension, and how a man can believe and not pray is past my comprehension too." page 49

Addressing the great encouragement that comes through prayer:

"There is a way by which any man, however sinful and unworthy, may draw near to God the Father. Jesus Christ has opened that way by the sacrifice He made for us upon the cross. The holiness and justice of God need not frighten sinners and keep them back. Only let them cry to God in the name of Jesus, - only let them plead the atoning blood of Jesus, - and they shall find God upon a throne of grace, willing and ready to hear." page 52

These words still ring true today. I must agree with my friend somewhat. I don't understand all there is to understand about prayer. Yet, I understand enough to realize that I need it. I desperately need it more and more.

Quotable Mahaney

"In the last week, what was your primary preoccupation in life? What was your spiritual focus? Was it on the spot where God most reveals His personal love for you - the cross? Or was it on your own circumstances, your own condition, your own concerns? Was your preoccupation with your personal pursuit of godliness? Growth in godliness must be pursued, but never apart from joyful gratitude for the cross." C. J. Mahaney, Living the Cross Centered Life: Keeping the Gospel the Main Thing, pg. 106

This series of questions is quite thought provoking. You may notice just to the left a Bible verse (Galatians 2:20) that speaks to this topic of meditating on the cross. Mahaney does a great job of challenging the reader to examine his/her walk with Christ. I commend this book to you.

Football and Faith

I took a hint from Tim Challies and read an article in ESPN magazine about the Detroit Lions QB Jon Kitna. Apparently this guy is a solid Christian and not ashamed to speak about his faith in Jesus Christ. A second article about Kitna contains the following statement by the quarterback:

"(In the Bible), we are told to consider the interests of others before ourselves," Kitna said. "What a great principle for a football team: 'I'm concerned more about my teammates than myself.' You live your life that way, and hopefully, it spills over into your football. What God wants me to do in my walk of life is to be the quarterback of this football team. Mainly I'm just trying to lead. But if the spiritual intertwines in that, that's awesome."

In a culture where many make claims of 'faith,' Kitna appears to be the genuine article. There are many others too and they seem to be bringing an essence of 'salt' and 'light' to the NFL. I spent time in locker rooms during my playing days in Jr. high and high school (Go SAHS currently undefeated). If there is a place that could use the presence of God its a football locker room.

Not everyone that professes faith in Christ will be called to vocational ministry. Yet, each Christian is called to minister where they are. The Lord can use accountants, lawyers, banker, engineers and even NFL quarterbacks. All to his glory.

Demands of Ministry

I am blessed to serve in a wonderful local church. While I often feel unprepared and inept, I believed the Lord has called me to this ministry. There are weeks that fly by and very little happens other than the normal 'day to day.' This week is very different. I am, and will be, stretched by the demands of ministry.

It is at times like this that I must lean more and more upon the Lord. During my years at seminary there were many times it seemed virtually impossible to accomplish the multitude of tasks. I would pray, 'Lord, if this work is going to get done, you must do it.' The work was always done. God is amazing, because frankly I am not that sharp.

The danger for the pastor is to be deceived by the demands of ministry. Often we can substitute busyness for true devotion to Christ. Ministry tasks can interfere with our personal time with the Lord, all in the name of our calling. When this happens we will not only be overwhelmed, but we will be spiritually depleted. I have stumbled on this path before.

Thad has a very helpful post that speaks to the importance of the pastors relationship to Christ. The message of this post may serve to encourage and challenge pastors especially during these demanding times. Read it and share it with your pastor.

I must go now. No time for blogging.

Quotable Edwards

"The kindling and raising of gracious affections is like kindling a flame; the higher it is raised, the more ardent it is; and the more it burns, the more vehemently does it tend and seek to burn." Jonathan Edwards, Religious Affections pg. 303

I confess that there are times in my life when the flame of my affections for Christ seems to only flicker. It is at those times when I realize it is because I have cast my attention in another direction or idly failed to stoke the blaze. Mind you, the flame does not go out. It can not go out due to the eternal nature of its source.

There is a genuine tension with regard to our "affections." We have come to them because of the work of God in our hearts and lives. Yet, there is a duty that lies with us. To stoke the fire that was set by the Spirit himself.

It is proper for us to seek to have within us a roaring blaze. That is my desire.

TV Programs and Sponsors

A follow up to my previous post. I did receive an email response from an executive with Kohls. They are a sponsor for ABC Family and are prominently displayed as such on the ABC Family web page. According to this individual: "Kohls has no involvement with the comments made during ABC Family programs." That is likely code for: "It's not our fault, we're just trying to sell clothing and household goods." [In all fairness, note I have provided links for all parties.]

While I am certain Kohls has nothing to do with programming, they are able too influence a network with dollars. If Kohls and other major sponsors began to pull back from certain networks/or programs there would be changes made (see any recent news article concerning Don Imus).

I'm not really about boycotts and things like that. I believe Christians have a responsibility to engage the culture and there is no bigger force in our culture than the media.

Please note the very clever cartoon by Roy Nixon! I don't know Mr. Nixon but I liked the sentiment of his work in this case.

Build on the Rock

Great insight coming out of New Orleans via Brian Bridges' blog. Check out this post. It will challenge you for sure. Have you built on the Rock?

Building Community

Are we really building community in our churches? Maybe we are preaching truth. Maybe we are enjoying enthusiastic music and worship. Maybe we are doing evangelism. But, without a sense of community these things are merely actions. Maybe actions done in obedience but possible in a very weak context. People in our culture long for authentic relationships and community.

These thoughts came to mind as I read a recent post by Dr. Michael Haykin. Insightful words from this historian. Words that should challenge each of us to examine the context in which we are worshiping and ministering.

Are we simply going through the motions, "playing church," or are we part of an effort to build a community of disciples?