This winter had several more "re-reads" as I am trying to read less overall and focus more on the absorption of what I learn (as opposed to mere exposure). I hope to continue this trend throughout the year.
My book log continues to be a helpful thing to make my reading experience more beneficial. For instance, there have been times in the past that I would forget what I had been reading even a month prior. This project has come in handy, if for nothing else, to recall books I had the opportunity to read before.
Cross Talk: Where Life and Scripture Meet by Michael Emlet: This book was more of a challenge than I bargained for. It was not challenging to read but challenging to receive. The author’s intentions to provide direction for interpreting Scripture in light of the whole sweep of redemptive history is compelling and convicting. The purpose of the book is to correct our tendency to slap a Bible verse on someone’s problem, and think we did our job faithfully. Ouch. (Nov ’09)
Called to the Ministry by Edmund P. Clowney: It seemed often that the author’s thoughts were sporadic and so it was hard to follow his arguments. However, he did have some paragraphs that were mind-blowers. Those jewels and the author’s obvious passion and reverence for the call to Christian ministry make the book worth it. (Dec ’09)
This Momentary Marriage: A Parable of Permanance by John Piper: My main focus in this reading was the first eight chapters. These are the chapters that ground the reader in the biblical definition of marriage, headship, and submission. My aim was to outline each chapter so as to follow his arguments as best I could. What a fruitful exercise! The purpose of marriage is the glory of God in the gospel of His Son, so we could never exhaust learning about this subject! (Nov-Dec ’09)
Sex, Romance, and The Glory of God: What Every Christian Husband Needs to Know by C.J. Mahaney: My second reading of this book proved even more how helpful it is. I read through the book at 3 pages a day, and this strategy helped all the more. Every morning for almost a month I was thinking about my marriage. I was thinking about how I can win my wife’s heart. The shared wisdom and ideas concerning how to love our wives is priceless. It has given me practical direction that I will cease to exercise only when I or my wife are dead. (Jan – Feb ’10)
What Is A Healthy Church? by Mark Dever: The short chapters and small pages made this an easy book to fly through. From the onset of the book Dever is very straightforward in asserting the importance of the local church in a Christian’s life, and the testimony of Scripture he puts forth makes for a compelling case that he is right to be so straightforward. This book contained the first reading I had ever done on church government. Dever argues for congregationalism, and it left me really wanting to know how other forms of government are argued for. (Feb ’10)
Anxious for Nothing by John MacArthur: This book is MacArthur doing what he does best: expositing the Scriptures. In this case he does so in a topical fashion. Almost all of the chapters center around one passage of Scripture apiece and are selected with idea that they are most worthy to be studied when desiring to fight anxiety. Cross references litter this book as MacArthur attempts to teach the Bible using the Bible. This book would be a good week to week study for a group. (Feb ’10)
The Gospel in Genesis: From Fig Leaves to Faith by Martyn Lloyd-Jones: This book was my first exposure to Lloyd-Jones. Having heard that his evening services at Westminster Abbey had an “evangelistic” sermon, my guess is that these sermons were from those evening services. MLJ pleads with the unbeliever throughout each message. Here he wants to answer the “ultimate questions” of life (Where did I come from? What is wrong with the world? What will fix the world?) using passages from the first 12 chapters of Genesis, specifically chapter 3. His style is fervent. Lloyd-Jones rails against sin and unbelief, and he makes clear their folly. He is constantly trying to demonstrate that the Bible is a book for real life and that it is “true history”. He denounces the Scientism of his day. His confidence in the Bible is whole-hearted. (Feb – Mar ’10)
Numbers by God: My second time reading through the fourth book of the Bible has proven profitable. I continue to learn that the more I read the Pentateuch the easier it is to keep up with. This point seems obvious; however, I would walk away seemingly with nothing from my first attempts reading this book. As I have come back to read again the story line is easier to keep up with, people’s names are easier to remember, and the like. More importantly is that I continue to see the steadfast love and faithfulness of God towards His people. Also (on the more humiliating side), I see their miserable disposition to doubt Him. Their grumbling and complaining outweigh their praise in this piece of the epic story of redemption. (Feb - Mar '10)
Monday, March 8, 2010
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
How to Not Idolize Preachers
Can a preacher be idolized? This question is like asking, “Can a party invitation take credit for a good party?”(Think about it…) The two do not seem to flow together. However, as any honest person would affirm “our hearts are idol factories.” People can make anything or any person an idol. We can take any sort of good thing, make it an ultimate thing, and there you have your idol.
What about idolizing a minister of the gospel? Could it be possible? More people than we may think are dealing with this issue. With the development of mega-communication systems and mega-churches, preachers of God’s Word can get quite a bit of attention. Yes, even the preachers who are telling people, “Repent of your idols and trust Christ,” are being thought to be potential idols. Their conferences are well advertised and well attended. Their podcasts are downloaded by the millions. Their books fly of the printing presses.
So, what may one do if he finds himself in such a predicament? Here are few things to think about.
First, however, let me throw in a disclaimer. Someone may read this and think, “What a bunch of weirdoes! Worshipping a preacher?!” Before you go that route think about this: All idolatry is weird to at least some people. For instance, when I see hundreds of thousands of people give their time, money, devotion, commitment, and praise to a football team it makes me think one thing: dumb. So, all idolatry, even Christianity, is going to be seen as weird to at least some people. Before you hate on preacher-worshippers just think how silly you look when you get giddy because of your new gameday tee-shirt.
Back to how to squash preacher idolatry:
1) Idolize God:
God is more powerful, more holy, more humble, more loving, more knowledgeable, more faithful, more joyful, more just, more experienced, more patient, more peaceful, and more gracious. Not to mention He is the only self-sufficient being ever. He is eternal, immutable, ever-present, and absolutely sovereign. Too put it simply, He is the better God. We are dumb to choose our preacher-gods.
Meditating on the truth about the true God will liberate us from our false gods. I do not mean just memorizing these truths, but I mean we need to absorb them. They must be the framework of our lives, the sustenance of our souls.
2) Get your own preacher:
What I mean by “Get your own preacher” is, “Join a church.” Partner yourself in the most serious way with a local congregation. Immerse yourself into their community. Covenant together with them to be as biblically faithful, Christ-centered, and God glorifying as you can. If you do this, then you will have your own preacher.
How does this help with preacher idolization? It helps in two ways. If you have your own preacher you will see him for who he is: a sinner saved by grace. You will know, firsthand, he needs the same gospel that you do. His remedy is the same as yours. Then you will think to yourself, “This guy is a terrible idol. I need the real thing. Give me Jesus!”
This direction will also help in that you will have less time for outside preaching. You will be following your church’s agenda for studying the Scriptures. There will simply be a lack of time to listen to the famous guys.
3) Use good preaching rightly:
There are two parts to this one: (1) Use good preaching and (2) rightly receive it. To avoid preacher idolatry make sure the preaching is similar to the church you will join: biblically faithful, Christ-centered, and God glorifying. If the preacher is doing his job, then he will be constantly steering you to Christ. His arguments will establish the truth of Christ. His plea will be to repent to Christ. His wisdom will flow out of the fear of the Lord. His adjectives will exalt the name of the Lord.
If you stopped right there, then you would be on a good road to not worshipping the preacher. Still, we need to receive good preaching rightly. The preacher worshipper goes wrong when he thinks, “What great preaching! That preacher is great.” Instead he should think, “What great preaching! God is great.” We must know that preaching is a means of the Holy Spirit to make known Christ’s gospel. It is not a means to make known a preacher. Thus, we should ask after every sermon we hear, “How did this time spent under the preached Word reveal to me more truth about who God is for me in Christ? How did this time help me root out the stingy sin stealing my affection for Jesus?”
Any other ideas?
What about idolizing a minister of the gospel? Could it be possible? More people than we may think are dealing with this issue. With the development of mega-communication systems and mega-churches, preachers of God’s Word can get quite a bit of attention. Yes, even the preachers who are telling people, “Repent of your idols and trust Christ,” are being thought to be potential idols. Their conferences are well advertised and well attended. Their podcasts are downloaded by the millions. Their books fly of the printing presses.
So, what may one do if he finds himself in such a predicament? Here are few things to think about.
First, however, let me throw in a disclaimer. Someone may read this and think, “What a bunch of weirdoes! Worshipping a preacher?!” Before you go that route think about this: All idolatry is weird to at least some people. For instance, when I see hundreds of thousands of people give their time, money, devotion, commitment, and praise to a football team it makes me think one thing: dumb. So, all idolatry, even Christianity, is going to be seen as weird to at least some people. Before you hate on preacher-worshippers just think how silly you look when you get giddy because of your new gameday tee-shirt.
Back to how to squash preacher idolatry:
1) Idolize God:
God is more powerful, more holy, more humble, more loving, more knowledgeable, more faithful, more joyful, more just, more experienced, more patient, more peaceful, and more gracious. Not to mention He is the only self-sufficient being ever. He is eternal, immutable, ever-present, and absolutely sovereign. Too put it simply, He is the better God. We are dumb to choose our preacher-gods.
Meditating on the truth about the true God will liberate us from our false gods. I do not mean just memorizing these truths, but I mean we need to absorb them. They must be the framework of our lives, the sustenance of our souls.
2) Get your own preacher:
What I mean by “Get your own preacher” is, “Join a church.” Partner yourself in the most serious way with a local congregation. Immerse yourself into their community. Covenant together with them to be as biblically faithful, Christ-centered, and God glorifying as you can. If you do this, then you will have your own preacher.
How does this help with preacher idolization? It helps in two ways. If you have your own preacher you will see him for who he is: a sinner saved by grace. You will know, firsthand, he needs the same gospel that you do. His remedy is the same as yours. Then you will think to yourself, “This guy is a terrible idol. I need the real thing. Give me Jesus!”
This direction will also help in that you will have less time for outside preaching. You will be following your church’s agenda for studying the Scriptures. There will simply be a lack of time to listen to the famous guys.
3) Use good preaching rightly:
There are two parts to this one: (1) Use good preaching and (2) rightly receive it. To avoid preacher idolatry make sure the preaching is similar to the church you will join: biblically faithful, Christ-centered, and God glorifying. If the preacher is doing his job, then he will be constantly steering you to Christ. His arguments will establish the truth of Christ. His plea will be to repent to Christ. His wisdom will flow out of the fear of the Lord. His adjectives will exalt the name of the Lord.
If you stopped right there, then you would be on a good road to not worshipping the preacher. Still, we need to receive good preaching rightly. The preacher worshipper goes wrong when he thinks, “What great preaching! That preacher is great.” Instead he should think, “What great preaching! God is great.” We must know that preaching is a means of the Holy Spirit to make known Christ’s gospel. It is not a means to make known a preacher. Thus, we should ask after every sermon we hear, “How did this time spent under the preached Word reveal to me more truth about who God is for me in Christ? How did this time help me root out the stingy sin stealing my affection for Jesus?”
Any other ideas?
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
Construction Underway
Greetings team:
As I write you this email from my desk in Guatemala, the first thing I want to mention is just that we need to be so very thankful to our LORD and Savior Jesus Christ. The more I read about the recent events in Haiti and all over the world the more I can't help but feel amazingly grateful for the position in which I was born into. I encourage you to look at this situation with a sense of appreciation to the LORD for everything He has blessed us with because we are sinners. I'm sure you have been overwhelmed with the media constantly reporting about the whole situation, but I pray that we use it as a way of looking to God and thanking Him for His Grace.
Since my last email…
As I write you this email from my desk in Guatemala, the first thing I want to mention is just that we need to be so very thankful to our LORD and Savior Jesus Christ. The more I read about the recent events in Haiti and all over the world the more I can't help but feel amazingly grateful for the position in which I was born into. I encourage you to look at this situation with a sense of appreciation to the LORD for everything He has blessed us with because we are sinners. I'm sure you have been overwhelmed with the media constantly reporting about the whole situation, but I pray that we use it as a way of looking to God and thanking Him for His Grace.
Since my last email…
We have begun construction and have seen our first team come and go. The team consisted of eleven students and one professor from Dordt College in Sioux City, Iowa, and let me tell you they were an amazing blessing. It was wonderful to get to interact with English-speaking people and to see the way their hearts desired to serve the LORD. The first part of the week they worked on painting one of the campus dormitories and getting it ready for a large group of students expected to have a retreat here in late July. After they were done there, we all began the first bit of site work...aka...digging footings for the building and bending rebar for the columns. Again, I will remark on what a great job they did. Digging five-by-five-by-five foot holes with nothing but shovels and pick axes is not fun, but the group managed to get quite a few of the holes started. Now three Guatemaltecos (Guatemalan Nationalists) and I are finishing up the holes, and preparing to pour concrete atop the footings. One other interesting note is that the team left some clothing and shoes behind for the people here and since most Guatemaltecos are short and have small feet it is quite funny to see them all working in women’s shoes and t-shirts. Even though the clothes aren’t for men, they fit and ultimately the workers are extremely grateful to have anything new. To be a part of this whole process has been extremely interesting, and I thank God that everything has been running very smoothly so far.
There was one particular incident, though, that should also be mentioned, and that was being robbed at gunpoint while we were on a hike. God protected us and opened our eyes to some issues, but it was a very surreal experience. That day the group, myself, and a fellow Guatemalteco went hiking up a mountain located behind the school. We went up, took some great pictures, and then after about 30 minutes headed back down the same trail. As we were going down the switchbacks the Guatemalteco who was our guide rounded a corner to see two men standing in the path with guns. They held the gun to our guides' head, and made us all sit down and get out our money and belongings. Since it was a switchback and I was at the rear two other girls and I were able to toss some of our things into the woods so that they wouldn't be taken. The guys walked up and down the line pointing the gun at each one of us, and frisking us to make sure we weren't hiding anything. After about fifteen minutes they made us hike back up the mountain so that they could make their get away. The story sounds surprisingly simple when I type it out. Anyway, we then returned to the school and, as you can expect, we were all in a sort of shock as to what had happened; so the whole group went into a house here and sat around and prayed. I tell you that moment was amazing. I can't remember everything that was said, and I wouldn't feel right about sharing the prayers, but just know it was one of those special moments in life. You know it is times like this that make you realize what is important and what is temporary. It is the same with the situation in Haiti. Every day, every morning, every thing is a gift from God. In the end, the thieves made away with a phone, a few cameras, and about forty bucks, but as we all know those are simply earthly possessions.
The last day before the team departed one of the girls shared a devotion on Psalm 37, and I although I would urge to read the whole thing. I will leave you with this one verse that I think is a great way to start out every morning.
Psalm 37:5 "Commit your ways to the LORD; Trust in Him, and He will act."
May God's Grace be with you.
Matt
Psalm 37:5 "Commit your ways to the LORD; Trust in Him, and He will act."
May God's Grace be with you.
Matt
Thursday, December 17, 2009
Feliz Navidad
Greetings from Central America
Last time I wrote you I was unsure as to how long I would be in language school, but that is no longer the case. I recently was alerted by the ministry that they will need me to be present for a mission team on December 31. So with that being said I will be leaving language school after this next week 12/18 and moving to my more permanent location in Totonicapan. Which is exciting my Spanish is still improving, but I believe it well get better the longer that I live within the culture.
One slight variation to my original job description is that I may also be doing some preliminary design for a project in another city. Sometimes when working on things in developing countries one has to be flexible and willing to change directions, and this seems like one of those times. Although I am very excited at the opportunity to work on as many different things as possible it does make me a little worried that I won't be able to provide the proper amount of attention to both projects. But hey "I can do all things through Him that gives me strength" so I'll get through it.
So with that being said that is pretty much all of the new news from here. Things are still going well with my host family although we did have a little battle with an infestation of fleas, but after several bites and a few loads of laundry we emerged victoriously. So praise the LORD for getting us through that. The people here have continued to be extremely friendly, and I thank God for this blessing because it has helped to comfort me when I feel alone. I also am so incredibly grateful for for all of you. It is impossible to quantify how extremely comforted I feel to know that I have a support team filled with other believers who are praying for me.
I hope you have a wonderful holiday season and Merry Christmas with friends and family. God has blessed us all with incredible things over the course of our lives, and I pray that we all continue to see Him above all things.
Last time I wrote you I was unsure as to how long I would be in language school, but that is no longer the case. I recently was alerted by the ministry that they will need me to be present for a mission team on December 31. So with that being said I will be leaving language school after this next week 12/18 and moving to my more permanent location in Totonicapan. Which is exciting my Spanish is still improving, but I believe it well get better the longer that I live within the culture.
One slight variation to my original job description is that I may also be doing some preliminary design for a project in another city. Sometimes when working on things in developing countries one has to be flexible and willing to change directions, and this seems like one of those times. Although I am very excited at the opportunity to work on as many different things as possible it does make me a little worried that I won't be able to provide the proper amount of attention to both projects. But hey "I can do all things through Him that gives me strength" so I'll get through it.
So with that being said that is pretty much all of the new news from here. Things are still going well with my host family although we did have a little battle with an infestation of fleas, but after several bites and a few loads of laundry we emerged victoriously. So praise the LORD for getting us through that. The people here have continued to be extremely friendly, and I thank God for this blessing because it has helped to comfort me when I feel alone. I also am so incredibly grateful for for all of you. It is impossible to quantify how extremely comforted I feel to know that I have a support team filled with other believers who are praying for me.
I hope you have a wonderful holiday season and Merry Christmas with friends and family. God has blessed us all with incredible things over the course of our lives, and I pray that we all continue to see Him above all things.
Joy to the world the LORD has come!
Matt
One of my favorite Christmas messages is this one from John Piper where he uses the verse John 18:37 Pilate said "so you are a king" and Jesus responded "it is as you say. For this I have been born. For this I have come in to the world. To bear witness to the truth and whoever hears truth will hear My voice"
One of my favorite Christmas messages is this one from John Piper where he uses the verse John 18:37 Pilate said "so you are a king" and Jesus responded "it is as you say. For this I have been born. For this I have come in to the world. To bear witness to the truth and whoever hears truth will hear My voice"
*pictures should be updated this weekend at this site
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
Book Log for Fall
Here are the books I have read through throughout the fall.
How People Change by Tim Lane and Paul Tripp: This book focuses on the right things concerning the Christian life: the heart, self-examination, evil and suffering in the world (and in us), the cross, community, and growth (or present grace or discipleship). These truths are standard for not just understanding but experiencing the Christian life. As Future Grace is meticulous concerning the Christian life, How People Change is holistic concerning the Christian life. Very penetrating, easily re-readable, and worth a more serious study.
Turning Points by Mark Noll: Overall it was readable and helpful for getting a “big picture” view of the history of Christianity. After the chapter on the Diet of Worms things get more complicated as the schisms within the church multiply, so the first 7 or 8 chapters are more helpful than the last 4 or 5. The inserts of original texts were nice. The material on Martin Luther was passionately and well written (displaying the authors confessed affection for Luther's thought).
A Call to Prayer by J.C. Ryle: “Piercing exhortation” is the best phrase to capture this 32 page tract. About a year ago I tried to read it and only got about six pages in before I could go no longer. The author’s warnings of eternal consequence to the prayerless person are, as I said, piercing. His final commendations to the one who does pray are very helpful, however, still sharp. Because of its energy and brevity this will be a good re-read.
When Sinners Say “I Do” by Dave Harvey: The book has a wonderfully helpful thrust: understanding and embracing the reality of the depth of your sin (and your spouse’s) will propel you to embrace the cross of Christ and live a life of love, sacrifice, joy, etc. Along with this is a lot of helpful wisdom in different aspects of the Christian life (showing mercy, grace, forgiveness, etc.) The chapter on confronting sin in your spouse’s life is really good.
Culture Shift by Al Mohler: Three things helped this book stay interesting: short chapters, relevant topics, and convincing arguments (The citing the author does of secular or opposing arguments is really helpful for this last one.). The book is a necessary read for developing a Christian worldview as a U.S. citizen because of the individual topics discussed. The chapters on abortion, parenting, and Christian morality and public law were the most beneficial.
Addiction by Ed Welch: As much as this book is about addictions it is about sin. The book is helpful for anyone who sins and wants to understand it and fight it. There is a much needed agenda within the book of centralizing the debate about whether addiction is a sickness/physical problem or a sin/spiritual problem. The book addresses counselors and addicts. The application questions at the end of each chapter are worth the price of the book alone.
Leviticus by God: There was a lot in there I am sure I did not understand, but two things are clear: God is holy and if sinners are to know Him they must be atoned for. God’s presence cannot dwell amongst any sort or amount of rebellion. Their sin must be punished if sinners are to know the Holy One of Israel.
How People Change by Tim Lane and Paul Tripp: This book focuses on the right things concerning the Christian life: the heart, self-examination, evil and suffering in the world (and in us), the cross, community, and growth (or present grace or discipleship). These truths are standard for not just understanding but experiencing the Christian life. As Future Grace is meticulous concerning the Christian life, How People Change is holistic concerning the Christian life. Very penetrating, easily re-readable, and worth a more serious study.
Turning Points by Mark Noll: Overall it was readable and helpful for getting a “big picture” view of the history of Christianity. After the chapter on the Diet of Worms things get more complicated as the schisms within the church multiply, so the first 7 or 8 chapters are more helpful than the last 4 or 5. The inserts of original texts were nice. The material on Martin Luther was passionately and well written (displaying the authors confessed affection for Luther's thought).
A Call to Prayer by J.C. Ryle: “Piercing exhortation” is the best phrase to capture this 32 page tract. About a year ago I tried to read it and only got about six pages in before I could go no longer. The author’s warnings of eternal consequence to the prayerless person are, as I said, piercing. His final commendations to the one who does pray are very helpful, however, still sharp. Because of its energy and brevity this will be a good re-read.
When Sinners Say “I Do” by Dave Harvey: The book has a wonderfully helpful thrust: understanding and embracing the reality of the depth of your sin (and your spouse’s) will propel you to embrace the cross of Christ and live a life of love, sacrifice, joy, etc. Along with this is a lot of helpful wisdom in different aspects of the Christian life (showing mercy, grace, forgiveness, etc.) The chapter on confronting sin in your spouse’s life is really good.
Culture Shift by Al Mohler: Three things helped this book stay interesting: short chapters, relevant topics, and convincing arguments (The citing the author does of secular or opposing arguments is really helpful for this last one.). The book is a necessary read for developing a Christian worldview as a U.S. citizen because of the individual topics discussed. The chapters on abortion, parenting, and Christian morality and public law were the most beneficial.
Addiction by Ed Welch: As much as this book is about addictions it is about sin. The book is helpful for anyone who sins and wants to understand it and fight it. There is a much needed agenda within the book of centralizing the debate about whether addiction is a sickness/physical problem or a sin/spiritual problem. The book addresses counselors and addicts. The application questions at the end of each chapter are worth the price of the book alone.
Leviticus by God: There was a lot in there I am sure I did not understand, but two things are clear: God is holy and if sinners are to know Him they must be atoned for. God’s presence cannot dwell amongst any sort or amount of rebellion. Their sin must be punished if sinners are to know the Holy One of Israel.
Friday, October 2, 2009
Reflections on Rom. 6
For quite some time I have wrestled with what 'the specifics' are that are floating in Paul's head as he inspirationally pens Romans 5-7. Is he still flushing out what is means to be justified? Is he now explaining results of justification: hope, assurance, etc.? Has he moved on to sanctification specifically? Is it some combination of these?
Recently I have come across some potential insight on Chapter 6 that I felt like sharing, either to edify you, the reader, or open myself up to correction and rebuke from you, the responder.
My observations begin from examining the phrase in 6:20 ~ "free in regard to righteousness." Because Paul's teaching on the unbeliever's (Jew or Gentile) relationship to “righteousness” is so clear in Ch.1-3, this phrase “free in regard to righteousness” may be very helpful at beginning to understand many other Pauline phrases (especially in the surrounding context): “set free from sin,” "slaves of sin, " and “slaves of righteousness.” Paul makes clear that, though people are not as bad as they could be, no one can live in righteousness as to obtain it's results: eternal life(2:6-7; 3:10,20). This is very possibly what he means by “you were free in regard to righteousness.” This might equate “free from sin” meaning that there is no way Christians could live in sin as to obtain it's results: death. Also, just as those who are “free in regard to righteousness” have 'more room' to be more wicked, those we are “free from sin” have more room to be more holy. Now, this understanding of “free in regard to righteousness” could indicate that “slaves of righteousness” means that Christians will undoubtedly obtain the outcome of righteousness: eternal life. Likewise, a “slave of sin” would undoubtedly obtain the outcome of sin: death.
However, even if all this has some validity, one cannot simply make these four statements about justification. The entirety of Ch. 6 demands that there are aspects in these phrases regarding the way one lives his/her life (6:4 “walk in newness of life” and 6:22 “set free from sin and have become slaves of God”), not just our legal standing before God.
Aha! It is very possible the inseparability of justification and sanctification (more or less the point of Ch.6 (6:1-2, 15)) is defended by Paul because he cannot find words to describe one (i.e. Being “free from sin” indicates we are unquestionably released from it's condemning power (justification)) without somehow describing the other at the same time (i.e. Being “free from sin” indicates that we are unquestionably released from it's appeal and attractiveness (sanctification)).
I can potentially see this same depth to the phrases "live in [sin]," "died to sin," "died with Christ," "live with him," "alive to God," etc. Verses 8:1-4 might be helpful to look at as well.
I need to let this marinate a little more. Maybe someone can help me do so. But wherever we land on this one, there are helpful reminders thrown in the middle of this chapter for us to end on:
1)6:19 ~ "I am speaking in human terms, because of your natural limitations [talking to Christians!]"
2)A combination of the commands in v.13 and 19 ~ "present yourselves [our responsibility] as instruments/slaves of righteousness" with the worship in v.17 ~ "Thanks be to God [credit given to God], that you who were once slaves of sin have become obedient from the heart..."
Recently I have come across some potential insight on Chapter 6 that I felt like sharing, either to edify you, the reader, or open myself up to correction and rebuke from you, the responder.
My observations begin from examining the phrase in 6:20 ~ "free in regard to righteousness." Because Paul's teaching on the unbeliever's (Jew or Gentile) relationship to “righteousness” is so clear in Ch.1-3, this phrase “free in regard to righteousness” may be very helpful at beginning to understand many other Pauline phrases (especially in the surrounding context): “set free from sin,” "slaves of sin, " and “slaves of righteousness.” Paul makes clear that, though people are not as bad as they could be, no one can live in righteousness as to obtain it's results: eternal life(2:6-7; 3:10,20). This is very possibly what he means by “you were free in regard to righteousness.” This might equate “free from sin” meaning that there is no way Christians could live in sin as to obtain it's results: death. Also, just as those who are “free in regard to righteousness” have 'more room' to be more wicked, those we are “free from sin” have more room to be more holy. Now, this understanding of “free in regard to righteousness” could indicate that “slaves of righteousness” means that Christians will undoubtedly obtain the outcome of righteousness: eternal life. Likewise, a “slave of sin” would undoubtedly obtain the outcome of sin: death.
However, even if all this has some validity, one cannot simply make these four statements about justification. The entirety of Ch. 6 demands that there are aspects in these phrases regarding the way one lives his/her life (6:4 “walk in newness of life” and 6:22 “set free from sin and have become slaves of God”), not just our legal standing before God.
Aha! It is very possible the inseparability of justification and sanctification (more or less the point of Ch.6 (6:1-2, 15)) is defended by Paul because he cannot find words to describe one (i.e. Being “free from sin” indicates we are unquestionably released from it's condemning power (justification)) without somehow describing the other at the same time (i.e. Being “free from sin” indicates that we are unquestionably released from it's appeal and attractiveness (sanctification)).
I can potentially see this same depth to the phrases "live in [sin]," "died to sin," "died with Christ," "live with him," "alive to God," etc. Verses 8:1-4 might be helpful to look at as well.
I need to let this marinate a little more. Maybe someone can help me do so. But wherever we land on this one, there are helpful reminders thrown in the middle of this chapter for us to end on:
1)6:19 ~ "I am speaking in human terms, because of your natural limitations [talking to Christians!]"
2)A combination of the commands in v.13 and 19 ~ "present yourselves [our responsibility] as instruments/slaves of righteousness" with the worship in v.17 ~ "Thanks be to God [credit given to God], that you who were once slaves of sin have become obedient from the heart..."
Thursday, September 3, 2009
Book Log
The following is an idea I received from this post by Kevin DeYoung who got the idea from Doug Wilson. The idea is to list the books one has been reading over the past however so long and then to write whatever comments may be helpful for summarizing, describing, critiquing, praising, or ripping the book. Also, the comments are supposed to stay relatively short.
Reasons why to do a book roll: (1) Not to show how much I read. I really do not read that much. Some days 40-60 pages and some days 5. It is not a jewel on the crown of my heart that I read a lot, and I realize it is a gift from the Lord that I read at all. (2) Since I began book rolling I have found it to be a helpful exercise for retaining the book. It may only be one sentence blurb, but it still helps capture what most you received from the book. Writing the blurb as well as going back to read them weeks later has been good for me. (3) It is always interesting to me what books people are reading. No matter who the person is I love to ask, "What are you reading right now?" Books simply become more interesting when you know someone who is reading it or has read it.
This book roll covers from last December to present.
Desiring God by John Piper:
Paradigm shifting on how men are to find pleasure and how God is to be glorified, and it is well argued that these are the two most important and inescapable realities: men will seek pleasure and God will be glorified. It is at times dense, and only in a few spots seriously intellectually challenging. In other parts the concepts are explained more lightly and are not as difficult to grasp. In other words any one chapter could range from Beginner to Intermediate to Expert in level.
Future Grace by John Piper:
Crucial in understanding what the root of sin is: unbelief. Crucial in understanding what the solution to fighting sin is: belief. Wonderful 31 chapter structure that leads one to work through the book relatively easily in a month. The propositions are heavy but clear and most importantly soul-edifying in the cause of crucifying our flesh.
To Kill A Mocking Bird by Harper Lee:
An interesting look into an interesting family’s life. A powerful story of a sad era in American history. A funny and accurate description of life in small town south Alabama.
Total Church by Tim Chester and Steve Timmis:
Simple directions with profound implications. A penetrating but brief overview of the church by two committed house-church pastors in England. A fun sub-title might have been, “How to keep Christians from drowning in programs and being lost in big churches.”
A Call to Spiritual Reformation by D. A. Carson:
Largely includes exposition of Paul’s prayers in his epistles. It focuses on what Paul prayed for and why. There is strong exhortation and correction from Carson. The book also has a good opening chapter that consists of general words of wisdom concerning prayer. Also worth noting is a section on God’s sovereignty and human responsibility in which the author says he would die defending a compatabilist view of these doctrines.
Atheism Remix by Al Mohler:
A quick book of four lectures put in print. They are helpful in understanding the main thrust of each of the four horseman of the New Atheism. A nice summarization of McGrath and Plantinga’s critiques of Dawkins followed by a unique critique of their critiques. Overall, a helpful book in continuing to think through atheism/theism and biblical theism/evolutionary theism. This book is for discerning Christians (especially chapter four), not atheists necessarily.
The Gospel and Personal Evangelism by Mark Dever:
An easy read (100 pages) with a ton of challenging encouragement to engage with the lost and communicate the gospel in everyday interaction. I keep thinking that for many reasons this would be a wonderful book for a new follower of Christ. It is easy to read, it focuses on clarifying the gospel, and will keep the main thing the main thing: making disciples. Chapter 4, “How Should We Evangelize?” was the most helpful chapter for me and extremely so.
The Life of God in the Soul of Man by Henri Scougal:
Whew! How the mind must focus when reading legit Puritans or any book for that matter that is over 300 years old. Wonderful thoughts on true religion or the “divine life.” The meditations on the worth of the object of our affections determining the strength of our affections (Part 2) and the thoughts on “setting our minds on heavenly things” (Part 3) are very profitable. The brief sections help you keep moving.
Spiritual Disciplines of the Christian Life by Donald Whitney:
A most challenging and comprehensive introduction to the spiritual disciplines. The challenge begins in chapter one as the author argues well for the centrality of discipline in the Christian life. Also, he peppers the book with thoughtful but direct questions asked of the reader in regards to whether he will be obedient or not. Appropriately the last line of the book is, “Where and when will you begin [disciplining yourself for the purpose of godliness]?”
Sex, Romance, and the Glory of God by C.J. Mahaney:
Tremendously helpful in practical ways. It is as helpful in “practical marriage” as Momentary Marriage is on the theology of marriage. Oddly enough for a book supposedly about sex, it has some wonderful meditations on death, and the effectiveness of thinking often on eternity. As bad as I am at marriage and as much time as I spend with my wife means I will read it over and over.
God, Family, and Marriage by Andreas Kostenberger:
A theology of marriage and family that examines current issues from homosexuality to marriage, divorce, and remarriage to birth control all in one work. The key word for this work is “integral.” Seeing these topics and issues as they lay side by side gives an added ability for the book to be profitable. It was indeed and will be excellent for referencing because of its comprehensiveness.
Momentary Marriage by John Piper:
Because of the importance of marriage for the church and society and because of Piper’s insistence on understanding and applying God’s Word, this may be one of the more important books he writes on the whole. Everyone should read this book. Quick chapters, sweet quotes from Bonheoffer, and the foundation is laid for a sound, Biblical conviction and understanding of marriage.
The Apostle Paul’s First Letter to Timothy by God:
Until I committed to extensively studying the pastoral epistles last April this letter remained such a mystery to me. I would randomly read through the letter and think, “What? Huh? Why did you say that? But this doesn’t work with that? What about what you wrote to the Ephesians? This is weird?” I am definitely still working through a lot, but how enriching Paul’s words are for the soul, how instructive for the church’s leaders, and what a model of commitment to “life and doctrine.”
Reasons why to do a book roll: (1) Not to show how much I read. I really do not read that much. Some days 40-60 pages and some days 5. It is not a jewel on the crown of my heart that I read a lot, and I realize it is a gift from the Lord that I read at all. (2) Since I began book rolling I have found it to be a helpful exercise for retaining the book. It may only be one sentence blurb, but it still helps capture what most you received from the book. Writing the blurb as well as going back to read them weeks later has been good for me. (3) It is always interesting to me what books people are reading. No matter who the person is I love to ask, "What are you reading right now?" Books simply become more interesting when you know someone who is reading it or has read it.
This book roll covers from last December to present.
Desiring God by John Piper:
Paradigm shifting on how men are to find pleasure and how God is to be glorified, and it is well argued that these are the two most important and inescapable realities: men will seek pleasure and God will be glorified. It is at times dense, and only in a few spots seriously intellectually challenging. In other parts the concepts are explained more lightly and are not as difficult to grasp. In other words any one chapter could range from Beginner to Intermediate to Expert in level.
Future Grace by John Piper:
Crucial in understanding what the root of sin is: unbelief. Crucial in understanding what the solution to fighting sin is: belief. Wonderful 31 chapter structure that leads one to work through the book relatively easily in a month. The propositions are heavy but clear and most importantly soul-edifying in the cause of crucifying our flesh.
To Kill A Mocking Bird by Harper Lee:
An interesting look into an interesting family’s life. A powerful story of a sad era in American history. A funny and accurate description of life in small town south Alabama.
Total Church by Tim Chester and Steve Timmis:
Simple directions with profound implications. A penetrating but brief overview of the church by two committed house-church pastors in England. A fun sub-title might have been, “How to keep Christians from drowning in programs and being lost in big churches.”
A Call to Spiritual Reformation by D. A. Carson:
Largely includes exposition of Paul’s prayers in his epistles. It focuses on what Paul prayed for and why. There is strong exhortation and correction from Carson. The book also has a good opening chapter that consists of general words of wisdom concerning prayer. Also worth noting is a section on God’s sovereignty and human responsibility in which the author says he would die defending a compatabilist view of these doctrines.
Atheism Remix by Al Mohler:
A quick book of four lectures put in print. They are helpful in understanding the main thrust of each of the four horseman of the New Atheism. A nice summarization of McGrath and Plantinga’s critiques of Dawkins followed by a unique critique of their critiques. Overall, a helpful book in continuing to think through atheism/theism and biblical theism/evolutionary theism. This book is for discerning Christians (especially chapter four), not atheists necessarily.
The Gospel and Personal Evangelism by Mark Dever:
An easy read (100 pages) with a ton of challenging encouragement to engage with the lost and communicate the gospel in everyday interaction. I keep thinking that for many reasons this would be a wonderful book for a new follower of Christ. It is easy to read, it focuses on clarifying the gospel, and will keep the main thing the main thing: making disciples. Chapter 4, “How Should We Evangelize?” was the most helpful chapter for me and extremely so.
The Life of God in the Soul of Man by Henri Scougal:
Whew! How the mind must focus when reading legit Puritans or any book for that matter that is over 300 years old. Wonderful thoughts on true religion or the “divine life.” The meditations on the worth of the object of our affections determining the strength of our affections (Part 2) and the thoughts on “setting our minds on heavenly things” (Part 3) are very profitable. The brief sections help you keep moving.
Spiritual Disciplines of the Christian Life by Donald Whitney:
A most challenging and comprehensive introduction to the spiritual disciplines. The challenge begins in chapter one as the author argues well for the centrality of discipline in the Christian life. Also, he peppers the book with thoughtful but direct questions asked of the reader in regards to whether he will be obedient or not. Appropriately the last line of the book is, “Where and when will you begin [disciplining yourself for the purpose of godliness]?”
Sex, Romance, and the Glory of God by C.J. Mahaney:
Tremendously helpful in practical ways. It is as helpful in “practical marriage” as Momentary Marriage is on the theology of marriage. Oddly enough for a book supposedly about sex, it has some wonderful meditations on death, and the effectiveness of thinking often on eternity. As bad as I am at marriage and as much time as I spend with my wife means I will read it over and over.
God, Family, and Marriage by Andreas Kostenberger:
A theology of marriage and family that examines current issues from homosexuality to marriage, divorce, and remarriage to birth control all in one work. The key word for this work is “integral.” Seeing these topics and issues as they lay side by side gives an added ability for the book to be profitable. It was indeed and will be excellent for referencing because of its comprehensiveness.
Momentary Marriage by John Piper:
Because of the importance of marriage for the church and society and because of Piper’s insistence on understanding and applying God’s Word, this may be one of the more important books he writes on the whole. Everyone should read this book. Quick chapters, sweet quotes from Bonheoffer, and the foundation is laid for a sound, Biblical conviction and understanding of marriage.
The Apostle Paul’s First Letter to Timothy by God:
Until I committed to extensively studying the pastoral epistles last April this letter remained such a mystery to me. I would randomly read through the letter and think, “What? Huh? Why did you say that? But this doesn’t work with that? What about what you wrote to the Ephesians? This is weird?” I am definitely still working through a lot, but how enriching Paul’s words are for the soul, how instructive for the church’s leaders, and what a model of commitment to “life and doctrine.”
Thursday, July 23, 2009
The Patience and Kindness of the Cross
Having been engaged to be married for over eight months now I have been involved in a ridiculous amount of pre-marital counseling. During the last year we have met with a counselor privately, we have been a part of group studies, and I have read several books and articles. Some of it has been good, some of it has been real good, and some of it has been (sadly, but honestly) a waste of time.
One of the things that is common amongst all this pre-marital talk is taking one word or idea and spending a whole article or time of counseling on that one thing. For instance "forgiveness" or "compassion" or "humility" or "unity." Then you take that topic of study and apply it to marriage. Simple enough.
In my arrogance I am seriously getting tired of this model of study. Added to the fact that this aproach has been annoyingly common in the past eight months, it often includes light reflection on Scripture. The hard lean towards application often becomes less helpful because the substance of God's word is not tapped like it could and should be. (Sorry, I am kind of ranting and venting.)
Nonetheless, in the last couple of weeks with some "about-to-be-married" friends we have spent time reflecting on patience and kindness. Our leader informed us, "Patience is taking the worst of someone, and kindness is giving your best to someone."
The definitions seemed immediately helpful to me, and upon a few minutes meditation I was struck with an awesome thought:
"When He was reviled, he did not revile in return; when He suffered, He did not threaten..." 1 Peter 2:23
The patience of God was peaked during the hours of Good Friday as he "took the worst" the world had to offer.
Still, Peter continues:
"He Himself bore our sins in His body on the tree, that we might die to sin and live to righteousness. By His wounds we have been healed." 1 Peter 2:24
And so, as Christ is bearing sinners' sins in His body He is "giving His best" to His people. The sweetest, most sufficient sacrifice for all who would repent to Him and believe in Him.
Wrapped up in the center of the gospel is the supreme display of patience and kindness. Jesus could have received no worse, and He could have given no more.
I cannot help but think of this hymn when pondering how to fight sin (namely that of being impatient and unkind):
Turn your eyes upon Jesus,
Look full in His wonderful face.
And the things of earth will grow strangely dim,
In the light of His glory and grace.
I know the author is attacking "the things of earth", but is not our flesh counted in that? And so when I apply the author's sin-stomping strategy I hear my heart roar in the hour of temptation, "Look to Christ constantly! Live by faith in the Son of God! And His Spirit will permeate your mind and purge impatience and unkindness from your heart as you are enthralled with the glorious gospel of the blessed God!"
One of the things that is common amongst all this pre-marital talk is taking one word or idea and spending a whole article or time of counseling on that one thing. For instance "forgiveness" or "compassion" or "humility" or "unity." Then you take that topic of study and apply it to marriage. Simple enough.
In my arrogance I am seriously getting tired of this model of study. Added to the fact that this aproach has been annoyingly common in the past eight months, it often includes light reflection on Scripture. The hard lean towards application often becomes less helpful because the substance of God's word is not tapped like it could and should be. (Sorry, I am kind of ranting and venting.)
Nonetheless, in the last couple of weeks with some "about-to-be-married" friends we have spent time reflecting on patience and kindness. Our leader informed us, "Patience is taking the worst of someone, and kindness is giving your best to someone."
The definitions seemed immediately helpful to me, and upon a few minutes meditation I was struck with an awesome thought:
"When He was reviled, he did not revile in return; when He suffered, He did not threaten..." 1 Peter 2:23
The patience of God was peaked during the hours of Good Friday as he "took the worst" the world had to offer.
Still, Peter continues:
"He Himself bore our sins in His body on the tree, that we might die to sin and live to righteousness. By His wounds we have been healed." 1 Peter 2:24
And so, as Christ is bearing sinners' sins in His body He is "giving His best" to His people. The sweetest, most sufficient sacrifice for all who would repent to Him and believe in Him.
Wrapped up in the center of the gospel is the supreme display of patience and kindness. Jesus could have received no worse, and He could have given no more.
I cannot help but think of this hymn when pondering how to fight sin (namely that of being impatient and unkind):
Turn your eyes upon Jesus,
Look full in His wonderful face.
And the things of earth will grow strangely dim,
In the light of His glory and grace.
I know the author is attacking "the things of earth", but is not our flesh counted in that? And so when I apply the author's sin-stomping strategy I hear my heart roar in the hour of temptation, "Look to Christ constantly! Live by faith in the Son of God! And His Spirit will permeate your mind and purge impatience and unkindness from your heart as you are enthralled with the glorious gospel of the blessed God!"
Friday, June 19, 2009
Love yourself, be a deacon
Upon laying down the standards for the office of Deacon within a local church (1 Tim 3:8-12) the Apostle Paul tags a couple of promises on the end of the paragraph:
"For those who serve well as deacons gain a good standing for themselves and also great confidence in the faith that is in Christ Jesus." 1 Tim 3:13
The deacons Paul is describing "gain a good standing...and also great confidence in the faith that is in Christ Jesus" for "themselves" the text says.
Whether the "good standing" Paul refers to is how we are looked upon by others or by God is beside the point. For we all desire to be seen as respectable by other people and infinitely more so should we desire to be seen by God as worthy to be counted among His people.
The apostle is clearly talking to followers of Jesus in this passage. What legit follower of Christ in their right mind does not desire "great confidence" in their faith? It would be preposterous to think so for it would be marvelous to receive the gift of such a solid trust in the God of the universe.
May we not deprive ourselves! May we not sell ourselves short of such a wonderous blessing by chasing all sorts of other silly titles and positions. This one is God ordained and blessed of God.
So, what do deacons do? This seems to be a solid answer.
"For those who serve well as deacons gain a good standing for themselves and also great confidence in the faith that is in Christ Jesus." 1 Tim 3:13
The deacons Paul is describing "gain a good standing...and also great confidence in the faith that is in Christ Jesus" for "themselves" the text says.
Whether the "good standing" Paul refers to is how we are looked upon by others or by God is beside the point. For we all desire to be seen as respectable by other people and infinitely more so should we desire to be seen by God as worthy to be counted among His people.
The apostle is clearly talking to followers of Jesus in this passage. What legit follower of Christ in their right mind does not desire "great confidence" in their faith? It would be preposterous to think so for it would be marvelous to receive the gift of such a solid trust in the God of the universe.
May we not deprive ourselves! May we not sell ourselves short of such a wonderous blessing by chasing all sorts of other silly titles and positions. This one is God ordained and blessed of God.
So, what do deacons do? This seems to be a solid answer.
Thursday, June 11, 2009
I don't care who you are...
...this is thought provoking and hopefully convicting.
"This is no time to fight murder with murder (there is no time for that). But neither is this the time for pro-lifers to slacken in their efforts from fetus fatigue. Between 1973 and 2005 American women procured an estimated 48, 589, 993 abortions. The bloodiest single-day battle in American history was at Antietam in 1862, where 23,000 Americans lost their lives. It was an mind-boggling loss of life. Now imagine another Antietam every five or six days for 32 straight years. That’s how many unborn children died from 1973 to 2005. And they died not for the abolition of slavery, nor for the preservation of the Union, but for choice." Kevin DeYoung
"This is no time to fight murder with murder (there is no time for that). But neither is this the time for pro-lifers to slacken in their efforts from fetus fatigue. Between 1973 and 2005 American women procured an estimated 48, 589, 993 abortions. The bloodiest single-day battle in American history was at Antietam in 1862, where 23,000 Americans lost their lives. It was an mind-boggling loss of life. Now imagine another Antietam every five or six days for 32 straight years. That’s how many unborn children died from 1973 to 2005. And they died not for the abolition of slavery, nor for the preservation of the Union, but for choice." Kevin DeYoung
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