In what ways is the gospel unique?
From The Gospel Coalition’s Theological Vision for Ministry by Tim Keller This gospel fills Christians with humility and hope, meekness and boldness, in a unique way. The biblical gospel differs markedly from traditional religions as well as from secularism. Religions operate on the principle: “I obey, therefore I am accepted,” but the gospel principle is: “I am accepted through Christ, therefore I obey.” So the gospel differs from both irreligion and religion. You can seek to be your own “lord and savior” by breaking the law of God, but you can also...
read moreGodet on Romans
19th-century Swiss pastor and theologian, Frederick L. Godet, said this about the book of Romans. “When the Epistle to the Romans appeared for the first time, it was to the Church a word in season. Every time that, in the course of the ages, it has recovered the place of honour which belongs to it, it has inaugurated a new era.” “The reformation was undoubtedly the work of the epistle to the Romans as well as that of Galatians. Spiritual revival in the church will be connected to a deeper understand of this...
read moreAdvent Devotional
Here’s a little Advent devotional that I put together using material from Eliot Grudem’s church, a chapter on Christmas from Noel Piper’s “Treasuring God in Our Traditions”, and some holiday tips for dads from Mark Driscoll. Click on the image below to download (1.2...
read moreChrist-Centered Traditions
Treasuring God in Our Traditions By Noel Piper January 1, 2003 Only God can bequeath God to our children. But he uses means. He uses God-centered traditions and Bible-saturated family patterns and grace-laden heirlooms. Only God can give our children a taste for the sweetness of God. Only God can awaken them to his worth. But year in and year out there are traditions that show them: God is our Treasure. After more than 30 years of marriage and childrearing, Noël Piper opens her home to you. She invites you into the happy, imperfect Piper pattern of life. Come with her and enjoy the way...
read moreGospel Wakefulness in the Midst of Dark Times
HT: Jollyblogger Feelings vs. Spiritual Well-Being by John Newton January 11, 1777 Dear Sir, We all need, and at the seasons the Lord sees best, we all receive chastisement. I hope you likewise have reason to praise Him, for supporting, sanctifying, and delivering mercy. The cowardly flesh presently sinks under the rod, but faith need not fear it, for it is in the hand of One who loves us better than we do ourselves, and who knows our frame, that we are but dust, and therefore will not suffer us to be overdone and overwhelmed. I feel as a friend should feel for Mr. B—; were I able, I...
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