blog

Deep Comedy

This week I finished reading Peter Leithart’s book “Deep Comedy: Trinity, Tragedy, & Hope in Western Literature.” I read it as a follow up to “The Politically Incorrect Guide to English and American Literature” cited earlier on this blog. My intention in reading the two books together was simply to learn more about how we ought to view literature from a Christian perspective. What I learned from “Deep Comedy,” however, was a lot about literature, as well as history, theology, philosophy and more.

P. I. G.

Anyone who has spent much time in generally conservative circles is naturally suspicious of anything espoused by the current popular culture. Self-conscious conservatives are aware that the standard liberal viewpoint in American culture is usually not only wrong but also stupid. Therefore, we realize that if we want to get to the truth on any subject we’re going to have to look for it in someplace other than “the establishment.”

Mirror of Christendom

In his book The Kingdom and the Power, Peter Leithart argues that social and political action are useless unless a transformation of the church occurs to restore it to its central role and mission. With that assumption, Leithart argues there is a war behind the culture war taking place that is often overlooked and therefore accounts for our inability to transform our culture today.

Doug Wilson on the SJC

After you have read the previous post about Steve Wilkin's presbytery exam, and have gone to the link to read his responses, check out Doug Wilson's remarks about all the possible directions this controversy could take. Then "pray for the peace of Jerusalem," that things will go according to the first, most hopeful outcome.

Black or White

I'm glad that more Protestants are beginning to value the importance of vestments. The abandoning of them in some circles (baptist and presbyterians) had more to do with a reaction to Roman Catholicism than it did biblical precedent.

A Visionary Statement

In a recent discussion regarding the problems of denominationalism, I was directed to an interesting post by Rich Bledsoe from a couple years back. As usual, Bledsoe tends to view things from a different angle. As a result, he never fails to provoke thought by shedding new light on a subject.

Back Room Deals

This is from Doug Wilson on "the late unpleasantness":

"In the old days, defenders of the faith used proclamation, argumentation, and apologetics. These days, the defenders of the faith use all the bureaucratic levers they have hidden under the desk. If the SJC goes the way I suspect it might, that would mean that Wilkins would be condemned in the PCA despite two vindications by his own presbytery, despite the fact that no charges were ever brought, despite the fact that no trial was ever held, and despite the fact that he was never given an opportunity to defend himself in open court. Don't talk to me about proof. We don't need no stinking proof.

In the old days, the prophets of God would thunder the word. These days, they resort to Machinations and Back Room Deals. You don't think so? Then look at what happens to Wilkins. Look closely. Look at the procedures. Look at what was done, and what was not done. And imagine yourself trying to explain the polity ramifications of all of that to Samuel Miller. The whole thing would be a joke if it were only funny."

Even the Roman Catholics had the decency to give Luther his opportunity to speak at the Diet of Worms.

To read the entire article click here.

Typology II

In an earlier post I had mentioned that some within the Reformed tradition assert that unless the NT explicitly cites an OT type as such that we are not permitted to make the connection to Christ. Rather than seeing the NT's typological hermeneutic as providing a precedent for typology in general, advocates of this position warn against the potential abuses of seeing types of Christ in the OT that are not intended.

Typology

I suppose I'm so used to a typological reading of Scripture that I just assume it's all talking about Jesus. As a result, I expect to find types of Christ all over the Bible. In fact, I suppose I hardly ever preach a sermon where I'm not tying something into Christ and His work.

Intinction

Perhaps it's just me, or perhaps it's this region of the country, but it appears that for some reason the practice of intinction is becoming increasingly popular in Reformed churches. In short, intinction refers to dipping the bread (or more often wafer) of the Lord's Supper into the cup holding the wine (or more often grape juice). I find this practice troubling for several reasons.

Flew the Theist

What is the world coming to? First Anne Rice and now Anthony Flew, one of the most outspoken atheists of the past century, has become a theist. What do they both have in common? The Bishop of Durham.

Wright at Asbury

Asbury Theological Seminary has finally posted the times for N. T. Wright's visit on November 13-14. This will be a rare opportunity to hear the leading NT scholar in the world speak - for free!

Just a Little Wine

In Angels in the Architecture, Doug Wilson quotes Pascal as saying that "every man is almost always led to believe not through proof, but through that which is attractive." Wilson then goes on to contend that the way to discover the truth is to ask the question "Which is more beautiful?"

I don't know if this song would exactly qualify as beautiful, but it's certainly attractive, not to mention down right fun. Who knows? After all the arguments have failed, maybe it will get people to drink wine in communion.

You can even sing along!

Indignant Jesus

Are we making Jesus angry by the way we treat our children? Jeff Meyers thinks so. I do too.

Onward Christian Soldiers

An interesting, and surprisingly fair, article in the New York Times on New St. Andrews University can be found here. I find it very encouraging that such a small school has come to the attention of someone at the Times. I believe that fact is very telling in regard to the impact that the classical Christian school movement and NSA in particular are having on our nation.

Subscription & Freedom

A web debate has been going on over at De Regno Christi for about the past two weeks over recent matters of controversy in Reformed circles. There have been a number of enlightening exchanges in regard to a host of subjects, but this post by Jeff Meyers in regard to the debate over the "imputation of the active obedience of Christ" is an absolute gem that needs to be distributed far and wide. I think it states as clearly as anything I've read how far "Reformed" church have departed from the actual Reformers and the Reformed tradition in general. What's so sad (or hilarious?) is how those who warn so strenuously about "going back to Rome" appear to be the ones who are actually on the road to Rome.

Changing the World

Mark Horne has some interesting and valuable things to say on his blog about how churches can change the world. Altogether, he lists ten things churches can and should do to change things - all good advice. The problem is convincing people that the type of recommendations Mark lists are of importance, because many of them require a good deal of faith to implement.

D. James Kennedy RIP

D. James Kennedy, pastor of Coral Ridge Presbyterian Church, our denomination's largest congregation, died in the early hours of Wednesday, September 5. For some biographical information about Kennedy, an Associated Press story can be found here, and warm reflections from one who knew him well can be found here.

"Precious in the sight of the LORD is the death of His saints." Psalm 116:15

The Politics of Global Warming

A group of us at church are currently reading The Politically Incorrect Guide to Global Warming and Environmentalism, by Christopher C. Horner. We're doing this as an aside to a class on ethical issues that I'm currently teaching in Sunday School. As a result, I've been keeping an eye out for good resources, when I came across this very good article from First Things.

The Waldensians

In the mid1170s, Peter Waldo (also Valdez or Valdes), a rich merchant of Lyons, read a translation of the New Testament and was so impressed with the claims of Christ that he gave up all his property, except enough to feed his family. He then organized a band known as the “Poor in Spirit,” or the “Poor Men of Lyons,” who went out two by two, visiting the marketplaces and teaching the New Testament in the language of the people.

Creation Museum

In an earlier post I mentioned that I was looking forward to visiting the new creation museum coming to northern Kentucy. Thankfully, a couple weeks ago a group of us from church managed to make the trip. Aside from the huge crowd (good for them, not so good for us), we had a very enjoyable time. I must confess, I was even a bit surprised by how professionally the museum was done. I say this because I'm often a bit leary of the "cheesy," bumper-sticker mentality of the evangelical world. The creation museum wasn't like that at all. The exhibits, theatres, book store, restaurant, everything was first class. My only regret was not being able to go to the planitarium. A friend told me it was worth the price of admission alone. I guess I'll have to save that for next time.

If you haven't made it to the museum yet, I would suggest you plan a trip soon - preferably during the week, to avoid some of the crowds. Plan on arriving early and making a whole day of it. You'll be glad you did.

For pictures, and other comments, go to my wife's blog, over at Faith & Frivolity.

The PIG Guide to English and American Literature

In a previous post I recommended the Politically Incorrect Guide series of books published by Regnery Publishing. Unfortunately, I still haven't read all of them, but I did recently finish the PIG guide to English and American Literature, written by the Conservative Book Club editor, Elizabeth Kantor. Overall, it was a very enjoyable read, though I must admit it was somewhat discouraging, as I thought about how much more I need to learn of this subject. Still, I suppose "better late than never."

For some insights into the content of the book, see the comments here from a recent lecture by Kantor which surveys the topics covered in the volume.

FV Statement

I hope to eventually move beyond this discussion to more urgent matters, but because the misinformation and misrepresentations continue unabated, I want to make people aware of the most recent attempt to bring clarity to an overblown issue. I'm speaking of the newly released Joint Statement on the Federal Vision. Here you can find out what those engaged in the FV conversation actually believe. The men whose names are affixed to the document are at the forefront of the debate. As a result, this is the best place to begin to sort out the accusations from the reality.

Let the Bodies Hit the Floor

Now I know what we've been doing wrong. Maybe if we just added a little bit more excitement to our liturgy we would have them packing the aisles. Of course, then we would have to increase our liability insurance, all the bodies falling down on the floor and all.

That is just bizarre!

From "The Boneman"

I had the pleasure of meeting Brett Bonecutter at the 2006 General Assembly. Naturally, I couldn't help but ask him about his last name - one of the best I ever heard. To my surprise, however, I learned that Brett's ancestors weren't doctors, or even axe murderers. Rather, the origin appeared to be French - bon for "good," and cutter for "ship." Perhaps his name came from shipbuilders or sailors. Either way, Brett is a pastor now, whose experience in the Reformed faith reflects my own.

Response to the GA Report

It’s been a LONG time since the last post. No particular reason other than life has just been busy. Other than that, I’ve just not had too much to say. Nevertheless, this blog is up here for a reason, and so I guess I ought to get back to posting.

With that thought in mind, I believe the first order of business is for me to follow up on the General Assembly Report on the “Federal Vision” and “New Perspective on Paul.”

30 - 18 = 12

If Jeff Meyer's original report on "30 Reasons" not to adopt the PCA Study Committee Report on the FV and NPP was too long for some on a busy schedule, take heart! Meyer's put the 30 reasons on a diet and has reduced it to a very readable 12 reasons. As Doug Wilson said about the original response, you could throw out half of Meyer's arguments and you would still have good reason to oppose the study committee report.

More Opposition to the FV Report

Joel Garver, over at sacradoctrina, has been asked to post a letter by a handful of courageous pastors who have written an open letter to PCA presbyters against adoption of the Study Committee Report on the Federal Vision and New Perspective on Paul. What is especially significant about this letter is that none of the men who wrote it and signed off on it are in any way associated with "The Federal Vision." Their opposition to the report stems not only for the manner in which it was formed, but also its narrow interpretation of the WCF and its essential denial of system subscription.

I hope it gets a wide reading!

Imputation of Active Obedience

Tim Gallant wrote this article on the debate over the imputation on the active obedience of Christ a while back, but is just now putting it up on the Internet. I'm glad he is making it available. If you've heard about the controversy over this subject and want to know more of what it's about, Gallant's article is the best place to start for a sane treatment of the matter. I hope you see, not only is there a great deal of ignorance on the subject, but it simply ought not be a matter of controversy at all.

Telling it Like it Is

Doug Wilson is well known for the "serrated edge" of his dialogue, and has been taken to task for his rhetoric more than once. But say what you will, he shows a lot more back bone than many of the men in Reformed circles now days. Plus, as the old saying goes, "Plain talk is easily understood." For some "plain talk" from Doug about recent controversies, click here and here.

Sean Lucas and Me

No, not "me" as in Bobby Beatty (though I've had disagreements with Sean myself), but as in Peter Leithart. Some time ago Sean Lucas wrote a ciritical, and somewhat harsh, review of Leithart's excellent book "Against Christianity." Since that time, Lucas withdrew his review from the blogosphere and apologized for the tone of it. Good for him. (I have to confess that I have often spoken too harshly and wish I could retract my words more times than I can count.) However, Lucas stands by the substance of his criticism of Leithart. Therefore, at the request of others, Leithart has gotten around to responding to Lucas' original argument (which I think can still be found over at Mark Horne's blog). Even if you haven't read Leithart's book (which you should) I think you'll find this informative.

Creation Museum

Answers in Genesis will open their long-anticipated creation museum later this month, and the good news is that it's close by us in northern KY. While I have a few issues with some of their theology, overall I have a great deal of appreciation for AIG and I am eagerly looking forward to visiting the museum as soon as it opens. I hope others in the area take advantage of the very special opportunity we are afforded, in having what looks like will be a great resource for the region.

Leithart on Rushdoony

Check out the comments by Leithart on Rushdoony's influence in Africa. I especially like the line "how they underestimated the man." I think this just goes to show we cannot judge the fruits of our labors merely by what we see in the numbers we influence today. What is important is the future. That's what, by faith, we must set our sights on.

Wilson vs. Hitchens

I can't remember a time when it's been better to be a Christian apologist. Maybe it's just me, but it seems like the atheists are becoming more and more bold. The great thing about this is that every time they open their mouths it just gives us more opportunities to demonstrate the truthfulness of Christianity and the bankruptcy of atheism.

The FV/NPP Report

It’s been quite a while since I’ve blogged anything, but life has just been too busy as I come to the end of another school year. Nevertheless, recent events have caused me to come out of cyberhibernation. The reason is the PCA study committee report on the “Federal Vision” and “New Perspective” has now been published. In my opinion, what’s more important is Jeff Meyer’s response to the report. If you are a member of a PCA congregation and you are concerned about the direction of the denomination, I would encourage you to become informed about this issue. Even if you disagree with the conclusions of the “FV” men, the power politics which resulted in the publishing of this report ought to be enough to cause anyone to reject it.

To access both reports you can click on the links below, or to get Meyer’s response in two different formats (and to keep up to date on the issue), you can go to http://www.federal-vision.com/.

Prayer for Covenant College

I received the message below today concerning Covenant College, our denomination's liberal arts college.

The Jesus Family Tomb

Asbury professor Ben Witherington, my absolute favorite Methodist, has weighed in on the upcoming Discovery Channel special by director James Cameron, who purports to have found the bodily remains of Jesus. After reading Witherington, Cameron may have to think about recorking the champagne bottle. In other words, it may be a while before he wins another Oscar for best director.

Plantinga vs. Dawkins

In recent months it seems that atheists have been "coming out of the closet" like never before. As a result, it appears that perhaps Alister McGrath may have been a bit premature when he released not long ago "The Twilight of Atheism." Or, then again, perhaps McGrath is right: atheism has reached its twilight and will soon fade into the horizon. If that's the case, maybe what we're witnessing today is just the desperate final gasps of a dying religion.

And now . . . for something completely different!

This has absolutley nothing to do with theology. In fact, I can find no justification for it, other than the fact that it's really fun!

It will drive you nuts. The object of the game is to move the red block around without getting hit by the blue blocks or touching the black walls. If you can go longer than 18 seconds you are phenomenal. The US Air Force usese this for fighter pilots. They are expected to go for at least 2 minutes. Click here.

Give it a try but be careful . . . it is addictive!

A Guide for the Perplexed

My friend Xon Hostetter at Post Tenebras Lux is working on a "layman's guide" to understanding the "Federal Vision" controversy. Xon recently attended a conference on the Federal Vision which was hosted by Woodruff Road Presbyterian Church. The purpose of the conference was to help bring laymen up to speed on the debate and warn of the "great evil" that is the FV. However, Xon is taking issue with the speakers by taking up their objections point by point. As I understand it, the plans is to respond in segments. For those interested in keeping up with the issue, you can read the first post here. As I think you'll soon discover, Xon is an up and coming theologian (he will soon complete his Ph.D on Jonathan Edward's Trinitarian theology).

America's Uncivil War

Speaking of another very valuable book . . . I am currently about halfway through "The War Between the States: America's Uncivil War," by John J. Dwyer. What I've read so far has been absolutely delightful. In fact, while I have a number of books on the "late unpleasantness," I have found Dwyer's book to be by far the best I've read in providing the reader with both sound scholarship and a solid Christian view of The War Between the States.

Presbyterian Identity Crisis

In order to engage in a profitable debate people must naturally speak the same language. Another way to put this is to say that when discussing different opinions it's necessary to understand that often the debate is not over the "facts" or "evidence" presented, but the "paradigms" by which each side interprets the information under consideration. Unfortunately, much time is often wasted arguing over the details of the debate before the two sides realize they aren't speaking each other's language - i.e., both sides are operating according to a different paradigm. Once this is realized, and effort is made to truly understand the other's presuppositions, progress can perhaps begin to be made. Then the question becomes, "Which paradigm makes best sense of all the data?" or, in Plato's words, which side is able to "save the phenomenon?"

Conversion

I have been looking for this article on conversion by Joel Garver for some time, but for some reason couldn't find it by doing a search on Garver's site. Anyway, so that I'll know where it is in the future I wanted to link to it, not only for my personal interest but so that others can read it as well. Garver's main point is that conversion isn't a one time thing as it is normally conceived, but is part of daily turning to God in faith and repentance. The article is especially helpful as a corrective to the familiar emphasis put on the "moment" of a one-time conversion experience and the frequent questioning of the reality of that event as is done so often in our day. In short, the brief article states well a better understanding of how to attain assurance and the necessity of perseverance. Enjoy!

Hairology

I haven't posted lately, in part because I've been busy, and in part because nothing interesting has caught my eye. However, I was recently introduced to the finest sermon on "Hairology" I have ever head. After listening to this sermon, I just had to link to it. It is by the world's foremost authority on the biblical doctrine of hair. Enjoy!

New Year's Eve Sermon

For people like me who are always frustrated by what seems to be a lack of time, Peter Leithart has a wonderful little gem of a New Year's Eve sermon that serves as a nice reminder that time is good. After all, it was created by God and was pronounced by Him as "good." Therefore, it is not a problem that must be overcome, nor is it something that must be restrained or turned back. God is sovereign over time; we are not. Therefore, our job is to learn to respond well to God's timing and remember that time is necessary to bring us to maturity. (I think it's probably that last part that makes dealing with time so frustrating. But that's all the more reason to learn to relax in God's time. Maybe that should be my New Year's Resolution this year!)

Happy New Year Everyone!

Press Release: Calvin Charged with Heresy

Imagine, if you will, that John Calvin is alive today. Now, let's suppose Calvin is being examined for ordination into some of our denomination's presbyteries, or is perhaps already ordained and is coming for transfer into such-and-such presbytery. Or, finally, imagine that Calvin published his Institutes today. What do you suppose the outcome might be? Given the current climate, I fear that this fictitious account would sadly be true.

Exam mp3s

The recordings of the Louisiana Presbytery examination of Steve Wilkins are now available here for free online. There are four mp3 files which can be downloaded and listened to on your computer or mp3 player. This way all can hear and judge for themselves regarding the controversy surrounding Wilkins. Say what you will, Wilkins deserves credit for being completely open and honest about his positions. In light of that, I hope many will give him a fair hearing.

Presbytery Exam

At the request of the Standing Judicial Commission of the PCA, Louisiana Presbytery was asked to reexamine the theology of Steve Wilkins, senior pastor of Auburn Avenue Presbyterian Church, in order to bring clarification concerning the conformity of his views with the Westminster Standards. His response to the written exam is now available online. It is hoped that mp3 recordings of the oral exam will also soon be made public. In the meantime, all interested can hear Wilkins himself state his views clearly in writing.

Evil and the Justice of God

This evening I finished reading N. T. Wrights new book “Evil and the Justice of God.” My interest in reading it was twofold: One is my interest in apologetics which frequently encounters the philosophical problem of evil. Since J. P. Moreland said that “From now on it should be the first work consulted by Christian philosophers and theologians working on the problem of evil, . . .” I figured that I needed to consult it. However, my main interest in the book is its focus on the new heavens and earth promised by God in Revelation 21 and elsewhere, and its place in God’s providence in finally rectifying the problem of evil. Since I am preparing for a new sermon series on II Peter, which deals a great deal with the subject of the new heavens and earth in chapter 3, I thought that Wright’s work would perhaps help me with application for my sermons.

Alternative Medicine

Since I read the article titled "What Is the Truth: Allopathic or Alternative Medicine?" published in the October 2006 issue of Biblical Worldview Magazine, I have wanted to write a post linking to it but it has been unavailable until today. Now, however, you can find it here online at American Vision. The article is by Dr. Ed Payne, author of the book "Biblical Healing for Modern Medicine," and the newsletter "Biblical Reflections on Modern Medicine." In addition to these and other writings, Dr. Payne has been a part of several denominational studies for the PCA regarding current medical ethics issues. Anyone familiar with Dr. Payne's work knows that he seldom fails to be provocative, and while you may not always agree with his conclusions, he does deserve credit for making a serious effort to address medical issues from a biblical perspective. In this respect he is leading the way in an effort that we hope many other Christian doctors will someday join.

Presbyterian Bishops

I remember long ago when I was first becoming a Presbyterian. I came out of my mainline Baptist heritage as the result of a good deal of study (not to mention some heartache), in part because I became convinced that the presbyterian form of govenment was the model set forth in Scripture. I still remember fondly how liberating I eventually felt my new-found beliefs to be. Not only was I impressed with presbyterian scholarship, I celebrated the logic of a "bottom-up" appeals court that was supposed to be the presbyterian model. What's more, when I entered the PCA, I learned all about how the denomination was especially structured to provide a "grassroots" denomination, where the aggrandizing tendencies of denominational bureacracies were kept safely in check.

Thanksgiving

T. S. Eliot is credited with saying, "Mediocre poets imitate; good poets steal." I believe that what Eliot said of poets is true of pastors as well. For that reason, this week I basically "stole" my sermon from a fine article by Rich Bledsoe.

Election Day

Doug Wilson has some good advice for Christians as they head out to the polls this Tuesday.

Bishop Ray Sutton

Our good friends at Trinity Church (REC) in Mason, OH have recently announced that the Rt. Rev. Ray Sutton, Ph.D. (Oxford University, Wycliffe Hall) will be the featured speaker for the annual Trinity Lecture Series on November 4, 2006. Some from Christ Covenant made it up to Trinity last year to hear James Jordan speak at the church. A good time and great blessing were had by all. The people at Trinity are wonderful hosts. I would recommend anyone within driving distance of the Cincinatti area to make an effort to be there. Click here for more information.

The Problem of Porn

Last weekend Rod Mays of Reformed University Fellowship (the PCA's college campus ministry) spoke to the Ohio Valley Presbytery about the problem of pornography on college campuses. Mays' words to the presbytery were straightforward: "Pornography is killing us!"

Halloween: A Christian Holiday?

Every year at about this time it's common for pastors to receive questions about the appropriateness of celebrating Halloween. Even though one may be uninterested in decorating the house with jack-o-lanterns and the like, many Christians still feel the pressure to at least give candy to the neighborhood kids who come knocking on their doors shouting "Trick or Treat!" If for no other reason than fearing being considered a spoil sport, the pressure to recognize Halloween in our culture today is often strong (especially for those with young children). And yet a good many Christians fear that by doing so they are supporting an ungodly, and perhaps even demonic, holiday. It's at this point that I usually refer people to Jim Jordan's now "infamous" article on the subject, advise they take two aspirins (or one glass of their favorite adult beverage), relax and engage in some good old-fashioned, sanctified, holy mockery.

Mysteries of God & Means of Grace

In previous posts I have linked to articles critical of some of the theology of Michael Scott Horton. Nevertheless, you must give credit where credit is due. Like all of us, we each have areas of weakness or inconsistency in our theology. I believe this is the case in regard to certain strains of Horton's thought. However, what he has to say in this article about the sacraments is splendid, and offers a much needed corrective to many within the reformed community in regard to these much neglected means of grace. (Note the article is lengthy, but well worth it.)

Black & Tan

Below is a brief excerpt from Doug Wilson's book "Black & Tan: Essays and Excursions on Slavery, Culture War, and Scripture in America" on the problem of conservatism not grounded in the Christian faith.

A Christian Philosophy of Art

Recently I've been engaged in a number of discussions about a Christian philosophy of art - what constitutes good and bad art, standards of glory and beauty, etc. The discussions left me feeling like this is an area of my theology that needs improvement. To compound matters, shortly thereafter a very gifted young lady at the Christian school where I teach asked me to help her with a senior thesis paper on the arts. While I don't necessarily consider this a "sign," it has certainly prompted me to want to read more in this area. So, after inquiring of some fellow pastors and theologians who've done a fair degree of study in this area, I have now begun the process of doing more reading on the arts for myself. One of the writers highly recommended for me to read is Calvin Seerveld, senior member emeritus in Aesthetics at the Institute for Christian Studies, Toronto. His very fine "Letter to a Young Artist" can be found here, and another intersting article titled "The Strategy of Giving Away Gifts: Cultural Guidleines for Artists" is here. I think they are both fine reading for others interested in the arts.

Expository Thoughts

The people over at Expository Thoughts have a nice post about what to do and what not to do in the pulpit. As I read it I couldn't help but think about the transition which has occured over the years in my own preaching. I have to admit that I've at one time been guilty of engaging in a "homiletical hermeneutic," mostly because that's what I grew up with and so came to the pulpit with that expectation. As the years have gone by, though, I have increasingly learned the importance of trying to understand the meaning of the text in its original setting, not forcing an arbitrary grid on the text for illustration of sermon points, and above all expounding a larger portion of text to keep the overall flow of the narrative in mind. What's more interesting, I didn't come to this approach because I had becomed convinced of it by a consideration of different preaching methods. It was more just a matter of transferring the work I do in the study into what I share in the pulpit, without caring about trying to conform to what is today considered "preaching." Little did I know that I accidentally stumbled on to something which now is being advocated and becoming a growing trend. (See the post for August 31, 2006, under the category of "hermeneutics," titled "Avoiding the Homiletical Hermeneutic.")

Machen's Warrior Children

John Frame's now "infamous" article "Machen's Warrior Children" has been around for a while now, and has been linked by many others who are concerned about the infighting that constantly seems to plague Reformed churches and denominations. However, I can't help but to keep being drawn back to it.

Christian Culture

In recent issues of Christian Culture, John Frame has become increasingly critical of the growing influence of Meredith Kline and Michael Horton's law versus gospel dichotomy and "two kingdom" views. While both men have done valuable work in other areas, I think Frame is right on in his assessment of the men in these areas. Also note that, while critical of their positions, Frame doesn't engage in name calling and making charges of heresy. This is the way debate should be done. Read here and here.

A Pub in Lystra

I'm currently nearing the end of a sermon series on Galatians. As I work through chapter 5, I can recommend no better source to illustrate the problem in Galatians than that of a fictitious meeting depicted by Jeff Meyers in the Galatian town of Lystra. Not only does it illustrate well the real problem Paul confronts in Galatians, but it does so in a way that brings the text to life by suggesting what things may have been like in Galatia in the first-century. I believe because we in the Reformed community have focused on the wrong issue in Galatians we have become vulnerable to the actual evil presented in the book.

Reformed Gangsta Rap

Yo! When me and my homies are chillin' at my crib, we like to listen to reformed gangsta rap. All you Arminians out there better beli' dat! (Check it out. This is funny.)

Roberts on Wright

This post, by Alastair Roberts over in the UK, is an excellent companion to the previous link on this blog from Joel Garver on reading NT Wright. Not only is it good in helping to explain some of the current controversy over NTW, but also in explaining what is wrong with many things within Reformed circles today.

Children in the Church

I don't know much about Joshua McIlvaine, but he must have been a prophet, or at least the son of a prophet. What's so sad, though, is that just as the Jews don't recognize that Jesus is the Messiah, even though all the OT prophecies have been fulfilled in Him, so Presbyterians don't recognize that McIlvaine's "prophecies" have been overwhelmingly fulfilled in our own churches.

Faith with Reason

It's been on my shelf for some time, but I hadn't gotten around to reading it until today. I'm talking about "Faith with Reason: Why Christianity Is True," by Joseph R. Farinaccio. Standing on the shoulders of Cornelius Van Til, Greg Bahnsen, and Francis Schaeffer, Farinaccio offers a concise and readable introduction to presuppositional apologetics. What's better, you can now read it online, or download it for yourself, right here for free!

Business for the Glory of God

Today I read Wayne Grudem's little book "Business for the Glory of God: The Bible's Teaching on the Moral Goodness of Business." The purpose of the book is to demonstrate how the actual process of business, as compared merely to the after effects, serves as an important means of bringing glory to God.

Mid-Life Crisis

In recent years, a number of books have been written to deal with what has become known as "the mid-life crisis." Mid-life is a time in which people are faced with regrets for past decisions, the prospects of aging and all that entails in regard to one's appearance and health, and more often than not the passing of dreams which have not been realized. And while the mid-life crisis has been a problem almost since time began, more and more it seems to be especially prevalent among the baby boomer generation which is growing up amid a youth-obsessed culture. Therefore, to help Christians face this difficult struggle, biblical counselor Paul David Tripp has offered one of the most biblically based solutions entitled, "Lost in the Middle: MidLife and the Grace of God."

Not Very Serious Anymore

Richard John Neuhaus has a few good comments about David F. Well's newest book "Against All Earthly Pow'rs." I doubt I'll read the book, since I believe Wells relies too heavily on a "modernity thesis," rather than seeing the fundamental problem of today's church as just good old-fashioned worldliness. Still, I like some of his comments on the megachurch movement and modern evangelicalism.

New Book by John Frame

I am currently reading John Frame's new book "Salvation Belongs to the Lord: An Introduction to Systematic Theology." Though I still have a way to go, what I've read so far is delightful. This book serves as an excellent resource for either a beginning student of theology or anyone needing a refresher course in the doctrines of Scripture. William Edgar describes it as "Lucid . . . vigorously orthodox and sweetly pastoral." I concur. Anyone interested in Reformed theology should have this book.

Real Sex

I just finished reading Lauren Winner's book "Real Sex: The Naked Truth about Chastity." I was first intrigued to read the book by this review from Peter Leithart, and out of a deisre to minister to young people growing up in our sex-crazed culture. What I discovered, however, was that this is a book not just for singles, but for all who desire to live chaste sexual lives - including those who are happily married!

The Nelda Boswell Scroll

I'm currently preaching through the book of Galatians. At present I'm dealing with the difficult passage at the end of chapter 2. In the process of preparation, I came across Jeff Meyer's fictional story of the discovery of an ancient manuscript which records a townhall meeting in Galatia. In the meeting, Paul is asked to explain the difficult passage in question. The result not only illuminates the passage but provides a little fun along the way. Click here to read the "manuscript" for yourself.

Sacrificial Worship

At Christ Covenant we have an established liturgy, meaning one that remains basically the same each week. The reason for this is because we believe that's the pattern found in Scripture, especially in the sacrifical system of the Old Testament. For example, whenever God renewed His covenant with Israel the sacrifices were offered in a particular sequence. Since we believe that worship is primarily about covenant renewal, we try to follow the principles set forth in the old covenant pattern in our worship at Christ Covenant. For a defense of this practice, you can read more from Mike Farley below.

Report of General Assembly

For the past several weeks I've been traveling all across the country (and for that reason haven't posted anything for some time). Most recently I returned from the PCA General Assembly in Atlanta. Overall the assembly went well. I especially appreciated the Bills and Overtures Committee for doing their job keeping us to our constitution in our deliberations. However, there was one incident leading up to the assembly that I thought was an indictment on our denominational "bureaucracy." You can read more about this on Jeff Meyer's blog here. Just scroll down to the post for June 20 concerning Athanasius Press.

Reforming Reformed Thought

In recent years many within the Reformed community have been calling upon the larger church to embrace a more full-orbed gospel. This action is born out of the desire to combat a truncated message which sees the gospel as having merely to do with an individual's salvation. A quick look at the letters of Paul, for example, reveal that the gospel is about more than how a person becomes right with God. It is also very much concerned with God's reconciliation of the human race through His Son. Naturally, the first-century context of the New Testament applied that princple to the uniting of Jew and Gentile into one. However, matters of reconciliation still haunt us in the twenty-first century and call on us to consider how we might apply the gospel in all its corporate complexity to our modern setting. Fortunately, our brothers at Reformed Blacks of America are giving thought to what that might mean for the church today in regard to racial reconciliation. As one who has in the past lamentably given little attention to these matters, I must now say that if the gospel has both individual and corporate dimensions, for the sake of our witness we must give greater consideration to this issue.

Presbyterians Together

A new group has recently formed called "Presbyterians and Presbyterians Together." One of its primary goals is to call all Reformed pastors, theologians, seminary students, etc. to engage in theological discourse with charity, patience, and fairness. I would encourage anyone who is concerned about these matters to visit their website at www.presbyterianstogether.org. As a signer of this document, it will be my intention to always contribute to this blog with the goals set forth at PPT in mind.

A Prayer for the PCA

John Armstrong has offered a prayer for the PCA. I believe it's one that is badly needed. I would encourage all who are concerned about some of the recent infighting to take the time to truly pray for our denomination. As one who has in the past been on the "other side," I understand the concerns of those who believe that we must be ever diligent to defend the gospel. I also now realize, though, that a large part of the gospel concerns our unity. Granted, the gospel can't be compromised for the sake of unity, but we must also remember that the gospel can be undermined as much by sectarianism as by "false doctrine." Therefore, we must be just as careful about our polemics as we are about our theology.

Help for Hurting Parents

I just finished reading "When Good Kids Make Bad Choices," by Elyse Fitzpatrick and Jim Newheiser, with Dr. Laura Hendrickson. The book is subtitled "Help and Hope for Hurting Parents." That pretty much sums it up. In a day in which teenage rebellion has become the norm, even, too often, within the covenant community, a book like this has been sorely needed for some time. I'm glad the authors, who themselves have experienced the heartache caused by a rebellious child, took the time to write this book. I would recommend it to all parents who are struggling with this issue, and for the pastors and elders who are called to support them. Not only does the book provide solid biblical instruction about how to deal with a "prodigal," it also provides comfort for the parents whose personal lives and marriages are hurting as a result of their child's actions.

Church Architecture

In my experience, it's not often that Reformed Protestants give thoughtful consideration to the importance of church architecture. Sure everybody wants a sanctuary to "feel" like a church, but apart from desiring something aesthetically pleasing, utilitarianism is often the determining factor. Not so with Reggie Kidd and co., who are envisioning the kind of sanctuary they desire for their church building project. Here's just a sample of the thoughts being considered:

"We’d love to find a footprint that says who we are: like, perhaps, an octagon evocative of Jesus’s resurrection on the first day of the week, under a cruciform ceiling that has an upward thrust, leading to, well, yes, a skyline defining steeple.

We’re thinking of stained glass that lets natural light augment preaching’s telling of the biblical story.

We’re thinking of a permanent, visible presence for a baptismal font, maybe with constantly running water, pointing us ever to the washing of renewal and regeneration that baptism signs and seals.

We’re thinking of a communion table that’s placed in such a way that it is as natural to have the people come to it as it is to have its elements brought to the people.

We’re thinking of kneelers for prayer, and a fixture for the reinforcement of prayer through the sending up of incense.

We’re thinking of a bold use of symbols like the cross.

In a word, we’re thinking of a place where people walk in and say, “This is a place where God connects with us.”

I can't wait to see the finished product. For more information, visit Reggie's blog here.

My First Blog Entry

Our web site is just now getting up and running. As a matter of fact, this is my first post. I'm excited about my first entry topic - Jim Jordan's lectures on Maturity, Salvation, and Holy War. This past June, James B. Jordan, director of Biblical Horizons, spoke at Trinity Reformed Episcopal Church (REC), in Mason, Ohio. A group of us from our church were there for the lectures. They were very insightful and prompted a good deal of discussion by those in attendance. The good news is that Trinity recorded the lectures and they are now on DVD. We will be watching the first lecture in Sunday School class this week. I would encourage anyone interested to get a copy for yourself - www.trinityrec.org.

Pastor's Book Club

As a church, we are currently reading through a couple of books, one of which is Trinity & Reality: An Introduction to the Christian Faith, by Ralph A. Smith. This is a profound book. Therefore, it is not the easiest read, in the sense that you have to ponder so much of what is said. However, for those willing to make the effort, the time invested will be well worth it. The strength of Smith's book is that it not only clearly sets forth the doctrine of the Trinity, but it repeatedly demonstrates how profoundly the Trinity shapes the Christian worldview in one subject after another. Reading this book makes it difficult to read many of the standard books on "worldview" issues, because you can't help but discern what is, in effect, an implicit unitarian perspective in so many of them. For this reason, Trinity & Reality is a much needed corrective to popular introductions to the Christian Faith. I highly recommend it.