The debate between Augustine and Pelagius (and the Pelagians) on the question of original sin is one of the most important and intriguing in all of church history. To be an “Augustinian” on this issue is—almost—shorthand simply for being a traditional Christian.   Original sin, in particular the relationship between Adam and the rest of... Continue Reading

If you’re a man, read the Scriptures on what men and husbands are to be like, and aspire to be such a man. If you are a woman, read what the Bible says women and wives are to be like, and work at being such a woman. Then, read what the Lord says the opposite... Continue Reading

We will see how God kept us, how dreadfully close we came to making shipwreck of our faith, but how, without fail, God intervened by his Word and Spirit and called us to faith and repentance again.   I imagine that in heaven there will be a sort of cosmic canvas or divine tapestry that... Continue Reading

Willful disobedience is prime time for pointing children to Christ. They need to experience a consequence to understand that sin is a real problem with a real penalty. If they repent and believe in Jesus, God will forgive them because Jesus bore their sins in His body. He offers them Christ’s righteousness in exchange for... Continue Reading

Revelation is general in terms of both audience and content. Paul, in Romans 1, explains that through creation we know enough about God and about ourselves to stand condemned before God. The word general here means that all men know this.   The Westminster Confession of Faith is one of the most important Protestant confessions, for it... Continue Reading

Joseph Addison Alexander, often compared to Napoleon Bonaparte for his commanding presence, was a distinguished scholar and professor. Known for his sharp intellect and occasional use of biting sarcasm, he contributed significantly to theological literature. Despite his reclusive nature, his deep friendships and impact on students were profound.   They said he looked like Napoleon... Continue Reading

Aquinas lays down a basic principle: “One’s obligation to love a person is proportionate to the gravity of the sin one commits in acting against this love.” To say it another way, we are to love with deeper devotion those for whom we have a bigger responsibility. Those against the concept of Ordo Amoris are either being dishonest or... Continue Reading

God does not need our perfection. Such striving undermines his grace and reinforces our self-sufficiency. Instead, God receives the humble, whom he will exalt at the appropriate time (James 4:10; 1 Peter 5:6). In our failures, we trust that God will fulfill his purposes for us according to his steadfast love (Psalm 138:8).   Most of... Continue Reading

In Colossians 4, Paul provides unique insights into his ministry team and their connections. We learn that Aristarchus was imprisoned with Paul, Barnabas had a cousin Mark, and Epaphras was a dedicated pastor in Colossae. Luke was confirmed to be a physician, and Demas, who later deserted Paul, was once a valued co-worker.   Here... Continue Reading

Christians are commanded to love God with all of their minds, and when we refuse to do so, we are being disobedient and sinning against God. If things can be more easily twisted or misunderstood online, then that is all the more reason to take greater care in what we share and how we present... Continue Reading