Bugenhagen became known as the most influential proponent of programs for the poor at the time of the Reformation. In fact, his church orders provide the most detailed instructions written at that time for the relief of the poor.   Known mostly as pastor and church planter during the Protestant Reformation (he has been called... Continue Reading

When we pluck out a verse and tack it to our email signatures, we’re modeling this behavior. We’re encouraging onlookers to use the Bible in this à la carte way. If we inspire people to walk blindfolded, some of them just might do so on a cliff.   Reading the Bible in its proper context... Continue Reading

Owen completed his series on preparing for death with theological reflection. He recognized that “ever since it had a being,” the soul had never had to experience life without the body to which it was attached.17He understood that an injury to the body, and especially serious and disabling head injuries, could have consequences for the... Continue Reading

Christians have to be engaged in discussions on important topics, and Christians need to be discerning in order to notice when and if false teaching is creeping into the church, but Christians need to be well-informed before attempting either. It’s a matter of simple honesty and integrity.   The Princess Bride is one of the... Continue Reading

When you look at the person in the seat next to you at church—or online while viewing a worship service—do you see one who for whom Christ died; or, do you see one who is either living up to or failing in your personal expectations?   If we have discovered anything about Christians during this... Continue Reading

Keswick theology is pervasive because countless people have propagated it in so many ways, especially in sermons and devotional writings. It is appealing because Christians struggle with sin and want to be victorious in that struggle now. Keswick theology offers a quick fix, and its shortcut to instant victory appeals to genuine longings for holiness.... Continue Reading

If we were to take a poll of “average” pew sitters to see who could define the Gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ I think the results would be very discouraging. If we were to go by what is usually preached in the vast majority of “evangelical” churches Sunday after Sunday then we will see... Continue Reading

Singing becomes a (super)natural expression of enjoyment from the heart, which is beautiful and true. And as we grow in conformity to Christ, who himself loved to sing Psalms, we will find ourselves sanctified in our singing.   Singing, specifically Christians singing praise to God, will be an activity that echoes on into the everlasting... Continue Reading

Is there not sufficient evidence in the Scriptures that the Apostles saw the legitimacy of theological instruction from a distance? And is it not clear that they believed their apostolic authority was communicated even through epistolary form? It is not very hard for us to make the leap from first century letters, then, to twenty-first... Continue Reading

Christian persecution can include a wide variety of responses to believers—from scorn, hatred, and ridicule to physical violence, imprisonment, and death. But for such opposition, no matter how mild or severe, to be regarded as persecution in the biblical sense, it must be provoked by the believer’s devotion to Jesus Christ and His righteousness.  ... Continue Reading