Moralism is Not the Gospel (But Many Christians Think It Is)
Moralism produces sinners who are (potentially) better behaved. The Gospel of Christ transforms sinners into the adopted sons and daughters of God.
The seduction of moralism is the essence of its power. We are so easily seduced into believing that we actually can gain all the approval we need by our behavior. Of course, in order to participate in this seduction, we must negotiate a moral code that defines acceptable behavior with innumerable loopholes. Most moralists would not claim... Continue Reading
What is Your Name?
The problem with the Christian community is that we think we know everything. When someone begins to speak, before the words even leave the mouth, we already have the answer.
I have a suggestion. Instead of focusing on our philosophy and apologetics classes that we took in seminary, maybe we should practice this: “What is your name?” Use words to open communication, not shut it down. Use words to encourage the light, not to continue to keep wickedness in the dark. Use words to connect, to... Continue Reading
The Importance of What We Do in Secret
Six times in the Sermon on the Mount, alluding to three distinct exercises, Jesus employs the term secret.
The Sermon on the Mount is addressing the issue of authenticity. Just how genuine is our relationship with the Lord Jesus? It is altogether possible to practice an outward display of piety—to “talk the talk”—without demonstrating any inner reality of godliness. This is true of every professing Christian, and it is especially true of those... Continue Reading
Against A Truncated Gospel
The central question Christianity answers is: “How does God reconcile man to himself after sin enters the world?”
As I do so, there is a small church I pass. I am not sure what the name or denomination of the church is. I can never get past the banner they proudly display by the entrance of their property. This sign has been there for years, and boldly announces: “God is not mad at... Continue Reading
God Hates Sin and Sinners, But He Loves Saints
A sharp, double-edged sword conveys a sense of justice and death. It is difficult to reflect on that image and think of love. It smacks more of warfare!
One of the hallmarks of the evangelical community in the 21st century is that it readily proclaims the love of Christ, while failing to recognize the justice and holiness of God. Love is popular, but wrath is ugly, ignored, and often condemned. The love and mercy and compassion of God is the “Good News of... Continue Reading
Teach Me To Pray! Forgive Us Our Debts
In your prayers, pray for a willing spirit to forgive others
“In your prayer, you may acknowledge to God that you forgive them—not as a statement of pride to God but as a way of humbly acknowledging to God what you are doing. You may need to ask for help to forgive them. It can be hard to get over the hurt and betrayal of being... Continue Reading
Is God a Good Father?
I love my children. But can God really love me like that — more than that?
“As an earthly father I will always love my children. No matter what they do. No matter where they go. I will be here for them. I’m not walking out. They might. I won’t. So, help me God. Still, I can’t imagine this, really, but God loves me more, loves me better, than that. That’s... Continue Reading
What Does it Mean to Fear God?
Luther distinguished between what he called a servile fear and a filial fear.
I think this distinction is helpful because the basic meaning of fearing the Lord that we read about in Deuteronomy is also in the Wisdom Literature, where we’re told that “the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom.” The focus here is on a sense of awe and respect for the majesty of... Continue Reading
The Easiest Sin to Justify
From observation and hard experience I think there is one sin more than any other that we tend to continue to justify.
We delude ourselves into believing that our anger is righteous, that it is just the same as God’s white-hot anger against all that is evil. Sometimes it is, perhaps, but far more often it is not. It may be a sinful reaction to justified anger or a sinful reaction to unjustified anger. Either way, what... Continue Reading
A Catechism on the Heart
Mapping out some preliminary matters in the form of a catechism on the heart.
I must keep my heart healthy by proper diet, growing strong on a regular diet of God’s Word — reading it for myself, meditating on its truth, but especially being fed on it in the preaching of the Word. I also will remember that my heart has eyes as well as ears. The Spirit shows... Continue Reading