The maturity of our members becomes evident when they must wear the practice of their theology, when they are on the receiving end of corrective discipline and when their preferences (whatever they may be) are challenged and must be set aside for the sake of others. It is in those moments we see just how... Continue Reading

Jesus’s baptism at the Jordan points forward to the baptism of his death (Mark 10:38; Luke 12:50). But it also points to the glorious blessings merited by his righteous life. After Jesus was baptized, the heavens opened. God’s Spirit came down like a dove, and a voice from heaven declared, “This is my beloved Son, with... Continue Reading

We really have to get past the idea that the life of the church is accurately and realistically mirrored by social media. We could all do with a little more trust. Ethicists can help with that.   I. I read with great interest Carl Trueman’s recent post on the need for protestant ethicists to assist... Continue Reading

Our judicial system does not hand down the same punishments for every infraction. What we know to be true in ordinary life we must not forget in our spiritual lives. As much as it shows admirable humility or apologetic concern, we must not act or teach as if every sin is the same in God’s... Continue Reading

The Word, prayer, and the sacraments of baptism and the Lord’s Supper are the ordinary means of grace God has given us. These are the means through which the Holy Spirit works to bring true conversion, true revival, and true reformation. God’s awakening power is not activated by our schemes and tactics, but by His... Continue Reading

Jesus had to pass the test that Adam failed in the garden of Eden (Gen 2:16–17; 3:1–6). He refused to believe the devil’s lies and instead obeyed his Father in all things. Jesus was tempted but did not sin (Heb. 4:15). Satan has power, but Jesus has ultimate power over all creation. When Jesus said,... Continue Reading

Throughout history, pagans have often figured out successful legal systems that reflect biblical values because, since God designed the world to work in a certain way, those kinds of systems just work best for the order and prosperity of a society. That’s the reality of common grace politics. The truth is that in matters of... Continue Reading

In the third book of Aaron’s Rod Blossoming, Gillespie argued that suspension from the Lord’s Supper and excommunication from the church are within the jurisdiction of the church—and specifically, under the authority of the elders. Gillespie asserted that suspension from the Sacrament is a step in the process of church discipline, and that one could be... Continue Reading

Even though, while we grow dull and stupid toward our miseries, he watches and keeps guard on our behalf, and sometimes even helps us unasked, still it is very important for us to call upon him: First, that our hearts may be fired with a zealous and burning desire ever to seek, love, and serve... Continue Reading

The implications of Scripture’s teaching on this subject are immense. We will not spend eternity floating on clouds. We’ll enjoy something far better: life in the new earth ensconced in God’s glory. We’ll finally see him face to face.   On March 19, 2021, my father passed away. He was larger than life. Nobody who... Continue Reading