The old purity culture that has earned such scorn in trendy Christian circles over recent years certainly had its limitations and its problems. But it understood a couple of truths: Sex is important, not trivial; sex is sacred, not just one species of human act among others; and how we act sexually reflects how we... Continue Reading

Our idols will affirm our belief that because we are at the center, then anyone who doesn’t align with our desires or opinions is simply wrong or out of touch. Further, our idols will bolster our belief that because we are central, it’s perfectly fine for us to see others as a means to our... Continue Reading

Praise is the consummation of enjoyment. All enjoyment tends towards praise and adoration as its appointed end. In this way, God’s seeking his own glory and God’s seeking your good converge.   1. God’s Love Is Not Something God Owes Us While it is true that God is love (1 John 4:16), this does not... Continue Reading

In a hostile and man-centred world we are tempted to change the gospel to reduce embarrassment or shame, to be more attractive to visitors, or even to fake successful ministries. Yes, ‘…the word of the cross is folly to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of... Continue Reading

There is a close connection between the calling of David and Jesus. David was a shepherd when the Lord called him to rule over Israel (1 Sam. 16:19; 2 Sam. 7:8). The Lord chose and anointed David to shepherd His people (2 Sam. 5:1–2). Jesus is the Good Shepherd, the chosen and Anointed One appointed... Continue Reading

What does a day of rest mean for you? Here are some diagnostic questions: How does my day of rest differ from other days? Have I made preparation so that I can devote my time to rest? What do I think when I hear people talk about a “holy rest”? Do I really think such... Continue Reading

In Exodus 19, God’s glory was evident in the fire and cloud upon Sinai. And in Exodus 40, God’s glory was evident in the fire and cloud upon the tabernacle. The tabernacle was the new Sinai, a portable Sinai.1 The Lord had spoken from Sinai, and the Lord would now speak from the tent of... Continue Reading

When God saves us, he saves us into the church—the family of God. Like a family, each person contributes to the welfare of the home. The same is true for the church. As members of the same family, we gather each week to help one another and contribute to the well-being of the church.  ... Continue Reading

There’s an off-ramp to escape each time we are tempted. Sometimes we don’t feel it, sometimes we may miss it, but it’s always there. By the Spirit’s power at work in us, we can say no…but it’s a daily battle of repentance and confession.   Kings tried to take his life. He stood toe-to-toe with... Continue Reading

Lord, you have been our dwelling place in all generations. Before the mountains were brought forth, or ever you had formed the earth and the world, from everlasting to everlasting you are God. You return man to dust and say, “Return, O children of man!” For a thousand years in your sight are but as... Continue Reading