For the scope of our present essay, we’ll examine Machen’s libertarianism in terms of voluntarism, the principle of relying on voluntary action and freedom of choice, particularly when associating with ecclesiastical structures. This voluntarism was worked out in many of Machen’s letters about church and civil politics, and ultimately was forced in Machen’s deposition from... Continue Reading

Jeremiah wept for the people, wept for their sin, wept for the judgment they were undergoing. Everything was going badly. But even when everything was going wrong, something was still going right – The Lord was still compassionate. His presence was still with them.   It seems like bad things come in bunches, doesn’t it?... Continue Reading

How do we start? How do we keep prayer from becoming boring? How do I learn how to lead a prayer meeting that isn’t boring? It’s just being like a little child when you’re faced with this huge, impossible task. It’s okay just to launch into it, but even before you announce it, I actually... Continue Reading

The salvation of the children we disciple does not rest on our shoulders. We are called to be faithful sowers, but the work of transformation belongs to God alone. Consider the hope this gives us: the child who tests your patience, the one who seems disengaged, and even the one whose story breaks your heart... Continue Reading

We often feel we need to provide all of the answers in a discussion about faith. If that is the case, then we will never be ready. However, some of the most important moments are when we can lovingly reveal that the questioner has gaps in their understanding.   Approximately 30 million people watched and... Continue Reading

We are responsible for how we minister to others, but not how they respond. People will sin, even when you warn them not to. Some will fall away despite your pleading. Some might betray you, despite of your love for them.   Pitfalls to Avoid As you get going in discipleship and doing spiritual good... Continue Reading

Almost every week, I am deeply aware of how little I have to offer unless the Spirit helps me. I’m amazed that he so often uses what I have to offer. It’s a reminder that our confidence is not in our own abilities, but in the Spirit working through the word.   I think I... Continue Reading

You and I are obviously more intelligent than elephants and whales. At least, I cannot imagine them writing this article on my laptop, dexterity aside. But they are obviously superior to us in size and better adapted to their habitats than we are to ours…By what measure are we to claim that we are superior... Continue Reading

Far from being a buzzkill that directs us away from “freedom and fun,” the Law of God causes us to actively live out our lives in such a way that we both pursue and grasp joy from the Lord within our lives.   Before I had come to truly embrace the doctrines of grace, I... Continue Reading

Will our children turn out okay? I don’t know. Will they love God and others with all they are? Again, I’m not sure. Will God be with us and move toward our kids in love? Yes, and amen!   Parenting has always been difficult. Even with the vast array of Christian resources available today—resources to... Continue Reading