Paul had known the Christian movement from its beginning; first from the outside, as one of the chief agents in its persecution, and then from the inside, as the most active leader of its propaganda [note: the term did not yet have the negative connotation it does now]. He was familiarly acquainted with the Apostles... Continue Reading

Following the ascension of Christ in Section 33 [of “Messiah,”] which cites Psalm 24:7–10, [the following] sections outline the effect of Christ’s exaltation to heaven. This impact begins in heaven, but flows downhill, if you will, to impact all creation. On earth, the Messiah is bringing his kingdom by way of his Spirit and his Word... Continue Reading

These books left an imprint on me, causing me to think, feel, laugh, and hope while I read them and after completing them…I share this list, hoping that they do the same for you.   I always enjoy reading end-of-year book lists. As in past years, I’ve broken my list up into two categories, “Christian... Continue Reading

In our own day Reformed theology has almost become a brand unto itself—we have somehow convinced ourselves that there is a unique Reformed approach to all doctrine. Yet, our Reformed forefathers knew better—they benefited from the riches of their common patristic and medieval heritage. We should do likewise.   I can remember hearing a colleague... Continue Reading

Men, pay attention: don’t waste your marriage. Don’t settle for a life of comfort and consumption. You were made for more than this. Your marriage was made for more than this.   In today’s culture, marriage is little more than a mutual agreement to share a life and expenses while grinding away at work and... Continue Reading

The better we prepare to fulfill our calling as witnesses, the more consistent and effective we will be in this work that God has appointed to us. And the more we discover just how gracious and kind God is to have chosen us for this vocation, the readier we will be to step into His... Continue Reading

Jonah teaches us about the heart of God—a heart of mercy and grace for sinners. Jesus fulfills that lesson fully. The question for you is the same one that faced the Ninevites and the Pharisees: How will you respond?   Two summers ago, I preached through the book of Jonah. It remains one of the... Continue Reading

Jesus’ reign is unlike any other. It is marked by justice, peace, and sacrificial love. His dominion spans all nations and endures forever, firmly established by the zeal of the Lord of hosts. Rejoice Christian!   Isaiah 9:7 declares: Of the increase of His government and peace there will be no end, upon the throne of... Continue Reading

In keeping with the journalistic tradition of looking back at the recent past, we present the top 50 stories of the year that were read on The Aquila Report site based on the number of hits. We will present the 50 stories in groups of 10 to run on five lists on consecutive days. Here... Continue Reading

In verse 42, the thief said, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.” By acknowledging that Jesus has a kingdom, the thief affirmed Christ’s lordship… Beza observes that the Gospel accounts emphasize how the disciples scattered, with only John remaining at the cross. None of the Twelve spoke on Jesus’s behalf or testified... Continue Reading