I can hardly believe it myself but A Peculiar Pilgrim has reached the ripe old age of three. In blog years that probably makes it eligible for retirement. Many blogs flame out after a year or two and while it certainly hasn't been stoked into the roaring fire I've intended for it the last couple years, at least my flickering light hasn't been snuffed out completely. I only posted about 30 articles in 09. That's barely more than 1 post every two weeks. I hope to improve on that in 2010.
In the flesh and blood realm I will be teaching a class on Redemption starting the first week of January. I've been hard at work preparing the outlines for the course. I'm thankful to God for this opportunity and I pray it will bless those that God brings into my classroom. My plan is, if time avails, to post articles based on the outlines I'm preparing for the class. I'll likely post the corresponding articles a week before I teach the lesson. This will also help in articulating and unifying what I've written in my outlines. I have about 17 lessons prepared (as of right now) so I would expect at least that many articles on the doctrine of redemption over the first quarter of the year.
As has been the tradition the last two anniversaries, I am posting links to my favorite articles of 2009. In no particular order, they are:
The Justice of God and Are we Saved by Belief or by Actions? - These two articles are responses from the comment section of my post, Will Atheists Go to Hell? by (shockingly!) a couple of atheists. The interaction was cordial and enlightening: A good read.
Grasping God - An article that explores the difficult to comprehend doctrine of God's omnipresence and my personal struggle to grasp it.
AW Pink on Erroneous Evangelism - A quote from the esteemed theologian (with some personal thoughts added in) that pinpoints the deficiency of the modern church's proclamation of the gospel.
Is Christianity a Crutch for the Weak? - An article based on a Sunday School discussion that posed this very question.
Four Views of Salvation Throughout Church History - A helpful chart that shows how Calvinism, Arminianism, Semi-Pelagianism and Pelagianism are contrasted in regard to the roles both God and man play in redemption.
Wednesday, December 23, 2009
Monday, December 21, 2009
Classics from the Comment Section
I discovered this gem of a remark from an atheist buried in the middle of the comment section of the post referenced in my last article, entitled 'Does God Send People to hell?' It may well be the best comment I've ever received on this blog.
Here it is:
I was just randomly surfing the web and ran across this blog. I totally disagree with about everything you said, but thanks for saying it honestly. I get so fed up with the patronizing tone of Christians who say “God wouldn’t send people to hell, people choose to go to hell”. What complete and utterly patonizing BS. Christians believe God will send people to eternal and neverending torment. And God made the rules. I think it’s totally absurd and barbaric, and I don’t believe a word of it. But thanks, at least, for sparing me the BS.
-an atheist
My response:
You're welcome. We here at 'A Peculiar Pilgrim' strive to provide a 100% BS-free environment for all our visitors. Any BS you may encounter will quickly be scoured away by the glorious truth of God's word.
I'm sorry that you think God's decrees are barbaric and absurd, but I do understand your dismay. I pray that God will reveal to you the depths of his love and mercy and that you would reconsider your position.
Thanks for your honest input.
A Peculiar Pilgrim
Here it is:
I was just randomly surfing the web and ran across this blog. I totally disagree with about everything you said, but thanks for saying it honestly. I get so fed up with the patronizing tone of Christians who say “God wouldn’t send people to hell, people choose to go to hell”. What complete and utterly patonizing BS. Christians believe God will send people to eternal and neverending torment. And God made the rules. I think it’s totally absurd and barbaric, and I don’t believe a word of it. But thanks, at least, for sparing me the BS.
-an atheist
My response:
You're welcome. We here at 'A Peculiar Pilgrim' strive to provide a 100% BS-free environment for all our visitors. Any BS you may encounter will quickly be scoured away by the glorious truth of God's word.
I'm sorry that you think God's decrees are barbaric and absurd, but I do understand your dismay. I pray that God will reveal to you the depths of his love and mercy and that you would reconsider your position.
Thanks for your honest input.
A Peculiar Pilgrim
Thursday, December 17, 2009
Can We Send God to Hell?
Provocative title, I know. But I didn't come up with it! Read on for details.
I just received a drive-by comment on an old post I wrote a couple of years ago that demands an immediate response. The post is titled 'Does God Send People to Hell?' In it I dispelled a popular myth in the modern church that God does not send people to hell. This denial of God's responsibility in condemning sinners takes two equally heretical forms. First (and the issue primarily dealt with in the article) is that many people deny that God 'sends' anyone to hell, they simply go there by the free exercise of their will. The other false teaching is that there is no hell at all. The orthodox Christian teaching of eternal punishment is a misinterpretation of the text. Neither position holds weight under the full testimony of scripture. God executes his judgment on all unrepentant sinners; he sends them to a place of eternal misery. Apparently several readers disagree with my position, some vehemently. Here is the comment in full that I just received.
I just received a drive-by comment on an old post I wrote a couple of years ago that demands an immediate response. The post is titled 'Does God Send People to Hell?' In it I dispelled a popular myth in the modern church that God does not send people to hell. This denial of God's responsibility in condemning sinners takes two equally heretical forms. First (and the issue primarily dealt with in the article) is that many people deny that God 'sends' anyone to hell, they simply go there by the free exercise of their will. The other false teaching is that there is no hell at all. The orthodox Christian teaching of eternal punishment is a misinterpretation of the text. Neither position holds weight under the full testimony of scripture. God executes his judgment on all unrepentant sinners; he sends them to a place of eternal misery. Apparently several readers disagree with my position, some vehemently. Here is the comment in full that I just received.
Thursday, December 3, 2009
Is Christianity a Crutch for the Weak?
I remember attending a Sunday school class one morning long ago where the teacher asked us an intriguing question. He prefaced it by quoting media mogul Ted Turner's statement that Christianity is a crutch for the weak, a religion for losers. I had heard variants of that sentiment many times before. Of course, Turner is far from the only person to make such accusations. Christianity is often scorned by non-believers as a security blanket to comfort those who have failed at life.
The teacher then posed the question, "Do you agree or disagree that Christianity is only for the weak?" Unanimously, every person in the class disagreed, offering responses such as, "Christianity is for people of strong resolve. The Christian life is not easy and only resilient people can live it. The weak could not persevere through the demands of a Christian lifestyle."
The teacher then posed the question, "Do you agree or disagree that Christianity is only for the weak?" Unanimously, every person in the class disagreed, offering responses such as, "Christianity is for people of strong resolve. The Christian life is not easy and only resilient people can live it. The weak could not persevere through the demands of a Christian lifestyle."
Saturday, October 31, 2009
Reformation Day
In honor of Reformation Day I'm re-posting a classic article from 2 years ago explaining the importance of this under appreciated holiday. This is one of my all-time most popular posts so I hope you'll enjoy!
On October 31st, 1517, Martin Luther, an Augustinian monk, nailed his 95 theses on the castle church door in Wittenburg, protesting the sale of indulgences by the Roman Catholic church. Luther eventually went to trial for heresy at the Diet of Worms where he was asked to repent of his teachings upon penalty of excommunication. His teachings opposed many accepted doctrines and practices of the church. He also challenged the authority and infallibility of the Pope. Luther refused to recant, famously stating:
Your Imperial Majesty and Your Lordships demand a simple answer. Here it is, plain and unvarnished. Unless I am convicted of error by the testimony of Scripture or since I put no trust in the unsupported authority of Pope or councils, since it is plain that they have often erred and often contradicted themselves by manifest reasoning, I stand convicted by the Scriptures to which I have appealed, and my conscience is taken captive by God's word, I cannot and will not recant anything, for to act against our conscience is neither safe for us, nor open to us.
On this I take my stand. I can do no other. God help me.
Amen.
The spark of the revolution began with the posting of the 95 Theses. The fires were kindled with his defiant words at Worms. The Protestant Reformation began in earnest in 1521. The word protestant simply means protester. A protestant opposes the false teachings of Roman Catholicism.
All of us who are protestants owe a certain debt of gratitude to Martin Luther. He boldly helped to recover the glorious truths of God's holy word. The historic Apostolic doctrines were uncovered in those tumultuous times. They centered around the doctrine of Justification. In defiance of Rome, Luther taught our justification comes not by a combination of faith and works but by faith alone. He once said:
This one and firm rock, which we call the doctrine of justification, is the chief article of the whole Christian doctrine, which comprehends the understanding of all godliness.
From this bedrock, sprang what we now call the Five Solas of the Reformation. They are:
Sola Gratia - God's loving and compassionate grace to lost sinners saves us from his fierce wrath. This grace is not based on any goodness within ourselves. His grace is according to his good pleasure and his purpose. God is not obligated to save one single soul. If he were to send all of humanity to hell he would be just in doing so. However, God in his mercy has bestowed grace upon man, giving every person opportunity to repent of his sin and embrace Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. Believers are '... justified by his grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus', (Rom 3:24) Only by God's loving grace is salvation made possible to the human race.
Sola Fide - We are saved through faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. We trust his sacrificial death on a cross has washed away our sins and redeemed our souls from death, hell and the grave, forever. This faith is a gift of God's grace. It is not of ourselves, lest any man should boast in his salvation. Faith needs no help to make it complete. Our good works do not alter our standing before God. The Apostle Paul wrote, 'For we hold that one is justified by faith apart from works of the law'. (Rom 3:28) We are saved by faith alone.
Solus Christus - The Son of God clearly named the narrow road that leads to eternal life. it is called Jesus Christ Boulevard and it is clearly marked by his stripes and paved with his blood. He claimed, "I am the way, the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me." (John 14:6) The Apostle Peter proclaimed, "And there is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved." (Act 4:12) We are saved by Christ and no other.
Sola Scriptura - The truths we adhere to have been graciously given to us in the form of the holy bible. It is a testament of God's people throughout the course of human history, detailing the account of man's fall and redemption through Jesus Christ. No other source is authoritative in establishing Christian doctrine and practice. "All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be competent, equipped for every good work." (2Ti 3:16-17) The revelation of scriptures alone through the illumination of the Holy Spirit shall lead us to all truth.
Soli Deo Gloria -The deeds of the saints, the wicked and all the host of heaven are ultimately accomplished for the glory of God. Believers glorify God by displaying His attributes of love, grace, mercy and compassion. The reprobate glorify God by displaying God's equally glorious attributes of wrath, righteousness and justice. The contrast between sin and righteousness magnifies the holiness, purity and majesty of Almighty God. Jesus came to glorify the Father and in return the Father glorified him. The author of Hebrews wrote of Christ, 'He is the radiance of the glory of God and the exact imprint of his nature', (Heb 1:3) The chief end of man, according to the Westminster Shorter Catechism is to 'glorify God and enjoy him forever'. Psalms 79 states 'Help us, O God of our salvation, for the glory of your name; deliver us, and atone for our sins, for your name's sake!' (Psa 79:9) Let nothing we do or say be done for our glory or for the glory of others, but for the glory of God alone.
In summary, the Reformation sparked by Martin Luther taught us that God justifies the guilty by Grace Alone through Faith Alone in Christ Alone according to the Scriptures Alone for the Glory of God Alone.
On October 31st, 1517, Martin Luther, an Augustinian monk, nailed his 95 theses on the castle church door in Wittenburg, protesting the sale of indulgences by the Roman Catholic church. Luther eventually went to trial for heresy at the Diet of Worms where he was asked to repent of his teachings upon penalty of excommunication. His teachings opposed many accepted doctrines and practices of the church. He also challenged the authority and infallibility of the Pope. Luther refused to recant, famously stating:
Your Imperial Majesty and Your Lordships demand a simple answer. Here it is, plain and unvarnished. Unless I am convicted of error by the testimony of Scripture or since I put no trust in the unsupported authority of Pope or councils, since it is plain that they have often erred and often contradicted themselves by manifest reasoning, I stand convicted by the Scriptures to which I have appealed, and my conscience is taken captive by God's word, I cannot and will not recant anything, for to act against our conscience is neither safe for us, nor open to us.
On this I take my stand. I can do no other. God help me.
Amen.
The spark of the revolution began with the posting of the 95 Theses. The fires were kindled with his defiant words at Worms. The Protestant Reformation began in earnest in 1521. The word protestant simply means protester. A protestant opposes the false teachings of Roman Catholicism.
All of us who are protestants owe a certain debt of gratitude to Martin Luther. He boldly helped to recover the glorious truths of God's holy word. The historic Apostolic doctrines were uncovered in those tumultuous times. They centered around the doctrine of Justification. In defiance of Rome, Luther taught our justification comes not by a combination of faith and works but by faith alone. He once said:
This one and firm rock, which we call the doctrine of justification, is the chief article of the whole Christian doctrine, which comprehends the understanding of all godliness.
From this bedrock, sprang what we now call the Five Solas of the Reformation. They are:
- Sola Gratia - Grace Alone
- Sola Fide - Faith Alone
- Solus Christus - Christ Alone
- Sola Scriptura - Scripture Alone
- Soli Deo Gloria - Glory of God Alone
Sola Gratia - God's loving and compassionate grace to lost sinners saves us from his fierce wrath. This grace is not based on any goodness within ourselves. His grace is according to his good pleasure and his purpose. God is not obligated to save one single soul. If he were to send all of humanity to hell he would be just in doing so. However, God in his mercy has bestowed grace upon man, giving every person opportunity to repent of his sin and embrace Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. Believers are '... justified by his grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus', (Rom 3:24) Only by God's loving grace is salvation made possible to the human race.
Sola Fide - We are saved through faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. We trust his sacrificial death on a cross has washed away our sins and redeemed our souls from death, hell and the grave, forever. This faith is a gift of God's grace. It is not of ourselves, lest any man should boast in his salvation. Faith needs no help to make it complete. Our good works do not alter our standing before God. The Apostle Paul wrote, 'For we hold that one is justified by faith apart from works of the law'. (Rom 3:28) We are saved by faith alone.
Solus Christus - The Son of God clearly named the narrow road that leads to eternal life. it is called Jesus Christ Boulevard and it is clearly marked by his stripes and paved with his blood. He claimed, "I am the way, the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me." (John 14:6) The Apostle Peter proclaimed, "And there is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved." (Act 4:12) We are saved by Christ and no other.
Sola Scriptura - The truths we adhere to have been graciously given to us in the form of the holy bible. It is a testament of God's people throughout the course of human history, detailing the account of man's fall and redemption through Jesus Christ. No other source is authoritative in establishing Christian doctrine and practice. "All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be competent, equipped for every good work." (2Ti 3:16-17) The revelation of scriptures alone through the illumination of the Holy Spirit shall lead us to all truth.
Soli Deo Gloria -The deeds of the saints, the wicked and all the host of heaven are ultimately accomplished for the glory of God. Believers glorify God by displaying His attributes of love, grace, mercy and compassion. The reprobate glorify God by displaying God's equally glorious attributes of wrath, righteousness and justice. The contrast between sin and righteousness magnifies the holiness, purity and majesty of Almighty God. Jesus came to glorify the Father and in return the Father glorified him. The author of Hebrews wrote of Christ, 'He is the radiance of the glory of God and the exact imprint of his nature', (Heb 1:3) The chief end of man, according to the Westminster Shorter Catechism is to 'glorify God and enjoy him forever'. Psalms 79 states 'Help us, O God of our salvation, for the glory of your name; deliver us, and atone for our sins, for your name's sake!' (Psa 79:9) Let nothing we do or say be done for our glory or for the glory of others, but for the glory of God alone.
In summary, the Reformation sparked by Martin Luther taught us that God justifies the guilty by Grace Alone through Faith Alone in Christ Alone according to the Scriptures Alone for the Glory of God Alone.
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
The Hope of the World?
Paul Proctor has an outstanding on-point article regarding the sandy foundation upon which the Church Growth Movement (CGM) is built.
Here is an excerpt:
Read the entire article by clicking on the link below:
Are You a Church Worshipper?
Here is an excerpt:
Well, another Leadership Summit has come and gone at Willow Creek Community Church in South Barrington, Illinois – a yearly conference led by its senior pastor and Willow Creek Association’s Chairman of the Board, Bill Hybels. They reportedly drew over 6000 attendees this year with some 60,000 watching a live broadcast of the event. They’ve been holding these annual gatherings for 13 years.
In a recent Christian Post article, Hybels once again revealed the humanist nature of the infamous seeker-sensitive church growth movement by posing the question:
"Do we still believe the local church is the hope of the world?"
You see, many Christians might look at that and not realize they’ve been subjected to a dialectic question designed to alter their spiritual priorities and get them onboard an alternative agenda. This is what trained facilitators do under the radar in many churches today.
But I would ask: Is that where your hope lies – in the local church?
Do you believe your church can save the world?
Did it save you?
Read the entire article by clicking on the link below:
Are You a Church Worshipper?
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
AW Pink on Erroneous Evangelism
"The nature of Christ's salvation is woefully misrepresented by the present-day evangelist. He announces a savior from hell rather than a savior from sin. And that is why so many are fatally deceived, for there are multitudes who wish to escape the Lake of Fire who have no desire to be delivered from their carnality and worldliness." - Originally from article Saving Faith: Part 1 Signs of the Times. Cited in the DVD Amazing Grace: The History and Theology of Calvinism
I believe this quote from Pink is essential in developing a biblical approach to evangelism. It's all too easy to gain 'converts' by scaring the 'hell' right out of people by conjuring horrific imagery of an eternal state of suffering and misery. Who in their right mind would choose this fate over one of eternal bliss? Heaven and hell are not the primary issues we are faced with everyday; righteousness and wickedness are. The bottom line is that we don't choose heaven and hell. We choose between righteousness and unrighteousness. Heaven and hell are simply the eternal consequence of our choices between the two.
I believe this quote from Pink is essential in developing a biblical approach to evangelism. It's all too easy to gain 'converts' by scaring the 'hell' right out of people by conjuring horrific imagery of an eternal state of suffering and misery. Who in their right mind would choose this fate over one of eternal bliss? Heaven and hell are not the primary issues we are faced with everyday; righteousness and wickedness are. The bottom line is that we don't choose heaven and hell. We choose between righteousness and unrighteousness. Heaven and hell are simply the eternal consequence of our choices between the two.
Friday, May 1, 2009
Jacob I Have Loved, Esau I Have Hated
Here is a brief (and belated) response to a comment on my post on the justice of God.
Morsec0de wrote: "You have two people who live identical lives. The one and only difference is that one is a believer, and the other is not. Do you view it as just that one of those be tortured for all eternity and the other not? I’m sorry, but that is an absolutely revolting concept, and the being who instituted it would be despicable. I’m quite glad there is no good evidence to support such a being actually existing."
My response:
I quoted from Romans chapter 9 in my last post concerning God's choice of Jacob over Esau and I think that shedding further light on this will answer Morsec0de's question. Readers be warned, this answer will probably not be a popular one, but it is a biblical one.
Morsec0de wrote: "You have two people who live identical lives. The one and only difference is that one is a believer, and the other is not. Do you view it as just that one of those be tortured for all eternity and the other not? I’m sorry, but that is an absolutely revolting concept, and the being who instituted it would be despicable. I’m quite glad there is no good evidence to support such a being actually existing."
My response:
I quoted from Romans chapter 9 in my last post concerning God's choice of Jacob over Esau and I think that shedding further light on this will answer Morsec0de's question. Readers be warned, this answer will probably not be a popular one, but it is a biblical one.
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
Absurdity of the 'Seeker Sensitive' Movement Illustrated
From the Sacred Sandwich:
[caption id="attachment_697" align="aligncenter" width="450" caption="Is it the duty of pastors to make God and His Holy Word more palatable to the masses? This satirical ad demostrates the inanity of the concept."]
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[caption id="attachment_697" align="aligncenter" width="450" caption="Is it the duty of pastors to make God and His Holy Word more palatable to the masses? This satirical ad demostrates the inanity of the concept."]
[/caption]
Wednesday, April 8, 2009
The Justice of God
In my last post, Are We Justified by Actions or by Beliefs? which was in response to the post prior to it, Will Atheists go to Hell? I received further comments from a couple of atheists questioning the goodness and justice of God in sending people away to eternal punishment. I will attempt to answer their objections here.
I wrote, "If my justification depended on my actions I (and everyone else) would be doomed to damnation."
Morsec0de wrote, "Doesn't that suggest too high of a standard?"
My response:
Yes! That's the whole point of the biblical tension between law and grace. Logically, one leads to the other. Here are a few biblical facts about the law of God:
I wrote, "If my justification depended on my actions I (and everyone else) would be doomed to damnation."
Morsec0de wrote, "Doesn't that suggest too high of a standard?"
My response:
Yes! That's the whole point of the biblical tension between law and grace. Logically, one leads to the other. Here are a few biblical facts about the law of God:
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
Are We Saved by Belief or by Actions?
In my last post where I related a conversation with my daughter concerning the eternal fate of atheists who persist in their belief system, I received a few respectful responses from fellow bloggers of the atheistic worldview. I decided to place my reply in a post because the commenter asked several good questions and I thought my response was a little long for the comment section. The gentleman takes issue with the concept of God's judgment being based on belief rather than action. He asks:
"Are you okay with people being judged on belief rather than actions? Are you comfortable with that? Does it seem just to you?"
My reply follows:
"Are you okay with people being judged on belief rather than actions? Are you comfortable with that? Does it seem just to you?"
My reply follows:
Monday, March 30, 2009
Will Atheists Go to Hell?
Thursday morning I was shaken out of my mundane weekday routine by a surprising question from my teenage daughter on the way to school. It surprised me for a couple of reasons:
1. In the past my daughter has not been open to conversing about spiritual matters.
2. None of us are morning people. No one is usually talkative, much less thinking about deep theological issues at 7:30ish. I'm certain my children's morning moods are genetically assigned by their dear old dad. I am not conversant or even pleasant company until around 10:00 most days.
So, imagine my surprise when my daughter blurts out of the blue, "Mom got mad at me the other day."
I only offered a muffled "Mmmph" as a reply: an indication for her to continue the thought.
"I told mom I didn't believe atheists would 'go down there'", she pointed her finger downward ominously. "She got really mad at me for saying that. What do you think?"
1. In the past my daughter has not been open to conversing about spiritual matters.
2. None of us are morning people. No one is usually talkative, much less thinking about deep theological issues at 7:30ish. I'm certain my children's morning moods are genetically assigned by their dear old dad. I am not conversant or even pleasant company until around 10:00 most days.
So, imagine my surprise when my daughter blurts out of the blue, "Mom got mad at me the other day."
I only offered a muffled "Mmmph" as a reply: an indication for her to continue the thought.
"I told mom I didn't believe atheists would 'go down there'", she pointed her finger downward ominously. "She got really mad at me for saying that. What do you think?"
Saturday, March 28, 2009
Thursday, March 19, 2009
Truth For All Time
Title: Truth For All Time: A Brief Outline of the Christian Faith
Author: John Calvin (Translated by Stuart Olyott)
Page Count: 77
Publisher: Banner of Truth
Readability: Easy
Genre: Systematic Theology
Author: John Calvin (Translated by Stuart Olyott)
Page Count: 77
Publisher: Banner of Truth
Readability: Easy
Genre: Systematic Theology
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
Four Views of Salvation Throughout Church History
Theological Position | God’s Contribution in Salvation | Man’s Contribution in Salvation |
Pelagianism | Non-Essential - other than granting the grace of free will and the revelation of his commandments that man may know how to please him. | Total. Gains God's favor with his wise free will choice and strict obedience to the commandments. |
Semi-Pelagianism | Secondary. Responds to man's initiative to repent and believe the gospel. | Primary. Must take initiative to repent and believe the gospel. |
Arminianism | Primary. A special act of grace is necessary for any man to repent and believe the gospel. | Secondary. Responds to God's act of grace by making a free will choice to repent and believe the gospel. |
Calvinism | Total. A special act of grace irresistibly calls and enables man to repent and believe the gospel. This grace does not fail to achieve its goal. | Non-Essential. His repentance and faith proceeds from God as a gift of grace. |
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
Is Only Willing Love worth the Price?
I have featured this atrocious video before but it is so theologically bankrupt that it bears another look. I saw this again recently on You Tube and was disturbed to find many people actually defending it. Sadly, this song sums up the soteriology of a large segment of Evangelicalism today. I have listed below the lyrics to 'I Give You Freedom' or 'The Whippoorwill Song'. A few observations will follow. Blatant heresy has been bolded for your convenience.
I set the boundaries of the ocean vast,
Carved out the mountains from the distant past,
Molded a man from the miry clay,
Breathed in him life, but he went astray.
CHORUS:
I own the cattle on a thousand hills,
I write the music for the whippoorwills,
Control the planets with their rocks and rills,
But give you freedom to use your own will.
And if you want Me to, I’ll make you whole,
I’ll only do it tho’ if you say so.
I’ll never force you, for I love you so,
I give you freedom - Is it “yes” or “no”?
I hold the waters in My mighty hand
Spread out the heavens with a single span,
Make all creation tremble at My voice,
But My own children come to Me by choice.
(chorus)
Even the oxen knows the master’s stall,
And sheep will recognize the shepherd’s call
I could demand your love - I own you twice,
But only willing love is worth the price!
(chorus)
Friday, February 20, 2009
In the Valley
Here is a great quote from an unknown source. If anyone can identify the author for me I would greatly appreciate it. Whoever penned this piece of divine wisdom should be given due credit.
"We pray for courage in times of tribulation – then question our Commander’s battle plan. We pray to be made perfect – then run at the first sight of the refining fire. We pray for brokenness – then flee the Potter’s hands. All too often our Savior’s merciful act of sanctification is met by our doubt when we discover that His path may lead us down the valley of the shadow of death. How foolish it is for us to demand peaceful green pastures, as if we expect to be carried to Heaven’s skies on “flowery beds of ease.” We erroneously see these valleys as periods of abandonment, when they are actually demonstrations of Christ’s perfect love. Our Father gives only good gifts to his children: this is His character, and as such is not subject to change. The man that proclaims his gratitude only when “the Lord giveth” has much to learn. When “the Lord giveth and the Lord taketh away”, man often forgets gratitude and screams injustice has befallen him. He searches for any visible exit, then sprints toward escape. But God did not design these tests so man could cheat. He designed these tests so man could be made more like the image of His Son. When we finally see God as truly good and merciful beyond compare, we will not flee. We will instead fall face down in the valley before the Lord of perfect love and worship His majestic sovereignty. This humble submission is where peace and joy can be experienced; the misery comes when we lean on our own understanding and attempt to climb out of the valley. My Commander will give me His strength, and I will stay in the valley He has ordained. When I pray to be made perfect by God’s grace, I will welcome His refining fire. When I pray for brokenness, I will rest in the Potter’s outstretched hands. Only then will I be able to repeat, “The Lord giveth, and the Lord taketh away; blessed be the name of the Lord.” - Unknown.
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
Grasping God
I am currently reading Wayne Grudem's Systematic Theology and last night I came across a section on God's incommunicable attributes. This refers to the fact that God possesses certain attributes that he has not shared or passed on to mankind. For example, God is eternal and infinite in his being, having neither beginning nor end. However, man is finite and has a definite beginning. God is independent in that he does not depend on any source outside of himself to sustain his existence. Since he created all things he does not require creation to 'Be'. Man cannot claim this attribute. These traits are opposite of his communicable attributes, or those qualities of God that he has shared or passed on to mankind. Examples of this would include God's love, justice, and mercy. Man has the capacity to express each and everyone of these divine attributes, though not to the degree and scope that God does.
Monday, February 9, 2009
Notice: Programming Change
For personal reasons I am suspending the weekly posts on my thoughts concerning the Sunday sermon at our church. I may still post one on occasion as I see fit. I am concentrating on other endeavours at this time. Look for an announcement in the next week or two that will have an impact on me personally and on this blog.
Stay on Target...
Distinguished Scottish theologian Sinclair Ferguson has some sound counsel for pastors and teachers who preach from the Gospel accounts of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John. This is a particularly relevant quote for the season I am currently in right now. Plus, I've been looking for an opportunity to use a Star Wars quote as a post title...
Too often preaching on the Gospels takes what I whimsically think of as the “Find Waldo Approach.” The underlying question in the sermon is “Where are you to be found in this story?” (are you Martha or Mary, James and John, Peter, the grateful leper . . .?). The question “Where, Who and What is Jesus in this story? Tends to be marginalized. The truth is it is far easier to preach about Mary, Martha, James, John, or Peter than it is about Christ. It is far easier to preach even about the darkness of sin and the human heart than to preach Christ. Plus my bookshelves are groaning with literature on Mary, Martha . . . the good life, the family life, the Spirit-filled life, the parenting life, the damaged self life . . . but most of us have only a few inches of shelf space on the person and work of Christ himself. Am I absolutely at my best when talking about him, or about us?
Friday, January 30, 2009
The Reformation
Title: The Reformation: How a Monk and a Mallet Changed the World
Author: Stephen J. Nichols
Page Count: 159
Publisher: Crossway
Readability: Easy
Genre: Church History
Author: Stephen J. Nichols
Page Count: 159
Publisher: Crossway
Readability: Easy
Genre: Church History
Tuesday, January 27, 2009
Disdaining Shock and Awe from the Pulpit
American Christendom has birthed a disturbing new trend with today's wave of ultra-hip pastors who unabashedly spew foul language from the pulpit and openly discuss various sexual acts in lurid detail with their congregations. Allow me to share a nugget of wisdom from Charles Spurgeon that all these shepherds of God's sheep should heed.
We need the divine influence to keep us back from saying many things which, if they actually left our tongue, would mar our message. Those of us who are endowed with the dangerous gift of humor have need, sometimes, to stop and take the word out of our mouth and look at it, and see whether it is quite to edification; and those whose previous lives have borne them amoung the coarse and the rough had need watch with lynx eyes against indelicacy. Brethren, far be it from us to utter a syllable which would suggest an impure thought, or raise a questionable memory. We need the Spirit of God to put bit and bridle upon us to keep us from saying that which would take the minds of our hearers away from Christ and eternal realities, and set them thinking upon the groveling things of earth. - Taken from Lectures to my Students: Chapter 14 -The Holy Spirit in Connection with our Ministry.
Monday, January 26, 2009
Paul's Grace
Sermon Date: 1/25/09
Text: Ephesians 3: 7-12 - 7 Of this gospel I was made a minister according to the gift of God's grace, which was given me by the working of his power. To me, though I am the very least of all the saints, this grace was given, to preach to the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ, and to bring to light for everyone what is the plan of the mystery hidden for ages in God who created all things, so that through the church the manifold wisdom of God might now be made known to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly places. This was according to the eternal purpose that he has realized in Christ Jesus our Lord, in whom we have boldness and access with confidence through our faith in him.
Text: Ephesians 3: 7-12 - 7 Of this gospel I was made a minister according to the gift of God's grace, which was given me by the working of his power. To me, though I am the very least of all the saints, this grace was given, to preach to the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ, and to bring to light for everyone what is the plan of the mystery hidden for ages in God who created all things, so that through the church the manifold wisdom of God might now be made known to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly places. This was according to the eternal purpose that he has realized in Christ Jesus our Lord, in whom we have boldness and access with confidence through our faith in him.
Sunday, January 25, 2009
Crook in the Lot
Title: Crook in the Lot
Author: Thomas Boston
Publisher: Christian Heritage
Page Count: 195
Readability: Moderate
Genre: Christian Living
Synopsis: Boston sets out to demonstrate that all of life's pain and suffering experienced by Christians is ultimately ordained for our good by an absolutely sovereign and loving God. The term 'crook in the lot' is a biblical reference Boston uses as the main text for his work. The scripture is taken from the book of Ecclesiastes chapter 17, verse 13: Consider the work of God: for who can make that straight, which he hath made crooked.
Author: Thomas Boston
Publisher: Christian Heritage
Page Count: 195
Readability: Moderate
Genre: Christian Living
Synopsis: Boston sets out to demonstrate that all of life's pain and suffering experienced by Christians is ultimately ordained for our good by an absolutely sovereign and loving God. The term 'crook in the lot' is a biblical reference Boston uses as the main text for his work. The scripture is taken from the book of Ecclesiastes chapter 17, verse 13: Consider the work of God: for who can make that straight, which he hath made crooked.
Monday, January 19, 2009
Esther's Dignity
Sermon Date: 1/18/09
Text: Esther 4:12-17 - And they told Mordecai what Esther had said. Then Mordecai told them to reply to Esther, “Do not think to yourself that in the king's palace you will escape any more than all the other Jews. For if you keep silent at this time, relief and deliverance will rise for the Jews from another place, but you and your father's house will perish. And who knows whether you have not come to the kingdom for such a time as this?” Then Esther told them to reply to Mordecai, “Go, gather all the Jews to be found in Susa, and hold a fast on my behalf, and do not eat or drink for three days, night or day. I and my young women will also fast as you do. Then I will go to the king, though it is against the law, and if I perish, I perish.” Mordecai then went away and did everything as Esther had ordered him.
Main Points:
Reflections: It appears Pastor is doing a series on bible characters. Last week he preached on the faith of Jabez and this week he taught us about Esther's dignity. Honestly, I didn't really mine much out of this message. I feel a little guilty, but this does happen from time to time. Perhaps the Lord is making me work by the sweat of my brow to acquire the nugget of spiritual truth that Pastor has served up to us.
The problem I've noted about the last two messages is the disconnect between the virtue that these bible heroes possessed and the virtue that we're supposed to demonstrate. The great question that has gone unanswered is, "How do I exercise the faith of Jabez and walk in the dignity of Esther?" I don't know about most of you, but my faith is not like that of Jabez. My dignity in the face of dire consequences probably wouldn't hold up as did Esther's. I have no problem with being exhorted to the high standard of great men and women of God but I need to know how to live up to that standard. The answer, of course, is that by our own power and determination we never could measure up. Our only hope is the grace of God. We must cry out for the Lord's mercy and compassion to help us lowly sinners look to the perfect finished work of Christ as our only hope for salvation. I'm too weak in my own strength to exercise great faith. The Lord must grant me faith to believe and grab hold of the promises. I'm too cowardly and self-preserving in the face of mortal danger to muster the dignity and courage to stick my neck out for my own people. The Lord must perform a work on my heart to turn it away from my self interests to the welfare of others.
I guess without a reference back to the work of Jesus on the cross these sermons are really instructing us in law, not grace. This is usually not the case with the vast majority of messages at our church. I believe that in this case the gospel portion of the message is assumed. I know my pastor well enough to be confident that he is not a moralist, but is steadfastly a gospel minister. However, I am convinced that we should never assume the gospel because the natural bent of the human heart is toward meritorious works. We must hear the gospel week in and week out in all its fullness, so that we may be humbled, lest our hearts be led astray by the things we believe we can accomplish in our own strength.
Text: Esther 4:12-17 - And they told Mordecai what Esther had said. Then Mordecai told them to reply to Esther, “Do not think to yourself that in the king's palace you will escape any more than all the other Jews. For if you keep silent at this time, relief and deliverance will rise for the Jews from another place, but you and your father's house will perish. And who knows whether you have not come to the kingdom for such a time as this?” Then Esther told them to reply to Mordecai, “Go, gather all the Jews to be found in Susa, and hold a fast on my behalf, and do not eat or drink for three days, night or day. I and my young women will also fast as you do. Then I will go to the king, though it is against the law, and if I perish, I perish.” Mordecai then went away and did everything as Esther had ordered him.
Main Points:
- Esther rose to power
- Esther listened to instruction
- Esther chose to help
Reflections: It appears Pastor is doing a series on bible characters. Last week he preached on the faith of Jabez and this week he taught us about Esther's dignity. Honestly, I didn't really mine much out of this message. I feel a little guilty, but this does happen from time to time. Perhaps the Lord is making me work by the sweat of my brow to acquire the nugget of spiritual truth that Pastor has served up to us.
The problem I've noted about the last two messages is the disconnect between the virtue that these bible heroes possessed and the virtue that we're supposed to demonstrate. The great question that has gone unanswered is, "How do I exercise the faith of Jabez and walk in the dignity of Esther?" I don't know about most of you, but my faith is not like that of Jabez. My dignity in the face of dire consequences probably wouldn't hold up as did Esther's. I have no problem with being exhorted to the high standard of great men and women of God but I need to know how to live up to that standard. The answer, of course, is that by our own power and determination we never could measure up. Our only hope is the grace of God. We must cry out for the Lord's mercy and compassion to help us lowly sinners look to the perfect finished work of Christ as our only hope for salvation. I'm too weak in my own strength to exercise great faith. The Lord must grant me faith to believe and grab hold of the promises. I'm too cowardly and self-preserving in the face of mortal danger to muster the dignity and courage to stick my neck out for my own people. The Lord must perform a work on my heart to turn it away from my self interests to the welfare of others.
I guess without a reference back to the work of Jesus on the cross these sermons are really instructing us in law, not grace. This is usually not the case with the vast majority of messages at our church. I believe that in this case the gospel portion of the message is assumed. I know my pastor well enough to be confident that he is not a moralist, but is steadfastly a gospel minister. However, I am convinced that we should never assume the gospel because the natural bent of the human heart is toward meritorious works. We must hear the gospel week in and week out in all its fullness, so that we may be humbled, lest our hearts be led astray by the things we believe we can accomplish in our own strength.
Monday, January 12, 2009
The Faith of Jabez
Sermon Date: 1/11/09
Text: 1 Chronicles 4:9-10 - Jabez was more honorable than his brothers; and his mother called his name Jabez, saying, “Because I bore him in pain.” Jabez called upon the God of Israel, saying, “Oh that you would bless me and enlarge my border, and that your hand might be with me, and that you would keep me from harm so that it might not bring me pain!” And God granted what he asked.
Main Points:
Reflections: I never read The Prayer of Jabez when the book swept through evangelical churches at the turn of the millennium. I'm not sure why I didn't. Back then I had no qualms following the latest and greatest spiritual fads of the day. I never read Bruce Wilkinson's bestseller, though I have read much about the controversy surrounding it. My Pastor said that he had - and really didn't have much to say about it after that admission. He went on to preach on Jabez's prayer in a way that contradicts the premise of the book. Our congregation soon discovered two important facts about Jabez's prayer. 1. It is not a magic formula that works by quoting by rote day after day. 2. It is not a key to health, wealth and prosperity. In fact, my pastor believed that when Jabez cries out to the Lord to bless him and enlarge his territory he is asking primarily for more responsibility. More to do is a good thing. Jabez, who had been faithful with much, desired to be faithful with even more. Pastor quoted from Christ's parable of the talents, paralleling the good and faithful servant with Jabez. Jabez wasn't asking for material blessing so much as he was seeking to expand his usefulness and responsibility in service to God and his kingdom.
Personal Application: I left service asking these questions; In what way do I desire God to expand my territory? What area of ministry have I been found faithful in and am ready for God to increase my responsibility? I know what the big part of my answer is, but I'm not quite ready to make that public. Suffice it to say, I'm ready to expand my sphere of influence to reach beyond cyberspace. I am preparing to make sacrifices in money, time and comfort. It is all for the sake of the gospel and I am excited for the new challenges that lie ahead. The Lord is indeed beginning to do a work in my life that will greatly increase my borders. Pastor taught me that Jabez did not seek fortune and ease, but fullfillment and purpose in the midst of doing God's will. By the grace of God I will pray God achieves his purpose for my remaining time on earth.
Text: 1 Chronicles 4:9-10 - Jabez was more honorable than his brothers; and his mother called his name Jabez, saying, “Because I bore him in pain.” Jabez called upon the God of Israel, saying, “Oh that you would bless me and enlarge my border, and that your hand might be with me, and that you would keep me from harm so that it might not bring me pain!” And God granted what he asked.
Main Points:
- Jabez evidenced integrity.
- Jabez overcame adversity.
- Jabez invited responsibility
- Jabez expected victory.
Reflections: I never read The Prayer of Jabez when the book swept through evangelical churches at the turn of the millennium. I'm not sure why I didn't. Back then I had no qualms following the latest and greatest spiritual fads of the day. I never read Bruce Wilkinson's bestseller, though I have read much about the controversy surrounding it. My Pastor said that he had - and really didn't have much to say about it after that admission. He went on to preach on Jabez's prayer in a way that contradicts the premise of the book. Our congregation soon discovered two important facts about Jabez's prayer. 1. It is not a magic formula that works by quoting by rote day after day. 2. It is not a key to health, wealth and prosperity. In fact, my pastor believed that when Jabez cries out to the Lord to bless him and enlarge his territory he is asking primarily for more responsibility. More to do is a good thing. Jabez, who had been faithful with much, desired to be faithful with even more. Pastor quoted from Christ's parable of the talents, paralleling the good and faithful servant with Jabez. Jabez wasn't asking for material blessing so much as he was seeking to expand his usefulness and responsibility in service to God and his kingdom.
Personal Application: I left service asking these questions; In what way do I desire God to expand my territory? What area of ministry have I been found faithful in and am ready for God to increase my responsibility? I know what the big part of my answer is, but I'm not quite ready to make that public. Suffice it to say, I'm ready to expand my sphere of influence to reach beyond cyberspace. I am preparing to make sacrifices in money, time and comfort. It is all for the sake of the gospel and I am excited for the new challenges that lie ahead. The Lord is indeed beginning to do a work in my life that will greatly increase my borders. Pastor taught me that Jabez did not seek fortune and ease, but fullfillment and purpose in the midst of doing God's will. By the grace of God I will pray God achieves his purpose for my remaining time on earth.
Sunday Sermon Reflections
I am adding a new category to A Peculiar Pilgrim. I"m naming it Sunday Sermon Reflections. I believe the title is self explanatory, but let me give you the motivation for penning my thoughts on the morning message. It has been my experience that during a normal week someone will ask how church went Sunday morning. I brace myself for the inevitable follow up question, "What did your pastor preach on?" My heart beats a little faster and my mind races to scrap together bits and pieces of my broken memory in order to muster up a vague yet truthful response without sacrificing my reputation as a spiritual Christian. This is not to say that I don't pay attention to the message or that the quality of the sermon isn't adequate or that it somehow does not apply to me. It's just - well... I just forget. I know, I know. You may say that if I thought highly of the preacher and his message then I couldn't possibly forget. Or, to turn the tables, you may point the blame straight at the pastor, accusing him of doing his job so poorly that no one could remember his message. In truth, the answer really has a lot to do with over-saturation.
Let me explain.
Let me explain.
Monday, January 5, 2009
Year End Book Review - Part 2
Title: The Chronicles of Narnia (All seven volumes). The Magician's Nephew; The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe; The Horse and His Boy; Prince Caspian; The Voyage of the Dawn Treader; The Silver Chair; The Last Battle.
Author: C.S. Lewis
Publisher: HarperCollins
Page Count: 767
Readability: Easy
Genre: Fiction
Synopsis: A fictional series based in the mythical land of Narnia where animals talk, witches loom, magic flourishes and lions reign. It is a place where men coexist with centaurs, minotaurs, dwarves and fauns. C.S. Lewis pens seven volumes primarily following the adventures of the four Pevensie children: Peter, Susan, Lucy and Edmund as they discover a portal to a wondrous new world at the back of a wardrobe. Many people call Lewis' work a Christian allegory but that's not quite accurate. Not every figure and event represents an element of the Christian life. I've read that Lewis approached his books by asking the question, "What would Jesus Christ be like in a world like Narnia?" The answer, of course, comes in the form of Aslan, the noble lion who directs all things according to the counsel of his own will. Chronicles is not allegory but is full of biblical allusions. The Chronicles of Narnia was written for children, but can (and should) be enjoyed by people of all ages.
Kudos/Knocks: Lewis is a true joy to read and even children should not have much trouble tackling these volumes for themselves. Narnia is an enchanted place that every reader will long to visit. I enjoyed every volume, but some more than others. Below I will list all seven books in order from most loved to least loved, with a few words about each.
Author: C.S. Lewis
Publisher: HarperCollins
Page Count: 767
Readability: Easy
Genre: Fiction
Synopsis: A fictional series based in the mythical land of Narnia where animals talk, witches loom, magic flourishes and lions reign. It is a place where men coexist with centaurs, minotaurs, dwarves and fauns. C.S. Lewis pens seven volumes primarily following the adventures of the four Pevensie children: Peter, Susan, Lucy and Edmund as they discover a portal to a wondrous new world at the back of a wardrobe. Many people call Lewis' work a Christian allegory but that's not quite accurate. Not every figure and event represents an element of the Christian life. I've read that Lewis approached his books by asking the question, "What would Jesus Christ be like in a world like Narnia?" The answer, of course, comes in the form of Aslan, the noble lion who directs all things according to the counsel of his own will. Chronicles is not allegory but is full of biblical allusions. The Chronicles of Narnia was written for children, but can (and should) be enjoyed by people of all ages.
Kudos/Knocks: Lewis is a true joy to read and even children should not have much trouble tackling these volumes for themselves. Narnia is an enchanted place that every reader will long to visit. I enjoyed every volume, but some more than others. Below I will list all seven books in order from most loved to least loved, with a few words about each.
Sunday, January 4, 2009
Devotion from Spurgeon
“Grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.” - 2 Peter 3:18
“Grow in grace”—not in one grace only, but in all grace. Grow in that root-grace, faith. Believe the promises more firmly than you have done. Let faith increase in fulness, constancy, simplicity. Grow also in love. Ask that your love may become extended, more intense, more practical, influencing every thought, word, and deed. Grow likewise in humility. Seek to lie very low, and know more of your own nothingness. As you grow downward in humility, seek also to grow upward—having nearer approaches to God in prayer and more intimate fellowship with Jesus. May God the Holy Spirit enable you to “grow in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour.” He who grows not in the knowledge of Jesus, refuses to be blessed. To know Him is “life eternal,” and to advance in the knowledge of Him is to increase in happiness. He who does not long to know more of Christ, knows nothing of Him yet. Whoever hath sipped this wine will thirst for more, for although Christ doth satisfy, yet it is such a satisfaction, that the appetite is not cloyed, but whetted. If you know the love of Jesus—as the hart panteth for the water-brooks, so will you pant after deeper draughts of His love. If you do not desire to know Him better, then you love Him not, for love always cries, “Nearer, nearer.” Absence from Christ is hell; but the presence of Jesus is heaven. Rest not then content without an increasing acquaintance with Jesus. Seek to know more of Him in his divine nature, in His human relationship, in His finished work, in His death, in His resurrection, in His present glorious intercession, and in His future royal advent. Abide hard by the Cross, and search the mystery of His wounds. An increase of love to Jesus, and a more perfect apprehension of His love to us is one of the best tests of growth in grace.
“Grow in grace”—not in one grace only, but in all grace. Grow in that root-grace, faith. Believe the promises more firmly than you have done. Let faith increase in fulness, constancy, simplicity. Grow also in love. Ask that your love may become extended, more intense, more practical, influencing every thought, word, and deed. Grow likewise in humility. Seek to lie very low, and know more of your own nothingness. As you grow downward in humility, seek also to grow upward—having nearer approaches to God in prayer and more intimate fellowship with Jesus. May God the Holy Spirit enable you to “grow in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour.” He who grows not in the knowledge of Jesus, refuses to be blessed. To know Him is “life eternal,” and to advance in the knowledge of Him is to increase in happiness. He who does not long to know more of Christ, knows nothing of Him yet. Whoever hath sipped this wine will thirst for more, for although Christ doth satisfy, yet it is such a satisfaction, that the appetite is not cloyed, but whetted. If you know the love of Jesus—as the hart panteth for the water-brooks, so will you pant after deeper draughts of His love. If you do not desire to know Him better, then you love Him not, for love always cries, “Nearer, nearer.” Absence from Christ is hell; but the presence of Jesus is heaven. Rest not then content without an increasing acquaintance with Jesus. Seek to know more of Him in his divine nature, in His human relationship, in His finished work, in His death, in His resurrection, in His present glorious intercession, and in His future royal advent. Abide hard by the Cross, and search the mystery of His wounds. An increase of love to Jesus, and a more perfect apprehension of His love to us is one of the best tests of growth in grace.
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