The New Calvinism

I just came across an informative article chronicling the recent resurgence of Calvinism.  I agree with the writer's assessment that this uprising is in response to the shallow, watered down Christianity-lite of modern Evangelicalism.  Why?  Well, because that's basically how I came to embrace the doctrines of God's sovereign grace.  I didn't realize it at the time, but I was part of a world-wide movement.  I felt like I walked entirely alone for the first couple of years. I battled alienation and discouragement during that period yet I latched on to the teachings of God's absolute sovereignty with bulldog tenacity.   No one, and I mean absolutely no one, agreed my new outlook on the scriptures.  I sought refuge and companionship through my blog and found a growing, enthusiastic subculture on the internet where I could work out my theological wranglings among friends, who are also my brothers and sisters in the Lord.

T(heology)-Shirt

I think I want this.



I'm not a fan of so-called Christian apparel, including t-shirts that often feature banal pop culture references or trite aphorisms that are meant to do all the 'witnessing' of the gospel for us.  But this struck me as funny.

Not sure why I'm amused though, because it's absolutely true.  It's a humble reminder that the only contribution to my salvation by God's grace is my great sin.

HT: Nola's Devotionals

Made in our Image

This excellent post comes courtesy of Defending. Contending. It vividly demonstrates how the human heart is indeed a prolific producer of idols.

Which Jesus do you worship?

Choose wisely.

State of the Church Address

John MacArthur states hard truth as boldly and earnestly as anybody out there.  He pulls no punches in this article on his Grace to You blog.  I agree with his assessment 100%.  A great read.

Speaking of MacArthur and modern Evangelicalism, he has now published a third edition of his outstanding  hard-hitting exposé on contemporary church-growth methods, Ashamed of the Gospel. Available at Monergism Books.  Highly recommended.

[caption id="attachment_881" align="aligncenter" width="200" caption="A must read for those struggling with the direction of today's church"][/caption]

The Importance of Repentance

During my daily reading this morning I came across the story of Simon the Magician in Acts ch. 8.  As Philip preached the gospel in Samaria many believed, Simon included.  Verse 13 states, "Even Simon himself believed, and after being baptized he continued with Philip. And seeing signs and great miracles performed, he was amazed." (ESV)

However, later on, Simon approached Peter and John when he saw that the Holy Spirit came upon people by the laying on of hands. He offered money to the disciples so that he too could lay hands on people that they might receive the Holy Spirit.  Peter sharply rebukes him and in verses 21-23 says, "You have neither part nor lot in this matter, for your heart is not right before God. Repent, therefore, of this wickedness of yours, and pray to the Lord that, if possible, the intent of your heart may be forgiven you. For I see that you are in the gall of bitterness and in the bond of iniquity.”