It is clear from the seven letters that the reward of eternal life with Christ is conditioned upon perseverance. Persecution is not the only pressure that threatens the church and her mission so perseverance is not only to be thought of in terms of enduring suffering, but also persisting in doing good, in pursuing holiness, … Continue reading Missional Application of the Seven Letters: Emphasize Warnings and Promises
theological
Could Paul Have Been Wrong?
Maybe. The question came up (not for the first time) last week as I was preparing to preach on 1 & 2 Thessalonians. It's common to hear that Paul, at the outset of his ministry, thought Jesus would be returning within his lifetime. So, did he? Could Paul have been wrong? It depends. Paul might … Continue reading Could Paul Have Been Wrong?
Missional Application of the Seven Letters: Prepare for Suffering
Continuing to think through some missional applications of the seven letters to the churches of Asia Minor, we need to consider the theme of suffering. As we learn to live the narrative and “indwell God’s story”, our individual and corporate life's will increasingly be shaped by the story. As the church lives out her mission … Continue reading Missional Application of the Seven Letters: Prepare for Suffering
Why did I become a Calvinist?
Another question: What led you to your Calvinistic position, especially after attending an Arminian (Wesleyan) college? I think I was predisposed to Calvinistic theology and against Arminian theology growing up. My dad (who doubled as my pastor) wouldn't have identified himself as Reformed or Calvinistic, but he strongly emphasized the doctrine of eternal security. I … Continue reading Why did I become a Calvinist?
Book Review: God at Word, Gene Edward Veith Jr.
Gene Edward Veith Jr's book, God at Work: Your Christian Vocation in All of Life is one I will be recommending a lot to friends (I finished the book on Monday and have recommended it twice already this week). It's not a long book, and not overly technical. Instead, Veith offers and accessibly and liberating … Continue reading Book Review: God at Word, Gene Edward Veith Jr.
God Entranced 