Ever since our exile from Eden, mankind has been in a mad dash after fig leaves like they’re going out of style. We trade divine approval for human head nods to relieve our inner shame. And in our evangelical empires, this often takes the form of avoiding “guilt by association” at all costs—lest the real … Continue reading Christian Politicking and Innocence By Association
The Government of What?
“For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the increase of his government and of peace there will be no end, on the throne of David and over his kingdom, to establish it and to uphold it with … Continue reading The Government of What?
The Great Commission Isn’t a Farewell Address
Can you identify the sources of these famous last words? “Money can’t buy life.” “I’m so thankful for the active obedience of Christ. No hope without it.” “Last words are for fools who haven’t said enough.” The answers are Bob Marley, J. Gresham Machen, and Karl Marx, in that order. A person’s deathbed words are … Continue reading The Great Commission Isn’t a Farewell Address
Greatness, Resolutions, and Principled Mediocrity
We know that self-seeking and domineering are bad, so we assume that mediocrity is good. But self-discipline makes you a Pharisee the same way whitewash makes you a tomb.
Encounter the Living Christ Afresh
When was the last time you simply meditated on the person of Christ? We are by nature prone to imbalance, majoring in the minors. We are prone to forget how earthshaking the essential truths of our confession are. To this ailment, Moody Publishers’ Jesus: The Life and Ministry of God the Son is the antidote. … Continue reading Encounter the Living Christ Afresh
‘Jesus, That’s Just True for You’
How many of us have heard—perhaps even used—some of these common responses to the Gospel? “That might be true for you, but not me.” “That’s your opinion, but are you saying people of other religions are wrong?” “Whatever helps you live a good life, that’s what matters.” All these clichés that permeate our conversations are … Continue reading ‘Jesus, That’s Just True for You’
Letter to a Jehovah’s Witness
Earlier this week, I encountered an acquaintance of mine at the gym. It wasn't long until this man, a Jehovah's Witness, and I found ourselves entangled in a conversation about who Jesus is, how to be assured of your salvation, and the origin of the doctrine of the Trinity. As I tried to take him … Continue reading Letter to a Jehovah’s Witness
The Plan for Your Ultimate Joy
Have you ever realized that everyone always, without exception, pursues what makes them most happy? Sure, we all do unselfish things from time to time. But at the bottom of all our motives, we chase after whatever satisfies us the most—what gives us joy. Is it possible to actually find that soul-satisfying joy? The … Continue reading The Plan for Your Ultimate Joy
Befriending the Cross
Are you an “enemy of the cross?” "No, I love Christianity," you may reply. But as the Apostle Paul defined it, an enemy of the cross isn't necessarily the same thing as an enemy of Christianity, at least as far as public appearances are concerned. Radical Islam and militant atheism would both be candidates. But in Philippians … Continue reading Befriending the Cross
Good News for Buddhists
3,000 years ago, there was an ancient king living in the lap of luxury, with immeasurable wealth and countless women. But his wisdom was far more legendary than his affluence. So the wise king searched for something more—true meaning that could ultimately satisfy the soul. No, his name was not Siddhartha Gautama, also known as … Continue reading Good News for Buddhists
