View him in the context of the Gospel

This morning, I was listening to a local radio station before coming in to work.  The News Director reported a story about a street preacher who is “one of the men who has been causing all the trouble at Bentleyville,” the local Christmas Park I mentioned in my last blog.  He immediately corrected the obviously biased statement with an awkward ad-lib amendment, “er, at least the one causing trouble for the city and for the founder of Bentleyville.”

The Greater Scandal

Recently in our community, a scandal has broken out over--of all things, preaching the gospel.  Each year, the city has contracted with a private party to host a Christmas park of sorts with piped in music, concessions and most centrally—a vast and truly dazzling display of Christmas lights.

"brand plucked from the fire"

This morning, I spent my entire time in Bible study in one of my favorite and most vivid Old Testament pictures of the gospel in Zechariah chapter three.  This high priest/prophet ministered to the Jews after their return from exile. The Jews were very discouraged during this period because the reality of being back in their homeland had not met their expectations. 

How is it now called "Women's Health Care"?

As we were reminded in the recent election cycle, the issue of abortion is now almost exclusively referred to as a “women’s health care” issue or perhaps a “woman’s health care decision.” Hence the alleged “evolution” of how we are to think of abortion is now complete.

Accept his love and rejoice in it—never doubt it

I just finished reading through Daniel in my devotions.  Daniel has long been one of my favorite Bible characters.  He ministered during uniquely difficult times.  Israel was in exile, disconnected from the Jerusalem, the temple and many of the means of grace he had previously provided to his people in order to maintain a relationship with him. 

A Truth-Driven Vote on Tuesday, November 6, 2012

There is only one way any thinking, truth-driven Christian can vote Tuesday on the proposed constitutional amendment to uphold a traditional understanding of marriage.  That is to vote “yes.” But we must not allow ourselves the luxury of thinking that this amendment if passed is a definitive answer. 

The other day I was thinking about how blessed churches are that have nice buildings.  This is not a prerequisite to worship—that is a matter of the heart (John 4:24). Nor should churches be evaluated on the basis of their facilities.  We have all been to ecclesiastical grave yards with beautiful walnut pews.  My point is simply that those churches that are blessed to have buildings should not take them and the many blessings they can bring for granted.  When we dedicated our building more than seven years ago, I said the following.  These words are still an encouragement to me and I hope, to you as well.