In his book The Birds Our Teachers, John Stott writes: "As a matter of fact, Scripture bids us...include in our interest everything God has made: 'Great are the works of the Lord, studied by all who delight in them' (Psalm 111:2 NRSV). Since 'the works of the Lord' refer to his works of both creation and redemption, it seems to me that nature study and Bible study should go together. Many Christians have a good doctrine of redemption, but need a better doctrine of creation. We out to pursue … [Read more...] about John Stott on Science and Theology
Archives for April 2013
Book Review – John Newton
JOHN NEWTON(Bitesize Biographies)By John Crotts I thoroughly enjoyed this slim volume. John Crotts does a fine job. He crisply captures the life and times of John Newton. As part of the "Bitesize Biographies" series, John Newton does not attempt to be an exhaustive or academic treatment of its subject, but I found this refreshing for several reasons. Summary over Sources. I appreciate a simple summary. Often, writers inflate biographies with original source material. Letters, papers, … [Read more...] about Book Review – John Newton
Preaching Lessons from the Gospel Coalition Conference 2013
I had the privilege of attending the 2013 Gospel Coalition Conference. The list of expositors was overwhelming. Each preacher came with a long and decorated resume, and each preacher was unique in his style and delivery. But despite the differences, I noticed some common threads running through every sermon. These threads were simple but substantial, and I am quite confident the inclusion of these threads will strengthen any sermon.Here they are for you: Clarity over Coyness. Almost every … [Read more...] about Preaching Lessons from the Gospel Coalition Conference 2013
John Piper's First Post as a Retired Pastor
John Piper writes as a retired pastor now. His first update encouraged and inspired me to persevere in my own journey. I hope his words will likewise impact your ministry. One excerpt reads: "Therefore, as I woke up on this Monday morning for the first time in 33 years without the official mantle of pastor, the only tears that came were tears of thankfulness. And under them was a great joy. It is finished. It has a completeness to it. God started it. God sustained it. God ended it. And I … [Read more...] about John Piper's First Post as a Retired Pastor
Deep & Wide
DEEP & WIDECreating Churches Unchurched People Love to AttendBy Andy Stanley I enjoyed Deep & Wide: Creating Churches Unchurched People Love to Attend by Andy Stanley. Of course, Stanley makes you squirm. That's kind of his thing. He drops a controversial statement with a twinkle in his eye, but the rhetorical right hooks keep you intellectually engaged and reading. In Deep & Wide, Stanley addresses some important topics in ministry like environment, excellence, tolerance, and … [Read more...] about Deep & Wide