"We must never make Christ the object of God's punishment or God the object of Christ's persuasion, for both God and Christ were subjects not objects, taking the initiative together to save sinners…Our substitute, then, who took our place and died our death on the cross, was neither Christ alone (since that would make him a third party thrust in between God and us), nor God … [Read more...] about The United Heart of Father and Son
Quieting the Storms
We've spent a good part of the day checking weather reports, looking out the window, and wondering if a storm cell was nearby. As a dude, I never mind storms. In fact, I like them. As a dad, I find myself far more conscientious and careful. I make plans in my head and try to lead responsibly when I hear of a tornado watch in the area. But my best efforts to protect my … [Read more...] about Quieting the Storms
The Basic Unfolding of a Sermon Point
When you're in the fog of sermon preparation, sometimes a simple reminder of what you're trying to do, the basic movements and goals, is so helpful. I am grateful for Bryan Chapell's (2018) brief summary of a sermon's flow. I thought I would reproduce it here. (Adapted from pp. 211-213. The paragraphing and bolded summaries are mine). State the Main Point "If a main point … [Read more...] about The Basic Unfolding of a Sermon Point
Better to Enter the CCU
One part of being a pastor is visiting the sick. The other day I went to see someone in the CCU (Critical Care Unit), and as many times as I do it, I still feel nervous entering that particular wing of the hospital. A profound sense of gravity marks the CCU. People are often fighting for life down that hallway. They are banged up. They are speechless. Tubes and monitors and … [Read more...] about Better to Enter the CCU
Sweet Gospel Summary
John Stott (2006) so beautifully and so simply summarizes the message the apostles proclaimed: "Jesus was a man who was accredited by God through miracles and anointed by the Spirit to do good and to heal. Despite this, he was crucified through the agency of wicked men, though also by God's purpose according to the Scriptures that the Messiah must suffer. Then God reversed … [Read more...] about Sweet Gospel Summary