A few months ago the new editor of The Modern Reformation wrote to ask me to consider contributing an article to what is now their current issue. The issue approaches the work of the Holy Spirit (and the sign gifts of the Spirit) from a cessationist view point, but we believe that an article from a non-cessationist would be a valuable addition to the issue. Specifically, we’re hoping for a sort of personal appeal to fellow evangelicals that to believe... Read more
If there was one verse in the ESV that I would tweak the translation of it would be 1 Thess 4:13. In it we are told “that you may not grieve as others do who have no hope.” It is unfortunate simply because the most natural interpretation of that phrase in English is “You are not allowed to grieve because you have hope.” But that is not what Paul meant. I think the NIV is closer with it’s “Brothers, we do not... Read more
When I first started blogging I thought this site would be of most interest for my family. I thought that I might write things that my children would read in future years. The rest of you have kind of evicted my family as the primary audience over the years. Well today, this is a post for US, but you are welcome to look in. As I write, 8 years ago yesterday,my fifth child was born, George. Although he was only... Read more
King David is an interesting character. His gentleness is evident in 2 Samuel 3. David says quite rightly towards the end, “These men, the sons of Zeruiah, are more severe than I.” (v39), His lack of severity is to be broadly welcomed, and yet there is perhaps a weak side to this very strength. His gentility leads to passivity. Just like in the previous chapter, King David seems like almost a passenger in this story. Could it be that he was... Read more
Yesterday I was on Moody National Radio being interviewed by Janet Parshall. We spoke about the gospel, and how you can know what a Christian is. We had several callers who rang in with personal questions. It was a moving conversation at times. You can listen to the interview here: Listen to more programs by Janet Parshall here. Read more
Sometimes we can be so familiar with a story that we miss crucial details. As we get to 2 Samuel 2 most of us know what is coming: King Saul is dead, the age of King David has begun. And yet the transition is far from being that straightforward.David inquires of God what he should do. In response to God’s reply he moves to Hebron. Judea immediately embraces him as king. David reaches out with magnimity to those who buried... Read more
Following on from yesterdays guest post about singleness, I thought I would share John Piper’s perspective: Paul was so completely committed to a life of celibacy that he longed for everyone to have it. But the reason he loved the single life is exactly the opposite of why many people today love singleness and will even break up marriages in order to be single again. Today singleness is cherished by many because it brings maximum freedom for self-realization. You pull... Read more
Today is Valentines Day. In honor of the many faithful godly single people I know, I wanted to share a guest post that is of relevance to all of us, but especially those who face today without a partner. This article was written by someone who I am going to call Phoebe: “Singleness is a gift.” “Yes I’m sure it is Lord, for a few special (probably slightly odd) people but I’m not one of those chosen ones, no thank... Read more
Before Christmas we looked at the tragic end of Israel’s first king, Saul. Today, I want us to spend a few moments contemplating the response of David to this news as seen in 2 Samuel 1. Saul had been a disaster for Israel and a deadly enemy towards David. We could easily forgive David if he had rejoiced at Saul’s death. But instead David honors the office of King, the anointing of the Lord, and the image of God in... Read more
Frank Viola is an increasingly dear friend of mine, even though we have yet to meet in the flesh. I look forward to that day. I do not always agree with Frank on everything, but I trust you have friends like that too. But there is no doubt in my mind that in terms of diagnosing the many problems in the Established Church there are few who are generally as on the button as him. Today I wanted to share... Read more
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