SLAVES OF RIGHTEOUSNESS (Romans 6:18)

Bryan--we're praying for you

2012-01-17T18:52:00.000-07:00

Bryan--we're praying for you and your family.

Just in case you read this.

Just updating some links

2010-12-12T21:19:00.002-07:00

Not sure when I'll blog again.
I do have some ideas though.
So if anybody actually reads this--I might just start up again.

But in the meantime I just updated some links--I removed a couple of blogs that aren't around anymore, but left a few that haven't posted in a while, updated the name of one. and added a new one.

I still use this page myself to look up the links, so if nothing else this update will help me out.

But if you're not me and checking out this page-check out the links.

Here You go Dave

2008-02-21T20:27:00.001-07:00

So are you happy now?

(Especially since you may be the only one reading this?)

Oh, and if you're not Dave-see this and scroll down.

Or see this.

Presbyterian Paedobaptism and Roman Catholic Paedobaptism Part 1

2007-10-15T12:04:00.000-06:00

Once upon a time, in the comments of a post, a Roman Catholic asked me the difference between the Presbyterian and RC views on paedo-baptism (baptizing infants/children.) Both baptize infants. Are the views that different? Sometimes I see critiques of paedobaptism that only deal with one view, yet the writer acts as if they have vanquished all paedobaptists. There are four broad categories of paedobaptism I am aware of-Presbyterian/Reformed, Roman Catholic, Anglican, and Lutheran. (Possibly Eastern Orthodox should be included as a separate category. I would include the Methodist view as a subset of the Anglican. Anglicans also have some differences among themselves.) These posts will only be dealing with the first two. I may address the others later.

These posts are also not intended as a defense for paedobaptism itself, nor are they intended as an examination of the credobaptist (Believer only) view. What they are intended to be is an overview of the differences between the Presbyterian/Reformed view and the Roman Catholic view. Undoubtedly, I may miss some of the finer nuances in doing this. So I welcome comments if anybody feels I miss anything, or misrepresent either view. If such comments are left I may interact with them in the comments section or in a new post. I may not interact with them here, but I will not ignore them. Which response I give will depend on the comments’ relevancy and on my time. Of course, it’s possible no comments will be left as well.

I will be presenting the two views primarily from the Roman Catholic Church’s most recent catechismCatechism of the Catholic Church (CCC) and the Westminster Confession of Faith (WCF). These documents are seen as having validity for Roman Catholicism and Presbyterianism. (If anybody wants to jump in with the Heidelberg Catechism, which is the Reformed denominations’ counterpart to the WCF, please go ahead.)

Both Roman Catholics and Presbyterians refer to baptism as a sacrament and a means of grace, but they mean different things by this. Using the same terminology can certainly lead to confusion. I have seen more than one Baptist assuming we mean the same thing, and so “disproving” the Presbyterian view. In Roman Catholicism baptism is a means of grace as it wipes the slate clean and provides the recipient with grace with which they can co-operate to gain merit. The Presbyterian view is tied to the idea that baptism is tied to God’s covenant with His people and the promises and blessings of that Covenant. It is a means of grace in that sense. Both these descriptions are only scratching the surface, but it does show there are distinct differences.

In the CCC sacraments are described this way-

1131 The sacraments are efficacious signs of grace, instituted by Christ and entrusted to the Church, by which divine life is dispensed to us. The visible rites by which the sacraments are celebrated signify and make present the graces proper to each sacrament. They bear fruit in those who receive them with the required dispositions.

1132 The Church celebrates the sacraments as a priestly community structured by the baptismal priesthood and the priesthood of ordained ministers.

1133 The Holy Spirit prepares the faithful for the sacraments by the Word of God and the faith which welcomes that word in well-disposed hearts. Thus the sacraments strengthen faith and express it.

1134 The fruit of sacramental life is both personal and ecclesial. For every one of the faithful an the one hand, this fruit is life for God in Christ Jesus; for the Church, on the other, it is an increase in charity and in her mission of witness.

Chapter 27 of the WCF describes sacraments this way-

1. Sacraments are holy signs and seals of the covenant of grace, immediately instituted by God, to represent Christ and His benefits; and to confirm our interest in Him: as also, to put a visible difference between those that belong unto the Church and the rest of the world; and solemnly to engage them to the service of God in Christ, according to His Word.

2. There is, in every sacrament, a spiritual relation, or sacramental union, between the sign and the thing signified: whence it comes to pass, that the names and effects of the one are attributed to the other.

3. The grace which is exhibited in or by the sacraments rightly used, is not conferred by any power in them; neither doth the efficacy of a sacrament depend upon the piety or intention of him that doth administer it: but upon the work of the Spirit, and the word of institution, which contains, together with a precept authorizing the use thereof, a promise of benefit to worthy receivers.

4. There be only two sacraments ordained by Christ our Lord in the Gospel; that is to say, Baptism, and the Supper of the Lord: neither of which may be dispensed by any, but by a minister of the Word lawfully ordained.

5. The sacraments of the old testament in regard of the spiritual things thereby signified and exhibited, were, for substance, the same with those of the new.

While there is some similar language used, when you read these you see the different emphases of each. The corresponding sections on baptism show the differences more clearly. I'll take a look at those in part 2.

“Faith is rest, not toil.”

2007-10-11T10:58:00.000-06:00

Horatius Bonar wrote sermons, books, and hymns. He was gifted by God in these things. The blog, Of First Importance, consists of quotes from the writings of godly men of the past. They've posted this quote from Horatius Bonar--go check it out-
“Faith is rest, not toil.”

Book Recommendation-Discovering God’s Will by Sinclair Ferguson

2007-10-11T10:44:00.000-06:00

I don’t normally take a lot of notes when reading a book, but with this one I took a lot. The topic is an important one for believers. How can we know God’s will? Sinclair Ferguson puts forth the idea that God’s will is shaped by the big picture-God’s ultimate purposes for us and creation.

Early on he advises us, “In the first place, we need to recognise that we do not find God’s guidance for our lives by reading a book on guidance!” What he is trying to say is, there is no easy answer. He warns us, “There is no avoiding and no substitute for, the sometimes long, arduous experience of discovering the will of God in our own lives.” This does not deny absolutes, but is stated for any who may be looking for simple formulas to apply. “We learn about guidance primarily by learning about the Guide.” (italics in original.)

Once he introduces the topic, Ferguson starts to look at God’s ultimate purpose. He advises us that the idea God guides us implies God has laid down a path for us, our lives have purpose now, and destiny for the future. He then breaks these points down and looks at them biblically. In speaking of God’s purpose, Sinclair tells us, “There is, in fact, no more basic question for us to ask than this: Will this course of action tend to further the glory of God?” (italics in original) From here he digs into what it really means to imitate Jesus.

Then the book looks at guidelines. He warns us against the illusion that God’s will can be learned overnight. I have come across many believers who want just that—to know exactly and to know now. But it doesn’t work that way. So Ferguson looks to the Bible and tells us how three ways scripture provides us with what we need to know about God’s character and wisdom. He looks into scripture himself and gives examples. He also outlines how scripture helps us

After that come warnings about the heart, and our need to guard ours. Our motives may be suspect for starters. Ferguson addresses the conditions in the heart, particularly what we need to have.

The book continues in this vein through our lifestyles, conduct, calling marriage, and waiting. He addresses the reader who may have been hoping this book would tell would provide all the answers and do it now. What can that reader do now that it is apparent this is not a self-help book or a simple list of “what to do.”

I always seem to enjoy and profit from reading Sinclair Ferguson. He communicates clearly, and biblically. This is a breath of fresh air given a lot of what is written by contemporary authors. It is tempting to merely post a multi-part series summarizing this book, but instead I will recommend you get yourself a copy and devour it for yourself. I think you’ll learn more that way.

Discovering God's Will is published by Banner of Truth.

Coming Soon

2007-10-11T10:30:00.000-06:00

Once again I've been working on a post I mentioned long ago. I was asked in a comment about the difference between the Roman Catholic and Presbyterian/Reformed forms of paedo-baptism. I hope to post something on that next week. It's been through a few drafts in my head and a couple written down. Computer problems have hampered the progress of that, but Lord willing, you can read at least the start of it next week. It may not interest credo-baptists who may just retort, "They're both wrong!" but I would hope they could learn from it as well. So check back next week. I also have a couple of posts that should be up soon.

Happy Thanksgiving

2007-10-08T12:52:00.000-06:00

Yes, Thanksgiving is in October--at least in Canada it is.
So Happy Thanksgiving to all my Canadian readers, and any American readers who want to save that until next month.

I love This Video

2007-09-25T21:27:00.000-06:00

This is a little bit of a departure for me, but watch this.

Prayer request--The story of the strategy for getting Baby Isabella Lafferty safely from her mother's womb

2007-09-18T18:05:00.000-06:00

I received this in an email from a reputable source.
It's a blog style prayer request and update.
I don't know what I can reaaly say that they don't say better-
Exit Strategy

A Practical Example on Baptismal Issues

2007-09-17T20:22:00.000-06:00

First, if you haven't done so already, read the posts on baptism below.
Then go read this. It's by a credobaptist, questioning Baptist practice on Church Membership. I'm going to checking back as well to see his follow up posts. Thanks to Dave at Rotundus for sharing it with me.

A Note on the Baptism Posts

2007-09-17T11:09:00.000-06:00

Just so nobody gets the wrong idea.

Recently I have posted here on baptism, and left comments on various blogs about baptism. In those comments I have tried to make it clear I consider Baptists my brothers and sisters in the Lord. As far as I can tell we do not teach a different gospel, nor do we worship a different Christ.

What my main concern has been is how we interact with each other in terms of fellowship. This then affects how we view and practice the Lord's Supper and church membership in addition to other areas of Christian life. From my perspective I understand why a Baptist holds to their beliefs and practices. But I see inconsistencies in that. If we are all brothers & sisters--why the barriers?

From their point of view I hold to inconsistencies, and some have pointed out to me we have a "two tiered membership." (For example-elders in a PCA church must hold to Presbyterian distinctives such as paedobaptism, but members do not need to-they only need a credible confession of faith.)

I have explained before that they are adding conditions not found in the Bible, by not admitting all believers into membership. Also a "two tiered membership" is Biblical as the Bible gives extra conditions and accountability to elders. (See
1 Tim 3:1-7 (& verses 8-13 speak of deacons);Titus 1:5-9; and James 3:1

James 3:1, while it doesn't mention elders, does speak about teachers-and in 1 Tim 3:2 elders are to be able to teach. The elders are responsible for the teaching in the church. (Although others may teach in some settings, the elders are still overseers of that teaching.) So when James writes, "Not many of you should become teachers, my brothers, for you know that we who teach will be judged with greater strictness" he is showing that those who teach have a higher level of accountability.

I am under no delusion that my posts will be turning all Baptists to my views, nor am I condemning them for holding those views. What I am saying is this: Even though we have some disagreements on important issues, we do agree on the essentials. That is we agree on what is needed for salvation. So let's act like that more often.

Book Recommendation #2-Willing to Believe by RC Sproul (A repost from 2005)

2007-09-17T10:59:00.000-06:00

Whether or not man has free will, and what free will means is often a fiercely debated topic in the church, and yet many do not know about the history of this debate, the development of various doctrines concerning it, or the implications of what they believe. Consequently they may hold to a faulty view they’ve never worked through or examined in Scripture. WILLING TO BELIEVE by R.C. Sproul is a wonderful historic survey focused on this debate. Starting with Pelagius and Augustine, (Both born in AD 354), and going up to Lewis Sperry Chafer, (Who died in 1952), he looks at major players on all sides of the debate, (And some who tried to straddle it). None of the ideas related here have totally died out, as each generation either builds on the past (For good or bad), or ignores the past and repeats its mistakes. Unfortunately some of the false views are common in the church today.

This debate is important and has consequences. As Sproul points out in the introduction, “How we understand the will of man touches heavily on our view of humanity and God’s character…Any view of the human will that destroys the biblical view of human responsibility is seriously defective. Any view of the human will that destroys the biblical view of God’s character is even worse.” The debate also involves how we view man’s depravity and God’s effectual grace.

We encounter Pelagius, Augustine, The Council of Ephesus (AD 431), John Cassian, The Synod of Orange (529), Martin Luther, John Calvin, Jonathan Edwards, Charles Finney, and Lewis Sperry Chafer. Sproul tracks history for us, both good and bad.

Sproul concludes by pointing out the close connection between one’s view of the fall, regeneration, and free will. They all affect each other. He praises God, who is salvation. Sproul’s approach and the historical context make it easy to follow.
It lets you sort things out for yourself.

Willing to Believe is published by Baker Book House & is 224 pages.
(Originally posted Septemebr 21, 2005)

LOTW September 17, 2007

2007-09-17T10:37:00.000-06:00

Well I'm back with a new "Links of the Whenever", formerly "Links of the Week"

First--since our congregation is using John Bunyan's "Pilgrim's Progress" as a basis for Christian Education, here's a link to the book online. If you don't have a copy of your own-check it out here. It's at the CCEL website, which has many classic Christian writings, there for your perusal and study. It's an excellent resource for Christians.

And on the silly side, here's a fun fan site for the 1960's Batman TV show. Just for fun.

A Baptist Proves that Baptism is not by Immersion; well sort of

2007-09-01T13:03:00.000-06:00

This is no ways meant to actually prove anything. But it was amusing, and has a point to think about.
A Baptist Proves that Baptism is not by Immersion; well sort of.

Interesting Quote from an Interesting Book on Baptism

2007-09-01T12:38:00.000-06:00

I just finished reading the book, The Waters that Divide, by Donald Bridges and David Phypers. Bridge, a Baptist minister in England, and Phypers, and Anglican wrote this book together. They didn't do it in a debate style, but co-wrote it. They presented both sides. While the paedo-baptist position ion this book is more geared to the Anglican view, it does try to cover other paedo-baptist views. (Unfortunately this book seems to be out of print.)

While the Biblical reasons are the most important reasons, their section on hostory is quite interesting and informative. The John Owen quote I provided in the post below this one isn't from this book, but I found it after trying to verify the context of a quote they use from Owen. In fact they compare Owen with Bunyan. And they come out quite similar, despite Bunyan being claimed by Baptists. This is not referred to to "prove" paedobaptism. The chapter is more in relationship to how paedobaptists and credobaptists interact and fellowship. And that is currently an active issue on the internet and in some churches.

Two of the later chapters are titled "Problems for Paedobaptists" and "Problems for Baptists." These chapters are not about problems with either view, but are about problems those with either view could face. The paedobaptist chapter does concern Anglicans more, but contained these words I found quite illuminating. After discussing how there are churches that will baptize any infant that is requested (which they both disagree with-as do I) and lament how baptisms are often done before, after or otherwise separate from the main Sunday service, they write:

If baptism is the means of entry into the church, then it should take place in the presence of the church congregation, not merely on church premises. If paedobaptism involves obligations for the church then as many church members as possible must attend baptisms that they might be aware of the obligations involved in receiving new members into fellowship. If paedobaptism is to mean anything at all to those who are baptized it must constantly nbe dispalyed before them, and its significance explained as they grow in the life of the church, but as long as baptism remains a hole-in-a-corner affair this can never be.

(Bridges, Donald & David Phypers, The Waters that Divide, Inter-Varsity Press, 1977, p. 155)

Good stuff to think about, and part of the reason I am glad our congregation has baptisms during the service and we remind the congregation of the responsibilities and we are reminded of our own baptisms--no matter what age we were baptised at.

(And if you can get a copy of the book, check it out.)

John Owen-"Grounds and reasons of nonconformity" and Baptism

2007-08-22T11:28:00.000-06:00

There has been a renewed interest on some blogs about how baptism affects fellowship, church membership and communion. Here are some links (which will also link to other comments as well):
John Piper
Wayne Grudem comments posted on another blog (with permission.)
Baptizoblogodebate Roundup
Ligon Duncan joins in

Just do a search for "john piper paedobaptist membership" and you'll get plenty. Now not all the discussion is Piper and Grudem.

A while back Bethlehem Baptist (Where Piper is the pastor) did consider allowing Paedobaptists-This is Worldmagblog's first mention of it. Eventually it was rejected, but it did receive lots of debate. (I searched Bethlehem Baptist's site and Piper's Desiring God for references, but found none.

The Presbyterian Church in America, of which I am a member, teaches and practices paedobaptism. We also allow Baptists who don't hold to it to be members. For the most part I believe a Baptist would be allowed to take communion in a PCA church.

The main reason for this, as far as I understand it, is so that we are not adding conditions to these that Scripture does not add. As baptism does not secure salvation, it is not an essential in that sense. We are not to bind people's consciences with what is not explicitly commanded in Scripture. (Yes, baptism is commanded in the Bible, but it is nowhere said to be necessary for salvation. There are those who hold to baptism being essential, but they do so by inference, and that is a separate issue. Here I am referring to Baptists who do not hold to baptismal regeneration.)

Which brings me to John Owen.
In his work, Discourse concerning Evangelical Love, Church Peace, and Unity he does speak of these things. In fact at the time he was involved in addressing these issues, and he had marvelous insight that I believe we should listen to today. Here's Chapter V, the most relevant chapter in the work. I give you that link for context of this statement by Owen, to which I say, "Amen."

...for in his worship we are forbidden to add to the things that he hath appointed no less than to pretend commands from him which he hath not given. He, therefore, who professeth and pleadeth his willingness to observe and do in church-communion whatever Christ hath instituted and commanded cannot regularly be refused the communion of any church, under any pretence of his refusal to do other things which confessedly are not so required.

Best and Worst of Slaves of Righteousness

2007-08-22T11:02:00.000-06:00

I don't totally ignore when people tag me, but I ususally answer in the comments section. Sometimes I don't respond, because it doesn't fit in with why I blog. But anyway, that's about to end as I respond to the tag by Jeremy at Doxoblogy. He's posted Best and Worst of the Doxoblogist.

So here's my version.
My Worst Post: I'm not sure--possibly this one, where I mention the PCA General Asembly, but don't really mention the big issue at GA. It could one of the ones where I offer excuses why I haven't blogged for awhile. (Other than the ones after I was in the hospital.)
You decide.

My Best Post: While it only garnered 2 comments online (and my response to those comments), it was linked to by those who didn't comment. I also received comments on it in person from people who read it. It seemed to get a very positive response-I called it God's Providence - He is Good! It was based on my health crisis last fall, and how God figured into it--and He is good!

My Changed His Mind post: Hmm, tricky one--I did remove one post because I changed my mond the next day once I had new information. It didn't receive any comments. I don't remember what it was about though. If I do change my mind on anything, and have blogged about it--I will either edit that post or write a new one.

My most comments post: This post on Ephesians 2:1-7 received 40 comments. Most of them were not about the passage or the post, but rather a debate with an evolutionist. Others jumped in and helped.

Who do I tag with this? Anyone who reads this on at least a weekly basis. You know who you are...

Blogs I've Read Recently

2007-07-18T09:59:00.000-06:00

I was going to post another book review, but the disk I have them saved on isn't working, so I'll work on that and try to get a new review up soon. But in the meantime here's a list of links to blogs I've recently read and would like to share.

Clint Humfrey on "A Short, But Telling Article on the Atonement."

Albert Mohler agrres with me-This is on the Vatican document saying Protestants churches aren't churches.

Paul Tripp's been going through Psalm 51--here's the lastest-
Broken Bones.

Charles Biggs gives this history of Augustine & Pelagius on the Reformation Theology blog.

Kim Riddlebarger posts about a proposed cigar tax on the Riddleblog.

Scott on Rotundus tells us The answer to life, the universe and everything IS actually 42

Unsaved Family (A Repost from September 19, 2005)

2007-07-18T09:55:00.000-06:00

This is a tough one. We can spend so much time proclaiming, defending, and even living the truth, but when our families-whether parents, siblings, children, or extended-don't believe it can be heart breaking.
They're often the people it's hardest to witness to. They see us at our worst, and most of them knew us when we were unsaved.

I must confess a sense of jealousy for those who grew up in Christian homes. This is not a complaint against my parents. They did well. It's not a complaint against God. I've seen reasons why I did not grow up in that setting.

But I see the closeness Christian families have on a level non-Christians can never experience. I see the blessings. And so I desire to create that sort of environment for the future.

I pray for my unsaved family. I pray I will model God's grace for them, they do know I've changed, but it's not always easy. Sometimes believing the Gospel creates conflict--as Christ said it would. (Matthew 10:33-35)
In my extended family there is more acceptance now than when I first believed, but there can still be tension. There still can be conflict.

Part of the reason I post this is asking for advice or comments, from anybody who can relate to it. Part of the reason is to hopefully encourage those who can relate to it.

Thanks.

(I did receive comments on this when it was first posted, and thanks to those who left them.)

Woody Allen interviews Billy Graham?

2007-07-14T16:40:00.000-06:00

This was posted by James Swan on the Beggars All blog.

I'll link you to his blog to go watch this--it's kind of bizarre on several levels.
I wonder if an interview of this sort could be done today...

Woody Allen interviews Billy Graham

One True Church?

2007-07-11T21:16:00.000-06:00

Pope Benedict seems "paper happy" these days. I saw a couple of newspaper articles about this one today:
"Responses to Some Questions Regarding Certain Aspects of the Doctrine on the Church." (This is a link to the Vatican website.)

Here are a couple of links to news stories about the paper.
Vatican re-asserts belief Catholicism one true church
Catholic Church only true church, Vatican says

One of the articles I read in the paper spoke about how this would rile Protestants. (I couldn't find any links to those articles.) And I saw similar contents on a Catholic discussion board.

Personally, I'm not riled. Why should I be? I do disagree with Benedict, but he is the pope, after all. Why would anybody be surprised by this? If anything this statement helps to clarify a line of demarcation between Roman Catholicism and Protestantism. There are signifcant and essential differences between Catholic & many Protestant doctrines of salvation and the church, as well as issues of authority. I don't believe the Roman Catholic Church (as an organization) is a true church.

Too many people seem to forget that we can disagree without anger. But I'm not surprised some people don't like this, especially those who think all roads lead to God (or a god or gods.) There are also those who seek an outward unity at the expense of the truth.

I might expand upon this in future posts.

Another Reason to Love Books

2007-07-09T20:59:00.000-06:00

As if I needed another reason, now there's a report that states our literacy skills aren't set after school, but actually decline starting about age 25.

Literacy skills fall as we age.

Now it's only about one grades worth, but still that could make a difference. This part made me think I should be okay-"The reading people do at work helps, but not nearly as much as reading a variety of materials for pleasure at home."

Sounds like me.

I should stop though before it sounds like bragging, and I get prideful.

Let this be another encouragement and reason to read.

(And here's a related link-Literacy Statistics. Now go do some more reading.)

You might be a Pelagian if....

2007-07-05T20:09:00.000-06:00

This is an amusing, and interesting list in the latest issue of Modern Reformation.

It made me think, and it is commentary on the Church today.

It's by Shane Rosenthal, and you can read it here.

Book Recommendation-Spiritual Warfare & satan’s schemes by Rev Darrin Lauder

2007-07-03T17:57:00.000-06:00

There it was, a small book sticking out among the others in the spiritual warfare section. Some were books that blamed everything on demons and told how to get deliverance. Some told how to address the demons, while others saw demons under every rock, and around every corner. This one looked to Christ and His Word.

In his first book, Darrin Lauder uses a devotional approach presenting 31 meditations on spiritual warfare. It’s an easily accessible book that is practical and biblical. I like the approach as it allows Rev Lauder to target several areas and aspects of true biblical warfare. And while he urges us no tot be ignorant of the devil’s schemes, (2 Cor 2:11) he points us to Christ in every chapter.

This book grasps the reality of God’s sovereignty and our responsibility. The Lord is our strength, and we fight the battle in His power. He helps us to persevere. Yet we can not ignore the situations where we may stumble and fall. This is every day Christian living, not dramatic demon hunting. It may not seem as dramatic, but following Christ has its own drama.

I do know of people who minister in cultures where demons are given undue attention. They do encounter more dramatic situations than most of us do. I am glad I do not have the encounters they do, but the devil’s schemes are no less dangerous in my life. They may be more so in some ways as they can be much more subtle.

Reading this book I was reminded of C.S. Lewis’s Screwtape Letters. In that book he points out the devil’s two main schemes are get us to ignore him or even deny he exists, or to go the other way and obsess about him. Unfortunately much of the Church does one or the other. But this book presents a good balance-we are not ignorant of his schemes, but we focus on Christ, and go to Him.

One of the chapters I enjoyed the most was one on perseverance through pain. (Those who were reading this blog in November and onwards know, at least in general that I lived through that.) While he wrote this book before I experienced my pain, Rev Lauder wrote words I could relate to so well. With the Lord’s grace I made it through.

I also enjoyed the chapter on James 4:7. That is a wonderful verse that sums up how to deal the devil. Submit to God and resist the devil. Of course if we submit to God we will resist evil and sin. Unfortunately we don’t always submit.

I certainly recommend this book. You could use it as a devotional, as a starting point for study-individually or in a group, or just read it as any other book. But digest the words and go to the Word and pray. And yes, the author is an old friend of mine, but it is encouraging to see growth in him from many years ago, and to see familiar patterns in his writing.

You can find the book online, and there’s more info at his church website.

I Call That a Bargain

2007-07-02T12:01:00.001-06:00

You don't see deals like this every day!

Links of the Whenever

2007-07-02T11:37:00.000-06:00

For those who came in late-this used to be "Links of the Week".
However due to time constraints I wasn't always able to post these weekly. Even when I posted weekly or more often than weekly I sometimes left them out, so LOTW changed from Links of the Week to Links of the Whenever--as in whenever I post them.
So on with the show.

First--Hipster Calvin-
This is from a blog that hasn't been added to for a while. But it is humourous, so I'm posting it here. It's by a guy nmaed Sean McCausland. Sean is a member of a sister church-Woodgreen Presbyterian Church. This was done as an ad promoting the church library.
Hipster Calvin
There are others he's done posted here.

I don't know if Sean ever checks these for comments--but drop by & check it out.
Sean also has other stuff online--including Church in the Lurch, which I link to under blog links, and study notes on Romans and one on Mark (Which I can not find the link to right now.)

Next--I previously linked to a similar site that had helmets for all sorts of football teams. This one was inspired by the earlier one, and he presents some different leagues and themes.
Helmets, Helmets, Helmets

"The Church includes all of us."?

2007-06-22T20:42:00.000-06:00

I caught part of the news tonight and saw a story on the Anglican Church in Canada discussing whether to "bless" same-sex marraiges. There's a story about it here.

On the news report they spoke with a man in a "Committed homosexual relationship."
He said he wanted to see if the Anglican Church would conclude that, "The Church includes all of us."

I wonder if that man realizes that his statement is actually an oxymoron. The word "Church" is often used in the New Testament to translate "ekklesia" or "the called out ones" or "assembly of called out ones."

If the Church includes us all, then who exactly is called out? And what are they called out from?

(I realize some people disagree with the use of "Church" for "ekklesia", but the principle is the same.)

Books, Books, Books

2007-06-22T20:16:00.000-06:00

I have a weakness for books.
In many ways that's good, as you can learn a lot.
On the other hand there are a lot of bad books out there.
That's one of the reasons I review books here that I recommend.
(I plan on posting a new review soon.)
Also on the bad side is a temptation to make idols of my books, and not just my theological books.
I don't mean in the sense of "bibliolatry" that Roman Catholics have accused me of, nor making idols of favorite authors--I mean the actual books themselves, and the idea of books. (Although "bibliolatry" could be interpreted as "worship of books.")
I love books in general--all sorts of books.

The last time I moved there were jokes about how many books we were moving. But they weren't necessarily jokes after a while.

And there were questions-

"This box is more books?"
"How many books do you need?" (The answer is "At least one more.")
"Have you read all these?" (The answer is "Not enough of them.")

I re-read books, some many times.

I don't like marking up my books.
I have a list of them on file cards, and would love a program like the public library uses to list them and look them up by topic or author or even publisher.

I'm bringing this up because I was in a great mood when I got home today. Why?
I ordered two books from Banner of Truth back in late March, and they were on order so they took longer than usual to arrive. Well today there was a larger than normal envelope in the mail for me.

It was my new books. (New being a relative term-one was written in the late 1600's and the other in the early 1800's.) My mood was lifted.

These books will hopefully make it here as recommended reading.

For those of you curious about them I got-
Truth's Victory Over Error by Dave Dickson. It's a commentary on the Westminster Confession of Faith. Their description of it is "This book is not merely of historical interest; it is also of considerable value now because many of the errors refuted within its pages have surfaced again in the 21st century church under new guises. Christians today can learn a great deal from the faithful witness of former generations who experienced ‘truth’s victory over error’."

The other is Hugh Martin's Shadow Of Calvary, where he looks at Christ from the Garden of Gethsemane through to his arrest and trial.

I should probably log off and start reading...

Another Quote on Prayer

2007-06-18T22:22:00.000-06:00

I don't get tired of good quotes on prayer, as long as they truly are good quotes-ones that are biblical and cause you to think about how you pray.

Were our every wish God's immediate command, Christ's glory would not remain our priority. Christians already struggle to keep Jesus' name our aim. It's hard to imagine how a "get rich quick" mentality could be suppressed by anyone if prayer assured instant personal gratification.

Bryan Chapell

PCA General Assembly

2007-06-15T09:50:00.000-06:00

Dave at rotundus already posted about this, but I was intending to as well.

General Assembly is now over for this year, but there are sessions online to check out here.

I hope to be there in person sometime--especially if they ever decide to bring it up to Canada.

Some of the sessions are mostly business and may not interest everyone, or make sense to those not knowing what's going on. But I find most of it interesting. I also like that the PCA puts this online so anybody can check it out if they wish.
I'm checking out several sessions today.

Non-hierarchal Presbyterianism--L. Roy Taylor

2007-06-15T09:38:00.000-06:00

I found this article interesting, and would like to share it for those who may be interested in the structure of the PCA.

Non-hierarchal Presbyterianism

The link tkaes you to the website of Beal Heights Presbyterian Church (PCA), Lawton, Oklahoma. I received this article in an email, but it is here online.

Book Recommendation-A Heart for God by Sinclair Ferguson (a post re-run)

2007-06-15T09:28:00.000-06:00

(This is the first book review I posted on this blog, it was originally posted September 14, 2005)

I love this book! It excites me. Sinclair Ferguson shows how having a heart for God comes from knowing who God is. I have heard people talk about the depth of their relationship with God, yet they seem to know very little about Him. None of us know Him perfectly, but this still seems contradictory to me. If I say I know somebody, yet I know little about them, how well do I truly know them? This applies to God. To have a relationship with someone means you need to know them to some degree, the more intimate the relationship-the greater the knowledge. In fact, in the Bible “to know” indicates a form of intimacy.

Ferguson does not ignore the need of saving faith, but points out that saving faith comes by knowing. He shows the importance of knowledge in a believer’s life, “The knowledge of God is the heart of salvation and all true spiritual experience. Knowing Him is what we were created for. It will occupy us throughout eternity.” He tells us knowledge of God is almost the same as salvation, quoting Jesus from John 17:3-“Now this is eternal life: that they may know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom You have sent.” He wraps that up by saying, “To be a Christian is not a mindless experience, but involves knowledge and understanding. It means a personal relationship and personal acquaintance with the Lord.” He is unfolds a proper balance between the heart and mind. The two are NOT mutually exclusive.

Throughout the book Ferguson goes to the Bible to show us who God is. Each chapter has a main passage, backed up by several others. He looks at
-the knowledge of God
-the Trinity
-God as creator
-God as Covenant maker and keeper
-God as The Ever Present One
-God as Saviour
-God’s wisdom
-“The Holy One of Israel”
-God’s faithful providing
-Worship

He wraps up the book by looking at how the ancient Hebrews forgot God and strayed, and he sees parallels today. Ferguson then prescribes the same treatment Moses did to the Israelites before they entered Canaan. “First, a heart wholly satisfied with the Lord’s provision keeps us fresh and eager to remember and serve Him...The other essential cure for spiritual amnesia is a heart wholly submitted to the Lord’s will.”

This book wasn’t earth shattering for me in what it revealed, but it was significant in how it was revealed, and how it got me to see some things more deeply and fully. I have often heard people use the expression, “He’s got a real heart for______.” (Fill in the blank with anything/anbody than God). That may be a good thing, but the more important question is, “Do you have a heart for God?”

The Banner of Truth edition is 144 pages.
For a sample of Sinclair Ferguson check this out-

A Spiritual Apettite

(Additional link-
More on Sinclair Ferguson)

An Answer to a Question I was Once Asked About Prayer

2007-06-02T13:32:00.000-06:00

Back when I was recovering from my medical emergency and posted several times about it, I was asked how I feel about Roman Catholics praying for me. I meant to address this question here, but never did. In fact I know Roman Catholics were praying for me, as I was born and raised in it, and most of my extended family would still claim some level of allegiance to it. Some are quite devout, some are more nominal.

Basically I would not support the idea of prayer to Mary or any saint. But I did tend to focus on the concern and love that was shown by people taking time out of their day to pray for me. I know God's will would be done, and it would not be thwarted or changed by people praying in a way I believe is incorrect at best. So my hope and trust was in God all along, but I also was encouraged that people would take time to pray for me. So while I would discount some of the prayers said for me, I would never discount the person who did the praying. Some who said they prayed for me would not call themselves Christians of any sort. They prayed to an impersonal god or force of some sort. I would definitely discount that prayer, but again not discount the person.

I think it's important to make that distinction. No matter what disagreements you have with another person--they are still a human being, and deserve to be treated as one. So if you prayed for my health, to any god, being, person or whatever--I may strongly disagree with you and your prayer, but I do appreciate the time you took and concern and love that shows. (If you prayed for me not to be a Christian/Protestant/Presbyterian/Reformed believer, etc--well, I would disagree with that as well.)

For more on this, with a different reason behind it, see this post on the Beggars All blog.

A Book by a Friend

2007-05-25T21:08:00.000-06:00

The other night, Darrin Lauder, an old friend of mine phoned, and due to the oddities of voice mail we almost missed each other. He was calling to let me know he'd written a book, and it had been published. We talked for a while about the book, and what was going on in our lives. It was good to hear from him, and exciting to hear he had a book.
I've picked up a copy and after I've finished it I plan to review it on the blog.

The book is called "Spiritual Warfare & satan's schemes", and it's written as a devotional with 31 short chapters. I'm reading several chapters at a time, with some reflection on each of them. So far it looks good. It's not a "find a demon under every rock", or "talk to the demons" type book, but looks like straight forward biblical application.

There's information about the book on his church's website, (He's the pastor.) Go to the "Meet the Pastor" link on the left, and then to the link for the book. It's available on-line, and in some bookstores.

If you'd like to check it out I found it I found it for a wide range of prices here and here. (It's an 84 page book counting the Scripture Index--so the copies over $20 seem over-priced when you can get it for less.)

One thing about when I read books by people I've heard speak--I read the book with their voice in my head--with this book that was even more true, as I know the author better than any other author I've read. It was a little freaky in a way. I'll let you know how the book goes.

Quotes on Prayer

2007-05-25T20:55:00.000-06:00

"The purpose of prayer is not to convince God to think in our terms but to bring us to think as He thinks and to desire those things which are according to His will."

"In asking for daily bread, forgiveness for our sins, and protection from Satan's devices, we must do so with a desire for the glory of God."

"Satan is not overly interested in disobedient, rebellious sinners; they are already under his control. The servant of God who seeks to glorify God, on the other hand, will, like Job, be subjected to his subtle devices and attacks--attacks which no man has the wisdom or strength to withstand by himself."

(All quotes by Linleigh J. Roberts)

These quotes are from Roberts' booklet "To Seek and to Save that which is Lost." It is from his series, "The Biblical Foundations for Missions Series." The booklets in this series are well written and valuable information for serving God and seeking His glory. You can check out more information on them here, at the Biblical Foundations International website.

Why Romans 6:18? (A post re-run)

2007-05-25T20:33:00.000-06:00

(Since I've been at this since September 2005, and readers have come and gone, some may have missed the earlier posts if they haven't checked the archives--feel free to check them, I know some readers do. So, as I've seen other blogs do, from time to time I will rerun posts from the past. Here's my third ever post.)

Why did I name this blog after Romans 6:18?

The Bible is a book that bears repeat reading. On one such reading Romans 6:18 jumped right out at me. -"...and having been freed from sin, you became slaves of righteousness." (NASB)

Wow. I checked out the context.
Romans 6

Here we have Paul asking the Romans why they act as if they are still slaves to sin. They (and all Christians) have been freed from bondage to sin, why go back willingly?

Instead we are slaves of Righteousness-Christ's righteousness. So let's act that way.
It is not an oppressive slavery, but one of freedom in Christ. This theme reverberates throughout Romans 6 and elsewhere-such as Romans 7:6 and John 8:32. Martin Luther understood this and declared himself captive to God and His Word.

Yet, when we sin, we place ourselves back under sin's bondage. Yes, God forgives His people, and we rejoice in that. We are not to presume upon God though, we are to act in accordance with what we profess to believe. Before we believed we were slaves to sin, but we are freed.

Why do I repeat myself in this? It is very important for Christians to keep this in mind.
It was not our own power that freed us from sin, and it is not our own righteousness we are to be slaves to. It is the work of the Triune God-Father, Son & Holy Spirit. Why go back to what was?

Who or what is your Master? Whose slave are you?

How to Stop Dispensationalists from Smoking

2007-05-17T10:54:00.000-06:00

I wish I had a picture, but while out driving today I passed a gas station that seemed to have a strategy to stop Dispensationalists from smoking.

The price for a pack of cigarettes?
$6.66

A Silly Story about Roman Catholicism

2007-05-17T10:44:00.000-06:00

I call this a silly story, because if you're not a Roman Catholic it shouldn't bother you. It shouldn't bother you because you probably don't believe the premise to start with, so the story doesn't matter. If you are Roman Catholic you may or may not put stock in the premise. If you don't, again it doesn't matter. Only Roman Catholics who take the premise seriously need worry--and I'd think most of those would be likely to believe the offical version of it from the Vatican. Maybe it was a slow news day. Maybe, like me, they found it oddly amusing.

Vatican denies hiding the full truth about the end of the world

As I am not a Roman Catholic anymore, and I don't believe Mary really appeared to the three children and she didn't give them any visions I don't believe in the "Secrets of Fatima." Subsequently, even if the Vatican is hiding details, it doesn't matter. But still, for some reason, I do find this oddly amusing.

Johnny Hart

2007-05-17T10:25:00.000-06:00

Yes, this isn't news anymore, but despite my delay between posts I still wanted to mention this.

Johnny Hart dies at storyboard

B.C. was one of my favorite comic strips growing up. In my youth copied the art style, and created similar looking characters for my own comics-although on very different topics. I wasn't as good as Johnny Hart--and thus you've probably never seen my work.

I also liked the religious content he put in some of his strips. Some times it was just silly, and sometimes it made you think. One time a non religious strip caused problems when it was seen as a comment on Islam-Check out the story here.

Since there is an archive of his work, and he had worked ahead for now the strip will continue. You can see some of his work here.

Book Recommendation-Can You Run Away From God? by James M. Boice

2007-03-28T09:32:00.000-06:00

Subtitled, “If God is sovereign, how can people rebel against Him?”, this is a wonderful 96 page book about the Old Testament prophet Jonah. The book of Jonah is fascinating in the number of lessons we can learn from its four short chapters. Boice looks at God’s sovereignty, but also at God’s mercy and faithfulness. If you haven’t read Jonah before, or if it’s been awhile since you’ve read it, I’d like to encourage you to read it first, and then read Boice’s wonderful book.

Boice starts by defending the historicity of Jonah (He’s mentioned in 2 Kings 14:25, and Matt 12:39-40 for starters). Jonah is a true story, about a real person. After establishing this, Boice looks at the themes of God’s sovereignty and His mercy, and at the connection between Jonah and the Great Commission.

He then moves through the book of Jonah showing these things. He looks at how Nineveh experienced a great revival simply after hearing Jonah’s short message, “Yet forty days, and Nineveh will be overthrown.” (Jonah 3:4). That’s all we’re told Jonah preached. From here Boice looks at revival, particularly in light of Nineveh’s repentance.

He points out how there is much to learn from Jonah, and how we should come away from his book asking questions such as, “Is God not right? Is He not great for showing mercy?” He ends with an appeal for believers to show others the mercy they’ve been shown by God.

Even if you don’t read Boice’s book, read Jonah, keeping the following in mind: God’s sovereignty and mercy, our obligation to share the word, and our attitude to God and His works. Also consider how Jonah represents God’s people in general, and each one of us specifically.

For those who would like to check out more of James Boice, you can check him out here and here.

Link update

2007-03-26T09:02:00.000-06:00

I just updated some links in my Blog Link section.

I've added Beggars All: Reformation and Apologetics . It's an informative look at the Reformation its history. It tends to focus on Roman Catholicism, Luther & Calvin. I quite enjoy it.

I also updated the URL for Doxoblogy. It's recently moved over to Wordpress, and has been dealing with eschatology. In fact, Jeremy has started a new blog with others, (including Kim Riddlebarger, to look at Amillenialism. It's still in the early phases, so as of today there are only three posts (all by Jeremy I believe.) But check it out from time to time.

I'll try to get some new posts up soon, (I have a few planned), but other things have been hapening.

Holy Bottled Drinking Water

2007-03-08T18:07:00.000-07:00

Since Purgatorio's not around to share this- An article in the local paper today mentioned both a US and a Canadian company who are selling Bottled Holy Water--not for use in Roman Catholic rites, but for drinking.

The US version is based in--where else--California. You can read more about it here. The Label on it warns-

If you are a sinner or evil in nature, this product may cause burning, intense heat, sweating, skin irritations, rashes, itchiness, vomiting, bloodshot and watery eyes, pale skin color and oral irritations.

So I guess that includes all of us. I don't think this sort of thing was covered under the atonement.

The Canadian Version is based in Alberta--not BC, like I thought. It's actually a non denominational church that prays over the water.

Or you can go here and see how silly it gets. (Or is this page a spoof?--it's hard to tell--but the other ones are apparently for real.)

Now really--what is up with this? Is it crass marketing? Is it disrespect for God? Whatever the true motives of the people behind these ventures, it's hard not to laugh, and it's hard not to mourn the way God is taken so lightly.

Presbytery Time Again

2007-03-07T13:20:00.000-07:00

Actually it's come and gone.

It was a very good Presbytery overall. It was mostly good news, with some exciting news for the future. God was praised, prayers were made, God's Word was opened and read and exposited. I was encouraged, and so were others. The host church did a great job.

We're a young Presbytery in the PCA, and so a meeting like this one was helpful in our growth.

Some things were sort of bittersweet, some we'd rather not ahve had to hear, but overall a very positive experience.

Some of the people there were great encouragers. Some of these were brothers and sisters who had praying for me in my recent trials, and were encouraged by how I have recovered-(And that I was able to attend.) That is one thing I love about Presbytery-the chance to encourage one another face to face.

Some things there gave me ideas for possible posts down the line, and hopefully to encourage those who read them. They won't be specifically about the people or events that gave me the ideas, but looking at a bigger picture.

And so to all who planned and rpepared for Presbytery, to all the people I spoke with and enjoyed fellowship with, and to all who had been praying for me, I'd like to thank you.

LOTW March 7, 2007

2007-03-07T09:51:00.000-07:00

Time again for the Links of the Whenever--whenever I post them that is...

Don Kistler has done many valuable things for the Church at large. One is presenting the works of the Puritans to us in various forms: publishing their works, preaching about them, writing about them. He also has other ministry. So check out his website-donkistler.org

Charles Schulz's "Peanuts" comic strip is seen as old fashioned by many, but it was classsic, and had a great way of making me laugh--in positive ways. Catch up on his work, or if you're young enough discover it, at snoopy.com

Oh, here's a good blog...

2007-02-21T13:46:00.000-07:00

This is a good blog to fill the humour void left by Purgatorio going on hiatus. (And to complement each other if Purgatorio returns.)

Tominthebox News

Using satire to make his point, this blog will make you think and laugh.
He's on target. Check it out.

I've also added a link on the sidebar.

Raised from the Dead

2007-02-19T18:22:00.000-07:00

Have you ever heard the question asked about the people raised from the dead in the Bible? You know, the one that goes along these lines, "What was their reaction to being brought back to this world from the presence of God?"

Usually the person asking this is pointing out how that person could be a little ticked off they were no longer with the Lord.

I was thinking about that the other day, and while I can't be dogmatic about this I did realize that every one of the people raised from the dead in the Bible was raised for SOMEBODY else's benefit, not their own. The question is perhaps a bit self-centred, although probably not intentionally. The reason they were raised for somebody else's benefit. That puts it in a whole new light for me. Those raised were in some way serving God by returning.

Of course I can say dogmatically that at least one person raised from the dead in the Bible was raised for the benfit of others. That person was Jesus. He was raised for the benefit of His people.

Hmm, New Blogger

2007-02-19T18:18:00.000-07:00

Well, after posting that last article Blogger must have timed out on me, and now I'm on new Blogger. Let's see how it goes.

It will probably take a while for me to check out the tags, template stuff, and everything else.

But so far, so good.

"God hates me because of something I didn't do"???--Huh?

2007-02-19T17:46:00.000-07:00

A little while back I encountered the quote above on a blog.

The quote is not my belief, nor was it the blogger's. It was his representation of Calvinism, which he called, "Diabolism." The rest of the post was just as bad. It was one of worst and most willful misrepresentations of Calvinism I have ever seen.

I call it a "willful misrepresentation" because he admitted others have brought forth the same objections I did in the comments section. He has been told that is not what Calvinism teaches or is about, yet he doesn't care. The comments went back and forth for a bit, but as he has comment moderation enabled he didn't post my last one.

So how could somebody define Calvinism as the quote above? Simply misrepresent Total Depravity--which is the teaching that we can not and will not choose God on our own. He expanded that to teach that Calvinism teaches there is no good in Matter--meaning it was Manicheanism. Manicheanism is an ancient heresy that taught a separation of matter and spirit. Matter is evil and spirit good, so it is a form of dualism. This is perhaps an oversimplification, but that was the approach he took.

Anyway, while I posted comments on what Calvinists did and didn't believe, he mostly ignored the main points and made light of the minor ones. My last comment explained why I was no longer going to comment, and I rebuked him for the misrepresentation. I understood he had no desire to become a Calvinist, and he could have posted something explaining why he disagreed with what Calvinism really teaches. I'm sure he does disagree with that as well. That comment never appeared on his blog.

Why do people feel they need to misrepresent something they disagree with? I try to be fair to views I disagree with. I shake my head at some of the shameful material put out by professing Christians against various cults and other religions. They don't stick to the straight forward facts, but engage in fanciful interpretations and manufactered theories to shoot down the other group's unbiblical beliefs & practices. They could stick to the truth and still make their case, but they go overboard and wreck it. It happens on our side, it happens on others. This other blogger, (who I won't identify--at least for now, the more unknown he is the better.), did point out a way he felt misrepresnted by my comments--so I took that into consideration, asked him questions, and proceeded from there. Most of my questions were not really answered, but for the ones he did answer I thanked him.

So what is this allabout?
It's two things, actually.
1-Letting you know about an odd misrepresentation of Calvinism; and
2-A roundabout way to say please don't misrepresent those you disagree with, and if I do that to you, please let me know.

So where was I?

2007-02-19T17:39:00.000-07:00

Was I back in the hospital?
Thankfully, no, I did not need to return.
I haven't posted here, but have still commented on a few other blogs.

I'm still in recovery, and some of the activities involved in that have taken up a lot of time. I've also started a gradual return to work, for which I am very grateful. My time aside from work and recovery has involved getting back into the swing of things at church, resting, and spending time with my family.

When I've had time to post, I've either been too tired to actually post anything, or I wound up doing other things that took less brain power.

I'm not making any promises on how much I'll post, but I've now done two posts to basically say--I'm back.

I'm back, they're not

2007-02-19T17:29:00.000-07:00

Actually I used that as a title just over a year ago.
It was referring to an absence of myself from blogging, and also an end to 2 favorite blogs of mine--which in my latest absence from blogging have called it quits again--since they left their blogs up--I'm leaving the links to them at this time. If you haven't checked them out before--please do so...

Here's the post from over a year ago, so you can see what I'm talking about...

I've never kept a regular blog schedule, and I respect those who do.
I also respect the decison of those who put much time in their blogs to step back, take a break or even stop.
That doesn't mean I won't miss the blogs though--or the writers.

I've seen this all over the blogoshere, but wanted to say a more formal farewell here.

The Calvinist Gadfly is calling it quits, and according to the first post it will be left up until Jan 16.
So if you've never checked it out before--do it now.
Alan Kurschner wrote a thought provoking, entertaining, and insightful blog.
It will be missed. But he has been called to other work. He has indicated he may blog from time to time here.
Thanks for what you've given us Alan.

Then Purgatorio contained an announcement from its creator, Marc Heinrich. He had already announced he would slowing down, but now has posted he's stopping, although he's leaving the blog up. He may be back later, he may not.
Marc provided laughs, poignant commentary, and provoked thought.
And the comments on his announcement thread show he will be missed as well.
Marc is also listed as a contributor to Doxoblogy, another fine blog out there.

Well Alan and Marc--thanks. And may God bless your endeavours as He leads you elsewhere.

Again--I thank them for what they've done.
Marc is not a contributor for Doxoblogy anymore, but it's still a good blog.
Both Purgatorio & Calvinist Gadfly returned after theis, but have shut down again--at least Mark's last post is called "Hiatus", so there is hope.

Me, I'm back.

Book Recommendation-On Being Presbyterian by Sean Michael Lucas

2007-01-15T14:00:00.000-07:00

That I was reading a book called, “On Being a Presbyterian” amused a newer attendee of our congregation. Certainly I should know what it means to be a Presbyterian-after all I have been one for many years. I advised the book was on loan from our pastor, and I was interested in seeing how the author stated things. It would also be a good review, and in the history portion it could provide new information. I would also know if it was a book I could recommend, and I highly recommend it.

The subtitle of the book also indicates the sections in it, “Our beliefs, practices, and stories.” Lucas is dean of faculty and assistant professor of church history at Covenant Theological Seminary, so he is no stranger or outsider to Presbyterianism, or the PCA.

In Part 1 he looks at Presbyterian Beliefs. He does look at what we would have in common with other Christians, but the bulk is looking at the distinctives. This section has 5 chapters, but it is not one for each of the letter of TULIP, as some might assume. The five points of Calvinism do appear, but in Chapter 2 where he explains the Presbyterian beliefs on grace. This is where they belong. They are part of the picture, but not the whole picture. The chapter subjects are God’s sovereignty, grace, covenant and kingdom, the Church and sacraments. The chapters are well done looks at these beliefs. He doesn’t merely state what the beliefs are, but looks at how they affect the others, and us.

Part 2 is on Presbyterian practices. These do involve beliefs, and so this section flows out of the last one. In the first chapter of this section Lucas explains why he uses the word piety, and what he means by it. It’s on how we practice our beliefs, but also who we base them on. It’s a well done look at how God is connected to them.

In Part 2 he also writes on worship and church government. The chapter on worship is refreshing in that he looks at all worship, not just music and singing. Too often we use worship too narrowly. This short look at worship is instructive in how worship is more. The chapter on church government is also instructive as some feel this distinctive is a bigger difference between Presbyterians and Baptists than sacraments.

Part 3 is on Presbyterian stories. He presents an interesting historical look at how we got from the Reformers to what we have in North America today. Calvin and Knox loom large n the first part. He looks at the divisions, reunions, and new denominations as well. It gives a clear picture at how we got where we are today.

I highly recommend this book for all Christians, not just Presbyterians. I would also recommend it to any who are interested in church history. Its more obvious benefits would be for those who are new to Presbyterianism, or those who are considering attending or joining a Presbyterian church. But Christians with no intention of being Presbyterian could also benefit by better understanding of their brothers and sisters. I would read the same sort of book written by non-Presbyterian Christians if they were available. (This one is published by P&R Publishing.)

"Jehovah-Rophi. I Am the Lord That Healeth Thee" by William Cowper

2007-01-15T13:57:00.000-07:00

Here's a wonderful set of words penned by William Cowper-one of my favorite hymn writers, and a man who was used by God, despite suffering from what was probably some form of depression.

Jehovah-Rophi. I Am the Lord That Healeth Thee
(Exodus, xv.26)

Heal us, Emmanuel! here we are,
Waiting to feel Thy touch:
Deep-wounded souls to Thee repair
And, Saviour, we are such.

Our faith is feeble, we confess,
We faintly trust Thy word;
But wilt Thou pity us the less?
Be that far from Thee, Lord!

Remember him who once applied,
With trembling, for relief;
"Lord, I believe," with tears he cried,
"Oh, help my unbelief!"

She too, who touch'd Thee in the press,
And healing virtue stole,
Was answer'd, "Daughter, go in peace,
Thy faith hath made thee whole."

Conceal'd amid the gathering throng,
She would have shunn'd Thy view;
And if her faith was firm and strong,
Had strong misgivings too.

Like her, with hopes and fears we come,
To touch Thee, if we may;
Oh! send us not despairing home,
Send none unheal'd away!

LOTW January 15, 2007

2007-01-15T13:43:00.000-07:00

Wow, it's been over a month since it's been "whenever", but the Links of the Whenever have returned. (Or will, after I go check on my late lunch.)

First up-From "Around the World With Ken Ham", the provocatively titled article-
Darwin Was Right. Just a little something to chew on & think about.

Second, for some humour in your life-William Shatner Lent Me His Hairpiece (an untrue story) I first saw it on the Space Channel here in Canada. (Advisory--if you decide to check out other videos at this site, please use your discretion and heed any warnings they post.)

Hopefully you'll think & you'll laugh---and hopefully in the right order.

Taking the Lord's Name in Vague

2007-01-08T14:18:00.000-07:00

No, that's not a typo in the title. It's something I once said as a child.

I didn't know the gospel-but I did know of the Ten Commandments, and once I chastised someone for breaking the third commandment by telling them not to take the Lord's name in vague. I had either misheard or mis remembered what the commandment was.

Still, while it isn't a direct violation of the third commandment--we may be guilty of "taking the Lord's name in vague."

We may lack boldness or clarity. While God can still use this, it shouldn't be the way we normally use His name. How many songs, books, sermons, etc are guilty of this? We speak or sing of God with such vagueness that who are we really referring to? So much of it seems like fluff.

I also have a concern that there are people who think they are Christians because they heard a vague message about God--but they didn't hear the gospel and don't know Christ.

I'm not saying everybody has to be a great theologian and know all there is to know about God. What I am saying is we should be careful about how we refer to God. We should avoid shallow, vague messages and teaching. We should be clear.

Now Jesus did use parables, sometimes to hide the meaning from some listeners--but His parables were never vague. Those who were meant to understand did, even if they needed some help. Those with ears to hear did hear.

This is also not speaking against speaking simply so those who are seeking or learning can understand. To take them into consideration is speaking clearly. SOmetimes it is our Christian jargon that makes things vague. But it may be uncertainty, fear, timidity or something else. We need to be prayerful about how we speak of God, Christ, and the Gospel, let us do it according to those we are speaking to and the context, but let us not be vague.

Thomas Watson on-"Shall we know each other in heaven?"

2007-01-08T14:13:00.000-07:00

Here's an interesting quote I found online.

Some have asked whether we shall know one another in heaven? Surely, our knowledge will not be diminished, but increased. The judgement of Luther and Anselm, and many other divines is, that we shall know one another; yea, the saints of all ages, whose faces we never saw; and, when we shall see the saints in glory without their infirmities of pride end passion, it will be a glorious sight.

—Thomas Watson (c. 1620—1686)

I've Been There How Long?

2007-01-03T13:12:00.000-07:00

I was thinking about some things lately, and realized how long I had been a member of the congreagtion where I worship. I realized that it was the group I had the longest association with outside of my family. In my time there I have held 3 jobs (the first for only a few months, before I quit to take a better one.) I had met the woman I married, but we barely knew each other at that time. I had a lot less grey hair.

I realized the current pastor has been here almost as long as I attended under the previous pastor. (We were pastor-less for about a year, during that time elders filled in.)

There must be a reason for it.

If you've read previous posts you'll have seen me express appreciation and thanks for the congregation. That is one of the reasons I'm still around. So is the teaching.

Still I was surpised when I realized how long I've been around.

May God bless us all with groups we are part of that are helpful, and may those associations be long ones, unless the Lord takes us elsewhere.

Ordering around the Holy Spirit?

2007-01-03T12:50:00.000-07:00

In my "Merry Christmas" post I received a question about a comment I had made at Purgatorio. The question had to do with the so called "Holy Laughter/Toronto Blessing" movement of several years back. (If you're not familiar with it--there are lots of links if you do a search.) The question was-

i was just wondering what you meant by "ordering the Holy Spirit around" thanks!

A few years ago, John Arnott-a pastor at the Toronto Airport Vineyard where the "Toronto Blessing" started- came to a local church to share the blessing.

A group of my friends and myself went to check it out. I will admit we doubted it, but wanted to see it first hand.

What we saw was more a performance than anything else. One of the worst parts was hearing Arnott order the Holy Spirit around. This wasn't someone claiming the promises of God. He was ordering the Holy Spirit as if he was owed something. He wasn't submitting to the Sovereign God, but was acting as if he was the one in charge. Yes, the Holy Spirit was sent as a helper, but that doesn't make Him a servant we get to boss around. We don't, and can't, deserve His help in any way. Arnott acted as if he was in charge of the sovereign God. He told the Spirit he was commanding Him. There was no reverence. While this is my impression, I flet like He was demoting the Spirit, and promoting himself. Read John 3 to see how the Holy Spirit works. Read Acts to see Him as God.

Hopefully that answers the question, if not let me know.

Merry Christmas

2006-12-23T15:09:00.000-07:00

May we all celebrate Christ's incarnation EVERY day of our lives, I'm sure His people will celebrate it in eternity.

John 1:14-"And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth." (ESV)

A Christmas Prayer

2006-12-23T15:02:00.000-07:00

Well, not a specific prayer you can read out, but just what I hope for all of you. Since the only true hope is in Christ it is a prayer as well.

While there is no perfect Church here on earth, I pray that each one of you is either in a faithful, Bible believing Church with good teaching. And if you're not, that either you will find one soon, or you current congregation will become one.

And I pray that not only is your congregation faithful in doctrine, but also in practice. I pray you would see the love of Christ in the people there. And if not--again that your congregation finds that balance so neither doctrine nor practice gets slighted. That they would realize if you have the doctrine right--the practice should follow. And if not, again that you would find one.

I'm not here to boast--but I think the congregation I belong to has both.
For them I thank God. Amen.

Modern Reformation

2006-12-14T09:44:00.000-07:00

I can't believe I went this long without a link to Modern Reformation. It's an excellent magazine. They spent 2006 looking at Paul's letter to the Romans. I've added the link to the sidebar. Check it out-they post many of their articles online. It is well worth your time.

Children Taken Into Custody After Drug Busts

2006-12-14T09:25:00.000-07:00

Children taken into custody after drug busts
I don't know how long this site leaves the stories up, but go take a look. It's a brief summary, but check if the video link still works.

Police have been cracking down on grow ops, and the common things to look out for are well known-"How to spot a grow op". So the criminals are using families to camouflage the grow op homes. This means children are being exposed to the chemicals and fumes found in grow ops, as well as having access to the drugs. They are also in danger of electrocution (Or electric shocks), as grow op homes usually have the electric meter bypassed, resulting in exposed wires. In at least one of the cases in the link above, exposed wires ran through a child's bedroom.

These are cases of child endangerment and abuse. It shows how greed will cause people to put their own children at risk.

Some may say that if marijuana was legalized these sort of things wouldn't happen. Somehow I doubt it. Those children would have been at risk in some other way. We are all sinful, and the greed that caused these parents to disregard their children's safety would pop up some other way.

May we all realize though, that as sinful humans, we would all be capable of such neglect. May we thank God that He provided His Son to deal with the sin of His people.

"Don't they baptize babies?"

2006-12-06T10:03:00.000-07:00

(There is a point here, please bear with me. Thanks.)
A while back I posted a link to a page on baptism on mongergism.com-(This one here.) On that page there are a large number of links to articles on baptism, especially ones defending either paedo (infant/child) or credo (believers) baptism. One of my readers asked about the similarities between the Presbyterian & Roman Catholic views on paedobaptism. I've been working on that, but other things keep coming up and I am not happy with the current state of what I've written. But it is coming.

In writing it I did realize that credobaptists may read it and say, "So what?" From their perspective neither Presbyterians nor Roman Catholics have the correct view. The point of the article is not to defend paedobaptism, but to show the differences between two views on it.

This train of thought reminded me of when I first started attending a Presbyterian Church. My non-Presbyterian Christian friends often seemed amazed or concerned. I would often hear some form of the question, "Don't they baptize babies?" Often the tone of their voice was as if they were asking, "Don't they eat babies?" or some other atrocity. They were often amazed that although, yes, Presbyterians baptize babies, it isn't the cornerstone of their existence, belief and practice. It still happens, and we hear it from visitors.

Yes, Presbyterians do baptize babies. No, it doesn't make us aliens, monsters, or outcasts. We value our credobaptist brothers and sisters, and we share the same gospel, especially with those who are reformed. We learn from them, and they learn from us. Not all who hold to paedobaptism are Christians. Neither are all who hold to credobaptism. What you hold to about baptism may not affect your salvation, unless you tie salvation directly to baptism (for example those who hold to some form of baptismal regenration.) The PCA doesn't require members to hold to paedobaptism. The reason is we don't wish to add conditions to salvation that are not in the Bible.

LOTW December 6, 2006

2006-12-06T09:46:00.000-07:00

Here are the new Links of the Whenever (as in whenever I get to them.)

First-
The Geneva Bible was the dominant English translation prior to the King James Bible. (It took about 50 years for the KJV to supplant the Geneva Bible.) King James did not like the Geneva Bible because of the margin notes. Those note were Reformed in theology. It's influenece was far reaching including being the Bible of the pilgrims and puritans who came to North America. It also was the inspiration for original name of The Reformation Study Bible. (It was first called the New Geneva Study Bible.) It originally used the New King James, but now uses the English Standard Version. The notes are also new.

But go here, to check out the original Geneva Bible. The site appears to be a work in progress, but there is a lot to read on it.

Second-
If you've read previous posts you may know I am interested in sports logos and design. A site I think has some excellent work in that regard is Athlantic Design. There you'll find one man's concepts for several teams on a well done template. It's creative. If you enjoy this sort of thing I think you'll enjoy this site.

Links & Such

2006-12-06T09:42:00.000-07:00

Just a quick note.
It seems odd that there are others linking to some of my posts, and in some cases recommending others go and read them, but I get very few comments. That's okay if you don't want to comment, but sometimes people will comment on my blog on the other blog, but not mine. Oh well, at least people are stopping by and reading.
Thanks to all who link to this blog.

Another Quote on Prayer

2006-11-30T15:06:00.000-07:00

This one is by Arthur W. Pink. It speaks of God's sovereignty and our need of Him.

Prayer is not appointed for the furnishing of God with the knowledge of what we need, but it is designed as a confession to Him of our sense of the need. In this, as in everything, God's thoughts are not as ours. God requires that His gifts should be sought for. He designs to be honoured by our asking, just as He is to be thanked by us after He has bestowed His blessing.
—Arthur W. Pink

Prayer and One More from the Hospital

2006-11-30T14:50:00.000-07:00

If you can indulge me for one more direct reference to my time in the hospital. I was going to post this sooner, but then I had other stuff to post.

Toward the end of my stay a new patient was brought into the same room (There were four beds in it), and he had a visitor shortly after that. I wasn't intending to listen in, but he had a booming voice that carried well. I was trying not to listen as his experience was quite similar to mine, and I wasn't into reliving it at that time.

He told his visitor that the pain was so bad couldn't meditate.

I reflected on my own experience, and felt sorry for him in a way. He may have been in too much pain to meditate, but no matter how much pain I was in I could pray. In fact later I realized I was in so much pain--I HAD TO PRAY.

This is one of the big differences between Christianity and other forms of faith and religion. True Christianity looks to Someone else. Others tend to look to self, and some of those look for the "god" within. So on one hand I am thankful God is not within, that I can look outside myself in faith for help. On the other I feel sorry for those who try to look within-becasue the help they desire is not there.

Unfortunately I never got a a chance to discuss this with the other patient, but he may have overheard some of my conversations with my visitors about the true God. I hope some of that made him think, and God will help him. I also hope that it rubbed off on me. It would be easy to be like the Pharisee in Luke 18:9-14, but I pray I am not. I hope this is another reminder to pray with the proper perspective.

I Love this Quote on Prayer

2006-11-25T12:19:00.000-07:00

I had already planned and written the previous post when I came across a wonderful statement on prayer. I debated putting it in the post itself, but it spoke so powerfully to me I decided to give it it's own post. It is related to what I wrote.

"Prayer does not relieve all suffering, but it assures us that no difficulty comes without a purpose."

Bryan Chapell

Let that soak in.

If you want to know more about Bryan Chapell, I have included a link to his site.

Prayer as a Talisman

2006-11-25T11:54:00.000-07:00

First I would like to state I endorse prayer, and do not discourage it. But sometimes we get off track and treat prayer in a way we ought not to. We may not mean to do that, but it's easy to do.

One way we do this is by treating prayer as if it were a talisman. The second definition of talisman on that link to Merriam-Webster's online dictionary is the one I'm using.

Something producing apparently magical or miraculous effects

It's not just those who "name it and claim it" that use prayer this way.

I've heard well meaning Christians who encourage others to start their day with prayer--this is not a bad thing--but the thinking goes off base when they say that your day will go better if you pray. Conversely, if you do not pray your day will go worse. This, unwittingly, is saying we have power over God and His plans for our day. I have had days where I spent much time in prayer at the start and the day went horribly from my perspective. I have had wonderful days when I have forgotten to start my day in prayer.

Whether or not we have a good day is not the purpose of prayer, nor should it be the focus. We pray because it is commanded. (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18) We pray because it is a form of communion with our Lord. We pray because it can change us, and is a means God does use. But prayer is not a means to guarantee a good day, or even to increase our chances of having one.

So by all means start your day in prayer. That may mean the second you wake up, or at some point after your head clears. End your day in prayer, as you fall asleep. Pray in between. Do all this, but please don't think your prayer gives you a guarantee of a good day. Your day is in the Lord's hands. Give your day to the Lord, no matter how it turns out. If you are His it will work out for the good.(Romans 8:28-30)

God's Will and Man's Will

2006-11-25T11:50:00.000-07:00

Since I'm in an article link mood, (I'm cleaning out a folder of articles I wanted to read), here's another one on God's Will and Man's Will by Charles Spurgeon.

God's Will and Man's Will

I found this through Monergism.com.

Archbishop Ussher

2006-11-25T11:27:00.000-07:00

Yes it is an older link, but here is an interesting article from Answers in Genesis on Archbishop James Ussher, his work Annals of the World , and his treatment by Christians and evolutionists.
Just click here.

Two Bible Passages on God's Sovereignty

2006-11-22T11:33:00.000-07:00

Our God is in the heavens;
he does all that he pleases.

Psalm 115:3

Who has spoken and it came to pass,
unless the Lord has commanded it?
Is it not from the mouth of the Most High
that good and bad come?

Lamentations 3:37-8

(Read all of Psalm 115 & Lamentations 3. Both passages from the ESV)

John Owen Quote

2006-11-22T11:24:00.000-07:00

"If you are satisfied with an imaginary Christ, you must be satisified with an imaginary salvation."

John Owen (1616-83)

How much more true is this today.

Non-theological quote

2006-11-22T11:21:00.000-07:00

"Hamlet is the tragedy of tackling a family problem too soon after college."

Tom Masson

A Wonderful Lord's Day

2006-11-20T10:44:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I finally was able to attend worship after missing 3 Sundays. (Two of those I was in the hospital, and one I was not physically up to it.)

It was great to be back among some of God's people.

I was refreshed by the service-although I was worn out by it as well. I was encouraged by all who came and said hello and more. God so often uses His people to encourage each other. This is one of the reasons Hebrews 10:25-26 says

And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.

It's great to know so many have been praying for me, and had words to share. I look forward to being there next week, and the next, and so on. I look forward to recovering more so I can take a greater part in the congregagtion again. I feel so blessed by them, and am very thankful to God for them.

Being Humbled

2006-11-20T10:38:00.000-07:00

When you go through an emergency medical procedure it is humbling.

Things you could do for yourself-and that you would take for granted-are no longer things you can do for yourself. You need others' help, if you don't outright need them to do it for you.

Yes, as I recover there are more things I can do for myself again, but the lesson is learned, I hope.

None of us can do it all for themselves, and yet we try.

Nowhere is this more serious than salvation. We can not save ourselves, we can not even contribute really--Salvation is of the Lord.

So in my recovery I am learning once again to depend on the Lord. I often have had no choice but to depend on Him.

Book Recommendation-Genesis and the Decay of the Nations by Ken Ham

2006-11-20T10:26:00.000-07:00

This time around it's a short post, and a short book, but one still worth your time.

This book is a “sequel” of sorts to an earlier Ken Ham book I recommended a while back in a post on evolution and creation.

Ken Ham’s major point here is showing how the book of Genesis is a foundation to the Gospel and Christianity, and the importance of Genesis as a result. He considers claims of Christianity and the Bible in light of Genesis and how it is not taken seriously by many—even in the church. Well, ideas have consequences-and when we start to disregard where we came from, and how we got here, we get into trouble.

One complaint about sequels is that they are not as good as the earlier works, and that’s true here, but the 79 pages here are still valuable things to consider as a Christian-where have we come from, where are we going? We should consider that for ourselves and the Church as a whole. Therein lies this book’s strength.

This book also contains a valuable list of recommended reading for anyone who wants more detail on creation and evolution. Ken Ham’s ministry-Answers in Genesis- has a website that is a good source for this subject as well. The articles range from basic to complex for all levels of readers.

Reflecting on Original Sin

2006-11-16T10:08:00.000-07:00

While I was in the Intensive Care Unit recently I had a lot of time to think. I had visitors, which was great, but I also had a lot of time to just lay in bed. I wasn't able to read much. Some of my thoughts drifted around, but sometimes I could focus. And I found my mind kept coming back to original sin and the effects of the fall.

I was there in ICU because of original sin. I don't mean my condition was a direct punishment for a particular sin of my own. I don't know that. But I do know that illness, suffering, injuries, and all other negative things are the result of the fall of Adam and Eve.

They disobeyed God and ate of the fruit of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. As a result the earth was cursed. As a result we have health issues, among other consequences. There is pain and suffering because of sin.

I can not blame Adam or Eve for what I went through. If I had been in their place I too would have sinned. I may have sinned sooner. In that sense we are in this together. Anyone of us would have sinned as Adam and Eve did.

Yet there is hope. In eternity future I will have a perfect body, as will all God's people. If we are His we will not suffer. Shortly after their sin God promised a redeemer in Genesis 3:15-

"I will put enmity between you and the woman,
and between your offspring and her offspring; he shall bruise your head, and you shall bruise his heel."

God also promised to redeem not only His people, but all His creation. One day there will be a new heaven and a new earth. (Rev 21)

While things may seem messed up now, and we suffer, one day it will end for God's people. I knew all of this before, but now I know and understand it more deeply because of what I've been through. Many have been through worse, I hope they understand this even more deeply. And in that understanding may they have a greater hope in a merciful, sovereign, holy God.

"I'm here to take your blood"

2006-11-14T10:12:00.000-07:00

Oh how many times I've heard that over the last two weeks!
Still there are some who hear it way more than I have.

There is something, however, about being awakened by someone saying this in an eastern European accent. It may have been enhanced by being half asleep, but I wanted to make sure they took my blood with a needle, and they didn't take it from my neck. That sentence and accent made for an odd mixture.

Blog Link-a-rama

2006-11-14T09:42:00.000-07:00

Here are some recent blog postings, (from other blogs), I would like to share with
you.

Calvinist Gadfly has this video on 2 Peter 3:9, and how it's often misused. It's not a short clip, but it's not too long either.

There's always something thought provoking on Challies.com. This one is now in the archives, but it's on hymns.

I am chief has an excerpt and comments on "The Glory of Christ" by John Owen

On the Knight of the Living God blog, Aspiring Theologian Albert Shepherd, has this post on Free Will, and this one on The Five Points of humility, where he advises us not to forget the word "Grace" in the Doctrines of Grace.

Kim Riddlebarger's Riddleblog has this Eschatology Q & A on the word "deceive" as used in reference to Satan.

David at Rotundus has a short post and two links on the topic of Christians and tipping.

LOTW November 14, 2006

2006-11-14T09:31:00.000-07:00

It's whenever again, and time for the Links of the Whenever...

First up-
The Cambridge Declaration
of the Alliance of Confessing Evangelicals
It's a great statement on faith and action. If you haven't read it before, check it out. If you have, here's a chance to review it.

Second-
In the late 1960's, an interesting and intriguing TV show was born. It was called "The Prisoner" and starred Patrick McGoohan. Some episodes were quite surreal, and you couldn't half-watch it. Unlike much television this show engaged your brain. Here's a web-site about the show that has extensive info on it.
The Prisoner

God's Providence - He is Good!

2006-11-10T11:27:00.000-07:00

God is good.

I have had a lot of time to reflect on that due to recent events. As my situation started with an emergency I did consider my death as well.

I can sit here and go on about how wonderful God's providence is because I survived, but would God be any less God if I had not survived?

I was thankful for how things worked out. My age and previous health were factors in my favour. The timing and location of events, including getting to the hospital quickly all worked in my favour. The doctors were working on me very quickly, and it went well. So of course I am thankful to God that if I had to go through what I went through that things went as they did. I am thankful for the doctors, nurses, and paramedics. I am thankful for their knowledge and actions. But what if it hadn't worked out that way?

As I was being taken to the hospital, and especially as I was being treated once I arrived there I kept thinking of Paul's words in Phil 1:21-6,

"For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain. If I am to live in the flesh, that means fruitful labor for me. Yet which I shall choose I cannot tell. I am hard pressed between the two. My desire is to depart and be with Christ, for that is far better. But to remain in the flesh is more necessary on your account. Convinced of this, I know that I will remain and continue with you all, for your progress and joy in the faith, so that in me you may have ample cause to glory in Christ Jesus, because of my coming to you again."

I am not comparing myself to Paul, but this is something all Christians can consider.
We have families and friends here. We may still feel called to some work. But if in God's providence it is time for us to leave this life, as Christians we will be with the Lord. I felt convinced that if it had been time for me to go, my family and friends would be well taken care of.

This was shown by the outpouring of prayer, help, meals, encouragement and more from my family, my wife's family, and our Church family. God would not abandon those I would leave behind. As it turned out I am still here, and it is those fmailies and friends who are caring for me in my recovery. It is very encouraging to me. I am exceedingly thankful for their love, support, help, prayers, etc. And it is this sort of thing, as well as other thoughts that I wish to share from my experiences with those who read this blog. In many ways this is just the surface. May you be encouraged by God's care for His people and His creation.

God would still be God, and still be good, no matter how things turned out for me.

I still plan to blog on other things unrelated to what happened, but I needed to get some of this out first.

What Happened??

2006-11-10T11:16:00.000-07:00

I have sometimes taken a bit of time between posts, but this latest gap was interrupted by a hospital stay. I'm not planning on going into a lot of detail on it though.

I'm trying not to be the patient that keeps going on & on about their problems or procedures or whatever. I'm trying not to be the type of person that acts like everybody else is going to have the same thing happen, and so they tell you how to live based on their life. I also don't want to exalt myself. I wound up in the hospital because of poor lifestyle choices (including ones I no longer make), genetics, and because sometimes that's how things work out. I know people who have higher risk factors than mine, yet they haven't been through what I went through. That's how things work out.

This experience did make me think about a lot of things, and some of that will end up on the blog. Hopefully it will be encouraging, amusing, or helpful in some way.

I still tire easily so I may not post as much as I'd like, but I am recovering well.

Thomas Brooks Quote

2006-10-19T21:26:00.000-06:00

Grace and glory differ very little; the one is the seed, the other is the flower; grace is glory militant, glory is grace triumphant.

—Thomas Brooks

Book Recommendation-The Vanishing Conscience by John MacArthur

2006-10-19T21:13:00.000-06:00

(This is adapted from the first book review/recommendation I wrote for the Church Newsletter about 7 years ago. Hopefully any changes are for the better.)

The Vanishing Conscience is a book well worth reading. It combines characteristics I find most useful when they are all present. It is challenging, convicting, exhorting, and encouraging. When a book combines all four of these characteristics it can give me a fuller picture of who I am in Christ, and where I’d be without Him. I can see my sin and see my Saviour.

The Vanishing Conscience is in some ways the most difficult book I have ever read. It is not written at a highly technical or scholarly level. Its style is very readable. The difficulty lies in how it challenged and convicted me. I often had to stop reading and examine myself and pray. This can be very profitable, as you are not allowed to be complacent. In fact, I would say if you can read this book without feeling challenged and convicted, you need to examine yourself to see if you really do know the Lord. Some sections did not bother me at all, but others cut deeply.

In the first section, MacArthur looks at society’s notions about sin and guilt. He shows how they are not only tolerated, but often condoned and even celebrated. He outlines the “victim mentality” and challenges you to examine yourself to see if you fall in with the world this way. He then proceeds to define the conscience and look at how it can be cleansed and strengthened (This is part of the encouraging the book does.) He then turns his attention to how sin can silence the conscience and lead to moral decline. We need to ask if this is happening to us.

In the next section MacArthur looks at the nature of sin. He begins by examining the doctrine of total depravity, using the first three chapters of Romans. He looks at how society focuses on self, not God. He moves on to how we try to justify our own sin, and then looks to Christ as the only answer. He outlines the need for repentance and being born again. He brings in the gospel. To believers this is wonderful encouragement. He then looks at misguided attempts to deal with sin, looking primarily at those who say we can be perfect in this life. Sanctification is a life long process. On various occasions MacArthur has stated, “It’s not the perfection of your life, but the direction.” It is important to see this. We are not perfect in this life, but we ought to be moving in that direction.

In the final section MacArthur deals with handling sin. He brings up the often neglected biblical teaching of mortification. Mortification is putting to death the deeds of the flesh. It is not effective if it’s only half-done. MacArthur explains mortification using I Samuel 15, which tells what happened after Israel had defeated one of their fiercest enemies, the Amalekites. God had told them to destroy everything connected to the Amalekites, but Saul didn’t fully obey. He even spared the Amalekites’ king. This was the final event that led to God rejecting Saul as king of Israel. It is well worth your time to read this section, as the full impact of this illustration can not be properly conveyed here.

MacArthur goes on to overcoming temptation. He explains the difference between temptation and God’s testing of us. Through Christ we can endure both. The most convicting part for me was the chapter on keeping a pure mind. If we are honest with ourselves, we have to admit our minds are the place we sin the most. Most visible or outward sin starts in the mind. If our sin stays in the mind, no one knows about it (except God, but we often ignore that). If the sin stays there we think we got away with it, but eventually it will catch up with us. MacArthur exhorts us to watch over our hearts and guard our thoughts.

The final chapter looks at how many in the church have substituted forgiveness of our sins, and the seriousness of sin with “feeling good”. He ends it with practical application for recognizing and dealing with sin in our lives. This is indeed the sort of encouragement we all need. The book also contains three appendices well worth reading.

Throughout the book, MacArthur looks to the Bible and to God. Jesus Christ and the gospel are prominent. He challenges us to examine our attitudes. The conviction I felt came from the Holy Spirit as God’s word was opened up and showed me my sin. I was encouraged in the application parts of the book, and in looking to Christ and what He has done. It is so easy to be lazy regarding our conscience and therefore how we live. This book deals with the heart and mind. It follows the idea of reformation starting with ourselves and working outwards. The Vanishing Conscience is a much needed and profitable wake up call I recommend for every Christian.

LOTW October 19, 2006

2006-10-19T20:53:00.000-06:00

Links of the Whenever for October 19, 2006-

First up--a variety of Bible commentaries online--some very good, some not so good.
You'll find a variety at Classic Bible Commentaries It's billed as "History's Most Renowned Commentary Writers."

Then--shield your eyes!!!!
It's WHA uniforms!
See the 70's at their brightest, and gaudiest--the uniforms of the World Hockey Association. (Actually it's kind of fun--and some weren't too bad.)

There Goes Good old Presbytery

2006-10-19T20:48:00.000-06:00

Well, it's come and gone again.

Some wonderful fellowship, and some great worship, and even fun in the committee meeting--that was Presbytery. It's not all perfect, but we're a young Presbytery and we're sorting things out. I was encouraged to hear others are like minded in several ways.

If you belong to a Church that holds Presbytery and you have the opportunity to attend--I would encourage you to try it-hopefully you will see the good, and pray for the less than good. Hopefully you will be encouraged by Church Government in action.

I'm looking forward to the next one--I think it will be better.

Hymns on The Christian Life-"The Shining Light" by William Cowper

2006-10-10T22:52:00.000-06:00

My former hopes are fled,
My terror now begins;
I feel, alas! that I am dead
In trespasses and sins.

Ah, whither shall I fly?
I hear the thunder roar;
The Law proclaims Destruction nigh,
And Vengeance at the door.

When I review my ways,
I dread impending doom:
But sure a friendly whisper says,
"Flee from the wrath to come."

I see, or think I see,
A glimmering from afar;
A beam of day, that shines for me,
To save me from despair.

Forerunner of the sun,
It marks the pilgrim's way;
I'll gaze upon it while I run,
And watch the rising day.

William Cowper suffered from depression. His friend, John Newton set him to compose hymns. His struggles are seen in this and other hymns he wrote, and even better we see the results. We see his eyes on Christ.
For more of his hymns on the Christian life-click on this link.

Slaves of Uprightness

2006-10-10T22:37:00.000-06:00

The title above is part of what I got when I entered the French translation of my Blog (see below) into babelfish. (Yes I know it is not the most accurate way to translate.)

But the results were amusing.

The top of the "re-translated" blog now reads-

Slaves of uprightness (Romance 6:18)
A list of the reading recommended, bonds, thoughts random and comments of a reformed Christian prospect. And it is Canadian Westerner too.

I'm now a "reformed Christian prospect." Does that mean I could get traded?

Other results-
-I link to a blog called "Horsefly of Calvinist"
-In a book review it says-"Perhaps I should have another recommendation of book."
-I have a link to "RevGot of waxes of lenscleanse about the antidotes of materialism"
-A review of a Peter Jones book now reads-"He was once Peter Jones was invited by my gathering to present a series of talks on the new movement of age and the evangile."
-Oddly enough this last one makes sense-"But as Christian we must be portion of different."

My Blog in French

2006-10-10T22:22:00.000-06:00

This was interesting.
While checking the stats on my visitors I saw one referral where my blog was translated into French.
I hope it made sense.

Esclaves de droiture

And in French I am "pélerin", not Pilgrim...

LOTW October 9, 2006

2006-10-09T22:06:00.000-06:00

Thanksgiving Day is almost over for us Canadians, and so to celebrate a new edition of Links of the Whenever---

First up a link on baptism.
This is actually a link to a page of links on
monergism.com

At this link you'll find several articles on baptism, defending both Paedobaptism (or covenant baptism--baptising children of believers) and Credobaptism (baptising believers only). There are also articles linked on this page on the baptsim of the Holy Spirit and also on baptismal regenration.

As a Presbyterian I hold to Paedobaptism, but there are well written articles on both sides.

Baptism (Credobaptism & Paedobaptism & other articles too.)

Then, if you're looking for a new game to play try this one-
Calvinball
It has nothing to do with John Calvin, except that cartoonist Bill Watterson named the character Calvin after John Calvin.
It's a fun read.

Credit where credit is due...

2006-10-09T21:49:00.000-06:00

This post of mine from almost back to the start of my blogging experience-
A mystery of life solved--sort of
is not the result of my wisdom, but actually is the from the knowledge and wisdom of someone I will refer to as "Mrs Pilgrim" for now. Although she wasn't "Mrs Pilgrim" at the time...

And now it's set straight.

"For Whom Did Christ Die?" by Charles Hodge

2006-09-12T22:23:00.000-06:00

From Reformation Ink,here's a look at the question, "For Whom Did Christ Die?"
It's answered from the writings of Charles Hodge. (1823-1886)

Designed by Aliens?

2006-09-12T22:17:00.000-06:00

Click here for a story on "Discoverers of DNA’s structure attack Christianity"

Instead of seeing the folly of their beliefs, they add more folly.

Death And Life: Romans 5:8-11 Conclusion

2006-09-12T21:55:00.000-06:00

Jesus not only saves His people by His death, but we are told they will be saved—future tense—by His life. (For if while we were enemies we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, now that we are reconciled, shall we be saved by his life. Romans 5:10-all Bible quotes are ESV.)

Christ needed to be pure and unblemished, just as Old Testament sacrifices were to be. For example, a shepherd didn’t pick a lamb at random, or give a sickly one when it was time to sacrifice. He was to give his best—an unblemished lamb. By living a sinless life and fulfilling the Law—Jesus could offer Himself as an unblemished sacrifice for His people. I believe that, but there is more than that here. The verb here is future tense, and also speaks of present tense (will be saved.) After Jesus died and was buried—what happened? He rose again—and He still lives—this is the life Paul is referring to in verse 10—Jesus’ resurrection life!

There are three tenses of Salvation. The past tense is justification. This means all true believers are saved from the penalty of sin, Because of reconciliation with God through Christ.

We are also being saved from the power of sin—this is sanctification—where God shapes us and we grow in Him. We shall also be saved from the presence of sin in eternity future as we receive glorification.

These last two are what Paul has in mind in verse 10—especially the future glory. The salvation from the presence of sin is secure in Christ because He lives to make intercession for us.

This means to petition for, to speak on another’s behalf. There are many examples in Scripture of this. In Numbers 21:4-9, Moses interceded with God when the people were ungrateful and complaining about God after He had delivered them from slavery in Egypt. They wanted more, and they wanted it on their own terms—does that sound familiar? It’s the human way. Jesus also used the example of the bronze serpent being lifted up to point to His crucifixion, and the reconciliation that would bring. Christ does this for us-He died for us, reconciled us to the God, and keeps us safe. Because He does this we are forever His, he will not let us go, and we can not sneak away. Paul-in a familiar passage (Rom 8:38-39) gives a list of what can not remove us from His love, from His protection, and therefore our salvation. That list covers everything-including ourselves. This security is possible because He lives and He intercedes to protect us.

Christ didn’t just die to pay for our sin—He rose again to secure that salvation. And as the risen Christ, according to Hebrews 7:25- He lives always to make intercession for us.

Please do not think this means our sins are still being paid for—that has been finished as Hebrews 1:3 says He has finished that and has sat down, and John 19:30 tells us Christ on the cross decalred it is finished—that the debt has been paid. But the future tense of salvation—our glorification is guaranteed by Christ as the LIVING Saviour.

Romans 5:8-11 tells of the past and present state of believers—from enemies to friends-and even children. And the past & present condition of Jesus—He died, He is now alive.

They are intimately intertwined, because Christ died for us, while we were enemies. By His death He paid the highest price ever paid anywhere at anytime for anything to reconcile His people to God, by His resurrection He was able to enter into Glory where we who are His will one day enter as well. Because He lives! Our lives and His are bound together. Romans 6:8 says if we die with Him, we shall live with Him. The dying here refers to our sinful nature, which is said to die when we become new creatures through Christ, when we come to salvation-and experience the reconciliation He has earned.

Ways I am not like Charles Haddon Spurgeon

2006-09-04T20:17:00.000-06:00

It only seems fair, that if I listed ways I am like Charles Spurgeon I should also list ways I am not. None of these are to say I'm better than him. Spurgeon was a man whose ministry continues to be used by God.

-Spurgeon was British, I am Canadian.
-Spurgeon smoked cigars, I can't stand the smell of cigar smoke.
-Spurgeon became a Christian in his teens, I became one in my 20's.
-Spurgeon vacationed in France, I've never been to France.
-Spurgeon was a Baptist, I am a Presbyterian.
-Spurgeon's picture has been on magazine covers, as far as I know, mine has not.
-Spurgeon never flew in a 747, I have.
-Spurgeon never blogged, but I have, obviously.
-Spurgeon had a photographic memory, I forget where I read that.
-I have quoted Spurgeon, but as far as I know he never quoted me...

Cowboyology and Blessed Union

2006-09-04T20:06:00.000-06:00

Recently one of my favorite blogs had changed.
Cowboyology is still on the internet, but Clint has joined up with his wife, Christel(who also blogs) to start a blog together.

And so the Cowboyology link in my sidebar will be replaced by a link to
Blessed Union.

Check it out.

Ways I am like Charles Haddon Spurgeon

2006-09-02T11:12:00.001-06:00

I am not suggesting I am his equal, just having some fun.
Other than being a sinner saved by Grace, and all that entails (Which is the most important one.)- here are some ways I am like Charles Haddon Spurgeon.

-We are both male.
-We share a love of books.
-We have both been in church buildings.
-We both have/had the ability to read & write in the English language of our day
-We both love the Puritans.
-We've both preached sermons (Although Spurgeon is way ahead of me if we count them)
-We both have archives of our writing on the internet (Mine is on the left & down. His is in the link above, and various other places.)
-We were both born on Earth.
-We both can grow a good beard.

Fantasy Church--from Challies.com

2006-09-01T22:50:00.000-06:00

Check out this post on Challies.com- He's closed the comments on it--but there are some great ones there.

I've tried my hand at fantasy sports leagues, so this interested me in that way as well. But as you'll probably realize-he's making it up. That doesn't stop it from being an interesting commentary.
Fantasy Church

SLAVES OF RIGHTEOUSNESS (Romans 6:18)

Bryan--we're praying for you

Just updating some links

Here You go Dave

Presbyterian Paedobaptism and Roman Catholic Paedobaptism Part 1

“Faith is rest, not toil.”

Book Recommendation-Discovering God’s Will by Sinclair Ferguson

Coming Soon

Happy Thanksgiving

I love This Video

Prayer request--The story of the strategy for getting Baby Isabella Lafferty safely from her mother's womb

A Practical Example on Baptismal Issues

A Note on the Baptism Posts

Book Recommendation #2-Willing to Believe by RC Sproul (A repost from 2005)

LOTW September 17, 2007

A Baptist Proves that Baptism is not by Immersion; well sort of

Interesting Quote from an Interesting Book on Baptism

John Owen-"Grounds and reasons of nonconformity" and Baptism

Best and Worst of Slaves of Righteousness

Blogs I've Read Recently

Unsaved Family (A Repost from September 19, 2005)

Woody Allen interviews Billy Graham?

One True Church?

Another Reason to Love Books

You might be a Pelagian if....

Book Recommendation-Spiritual Warfare & satan’s schemes by Rev Darrin Lauder

I Call That a Bargain

Links of the Whenever

"The Church includes all of us."?

Books, Books, Books

Another Quote on Prayer

PCA General Assembly

Non-hierarchal Presbyterianism--L. Roy Taylor

Book Recommendation-A Heart for God by Sinclair Ferguson (a post re-run)

An Answer to a Question I was Once Asked About Prayer

A Book by a Friend

Quotes on Prayer

Why Romans 6:18? (A post re-run)

How to Stop Dispensationalists from Smoking

A Silly Story about Roman Catholicism

Johnny Hart

Book Recommendation-Can You Run Away From God? by James M. Boice

Link update

Holy Bottled Drinking Water

Presbytery Time Again

LOTW March 7, 2007

Oh, here's a good blog...

Raised from the Dead

Hmm, New Blogger

"God hates me because of something I didn't do"???--Huh?

So where was I?

I'm back, they're not

Book Recommendation-On Being Presbyterian by Sean Michael Lucas

"Jehovah-Rophi. I Am the Lord That Healeth Thee" by William Cowper

LOTW January 15, 2007

Taking the Lord's Name in Vague

Thomas Watson on-"Shall we know each other in heaven?"

I've Been There How Long?

Ordering around the Holy Spirit?

Merry Christmas

A Christmas Prayer

Modern Reformation

Children Taken Into Custody After Drug Busts

"Don't they baptize babies?"

LOTW December 6, 2006

Links & Such

Another Quote on Prayer

Prayer and One More from the Hospital

I Love this Quote on Prayer

Prayer as a Talisman

God's Will and Man's Will

Archbishop Ussher

Two Bible Passages on God's Sovereignty

John Owen Quote

Non-theological quote

A Wonderful Lord's Day

Being Humbled

Book Recommendation-Genesis and the Decay of the Nations by Ken Ham

Recommended Reading Index

Reflecting on Original Sin