It is difficult to think of a verse more misused than “Do not Judge” (Matt. 7:1). The number of times it has been used to censure Godly reproof would be impossible to count. If you are in the habit of reading the Word of God and upholding Godly standards, then you have most likely had … Continue reading Distinguishing Judgment from Godly Reproof
I am concerned that some churches and Christian institutions have grown timid in their stand for truth. They believe their silence is based on wisdom, but it is not. Their reticence may help them avoid social pressure for now, but in the end, they are merely kicking the can down the road. It will likely … Continue reading Bowing to Ungodly Pressures
The cross of Christ is the source of every blessing, even the blessings enjoyed by unbelievers. As Christians, we are quick to acknowledge that every gift enjoyed by the redeemed child of God is an act of grace linked to the cross of Christ, but we rarely think that the unbeliever is also receiving grace. … Continue reading How the Cross Blesses Unbelievers
I recently had an experience that reminded me of the need to stay mentally sharp and pursue intellectual growth. The month of June was hectic. First, my wife and I spent a week working at Trinity Evangelical Divinity School (TEDS) in the Chicago area. Then we spent a week with my parents and siblings in … Continue reading Pursuing Intellectual Growth for God’s Glory
Over the years, corporate worship in many churches has been vanishing. The calling of the local church, first and foremost, is to gather for worship, but we do it much less frequently now than we did in the past. Sinclair Ferguson has a test he likes to apply to those who tell him that the … Continue reading The Disappearance of Corporate Worship
The "yoke" symbolizes subjection and obedience. The yoke of Jesus includes the subjection of the understanding to His teaching. We must receive the kingdom of God as little children. All that He says, we must believe; and all that He commands, we must do. The yoke of Jesus includes the subjection of the conscience to … Continue reading The Yoke of Christ
I find the Lord's activity in the lives of the Babylonian kings' when the Israelites were in captivity fascinating. I cannot help but think that it was because of the presence of the people of God that the Lord worked miracles in the lives of these pagan monarchs. There have been countless pagan rulers who … Continue reading Expect God to Work in the Lives of People Around You
Interestingly, God shut the mouths of the lions instead of keeping Daniel out of the den altogether. I am often dismayed at how little effect I think prayer will have in most situations. When the lions roar, my lack of prayer is the first evidence of my weakness of faith. Then I read of events … Continue reading In the Lion’s Den
Pride is a form of insanity because it is not based in reality. When we grow haughty of our accomplishments, we forget who gave us the gifts we used to achieve them. We also forget who gave us our lungs and the clean air we inhaled as we succeeded. The absurdity of boasting in our … Continue reading Those Who Walk in Pride
One great part of the work of the Holy Spirit in the heart is to empty us, strip us of self, lead us to feel our own weakness, and bring us as poor sinners to look to Jesus alone, as our wisdom, righteousness, sanctification, and redemption. And just in proportion as we feel our need … Continue reading We Need Him Every Hour
The Fight of Faith 