Without the Shedding of Blood

When the author of Hebrews makes the negative case concerning the blood of Christ, its significance is far-reaching. Throughout the book, he makes the positive case that Christ’s blood can cleanse us from dead works. Still, later he says, “Without the shedding of blood, there is no forgiveness of sin” (Heb. 9:22). By saying it this way, he cuts off any other options we think we might have, yet we live in a world that believes there are many roads to God. CLICK TO READ OR LISTEN

Why A.I. Might Leave Us Feeling Empty

Our world will soon be flooded with essays, poetry, artwork, videos, and even music no one has created. Much of that work will be better than the art created by humans, and many people will think that our world will be a better place because of it, but if we have better content and more … Continue reading Why A.I. Might Leave Us Feeling Empty

Distinguishing Judgment from Godly Reproof

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

Bowing to Ungodly Pressures

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

How the Cross Blesses Unbelievers

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

Pursuing Intellectual Growth for God’s Glory

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

The Disappearance of Corporate Worship

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 of Christ

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

Expect God to Work in the Lives of People Around You

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

In the Lion’s Den

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