Crucified with Christ
Such renouncing is not turning from something to nothing, as if we are to empty ourselves of all desire, but to everything that Christ is for us. Let us not look back to what we have said goodbye, like Lot’s wife, but look to Jesus, “the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the…
To the Highways and the Hedges
When you are invited to a dinner party, what things might you say to your host? “Thank you,” is always appropriate. Perhaps, “What a lovely home you have,” or “The meal was excellent,” “The conversation was engaging,” “You are a gracious host,” or even “May I have that recipe?” What you are likely not to…
The Wisdom of Humility
He was shamed, slandered, and tortured for nothing he did but what we did, even to the point of death, even death on a cross. He deserved none of it and took all of it, humbling himself that he might bring “many sons to glory” (Heb. 2:10). And as God’s sons and daughters, we glory…
Christ’s Course Victorious
When Christ returns, the words of the psalmist will be heard loud and clear throughout the world, “Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!’” (Luke 13:35). It will be sung as a worldwide anthem, blessing the One who was faithful to complete his course and live and reign victorious. And Jew…
The Inclusive Exclusive Christian Faith
In summary, it is the belief that Christianity is merely one or many ways to heaven, eternal life, the next life, call it what you will. What is required to go heaven, per se, is good intentions, sincerity, and a sprinkling of good works (on a sliding scale). Heaven, it is thought, will be filled…
Mighty Oaks from Little Acorns Grow
Through God’s outward and ordinary means of grace Christ’s church will grow, both near and far. The world won’t take notice. Why should they? But in the eyes of God we are a mustard seed growing heavenward, leaven spreading across the globe. For, Mighty oaks from little acorns grow.
Better than We Deserve
If you live long enough, you will witness or experience tragedy of some kind. Perhaps you would be amazed at the tragedies experienced by those seated around you. I don’t know everyone’s story, but I do know this: tragedy is common to the fallen human condition. And because it is, and because we were created…
The Peace Christ Gives
For faith in Christ reveals God’s covenantal favor upon you, grace bestowed before the foundation of the world, love predestining you for adoption, and peace made perfect in Christ.[5] And what can we say of the grace that enables us to believe the gospel while others, even our loved ones don’t? What can we say…
The Joy of Fearing God
And just as Jesus “for the joy that was set before him endured the cross” (Heb. 12:2), we look to the cross of Christ with joy, for through his death and resurrection, he has secured our redemption, reconciled us to God, and given us eternal life. This he did not by condoning sin but in…
Life Lived in the Love of God
It seems to me the modern Evangelical pastime is to lament the condition of our culture. We are seemingly surprised at the prevalence of the desires of the flesh, the desires of the eyes, and the pride of life[2] in a world following the prince of the power of the air, who continues his work…
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Planter, Pastor, Preacher 