Distorted Beauty

The following comments are from the Girl Talk blog written by the wife and daughters of C.J. Mahaney.

Consider with me our culture’s physical beauty yardstick--for women then and women now as explained by author David Powlison: A hundred years ago women might have compared themselves with the other ten girls in the village. Today, women compare themselves with pictures of the cream of the worldwide fashion industry. And what ideal image does the worldwide fashion industry put forth as the standard for beauty by which today’s woman is to measure herself? Well, take a look at what a group of professional hair stylists, make-up artists, and photographers in cahoots with computer graphics were able to create (click on the picture to watch the video):


To think that women are striving to look like someone who doesn’t even look like herself. It’s absurd!

The Dove Campaign got it partially right—the fashion industry has certainly contributed to a distorted perception of beauty. And yet, their solution—“every girl deserves to feel beautiful just the way she is”—is well-meaning and yet fundamentally unbiblical.

You see, women believe that physical beauty will make them happy, successful, popular among the women, desirable to the men – so they pursue it with a fury!

Physical beauty, however, does not deliver as advertised. Proverbs 31:30 reveals the falsehood and the futility of this quest for beauty: Charm is deceitful, and beauty is vain.

Even if every girl did “feel beautiful just the way she is,” it wouldn’t bring her true joy or lasting happiness or solve even one of her problems.

Truth be told, what we all deserve is not to feel beautiful but rather to be condemned to hell for sinfully seeking to attract the worship of our fellow creatures instead of living to bring glory to God.

God did not send Jesus to this earth to die so that women could get over their self-esteem problem and feel better about themselves. No, He sent his Son to die to rescue us from our sinful, futile quest for physical beauty and to reveal to us the satisfaction that comes from knowing God—whether we are beautiful or not!

What freedom and hope is found in Christ! We don’t need to feel beautiful about ourselves to find happiness! In fact, we’re better off not even thinking about ourselves. Rather, God has offered us in Jesus Christ forgiveness, hope, freedom from sin and a joy that never ends.

So while this little video effectively exposes the false front of beauty presented by our culture, let’s not look to Dove’s advertising executives for the solution to the beauty crisis. Rather, let’s join the campaign to tell others of the true freedom that is found in Christ!

When is abortion ok?

Dr. Albert Mohler just recently posted an article addressing this issue. It is entitled, The View into the Womb is "Extraordinarily Dangerous?" With the capabilities of modern techonology now able to view the unborn fetus in the womb at very early ages, this is causing many to want to lower the number of weeks when an abortion is legal. It is a fascinating article and you all should read it. But, how many number of weeks is ok? Are there certain situations which would make abortion ok as opposed to others? Let me rephrase the question. When is it ok to KILL an unborn fetus? Let's call it what it is. It is murder. Murder is never right. We must also recognize that there is a difference between killing and murder. Whereas we might affirm that a person deserves the death penalty, there is no unborn fetus that deserves death. They have every right to life. In a world that is all about Pro-choice, what about the choice of the baby? It seems that no one is letting this fetus speak. Therefore, we must speak for them. Here is an article by John Piper that is great, Ten Reasons Why it is Wrong to Take the Life of Unborn Children.
I come from the presupposition that God is the creator and giver of life and therefore we have no right to take it. My freedom is limited at the same time by this fetus's freedom. If your freedom of choice hinders this fetus's freedom of choice, you surrender your freedom out of respect for your neighbor. Before I conclude, let me make it clear that abortion (murder) is not the unpardonable sin and that there is forgiveness at the cross. If you are reading this and feeling self-righteous because you have never committed an abortion, let me remind you that you have committed some other sin against God deserving his wrath. We are all in the same boat - we need his grace. So if you are one that has had an abortion, there is grace and mercy at the cross. But if you are one considering abortion, that fetus is a life created by God and he/she deserves life. For other articles and sermons related to abortion, click here.

The Absence of the Cross in Worship

On Bob Kaulfin's website he has recently responded to a question dealing with the absence of the cross in many contemporary worship song. He says that this is indeed not healthy and then he proceeds to list 10 reasons why anyone would want to shy away from the heart of our faith. Why would we shy away from proclaiming what is the heart of our faith? Here are ten reasons that come to mind:

1. We assume everyone understands and remembers what God accomplished through Christ’s death. While this would be wonderful, it’s untrue.
2. Our pride tempts us to think of worship as something we can do on our own, rather than something Christ has done for us. It’s not our efforts, our leaders, our instruments, our passion, or our sincerity that enables us to enter God’s presence and worship Him. It’s Jesus Christ, who bore God’s wrath against us and offered God a perfect sacrifice for our sins (Heb. 10:19-22).
3. We think the Christian life begins with Christ saving us from our sins and moves on to pleasing God through our good works and service. We don’t realize that the Gospel remains our only foundation, providing hope, joy, security, peace, faith, and assurance for our life with God. The New Testament writers were consistent in their focus on the significance of the life, death, and resurrection of Christ for our lives (1 Cor. 15:3-4; Col. 3:1-4; 1 Pet. 1:22-2:5; Heb. 10:19-23; 1 John 4:7-10).
4. We don’t like to sing songs about God’s wrath. Keith Getty has told me that he’s received numerous requests to alter this line from In Christ Alone: "And on the cross as Jesus died the wrath of God was satisfied." If we remove the wrath of God from Scripture, it’s hard to explain God’s requirement for sacrifice throughout the Old Testament, God’s concern for holiness, and the existence of hell. Which is why when the wrath of God goes, the rest seem to follow.
5. We don’t understand the significance of Christ’s death ourselves.
6. We look for more creative, interesting, or “mature” themes to sing about.
7. We enjoy singing and writing songs about what we do and feel more than songs about what God has done for us in Christ.
8. Pastors haven’t taught their congregations why the cross must remain central not only to our songs but to our lives (Gal. 6:14; Phil. 3:7-11).
9. Songwriters haven’t studied their Bibles well.
10. We forget that the throngs of heaven will worship the Lamb who was slain forever (Rev. 5:8-14).

"I’m sure there are more reasons. All of this is to say that whether you’re a writer, a leader, or simply a member of the church, we must never lose sight of our glorious Redeemer and his substitutionary sacrifice, which satisfied the holy justice of God against us, and through faith enables us to become God’s adopted children. May our song always be:

My heart is filled with a thousand songs

Proclaiming the glories of Calvary

With every breath, Lord how I long

To sing of Jesus who died for me

Lord take me deeper into the glories of Calvary.

From The Glories of Calvary by Steve and Vikki Cook. Copyright 2003 Sovereign Grace Worship"

D.A. Carson on the Evangelistic Strategy of Acts 17

Justin Taylor has posted and linked to an article by D.A. Carson on an evangelistic strategy using Acts 17. This is a great strategy to use especially on college campuses.

John Owen - A Puritan Stud

Alert - there is a new book out entitled Overcoming Sin and Temptation by John Owen, edited by Justin Taylor and Kelly M. Kapic. The forward is by John Piper and this book has a line-up of great theologians supporting it: J.I. Packer, Jerry Bridges, Mark Dever, Sinclair B. Ferguson, and C.J. Mahaney to name a few. The editors have compiled three of Owen's works into one book. This is a MUST READ. You can click here to read the forward, preface, and introduction to the book. For more resources and books by John Owen, go to his website. Also, John Piper's new book What Jesus Demands from the World is out and you can read the entire book online by clicking here.

Is God Wild at Heart?

I was recently made aware that John Eldridge is coming out with a new book and it reminded me of the great influence that "Wild at Heart" has had among many men. There are some good things in his book but there are also some things that present unbiblical views of God and man. I have previosly posted an article by Randy Stinson, Executive Director of the Council on Biblical Manhood and Womanhood, and he has also written a review of "Wild at Heart" that I would encourage you to click here and read it. When we read books, we must always evaluate them in light of the teachings of Scripture. This is a discipline that we must all develop as we read and study other men of God. Thank God for the Scriptures, perfect and without error. We can read them and be certain of TRUTH.

Healthy Church Member - Part 2

The second mark of a healthy church is biblical theology. Therefore, Thabiti Anyabwile calls the 2nd mark of a heathly church member a Biblical Theologian. Click here to read his article. These are the only two that I think he has written and when he writes the other ones, I will link to them as well. May we all be Healthy Church Members.

Healthy Church Member - Part 1

Dr. Mark Dever has written a book called 9 Marks of Healthy Church. In his book he presents nine marks that he believes need to become more distinct and evident in the church today. He claims that these aren't the only marks that a church should have but they are essential ones. Well, a former fellow elder of his, Thabiti Anyabwile, recently has taken those nine marks and turned them into Marks of a Healthy Church Member. The 1st mark of a healthy church is "Expositional Preaching" so Anyabwile calls the 1st mark of a healthy church member, "Expositional Listening." Click here to read his article. My desire is that we all would become the best churcm member that we can be for the service of the church to the glory of God.

Goldsworthy on Evangelism

Graeme Goldsworthy in Preaching the Whole Bible as Christian Scripture makes some great remarks concerning evangelism. The entire book is excellent but listen to these excerpts:

"My concern about evangelism is that sometimes there is a greater emphasis on the need for some kind of response than on the clear exposition of the gospel. Telling people they need to come to Jesus, that they must be born again, that they should commit their lives to Christ, and so on, is not preaching the gospel. It is, at best, telling them what they ought to do or, in the case of the new birth, what has happened when they have received the gospel. It is a remarkable thing in Acts 2 that Peter's sermon contained no appeal. The appeal came from the congregation: 'What should we do?' It was the power and clarity of the gospel message that impressed them with the need to do something about it." p. 95

Later he says,
"Whenever people's sense of assurance of salvation is expressed in the first person, something is amiss. When the question 'How do you know God will accept you?' is answered by 'I have Jesus in my heart,' 'I asked jesus into my life,' 'The Holy Spirit is in me,' and so on, the real gospel basis for assurance needs to be reviewed. We rejoice when the answer comes in the third person: 'God gave his only Son to die on the cross for me,' 'Jesus died, rose, and is in heaven for me.' When the focus is on the finished and perfect work of Christ, rather than on the yet unfinished work of the Spirit in me, the grounds for assurance are in place." p. 95

Church Membership - Part 2

I hope many of you had the opportunity to read the post by Dr. Mark Dever that I linked for you yesterday. Today I would just like to raise some issues as it relates to church membership. Many people view church membership in the same way that they view a "Country Club" Membership. You pay your dues and then you get to use the facilities to meet your needs. You can come as often as you like. You only use those facilities and those resouces that meet your own needs. If it doesn't meet your own need, then you don't use it. If you haven't been there in a few weeks or a month or so, no one is going to be calling you on the phone saying, "Where have you been, we're going to drop your membership if you don't come this week." Your response is, "You can't drop my membership because I paid for it. I paid for the right to come whenever I please." Is this the way church membership should work as well? Is it all about me and what will meet my needs? Can I just come whenever I want to come as long as I pay my tithes? I want to propose to you that church membership is meant to be something so much greater than this.

There is something that is radically different between a country club and a church. The purpose of a church is not to keep its facilities running and to make a profit. The purpose of the church is to present people mature in Christ for the glory of God. You see, I may join a country club so that I can play golf, use its pool, and meet some very nice people. There is nothing necessarily spiritual about any of this. Lost people can join a country club and believers can join a country club. This is not so within the church. This leads to a crucial question: why become a member of a local church? If what you really want is to meet some nice people, use its babysitting service, and use it facitilities, then go join a country club.

On the other hand, if God has radically changed your life and you see that God's plan for your life is pursue holiness, then by all means, go become a member of a church. For the church is full of sinners who are saved by the grace of God and are pursing holiness for the glory of God. Church membership consists of sinners saved by God's grace coming together and commiting their lives to each other to do whatever it takes to pursue holiness. It involves giving, teaching, serving, loving, sharing, worshipping, etc. in order that we might be mature in Christ and present others mature in Christ. When I become a member I am saying to the rest of the members, "If you see anything in my life that is hindering me from becoming mature in Christ, please help me." That help might involve church discipline, rebuke, and correction but if it leads me into holiness, praise be to God. This is why a person who hasn't been there in a while ought to be confronted and challenged to rejoin the fellowship for in church membership, there are no fans. We are all participants. We don't just pay our dues, we give our lives. And if a person wants to be a member but doesn't want to be commited, they need to be challenged concerning their commitment first to Jesus Christ and then to OTHERS.

Finally, you may already see why it is important that the requirements for membership be clear. For if a person has not been saved, how can they help others pursue holiness? The goal for membership is that it would reflect who truly are saved. It is also crucial that the expectations for membership be clear as well. People need to taught what every member expects of them as well as the leadership of the church. Do you understand what is expected of you as a church member? One final thought: if church membership doesn't mean anything, then why do we have it? If it's sole purpose is just to boast about how many people we have at our church, is that biblical? I would encourage you all to pursue meaningful church membership and to seek out what that looks like in your church. Tomorrow I will post some comments about being a "Healthy Church Member."

Church Membership - Part 1

Have you ever considered why we have church membership in our churches? What is the purpose of church membership? What is the role of a church member? Can a church member just show up whenever they want to? These are some questions that we all ought to pursue and seek answers. Today I'm linking you all to a great post by Dr. Mark Dever, pastor of Capitol Hill Baptist Church and founder of 9Marks Minisries. Read it and post any comments you may have. His post will definitely make you think about what REAL church membership should be.

Mohler on Joel Osteen

Joel Osteen is one of the most watched Television Preachers and therefore he is having a huge influence on numbers of people. Read this blog by Albert Mohler and the response of Osteen as it relates to Homosexuality.

The Prosperity Gospel - some thoughts

I would first like to comment that I am not seeking to produce a comprehensive biblical theology of “wealth and riches.” I will not reference every verse that I possibly could and I will not address every passage that I possibly could. My goal is not to write a book but to make a few comments. I would suggest that you read an article on “wealth” in the Baker Evangelical Dictionary of Biblical Theology for a more comprehensive discussion. This is a great tool that you can use to do a quick biblical theology on any subject you like. You can also find resources on "money" from Desiring God.

The question is, “Does God want YOU to be rich?” It is important first of all to see that this is a question concerning God’s will, namely, God’s particular will for your life. Second, what does it mean to be “RICH?” Does riches refer to money or is it possible that there can be riches that we can possess that have nothing to do with money? The way to a sure and solid answer would be to reference everything that God says about money, riches, and wealth, and then to evaluate all of the evidence to come to a conclusion. Another thought: my name is no where in the Bible. No where does it say, “Thus sayeth the Lord, ‘Jon Chasteen, I want you to be rich.’” So there is a broader question that needs to be addressed which is, “How do I know what God wants for MY life?” As an evangelical, I affirm that the Bible is the supreme authority by which all other authorities (experience, tradition, reason, etc.) must bow to. So, it is the word of God that gives direction to what God wants for my life.

Here are just a few thoughts from God’s word: “Do not lay up treasure for yourselves on earth…but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven” (Matt. 6:19-21). In the explanation of the parable of the sower Jesus says, “As for what was sown among thorns, this is the one who hears the word, but the cares of the world and the deceitfulness of riches choke the word and it proves unfruitful” (Matt. 13:22). Riches deceive people into thinking that joy and happiness is tied up with their monetary attainment. Therefore, their joy is dependent on their riches. The prosperity gospel is NO GOSPEL. I am a sinner and I need a savior but the prosperity gospel removes the atoning work of Christ on the cross. The prosperity gospel confuses what our real needs are. If I have Christ, I don’t need money or wealth. If I have Christ, I have everything. The prosperity gospel leads many to hell because it leads people to think they have found life and the blessing of God in riches and many will die rich sinners and lose EVERYTHING. Why settle for less when God has offered us never-ending joy in Jesus Christ. There is really a flaw in many who ask, “Does God want me to be rich?” I would challenge them first of all to ask, “God, what do you want from my life?” His response is going to be, “Love me, and love your neighbor.” In other words, “Worship me! Make me your treasure.”

The point is, whether you are rich or poor, God can be your treasure. This gospel, this good news that Christ offers us is incredibly rich. Read through Ephesians and see how Paul uses the term “riches” throughout this letter (1:7, 18; 2:7; 3:8, 16). He is writing to the church at Ephesus, a place which was known as the economic center of that area and he is telling them about the riches in Christ. Moses considered the reproach of Christ great riches that the treasures of Egypt (Heb. 11:26). Paul, who was a godly man was definitely not rich. He said, “...as having nothing, yet possessing everything” (2 Cor. 6:3-10; see also 2 Cor. 11:23-29; 1 Cor. 4:8-13). There are many warnings against the collection of monetary wealth and riches (1 Tim. 6:10; James 5:1-6). You will also find places in the OT where wealth was a blessing from the Lord. I will affirm this, wealth can be a blessing but it can also be a curse.

In coming back to the question, “Does God want me to be rich” I’ll make some final remarks. Jesus told the rich young man, “You lack one thing: go, sell all that you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come follow me” (Mark 10:21). If it was God’s will for us all to be rich, why is Jesus (God) telling this young man to sell everything for TREASURE IN HEAVEN. He earlier said, “For what does it profit a man to gain the whole world and forfeit his life? (Mark 8:36). God wants us all to be rich with the inheritance that he has for us in heaven.

What is rich? Compared to the rest of the world, every single one of us is rich. Look at our cars, homes, clothes, shoes, etc. If God wants us all to be rich, then are we then in SIN if we aren’t rich? What does this say about the rest of the world? This could easily lead someone to believe that because they are rich they have the blessing of God on their life and they could be on there way to hell separated from God forever. God is more concerned that HE is your treasure than that you have treasures on earth. If HE is your treasure, no matter what happens on earth, you can always be satisfied because he is CONSTANT and ALWAYS THERE. Do not hope in riches, but in a God who is extremely rich and who will never leave you or forsake you. Why settle for less? “Seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you” (Matt. 6:33). I close with the famous Jim Eliott quote, “He is no fool who gives up what he cannot keep to gain what he cannot lose.”

The Prosperity Gospel?

Today I read a post by Dr. Al Mohler on his blog concerning TIME's cover story this week, "Does God Want You to Be Rich?" 61% of the people they polled said that God wants you to be prosperous. WHAT DO THINK? Does God want us to be rich? Is so, what are the implications of this? Is this then the gospel, the good news? This is a theology question concerning GOD. What is God like? What is his plan and his will for his people? Read Dr. Mohler's post as well as the article in TIME Magazine. I would appreciate your comments about the issue or your answers to the above questions along with biblical support or questions that you may have in general concerning this matter. Tomorrow (around lunch-time) I will respond to any comments or questions as well as post some of my own thoughts in light of the teachings of Scripture on this matter. WHATEVER YOU BELIEVE ABOUT THIS ISSUE WILL DETERMINE HOW YOU LIVE YOUR LIFE! Because what we BELIEVE about God determines how we LIVE!

John Owen - Recommended Books

I have been posting some great quotes by John Owen. Let me just recommend some of his books that are must reads.

1. Mortification of Sin
2. Works of John Owen, volume 6, Temptation and Sin
3. Communion with God
4. God’s Statesman: The Life and Work of John Owen, by Peter Toon
5. John Owen on the Christian Life, by Sinclair Ferguson

Also, many articles on him by J.I. Packer can be found at www.johnowen.org. Click here to see those articles.

John Owen - Part 2

For all of us who are involved in teaching and preaching the Word of God, Owen has a great challenge for us. Listen to these words:

"Experience of the power of the truth which they preach in and upon their own souls. Without this they will themselves be lifeless and heartless in their own work, and their labour for the most part will be unprofitable towards others…But a man preacheth that sermon only well unto others which preacheth itself in his own soul. And he that doth not feed on and thrive in the digestion of the food which he provides for others will scarce make it savoury unto them; yea, he knows not but the food he hath provided may be poison, unless he have really tasted of it himself. If the word do not dwell with power in us, it will not pass with power from us. And no man lives in a more woeful condition than those who really believe not themselves what they persuade others to believe continually. The want of this experience of the power of gospel truth on their own souls is that which gives us so many lifeless, sapless orations, quaint in words and dead as to power, instead of preaching the gospel in the demonstration of the Spirit." [1]

"It is an easier thing to bring our heads to preach than our hearts to preach. To bring our heads to preach, is but to fill our minds and memories with some notions of truth, of our own or other men, and speak them out to give satisfaction to ourselves and others: this is very easy. But to bring our hearts to preach, is to be transformed into the power of these truths; or to find the power of them, both before, in fashioning our minds and hearts, and in delivering of them, that we may have benefit; and to be acted with zeal for God and compassion to the souls of men. A man may preach every day in the week, and not have his heart engaged once." [2]

May we be men who teach with power because what we teach has worked powerfully in us. Whether you are teaching or preaching God's Word, you must first preach to yourself before you can preach and teach to others. May God use his Word in us to draw us continually to himself.

[1] Owen, vol. 16, p. 76; emphasis mine.
[2] Owen, Vol. 9, p. 455; emphasis mine.

John Owen - Part 1

For those of you who do not know of John Owen, he is a stud. He lived from 1613 - 1683. He accompanied Oliver Cromwell from 1643-1651. He was appointed the dean of Christ Church in Oxford where he trained ministers for the state church. He later become the vice-chancellor to the University from 1652-1657. He pastored a congregational church in London for the last twenty or so years of his life. J.I. Packer called him “the greatest among the Puritan theologians,”[1] and Charles Spurgeon called him “the prince of divines.”[2] Click here to go to a website totally devoted to his works. He wrote much on how to have Spirit-Empowered preaching. One of the components to this is the role of the HEARERS. So, as you prepare to go and hear God's word preached this Sunday, reflect on Owen's thoughts:

"What do men come to hear the word of God for? What do they pray for? What do they expect to receive from him? Do they come unto God as the eternal fountain of living waters, - as the God of all grace, peace, and consolation? or do they come unto his worship without any design, as unto a dry and empty show?...or do they think they bring something unto God, but receive nothing from him…to receive any thing from him they expect not, nor do ever examine themselves whether they have done so or no? It is not for persons who walk in such ways ever to attain a due delight in the ordinances of divine worship.[3]"

"Many of the better sort of professors are too negligent in this matter. They do not long and pant in the inward man after renewed pledges of the love of God; they do not consider how much need they have of them…they do not prepare their minds for the reception of them , nor come with expectation of their communication unto them; they do not rightly fix their faith on this truth,--namely, that these holy administrations and duties are appointed of God in the first place as the ways and means of conveying his love and a sense of it unto our souls. From hence spring all that lukewarmness, coldness, and indifferency in and unto the duties of holy worship, that are growing among us. [4]"

" …when men find the worth and effect of the word preached on theirs souls, in it enlightening, refreshing, strengthening, transforming power; when they find their hearts warmed, their graces excited and strengthened, the love of God improved, their desponding spirits under trials and temptations relieved, their whole souls gradually more and more conformed unto Christ; when they find themselves by it extricated out of snares, doubts, fears, temptations, and brought unto satisfaction and rest,--they cannot but delight in the dispensation of it, and rejoice in it as the food of their souls.[5]"

Do you prepare to go and hear a word from God? Do you hunger for God to speak to you? Do you delight in the dispention of God's word? May we always come expecting God to speak!

[1] J.I. Packer. A Quest for Godliness: The Puritan Vision of the Christian Life. (Wheaton, Illinois: Crossway Books, 1990), 11.

[2] J.I. Packer. Among God’s Giants: The Puritan Vision of the Christian Life. (Eastborne, England: Kingsway Publications, 1993), 251.

[3] Owen, vol. 7, 438-39.

[4] Owen, vol. 7, 439.

[5] Owen, vol. 7, 442.

The Gospel and Marriage

Ligon Duncan , Pastor and also the Chairman of the Council of Biblical Manhood and Womanhood, recently commented on the implications of the gospel and marriage. For all of you who are married, engaged, or either desire to be married one day, this is a MUST READ:

"Meanwhile, we've been working through Ephesians 5 at First Presbyterian, and a Lloyd-Jones quote/thought has recently taken my breath away. While looking at Eph. 5:25 "Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ also loved the church and gave Himself up for her," we asked -- so what does that love look like? How are we supposed to love? Paul doesn’t leave us without an answer. He points to the cross. What is Christ’s love for the church like? Look at the cross.

Martyn Lloyd-Jones taught me something about Ephesians 5:25 that I had never before grasped. How many times have I read, and preached, this verse and missed it? Then I read his pastoral words of application: "How many of us have realized that we are always to think of the married state in terms of the doctrine of the atonement? Is that our customary way of thinking of marriage?. . . Where do we find what the books have to say about marriage? Under which section? Under ethics. But it does not belong there. We must consider marriage in terms of the doctrine of the atonement." (Life in the Spirit, 148)

That means, by the way, that every time we hear a sermon on the atonement, we as Christian husbands are being shown and taught by our Lord how to love our wives. Yes, certainly, above all, whenever we hear atonement proclaimed, we are always first to consider the matchless work of God on our behalf. The atonement always and foremost is to evoke in us wonder, love, gratitude and praise for saving grace freely given to us at the cost of the Father’s only and beloved Son. It is about what God is doing for us, for our redemption, outside of us, without any assistance from us, or any input from us, or any contribution from us. For the atonement is the awesome display of the stunningly surprising saving love of God at work on our behalf. It is never a mere example of love. It is never a mere illustration. It is never merely a means of moral influence.

But here in Ephesians 5:25b, Paul bids Christian husbands to look at the cross, to look at how Christ gave himself for his people there, to look at how he gave himself totally, to look at how he gave himself to the uttermost, to look at how he endured the shame and suffering, to look at how he died – all for his bride, all for his people, all for the church.

And then the apostle Paul applies the atonement to Christian husbands. "Men," he says, "Christ lived, suffered and died for the eternal good of his bride – now, you go love your wives like that. Love your wives like Christ loved the church. Love your wives like Christ gave himself for the church. Love your wives in light of the atonement."

So next time you are wishing that the preacher would talk about something practical, and he’s up there again preaching about the cross, preaching about the atonement, just remember the triple practicality of it – (1) he’s not only teaching you about the love of God, a love so deep you’ll never see to the bottom of it in all eternity, (2) he’s not only teaching you about the glorious work of redemption by penal substitution, a work without which you would not and could not have been saved from an eternity in hell, (3) he’s teaching you as a Christian husband how to love your wife – Christ lived, suffered and died for his bride; you live, and if necessary suffer and die for your wife’s good."

Bible Study: Dynamics of Biblical Change

David Powlison (teacher of Practical Theology at Westminster Theological Seminary) has written a bible study which Justin Taylor posted on his blog. It is a bible study on the Dynamics of Biblical Change. It would be a great Bible Study for you to go through sometime and even share with others.

I have joined "Facebook"

Well, due to the influence of Jason Palmer and Shay Reyner, I have now joined Facebook. I was coerced into doing it and it is all their fault (Ricky Green as well). But, you will all receive the benefits their misconduct.

The Pastor as Theologian

I could also have said, everyone as a theologian. A theologian is someone who studies about God. Every person is a theologian to some extent. We all have thoughts and beliefs about God. Dr. Albert Mohler did a 3 Part series earlier in the year on the Pastor as Theologian. Click here to read Part 1, Part 2, Part 3. Also, John Piper has an article entitled, "Pastor as Theologian: Reflections on the Ministry of Jonathan Edwards." May God raise up a generation of pastors who will not just be great speakers, but who will be great theologians; who will teach and preach great and exalted things about God. That is my heart's desire. Is God calling you out to be a Pastor Theologian? If so, what are you doing to live out that calling? I would love to talk with you if you sense God leading you in that direction...to the glory of God.

Prayer of Confession

A few days ago, I posted a blog reflecting on discipline and rebuke in the life of a believer referring you all to an article by Bob Kauflin. Today's post stems from another article by Kaulfin on Confession. When you find yourself in the presence of the Holy God and you are confessing your sins, what does your confession look like? What type of things should we confess? Do we confess our sins because we really see our wickedness or just because we know that the is what we are supposed to do? Read this Prayer of Confession by Kauflin and may God use it in your own life to stimulate worship and confession. At the Cross, there is an abundance of mercy and grace - run to the Cross.

Do you rightly handle the word of truth?

In 2 Timothy 2:15 Paul writes, "Do you best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who has no need to be ashamed, rightly handling the word of truth." Would you say that you handle the word of God in such a way that you can present yourself before God as "one approved?" Again, Dr. Andreas Köstenberger has posted a great blog on being a student of the word who rightly handles the word of truth. Click here to read it.

Desiring God - New Website

Desiring God ministries has just put their new website up. It has an abundant amout of resources from Pastor John Piper. You can watch videos of sermons and questions. You can search articles on numbers of great topics. You can search sermons by the text in the Bible. There is so much you can do and be blessed. May God use the ministry of John Piper to challenge you in your christian walk and to pursue God in all things. Click here to go to Desiring God.

What about Singleness?

Dr. Andreas Köstenberger has written several posts on his blog addressing contemporary concerns over the biblical teaching on singleness. The two main texts in Scripture concerning singleness are Matthew 19 and 1 Corinthians 7. Debbie Maken recently wrote a book entitled, "Getting Serious About Getting Married: Rethinking the Gift of Singleness" which she proposes a very controversial view of singleness. Dr. Köstenberger addresses these issues and some of his concerns in his two posts. I challenge you to read these two posts and to think biblically concerning the issue of singleness. I welcome any comments or questions that you might have. Click here to read his first post. Click here to read his second post.

Do You Love...Discipline? Rebuke?

As I reflect over the times when I saw significant spiritual growth in my life, it usually occurred when God used people in my life to discipline and rebuke me. At the time it hurt (wow, imagine there being a kind of discipline that didn't hurt - would we call that discipline). Anyways, I now thank God for using those people to speak truth to my life and help me to see areas of sin that I was totally blind to. Are you open to rebuke and discipline from others? Click here and read the very wise counsel that Bob Kauflin gave concerning discipline and rebuke. Bob Kauflin serves as director of worship development for Sovereign Grace Ministries, and as a pastor and worship leader at Covenant Life Church in Gaithersburg, Maryland.

Alert, MEN, MEN, MEN, Show Yourself a Man!

I recently read a great article by Randy Stinson, professor at the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary and the Executive Director for the Council of Biblical Manhood and Womanhood. The article is titled, "Show Yourself a Man." Men, I challenge everyone of you to read this and apply these principles to your life; I have read it and am putting many of these principles into practice. Share with me your thoughts. To read it, click here and scroll down to page 2 of the magazine.

Who Should an Atheist Thank?

Who should an atheist thank? Dr. Albert Mohler has written a great blog concerning this issue. So, when an atheist is at the Grand Canyon and they see the beauty and the greatness of it, who do they thank? Their joy isn't complete until they praise or thank someone, so who do they thank? Check out his blog here.

Movie - Facing the Giants

Jason Palmer just sent me this link to the trailer of Facing the Giants. It is a football movie coming out this September. It is endorsed by my college football coach at Appalachian State, Coach Jerry Moore. He said, "At some point in our lives, we all say "Why?" (like in the locker room scene). Then we turn our life, our family, our job, our circumstances over to God, and let him have room to work." Click here to read the other endorsements. In the trailer, the coach asks his players, "What's the purpose of this team." Then one of the players responds, "To win ball games." The coach then says, "Winning football games is too small a thing to live for. We're not here just to get glory, make money, and die. So I'm here to present you with a new team philosophy. We need to give God our best in every area. And if we win we praise him, and if we lose we praise him." This reminds me a lot of the life of Job when he said, "The LORD gave, and the LORD has taken away; blessed be the name of the LORD" (1:21). Click here to see the trailer. I haven't seen the movie so I cannot condone everything in it, but it does raise a great question. I present you all with a new philosophy, "In whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God and praise him in all things, good or bad, because he is worthy. This movie goes hand in hand with a blog that I posted a few weeks ago entitled, "Basketball for the Glory of God."

Thoughts and Quotes on "Romans" - Part 2

If you have never done an indepth study of Romans then read the following excerpt which is the first paragraph from Martin Luther's Preface to the Letter of St. Paul to the Romans:

“This letter is truly the most important piece in the New Testament. It is purest Gospel. It is well worth a Christian’s while not only to memorize it word for word but also to occupy himself with it daily, as though it were the daily bread of the soul. It is impossible to read or to meditate on this letter too much or too well. The more one deals with it, the more precious it becomes and the better it tastes.” Click here to read his entire Preface.

Romans 1:1-2 "Paul, a servant of Christ Jesus, called to be an apostle, set apart for the gospel of God, which he promised beforehand through his prophets in the holy Scriptures." For Paul, the gospel that he preached was the same gospel that was promised in the Old Testament. In light of this thought, listen to this excerpt from William Tyndale's Preface to Romans:

“Wherefore it appeareth evidently, that Paul’s mind was to comprehend briefly in this epistle all the whole learning of Christ’s gospel, and to prepare an introduction unto all the Old Testament. For without doubt whosoever hath this epistle perfectly in his heart, the same hath the light and the effect of the Old Testament with him. Wherefore let every man without exception exercise himself therein diligently, and record it night and day continually, until he be full acquainted therewith.” Click here to read his entire Preface.

Here is F.F. Bruce's reponse to the above excerpt:

“It is noteworthy that Tyndale commends this Epistle as an introduction, not to the New Testament but to the Old; that is to say, he finds it an indispensable guide to the Christian understanding of the books of the old covenant. In this he is in agreement with Paul’s own mind; for Paul claims that the gospel which this Epistle sets forth was announced beforehand in the prophetic writings and that the way of righteousness which is opened up in the gospel was attested by the Law and the Prophets. The Old Testament was the Bible which the apostles and other Christians of the first generations used in their propagation of the gospel; it was the arsenal from which they drew their proofs that Jesus was indeed the Christ, the Saviour of the world; and the Epistle to the Romans provides an outstanding example of the way in which it served their purpose.” Bruce's commentary on Romans in the Tyndale New Testament Commentary Series, p. 9-10.

Thoughts and Quotes on "Romans" - Part 1

God has used the book of Romans more than any other book of the Bible to open my eyes to see the glory of the gospel. Over the next few days I am going to post some great quotes and thoughts concerning this great book that F.F. Bruce called, "The Gospel According to Paul." May God use these quotes and thoughts to stimulate a desire in you to read and study it in order to know God. A number of great men have been saved through reading through Romans. Today I am going to give excerpts from the accounts of some of these men.

AUGUSTINE
Augustine took up Romans and began to read Romans 13:13b-14 and then he said, "No further would I read,"he tells us, "nor had I any need; instantly, at the end of this sentence, a clear light flooded my heart and all the darkness of doubt vanished away." F.F. Bruce's Commentary on Romans in the Tyndale New Testament Commentary, p. 58 ; see Confession viii. 29.

MARTIN LUTHER
"I had indeed been captivated with an extraordinary ardor for understanding Paul in the Epistle to the Romans. But up till then it was not the cold blood ab out the heart, but a single word in Chapter 1, "In it the righteousness of God is revealed," that had stood in my way. For I hated that word "righteousness of God,"...Though I lived as a monk without reproach, I felt that I was a sinner before God with an extremely disturbed conscience. I could not believe that he was placated by my satisfaction. I did not love, yes, I hated the righteous God who punishes sinners, and secretly, if not blasphemously, certainly murmuring greatly, I was angry with God, and said, "As if, indeed, it is not enough, that miserable sinners, eternally lost through original sin, are crushed by every kind of calamity by the law of the decalogue, without having God add pain to pain by the gospel and also by the gospel threatening us with his righteousness and wrath!" Thus I raged with a fierce and troubled conscience...At last, by the mercy of God, meditating day and night, I gave heed to the context of the words, namely, "In it the righteousness of God is revealed, as it is written, 'He who through faith is righteous shall live.'" There I began to understand that the righteousness of God is that by which the righteous lives by a gift of God, namely by faith. And this is the meaning: the righteousness of God is revealed by the gospel, namely, the passive righteousness with which merciful God justifies us by faith, as it is written, "He who through faith is righteous shall live." Here I felt that I was altogether born again and had entered paradise itself through open gates. There a totally other face of the entire Scripture showed itself to me." Click here to read the entire account.

JOHN WESLEY
John Wesley was listening to someone read Martin Luther's preface to the Epistle to the Romans and later he wrote in his journal, "while he (Martin Luther) was describing the change which God works in the heart through faith in Christ, I felt my heart strangely warmed. I felt I did trust in Christ, Christ alone, for my salvation; and an assurance was given me that he had taken my sins away, even mine; and saved me from the law of sin and death."F.F Bruce's Commentary, p. 59; see also Wesley's Works (1872), Vol. I, p. 103.

Heart-Wrenching Questions - Part 3

This is the last in a series of questions designed to penetrate our hearts and draw us to God. The following questions were created by Dr. Pete Schemm, professor of theology at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary (SEBTS).

• Have I been a "show-off" or a "know-it-all" recently?
• Am I enjoying the word daily?

Studying the Scriptures should not just be something you do just to get it over with. We study the Scriptures to KNOW GOD. What greater goal can there be in life than to know God; or put another way, to see and savor God in the face of Jesus Christ. "Now this is eternal life, that they may know you the one true God and Jesus Christ whom you have sent" John 17:3. Jonathan Edwards said, "Resolved, to study the Scriptures so steadily, constantly and frequently, as that I may find, and plainly perceive myself to grow in the knowledge of the same" (#28 of his Resolutions). So are you ENJOYING the word daily? Do you find yourself satisfied in God?

• Am I watching too much T.V.?
• Am I honest in all my words, or do I exaggerate?
• What do I regret saying recently? And why?

As you see your failings, turn to Christ and embrace the cross. Be amazed at the constant love of God that loves even rebellious and disobedient children. Wow, how deep the Father's love for us.

Heart-Wrenching Questions - Part 2

John Wesley and George Whitefield were involved in countability with other guys in what they called the Holy Club. The following questions are some of those that they asked themselves everyday in their private devotions.

1. Am I consciously or unconsciously creating the impression than I am better than I really am? In other words, am I a hypocrite?
2. Am I honest in all my acts and words, or do I exaggerate?
3. Can I be trusted?
4. Am I a slave to dress, friends, work or habits?
5. Did the Bible live in me today?
6. Do I give it time to speak to me every day?
7. Do I pray about the money I spend?
8. Do I get to bed on time and get up on time?
9. Do I insist upon doing something about which my conscience is uneasy?
10. How do I spend my spare time?
11. Is Christ real to me?

May God use these questions to pierce your heart and soul and may he use them to draw you to himself and to stir your affections for him. God wants every inch of your life.

Click here to read the entire set of questions.

Heart-Wrenching Questions - Part 1

Over the next few days I am going to list some great questions that I have collected over the years from various places that probe deep into the depths of my heart to reveal sin and take me to Christ. Take these questions and make them your own. Read over them daily or at least weekly and may God use them to stir your heart and affections towards him, the greatest treasure. (If I do not give a source for a question, that is either because I don't know where I came across it or because it is my own.)

1. How would I describe the state of my affections for Christ right now?
2. What would have to happen in my life for God to have His way? What desires of mine would have to die?
3. What should a Christian of my stature be doing for the kingdom of God?
4. "Are you doing things that require you to walk by faith?" Bill Bright
5. Men, have you been with another woman, regardless of how innocent, that could be misunderstood and bring reproach on the name of Christ?
6. Have you conducted your financial and business matters in such a way that gives witness of integrity and godliness?
7. Have you just lied about any of these questions?

Resolutions of Jonathan Edwards

Jonathan Edwards was a great pastor who was used by God to spark revival in the New England area in the early 1700's.. He came up with 70 resolutions that he wanted to live by every day of his life. Concerning these resolutions he said, "Being sensible that I am unable to do anything without God's help, I do humbly entreat him by his grace to enable me to keep these Resolutions, so far as they are agreeable to his will, for Christ's sake. Remember to read over these Resolutions once a week." Below are a few of the resolutions that he had, to view all of them click here. Notice how he desired to think of death often. Why do you think this was the case?

5. Resolved, never to lose one moment of time; but improve it the most profitable way I possibly can.

6. Resolved, to live with all my might, while I do live.

7. Resolved, never to do anything, which I should be afraid to do, if it were the last hour of my life.

9. Resolved, to think much on all occasions of my own dying, and of the common circumstances which attend death.

17. Resolved, that I will live so as I shall wish I had done when I come to die.

Filled with the Spirit of God

What does it mean to be filled with the Spirit? Campus Crusade for Christ has tracts devoted to answering this question. Billy Graham has a tract on the Holy Spirit. Dr. Andreas Köstenberger, a well-respected NT Scholar, has written a great article on this issue in the Journal of the Evangelical Theological Society, 40/2 (1997): 229-40, and he raises some great points. Here is the first paragraph of his article:

“A popular pamphlet challenges ‘carnal Christians’ to embark on the ‘Spirit-filled life’ by confessing their sins and presenting every area of their lives to God (referencing the Campus Crusade for Christ tract entitled “Have You Made the Wonderful Discovery of the Spirit-Filled Life?”). Thus they will experience the ‘abundant life’ Jesus promised (John 10:10) and be ‘filled with the Spirit’ (Eph. 5:18). While the intention behind the teaching is doubtless commendable—who would disagree that many fall short of the Biblical ideal for the Christian and desperately need to renew their commitment to their Lord?—the theology and terminology upon which this approach is based need to be reexamined to see whether they in fact reflect Biblical categories.”

Read this article as an aid to help re-think the issue of being filled with the Spirit. I would love any comments or thoughts concerning this question or article.

Talking to People Rather Than about Them

Check out this great article by John Piper addressing the issue of gossip and speaking truth to our brothers and sisters in Christ. This is a needed discipline in the church today.

Basketball for the Glory of God

C.J. Mahaney posted a blog titled Fathers and Sons and March Madness on March 14, 2006. In his blog he gave some practical advice on how he encourages his son to play basketball to the glory of God. Here is an excerpt of that article:

"So, prior to each practice and game I have a conversation with my son about how he can glorify God. Here is a sampling of the biblical priorities and practices I review with him:

• Humbly receive correction from your coach and ask your coach how you can grow in character as well as athletic skill.
• Thank your coaches for the way they have served you. And thank the referees after each game.
• Encourage your teammates for their display of godly character and athletic skill--in that order of priority.
• Encourage your opponents during and after the game. If you knock someone over, extend your hand to help them up.
• Play the game passionately and unselfishly. Serve your team by playing aggressive defense and passing the ball on offense.
• Humbly respond when the referee calls a foul on you. Do not complain or disagree in word or by facial expression.
• No inappropriate celebrating after you score; instead, recognize that others played a role.
• Thank the team manager for the way he served and recognize the humility and servanthood he is displaying each game. True greatness is sitting on the end of the bench.
  

There is nothing original or profound about this list. But helping my son apply it to his heart and life can make a profound difference. So after each game, I review the above list with my son. I go over the game with him and celebrate any and all expressions of humility and godly character. I tell him that this is more important to me than how many points he scored or whether his team won the game (although we do play to win!). Remember, fathers, that what you honor and celebrate, your son will emulate. Therefore, we must celebrate godly character more than athletic ability or achievement."

Read the entire blog here.

1 Corinthians 10:31 says, "So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God." Colossians 3:17 says, "And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him." God desires that every aspect of your life would be lived for his glory, honor, and praise. Men, may God use basketball in your life as a means to pursue godliness and not fame. Do you pursue the glory of God in everything that you do...eating, drinking, driving, talking, singing, teaching, working, relationships, and school? What would it look like to live for the glory of God in your driving, talking, singing, teaching, working, relationships, at school, etc.? Since I'm a Christian, does that mean that I always do all of those things to the glory of God or is there a certain way that those things must be done to give glory to God or not? May Christ be exalted in all things, to the glory of God.

Preaching and Biblical Theology

Thomas Schreiner recently wrote an article titled, Preaching and Biblical Theology, in the Southern Baptist Journal of Theology. Every teacher and preacher of God's word needs to read this whole article but especially this excerpt below which shows the great need in churches today for preachers and teachers to preach and teach biblical theology.

"Moreover, too often our congregations are poorly trained by those of us who preach. We have fed them a steady diet of moralistic preaching, so that they are taught to be kind, forgiving, loving, good husbands and wives (all good things of course!), but the theological foundation for such is completely neglected. We have ample illustrations and stories to support the lifestyle we advocate, and people’s hearts are warmed and even edified. Meanwhile, the wolf is lurking at the door. How could such preaching open the door for heresy? Not because the pastor himself is heretical. He may be fully orthodox and faithful in his own theology, while neglecting to preach to his people the storyline and theology of the Bible. He has assumed theology in all his preaching. So, in the next generation or in two or three generations the congregation may inadvertently and unknowingly call a more liberal pastor. He too preaches that people should be good, kind, and loving. He too emphasizes that we should have good marriages and dynamic relationships. The people in the pew may not even discern the difference. The theology seems to be just like the theology of the conservative pastor who preceded him. And in a sense it is, for the conservative pastor never proclaimed or preached his theology. The conservative pastor believed in the inerrancy of scripture but not its sufficiency, for he did not proclaim all that the scriptures teach to his congregation."

Read the entire article; this is a must read for every Christ because he gives an example of biblical theology in the body of his article.

Welcome

Welcome to my first and only blog. I am Jon Chasteen, the College Intern at Ridgecrest Baptist Church. I created this blog to use as a ministry tool to help college students to pursue the great and glorious God seen in the gospel. I hope you will enjoy and interact with the thoughts posted here as I pursue to know and to tell about this great God who has saved me by his grace...to God be the glory.