A New-Born King: The Irony – Matthew 2:1-12

Have you ever lived in a city where it was difficult to become an insider? No matter how hard you tried, you always felt excluded and on the fringe. Our experience in church can oftentimes be the same. Have you ever attended a church where you felt like you didn’t measure up and no matter … Continue reading A New-Born King: The Irony – Matthew 2:1-12

The New Born King – The Agony – Matthew 2:1-12

The Agony – How do insiders respond to this news? The birth of this King troubles and agitates insiders… the power brokers of the establishment (both political and ecclesiastical). Rather than rejoicing at this news, they are troubled by it. Now, if we are honest, most of us find repulsive the idea of someone ruling … Continue reading The New Born King – The Agony – Matthew 2:1-12

The New Born King – The Ecstacy – Matthew 2:1-12

The Ecstasy – How do outsiders respond to finding the King? When they find the newborn King, what do they do? When I mention the word ecstasy, I am talking about a state of overwhelming, overpowering emotion. In this case… rapturous delight. See Matthew 2, verse 10. The most arresting verse of the entire passage. … Continue reading The New Born King – The Ecstacy – Matthew 2:1-12

Three Main Avenues of Spiritual Attack

Dr. J.I. Packer is one of my favorite theologians and writers. On many occasions he has brought clarity and insight to the Word of God for me. One article that has been particularly enriching is called "Self-Care for Pastors: Riches from the Anglican Devotional Tradition." In this article, he emphasizes that there are three main … Continue reading Three Main Avenues of Spiritual Attack

Generous Justice for the Oppressed

This Sunday we will conclude our sermon series on The Mission of Trinity Church from the prophecy of Isaiah. Our sermon tomorrow comes from Isaiah 58. The theme is: Generous Justice for the Oppressed. Here's a link to our personal worship guide to use this coming week as we delve more deeply into the implications … Continue reading Generous Justice for the Oppressed

When God’s Plan Doesn’t Jive with Ours

Our Vespers Worship Guide through Acts 11 At times God's plan and agenda doesn't jive with ours. This study sets forth how we naturally respond and how the Lord leads us to embrace His agenda and plan. Here are several lessons we learn from this important chapter in the life of the early church. God … Continue reading When God’s Plan Doesn’t Jive with Ours

Linking People with People to Fulfill God’s Purposes

The title of this post served as the original motto for the group that started Trinity Church. This focus has resulted in one of our hallmark strengths being relationships. Last night at Wednesday Vespers we studied and prayed through Acts 10. In it you see the Lord going to extreme measures to link people with … Continue reading Linking People with People to Fulfill God’s Purposes

Have You Settled the Issue Regarding Your Assurance of Salvation?

Both our struggle with sin and pressures from suffering can unsettle us deeply. The only remedy is to know with equal depth the unbreakable love of God for us in Jesus. Reflecting on Romans will promote a cross-based, Spirit-given assurance of salvation for all believers in spite of sin (8:1-17), suffering (8:18-30) and death (8:31-39). … Continue reading Have You Settled the Issue Regarding Your Assurance of Salvation?

For Zion’s Sake, Church Hopping and Anti-institutionalism

In recent days, I have spent time with people from various parts of our country who have a legitimate beef with the church of Jesus. They have been hurt or disappointed by the church. Church leaders have failed them. Pastors come for counsel who have been hurt and betrayed by their leaders. Church leaders have … Continue reading For Zion’s Sake, Church Hopping and Anti-institutionalism