J.C. Ryle on Christ in the Psalms

A Greater than David is here! We have probably little idea how much deep truth is contained in the book of Psalms. No part of the Bible perhaps is better known in the letter, and none so little understood in the spirit. We err greatly if we suppose that it is nothing but a record … Continue reading J.C. Ryle on Christ in the Psalms

The Power of the Cross of Jesus Christ

“The cross of Christ is the door to heaven, the key to paradise, the downfall of the devil, the uplifting of mankind, the consolation of our imprisonment, the prize for our freedom. The cross of Christ is… the safeguard of our faith, the assurance of our hope, and the throne of love. It is also … Continue reading The Power of the Cross of Jesus Christ

Blessed Are Those Who Are Persecuted for the Sake of Righteousness

Through many tribulations we must enter the kingdom of God. - Acts 14:22 No other faith of mankind, religious or political, has quite so extensive a record of violent bitter opposition to its growth than the Christian church. - Kenneth Scott Latourette It may seem strange that Jesus should pass from peacemaking to persecution, from … Continue reading Blessed Are Those Who Are Persecuted for the Sake of Righteousness

Five Keys to Authentic Community (Romans 16:1-16)

We all desperately need community. This hit me again with great force recently as I was watching the movie "The Count of Monte Cristo" starting James Caviezel as Edmond Dantes. Abbe Faria, aka the Priest, becomes a lifeline to the weary Dantes during his stay at the prison, Chateau d'if. Abbe is a great scholar … Continue reading Five Keys to Authentic Community (Romans 16:1-16)

Facing the Temptation to Live Out of a False Center

How often we base our identity in what we possess, what we do, and how others perceive us. Now if Jesus was tempted to live out of these false centers and gain his sense of identity from possessions, actions, and esteem of others, how much more we who are the adopted sons are called to … Continue reading Facing the Temptation to Live Out of a False Center

A Pastoral Charge to Young Men Everywhere

Not long ago, a friend of mine had a son who was turning 14 years of age. He asked me to give him a brief charge. Below is the letter I wrote to this young man. You may not remember me, but I know your dad and he asked me to share with you what … Continue reading A Pastoral Charge to Young Men Everywhere

An Inspiring Definition of Evangelism

Yesterday, our pastors led us through what is the gospel and discussed ways that we can practically share the gospel with others. We enjoyed hearing a testimony of one of our own who recounted how he recently led a person to faith in Jesus. It caused me to remember this great definition of evangelism that … Continue reading An Inspiring Definition of Evangelism

With what would you be satisfied?

Here’s a question I have asked myself on occasion while raising my children in terms of my desires, hopes and dreams for them. It comes from Susan Hunt in her book Your Home: A Place of Grace: “Would you be satisfied with children who are well behaved, who avoid drugs, who graduate from college, marry … Continue reading With what would you be satisfied?

A Challenging Word from Chuck Colson

 Chuck Colson, though he is dead, still speaks. Chuck was the commencement speaker at Covenant College on May 7, 1988. Here's a challenging excerpt from his talk that has spurred me to do some reflection recently.Ask not what your age wants, but without which it cannot be saved. Without a restoration of character, this age cannot … Continue reading A Challenging Word from Chuck Colson

Treasuring the Risen Christ Who Draws Near

Click below for a devotional guide for Luke 24:13-35 Treasuring the Risen Christ Who Draws Near God’s Word details thirteen post-resurrection appearances of Jesus to His followers. This devotional guide examines one of the more famous ones and my personal favorite. It is found in the Gospel of Luke, chapter 24:13-35. Rembrandt painted it four … Continue reading Treasuring the Risen Christ Who Draws Near