Contend for the Faith

One of the great thinkers in the history of the church was an African bishop named Augustine. In his infamous book “The Confessions” Augustine wrote this prayer, “Command [O God] what you will, and give what you command.”  What was this theological titan praying? Simply that God always provides what He commands from His people. … More Contend for the Faith

The Prayers of John Knox

I’m a sucker for a good underdog story. Whether it’s the fact that we like to see the little guy win from time to time, or maybe we feel overwhelmed in our own worlds and wish we could come out on top - there’s nothing like it. As we prepare to celebrate another Reformation Sunday … More The Prayers of John Knox

Can God Forgive Me?

There is no teaching as influential to the historic Protestant church as justification. English Puritan Thomas Watson (AD 1620-1686) spoke of the doctrine of justification in this way, “Justification is the very hinge and pillar of Christianity.” In other words, to err on this point is to miss the very heart of the Christian faith. … More Can God Forgive Me?

Grace and Justice

One of my favorite things about God is that He is gracious. In fact, God reveals Himself to Moses as One who is “merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love and faithfulness…” (Exodus 34:6 ESV) I don’t know about you, but I need to know more about these things. I think … More Grace and Justice

The Final Word is God’s

Typically, Protestant churches utilize the Sunday nearest October 31st to consider the grace of God displayed in the Protestant Reformation of the 1500s. One of the great products of this momentous season in the church’s life was the translation of the Word of God into the languages of the people. This great work of translation … More The Final Word is God’s

Look Past the Stars

I am always amazed at the many things I can observe when I take my dog out in the evening. You can glimpse to your left and right and be amazed at how different your neighborhood looks in the darkness. You can listen carefully and hear every form of wildlife which buzzes and chirps in … More Look Past the Stars

By Faith Alone

Today you’d scarcely find a person outside of the church who believes that God punishes ordinary people for ordinary sins. In fact, the axiom that ‘nobody is perfect’ leads many to believe that if a God exits, He certainly isn’t going to demand perfection. Our good deeds will hopefully outweigh our bad deeds. Or if … More By Faith Alone

Should We Tithe?

As a child, my parents taught me to tithe. The word tithe simply means “tenth”. And so, I was trained to give God ten percent of what I earned because it all belongs to Him, and that this giving was an act of worship. My wife and I practice this, and we are training our … More Should We Tithe?

Mystery of Mysteries

The Bible, as THE BOOK of books, holds within its volumes the actions of God in creation. We learn much of God's actions with man, both in righteous wrath as well as, His merciful hand of redemption. But one particular doctrine has always been central to the church: the blessed Trinity. When we gather to … More Mystery of Mysteries