The First Rule of Religion
The first rule of religion is so simple that even a child can understand it, but it is exceedingly difficult to learn. You cannot have a relationship with God without first bowing to this simple rule – and you will…
The Spiritual Benefits of Evangelism
We normally think of evangelism as something that we do for others: to rescue the lost, in obedience to Jesus. And while that’s certainly true, there are also a number of spiritual benefits that come to those who faithfully share…
A Morning Hymn (Thomas Ken)
Awake, my Soul, and with the SunThy daily stage of Duty run,Shake off dull sloth, and joyful rise,To pay thy Morning sacrifice. Thy precious Time misspent, redeem,Each present Day thy last esteem,Improve thy Talent with due care,For the Great Day…
“The Principle Things of Religion” – Selections from Theological Lectures
The following selections come from Archbishop Robert Leighton’s ‘Theological Lectures,’ which may be found HERE. Mankind “looks for a happy life in the region of death.” (Augustine) “To know God is wisdom, and to worship him, justice.” (Lactantius) “But the…
Our Great Patron
Patronage is a social system in which people do favors for each other, and it’s important for understanding the setting of the New Testament. It wasn’t until I read Honor, Patronage, Kinship, and Purity: Unlocking New Testament Culture that I…
The Abuse of Knowledge
In previous ages, there was great benefit to knowing and accessing information. Today, that has changed; the benefit exists for those who know how to use information. It is no longer difficult, for example, to have access to textbooks and…
How to Use Earthly Joy and Sorrow
In a changeable world – where joy is fleeting and sorrow is prevalent – Christians are able to live unhindered by their earthly circumstances. This is Paul’s teaching in 1 Corinthians 7. At first glance, it appears to be a…
The Christian Convert Warned of Discouragements – Doddridge
The following is a modernized, paraphrased, and condensed excerpt from Philip Doddridge’s book ‘The Rise and Progress of Religion in the Soul.’ This excerpt comes from Chapter 16. The full title of the chapter is, “The Christian Convert Warned of,…
The Six Characteristics of Kind People
This list doesn’t claim to be comprehensive. It’s just my simple attempt to list out some of the characteristics that define kind people. I’m blessed to know many of them – and challenged each day to grow in these attributes….
God of Creation, God of Salvation: A Song
Some time ago, I published God of Creation, God of Salvation. Originally meant as a simple poem, I’m excited to see how God used it in ways that I didn’t expect. It has now been set to music, and I…
