When our church went through our series on Renewal, one of the principles we spent time on was: Our reaction to crisis will determine whether we find Renewal. Often, genuine spiritual renewal is the result of some kind of crisis. Sometimes is it large-scale cultural upheaval, sometimes it is a radical change of regional circumstances,... Continue Reading →
Psalm 22 and Fear of the Virus
During the COVID-19 pandemic I have been brought back to some of David’s Psalms, specifically his laments. During our church’s mid-week Bible study, we have been going through David’s life, sometimes with a fine-toothed comb, and I have been left a little overwhelmed with the completely human, yet shockingly faithful character of the human king... Continue Reading →
Catching a Glimpse Behind the Curtain
Preaching through the first chapter of Ephesians isn’t easy. The whole chapter is packed with big ideas, abstract concepts, central doctrines to the Christian faith, and some talk about this “predestination” stuff. If you read a good commentary or study on the book, you will discover that the introduction is notoriously long and dense. Then... Continue Reading →
Approaching the Throne of Grace
“Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.” Hebrews 4:16 When it comes down to it, this is a stunning reality. The fact that we have direct access to the presence and power of God is nearly... Continue Reading →