John Newton said that self-will was one of his major stumbling blocks in the Christian life. His sinful flesh wanted to do things his way, in his timing, as he wished. His self-will believed it knew what was best for him. I struggle with this as well! I'm sure it's a common sin for many …
Keep Yourselves from Idols…and Syncretism!
Idolatry is a complex sin. It includes openly worshiping anyone or anything besides the triune God. But one can also have secret idols, such as money, sex, power, people, prestige, or a pet. And sometimes idolatry is worshiping God and someone or something else at the same time (or trying to!). J. I. Packer did …
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Perseverance and True Piety (Bavinck)
The biblical teaching of the perseverance of the saints is a comforting truth. Those whom God predestines and justifies, he will also glorify (Rom 8:30). God's love for his people is strong and everlasting (Jer. 31:3). The ones whom Christ died for will not be lost (Jn. 17:12). This teaching doesn't mean God's people can …
MAQCA? Making America (Quasi)Christian Again
This is a political theme that waxes and wanes in the United States during election cycles: We need to bring America back to its Christian past. Generally speaking, that's not a bad thought. In the past, a majority of people in the United States believed that things like prostitution, adultery, and homosexuality were immoral. Most …
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I Know My Transgressions: David’s Confession in Psalm 51 (Boice)
I appreciate J. M. Boice's insight into David's confession (Ps. 51). This is what repentance sounds like. And, of course, it's followed by full and free forgiveness from God! 1. I am aware of my sin (v. 3). This may seem self-evident and almost trite. “If David is confessing his sin, he must have been …
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