Benjamin Keach, a 17th Century Baptist, was once put in a pillory to face physical pain and public scorn because of his views on credobaptism (also called “believer’s baptism”). Sadly, today, I’m afraid too many Baptists cannot defend the doctrine of credobaptism very well, other than by saying something like “infant baptism is nowhere in … Read more
Bad Theology Take Here’s a screenshotted FB post where someone quoted Kris Vallotton (from Bethel Redding) saying that the church must demonstrate the miraculous works of Christ. It is clearly implied that this is what allows nonbelievers to experience repentance. Additionally, the “judge not” card is being played against anyone who would judge people for … Read more
One of the foundational principles of the Reformed™ Christian religion is the use of catechisms. A catechism is defined by the Google “definition box” as: Catechism: a summary of the principles of Christian religion in the form of questions and answers, used for the instruction of Christians. This is a pretty solid definition and one … Read more
Reformed Ethics – Vol. 2 is another treasure trove of Herman Bavinck’s thinking on mankind’s duty before God, himself, and his neighbor.
Enjoying communion with your local church is truly a blessed time. It is not only a sober and convicting remembrance of our Lord’s death, burial, and resurrection, but it is also a joyous celebration concerning our salvation and His return (1 Cor. 11:26). This means of grace is truly an essential ordinance to our worship … Read more
Baptism and the Spirit In the New Testament, we recognize the word “baptism” is not only used to refer to physical water. For example, John the Baptist says in Mark 1:8 that Jesus is coming to “baptize you with the Holy Spirit.” Or, in 1 Corinthians 12:13 Paul says, “For in one Spirit we were … Read more
Consider the words of 17th century Baptist, Benjamin Keach (1640-1740), on Elders and Deacons: The Work of Elders 1. The Elder’s or Pastor’s work is to study the word, to show himself approved. “A workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth,” 2 Tim. 2:15. And that he may also … Read more
It seems we have ventured into a time in Christianity where every time we write about or exhort women, it must be qualified in such a way as to soften any offense or blow to the reader or hearer. We live in a time of ‘soft chauvinism’ in the way we treat women in the … Read more
In Hebrews 12:2, the key phrase “looking unto Jesus” is often quoted, but popularly misunderstood in light of its context. In general, every Christian knows we should always keep our eyes on Jesus. And in the midst of the troubles we face, it’s even more important to stay focused on Him as the apple of … Read more
The picture showcased on this blog is my front yard. It was “scorched,” not by typical Texas heat, but from freezing temperatures we recently experienced. One thing I noticed was that cold weather produced the same visual results that scorching heat does. This made me think of how God operates in our trials and afflictions. … Read more
I recently had the privilege of officiating two weddings. And what a treat it was! But because of our “pandemic” and wildfires, there were plenty of details that made these events, well…special. First, in an effort to honor the godly couples, I must point out that they were herculean in patience and understanding. The restrictions … Read more
Cory Brock’s vital new book, Orthodox Yet Modern is a helpful corrective to the popular but inaccurate “Two Bavincks” theory.