The entire most recent issue of the Criswell Theological Review is dedicated to Christians and alcohol. They published an article by Dr. Richard Land and Dr. Barrett Duke which argues that alcohol, while not inherently evil, ought not to be consumed by Christians at all. They also included an article by Dr. Kenneth Gentry which argues that a moderate use of alcohol is permissible for Christians. [Note: I have not yet read these articles, but it sounds like a good discussion.] [HT: Denny Burk] … [Read more...] about Christians and Alcohol
Archives for April 2008
Let No One Despise You For Your Youth
John Piper kicked-off a five-part sermon series on a "vision for the rising generation of young people." When I was still at Bethlehem, I had the pleasure of hearing this vision in seed form, and participating in several productive meetings on this topic. Piper's introductory message was taken from I Timothy 4:11-16: "Command and teach these things. Let no one despise you for your youth, but set the believers an example in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, in purity. Until I come, devote yourself to the public reading of Scripture, to exhortation, to teaching. Do not neglect the … [Read more...] about Let No One Despise You For Your Youth
Jonathan Dodson on Engaging Culture
Discussing the opportunities (and dangers) associated with Christian cultural engagement, Dodson writes: Our practice should flow from our position in Christ. Our actions ought to reveal our redeemed identity, not form our identity. Consider the danger of mistaking your newly formed habits for who you are. For instance, do you think of yourself now as an environmentalist or as a citizen of Zion with an environmental conscience? Do you draw significance from being a "pro-lifer" or from being new creation in Christ Jesus? Ask yourself, "Am I confusing my practice with my position?" or "Am I … [Read more...] about Jonathan Dodson on Engaging Culture
Tim Keller at Westminster Theological Seminary
Complementing the other Tim Keller videos I've posted about his new book, The Reason For God, Tim Keller shares a panel with several faculty members from Westminster Theological Seminary, and discusses what gave rise to the book, the challenges of evangelism (and apologetics) today, and more. Pastor Keller was once a professor at Westminster. (HT: Tullian Tchividjian) … [Read more...] about Tim Keller at Westminster Theological Seminary
Albert Mohler on Church-Based Pastoral Training
Dr. Mohler writes a brief history of pastoral training, arguing that seminaries must be accountable to churches, and that churches must also take pains to train those who seek ministerial employment: The role of theological seminaries remains crucial for the education and training of Christian ministers. At its best, the seminary is an intentional gathering of Christian scholars who are dedicated to the preparation of ministers, committed to biblical truth, gifted in modeling and teaching the tasks of ministry, and passionate about the Gospel. No other educational institution exists to serve … [Read more...] about Albert Mohler on Church-Based Pastoral Training
Shout to The Lord on American Idol
Josh Harris offers some balanced thoughts on the recent singing of Shout to the Lord on American Idol:Here's reality: we live in a secular, pluralistic society. We need to be good neighbors to agnostics and atheists and people of other religions. Christian faith and practice shouldn't be forced on others. And we shouldn't be overly surprised when "gospel" music that is very meaningful to believers is co-opted and used in secular settings by people who don't have personal faith in Jesus. How many times has Amazing Grace been sung and loved by people who don't really grasp its truth? Like it or … [Read more...] about Shout to The Lord on American Idol