The Word “Wrath” in the Book of Romans
In my last blog, I discussed that the word “salvation” in the Book of Romans does not mean salvation from hell. Instead, it refers to salvation from the negative consequences of sins here and now. In this blog, I would like to look at the word “wrath.” A similar situation exists with this word. Often, […]
The Timing of the Lord’s Supper
You can discuss the timing of the Lord’s Supper in three different senses: frequency, intent, and Dispensation. First, you can discuss the timing of the Supper in terms of frequency. It would be nice if the Bible had direct teaching about how frequently you should celebrate it. But despite several passages devoted to discussing the […]
We Implore You on Christ’s Behalf, Be Reconciled to God (2 Corinthians 5:20)
Dr. Charles Ryrie was my professor for the doctrine of salvation. I remember him discussing 2 Cor 5:18-21 one day in class. This comment stuck with me: “Reconciled people need reconciliation.” In 2 Cor 5:19, Paul says, “God was in Christ reconciling the world to Himself, not imputing their trespasses to them, and has committed […]
Would You Give Up Your Church Buildings to Show Love?
We know that eternal life is a free gift—an extraordinary, extravagant gift—given simply on the condition of faith in Christ, totally apart from any works that we can do (Rom 6:23; Eph 2:8-9). But then what? What comes next? The short answer is: love. Freed from the burden of having to earn your salvation by […]
You Should Read Christian Biographies
My friend Allen Rea is always reading inspiring Christian biographies, and I often ask him for recommendations. Frankly, although I read a lot, I do not read many biographies. But Allen inspired me to pick some up. For example, I’m currently reading a biography of Robert Chapman, who became influential among the Plymouth Brethren. Apparently, […]
Foreknowledge Without Foreordination (1 Sam 23:10-13)
God is omniscient. That is, God knows everything that could be, would be, has been, is, and will be. But how does God know the future? Upon what does His knowledge depend? Some people (e.g., Calvinists) claim that God’s foreknowledge depends upon His foreordination. For example, Lewis Sperry Chafer said, “Nothing could be foreknown as […]
Do Not Let the Anti-Assurance Bird Make a Nest in Your Hair
A regular reader of our blogs named John asks this insightful question: I just read your latest blog concerning Dead Spoken Faith Alone. In your point #10, you mention that assurance is essential to a faith that saves. I must admit that the thought of eternal conscious torment still frightens me. I believe in Christ, […]
Missionaries in Miami
“Welcome to the 305!” This past week I was in Miami for a GES Regional. It was a good conference, held under unusual conditions. Nevertheless, the church warmly welcomed me. And I believe the Biblical teaching blessed the people who attended. That said, I think my most important lesson came immediately before the conference. On […]
The Extent of Christ’s Death
This short question hits on a mighty important issue: Thank you for your ministry. I have a question: when the Bible says that Jesus died for the sins of the world (1 John 2:2), does that mean that Jesus died for everyone’s sin? Or does it mean that you need to believe that Jesus died […]
The Word “Salvation” in the Book of Romans
The word “salvation” both in English and in New Testament Greek can mean different things. When it is used, we have to ask: salvation from what? The context always determines what type of salvation the author is talking about. Unfortunately, when most Christians see the word “salvation” in the Bible, they often assume it means […]