Make It Free

The vision that Desiring God has for its online ministry is simply outstanding. May I commend them here and thank them for what they’re doing and for even possibly being the needed pioneers for others with internet ministries. From the DG website:

…there are four things you need to do in order to maximize access to your content online and truly "make it free":
Post all of your content online
Don't charge for your online content
Don't make people register to access any of your content
Make your site very easy to use

Who can argue with these four premises? Let’s face it, whatever we’re doing on the net we want it to be easy. If we’re disappointed that the content we’re hunting for is no longer posted we’re going elsewhere and likely not comeback. If we’re charged for everything we want we’ll either not buy it or be disappointed that we have to and not come back. I do not like having to register to read or buy product. Its just another way of getting my address and then sending me emails, let’s face it – SPAM, I don’t want. Managing all these passwords for all these websites is just ridiculous. I recently went to a site to buy some music and decided not to when I had to register. These online businesses need to realize they’re losing money. Its just not worth the hassle to me. Lastly, if I can’t find my way around a website in a few seconds, I’m done. All of the above applies to any site we may visit but its troubling to me that many “outreach” websites operate in the same manner. Its just so inconsistent. Of course, I’m not saying a ministry site can’t charge for some items, they need funding to keep operating, authors need to be paid for their work. But money is not the goal here, reaching those in need of whatever services are provided is. Again, I commend DG for this and their ministry is now on my donation list.

Christmas Ales

I must take a moment to commend to you two beers as we approach the festive Christmas season. Great Lakes Christmas Ale and Goose Island Christmas Ale. Both are very fine brews. The Great Lakes is, according to their website, A holiday ale brewed with honey and spiced with fresh ginger and cinnamon. ABV 7.5%, ABW 6.0% and IBU 40. The Goose Island Christmas Ale is also a delightful beer and worth the effort to purchase another six pack. ABV 5.6%, ABW 4.45 and IBU 50. Both are delicious. If I had to pick between the two I would have to go with Great Lakes giving it a 9 out of 10 ranking compared to the Goose Island, 7 out of 10. It'll be Christmas soon, give 'em both a try.

It is possible to tolerate a little elevation, when a man takes a drink or two too much after working hard and when he is feeling low. This must be called a frolic. But to sit day and night, pouring it in and pouring it out again, is piggish... all food is a matter of freedom, even a modest drink for one's pleasure. If you do not wish to conduct yourself this way, if you are going to go beyond this and be a born pig and guzzle beer and wine, then, if this cannot be stopped by the rulers, you must know that you cannot be saved. For God will not admit such piggish drinkers into the kingdom of heaven [cf. Gal. 5:19-21]... If you are tired and downhearted, take a drink; but this does not mean being a pig and doing nothing but gorging and swilling... You should be moderate and sober; this means that we should not be drunken, though we may be exhilarated. - Martin Luther

Feeling Low?

I find Spurgeon had great insight into the deep issues of life. On feeling low he postulated, The worst forms of depression are cured when Holy Scripture is believed. Elsewhere he went on, To have something to do for Jesus, and to go right on with it, is one of the best ways to get over a bereavement, or any heavy mental depression. If you can pursue some great object, you will not feel that you are living for nothing. I find both statements very true for Scripture tells us, These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world (John 16:33). And, Rejoice evermore. Pray without ceasing. In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you (1 Thes. 5:16-18). Putting our focus on the Lord and minimizing times of self pity will see us through those difficult periods in life.

Wetsminster Wednesday

WSC #29

Ques. How are we made partakers of the redemption purchased by Christ?

Ans. We are made partakers of the redemption purchased by Christ, by the effectual application of it to us by his Holy Spirit.

A brief and simple explanation from Vincent: Q. 1. By whom was our redemption purchased? A. Our redemption was purchased for us by the blood of Christ. "By his own blood he entered in once into the holy place, having obtained eternal redemption for us." — Heb. 9:12.
Q. 2. By whom is our redemption applied? A. Our redemption is applied by the Holy Spirit, in his effectual operation upon us. "Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost; which he shed on us abundantly, through Jesus Christ our Saviour." — Tit. 3:5, 6.

With the above in mind, the next several questions of the catechism elaborate on the steps, so to speak, of salvation. We must comprehend and be mindful of these steps as others today ignore these or group them all under one heading. Let's not be confused.

1. Effectual calling - Calling and Regeneration

2. Conversion - Repentance and Faith

3. Justification

4. Adoption

5. Sanctification

6. Glorification

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Masculine Christianity

John Piper has recently posted his notes on his message Some Sweet Blessings of Masculine Christianity. If you will allow me to press home his second point: Men are more properly attracted to the Christian life when it does not appear that he must become effeminate to be a Christian. (Dominance of female leadership undermines the proper sense of a man’s call to be a leader, protector, and provider.) This is so true. Men are often turned off by what they perceive as the feminity of Christianity. Churches need to to realize this now and begin to cater to the needs of men, both the lost that they are trying reach and those attending that they need to keep. May I add that point #8 is well stated, too. The feminization of modern worship music is a tragedy that needs to stop now. Piper states, The corporate worship teams are not dominated by women and the songs chosen are not dominated by a one-sided feel of intimacy or majesty. The presence of masculine men and strong theology and music give the corporate worship a feel of strength that helps men discover and express the fullness of the emotions toward God that God calls for. Read the entire post here.

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Pumpkin Ale

After seeing and reading about a seasonal brews that are pumpkin flavored I thought I may give one a try although I did so with great trepidation. To my surprise, Saranac's Pumpkin Ale is quite good. The pumpkin flavor is not overpowering, just enough to let you know its there. I recommend it. Its only 5.4% ABV so you can have a couple while reading the works of your favorite theologian (there is a story of Van Til and Machen on at least one occasion having a beer together, anyone know it?)

And, Great Lakes Brewing already has there Christmas Ale out in stores which makes me quite happy! If you have the opportunity to imbibe either of these fine brews, go for it!

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Meditation

One of my favorite books is Disciplines of a Godly Man by R. Kent Hughes. From time to time I pull it off the shelf and and read a chapter. This week I re-read chapter 7, Discipline of Devotion. This work is not an in depth theological study rather it is a book full of information to improve our daily walk. This chapter is no different. Under the header of Meditation Hughes explains Psalm 1:2, When the Psalmist speaks of meditating on the Law of God day and night (Psalm 1:2), he uses a word which means "to mutter." This word is used to describe the murmurings of kings in Psalm 2:1, and for the chattering of doves in Is. 59:11. In fact, St. Augustine translated Psalm 1:2, "On his law he chatters day and night." Meditation is intrinsically verbal. This means the Psalmist memorized God's Word - for one cannot continually mutter the Scripture without memorizing it, and vice versa. OK, this has not ever been my standard method of memorizing or meditating on Scripture but I'm willing to give it a shot. So if you see me talking to myself, don't interrupt - I'm meditating.

For most of us, meditation is difficult. Hughes uses Scripture to explain the benefits of meditation:

Revival -"The law of the Lord is perfect, reviving the soul" (Psalm 19:7).

Wisdom - "The statues of the Lord are trustworthy, making wise the simple" (Psalm 19:7); "Oh how I love your law! I meditate on it day long. Your commands make me wiser than my enemies, for they are ever with me" (Psalm 119:97, 98).

Increases in our faith - "Consequently, faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word of Christ" (Romans 10:17).

Hughes continues, The discipline of meditation is a must. Moses told Israel as he finished the "Song of Moses": Take to heart all the words I have solemnly declared to you this day...They are not just words for you - they are your life" (De. 32:46, 47).

Noticed this week

I came across a couple of blog posts worth noting this week. First, in consideration of the upcoming presidential elections I think this post endorsing Gov. Huckabee is worth a read.

Secondly, I have a great interest in textual criticism and this quiz is worth the few minutes it'll take to test your knowledge. Really, I think most of us should have at least in introductory knowledge of textual criticism, don't you think?

Third, check out the Don Whitney downloads over at the Irish Calvinist. I've only listened to the first one so far but it was outstanding! Don't wait another minute, jump over there now and start downloading.

Westminster Wednesday

Dart Estuary, Dartmouth

Let's hit #28 this week.

Q. 28 Wherein consists Christ’s exaltation?
A. Christ’s exaltation consists in his rising again from the dead on the third day; in ascending up into heaven, in sitting at the right hand of God the Father, and in coming to judge the world at the last day.

John Flavel's exposition on this is simply stated but first-rate:
Q. 1. What is the first step of Christ’s exaltation?
A. His resurrection from the dead.
Q. 2. How doth his resurrection appear?
A. By the scripture prophecies accomplished in him; 1 Corinthians 15:4. And that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day, according to the scriptures.
Q. 3. Why did Christ rise again?
A. To establish our faith, and abolish our sins; 1 Corinthians 15:17. And if Christ be not risen, your faith is vain; ye are yet in your sins.
Q. 4. What other end was there of Christ’s resurrection?
A. To declare his divine power; Romans 1:4. and declared to be the Son of God with power, according to the Spirit of holiness, by the resurrection from the dead. And to evidence the fulness of his satisfaction; John 16:10. Of righteousness, because I go to my Father, and ye see me no more.
Q. 5. Did Christ rise in the same body he laid down?
A. It was substantially the same; John 20:27. Then saith he to Thomas, Reach hither thy finger, and behold my hands; and reach hither thy hand, and thrust it into my side, and be not faithless, but believing.
Q. 6. What doth Christ's resurrection teach us?
A. The certainty of our resurrection after death; 1 Corinthians 15:20. But now is Christ risen from the dead, and become the first fruits of them that slept.
Q. 7. What is the second step of Christ’s exaltation?
A. His ascension after forty days into heaven; Acts 1:2-3. Until the day in which he was taken up, after that he through the Holy Ghost, had given commandment unto the apostles, whom he had chosen: To whom also he shewed himself alive after his passion, by many infallible proofs, being seen of them forty days, and speaking of the things pertaining to the kingdom of God.
Q. 8. Why did Christ stay so long on earth?
A. To assure the truth of his resurrection, and to settle the due government of his church, Acts 1:2-3.
Q. 9. For what end did he ascend?
A. To take possession of his glory; John 17:5. And now, 0 Father, glorify thou me with thine own self, with the glory which I had with thee before the world was. And that as our fore-runner, Hebrews 6:20. Whither the Fore-runner is for us entered, even Jesus, &c.
Q. 10. In what manner did Christ ascend?
A. Triumphantly, and magnificently; Psalm 47:5. God is gone up with a shout, the Lord with the sound of a trumpet.
Q. 11. What doth his ascension teach us?
A. Heavenly-mindedness; Colossians 3:1-2. If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth at the right-hand of God; set your affections on things above, and not on things on the earth. And an encouragement iii our Christian race; Hebrews 12:1-2. Wherefore, seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him, endured the despising the shame, and is set down at the right-hand of the throne of God.

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Packer on Evangelism

I find quite a few little gems reading Packer. I recently pulled out my copy of Evangelism and the Sovereignty of God and while perusing it I came across the following that I had highlighted.

The truth is that real personal evangelism is very costly, just because it demands of us a really personal relationship with the other man....If you wish to do personal evangelism, then - and I hope you do; you ought to - pray for the gift of friendship. A genuine friendliness is in any case a prime mark of the man who is learning to love his neighbor as himself.

This is so true. We must all take a step back and look at where we are and where we're going. I admit I have much work to do in this area. May God bless us all in this important work of evangelism.

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Westminster Wednesday

WSC #27

Wherein did Christ's humiliation consist?

Christ's humiliation consisted in his being born, and that in a low condition, made under the law, undergoing the misteries of this life, the wrath of God, and the cursed death of the cross; in being buried, and continuing under the power of death for a time.

Keach's catechism again reads the same.

Westminster Larger catechism 46-49:

Q. 46. What was the estate of Christ's humiliation?

A. The estate of Christ's humiliation was that low condition, wherein he for our sakes, emptying himself of his glory, took upon him the form of a servant, in his conception and birth, life, death, and after his death, until his resurrection.
Q. 47. How did Christ humble himself in his conception and birth?

A. Christ humbled himself in his conception and birth, in that, being from all eternity the Son of God, in the bosom of the Father, he was pleased in the fullness of time to become the son of man, made of a woman of low estate, and to be born of her; with divers circumstances of more than ordinary abasement.
Q. 48. How did Christ humble himself in his life?

A. Christ humbled himself in his life, by subjecting himself to the law, which he perfectly fulfilled; and by conflicting with the indignities of the world, temptations of Satan, and infirmities in his flesh, whether common to the nature of man, or particularly accompanying that his low condition.
Q. 49. How did Christ humble himself in his death?

A. Christ humbled himself in his death, in that having been betrayed by Judas, forsaken by his disciples, scorned and rejected by the world, condemned by Pilate, and tormented by his persecutors; having also conflicted with the terrors of death, and the powers of darkness, felt and borne the weight of God's wrath, he laid down his life an offering for sin, enduring the painful, shameful, and cursed death of the cross.

Thomas Vincent explains:

Q. 1. In what things did Christ humble himself?

A. Christ did humble himself — 1. In his birth. 2. In his life. 2. In his death.
Q. 2. How did Christ humble himself in his birth?

A. Christ humbled himself in his birth, in that he, being the eternal Son of God, in time became man, and was born, not of a great princess, but of a mean virgin; not in a stately palace, but in a stable of an inn; and instead of a cradle, was laid in a manger. "He hath regarded the lowly estate of his hand-maiden." — Luke 1:48. "And she brought forth her first-born son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn." — Luke 2:7.
Q. 3. How did Christ humble himself in his life?

A. Christ did humble himself in his life, in that — 1. He subjected himself to the law. "God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law." — Galatians 4:4. 2. He conflicted with the temptation of the devil. "Then was Jesus led up of the spirit into the wilderness, to be tempted of the devil." — Matthew 4:1. 3. He endured the contradictions, reproaches, and indignities of wicked men. "Consider him who endured such contradiction of sinners against himself." — Hebrews 12:3. "If they have called the Master of the house Beelzebub, how much more them of his household?" — Matthew 10:25. 4. He underwent the sinless infirmities of the flesh, such as weariness, hunger, thirst, and the like, in regard to his body; and grief and sorrow in regard to his soul. "Jesus being wearied with his journey, sat on the well." — John 4:6. "When he had fasted forty days and forty nights, he was afterwards an hungered." — Matthew 4:2. "He is a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief." — Isaiah 53:3.
Q. 4. How did Christ humble himself in his death?

A. Christ humbled himself in his death — 1. In regard of the antecedents of it. 2. In regard of his death itself. 3. In regard of the consequences of it.
Q. 5. How did Christ humble himself in regard of the antecedents of his death?

A. Christ humbled himself in regard of the antecedents of his death — 1. In permitting Judas to betray him. 2. In submitting himself to the officers to take him. 3. In hearing Peter deny him. 4. In suffering the people to mock him, spit on him, buffet him, and Pilate to scourge and condemn him; with many affronts and indignities which were offered to him. — Matthew 26, Matthew 27.
Q. 6. How did Christ humble himself in regard of his death itself?

A. Christ humbled himself in regard of his death itself, in that — 1. The kind of his death was an accursed and disgraceful death, as also a lingering and painful death, being the death of the cross. "He humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross" Philippians 2:8. "Christ was made a curse for us; as it is written, Cursed is every one that hangeth on a tree." — Galatians 3:13. 2. he, together with the pain of his body on the cross, endured the wrath of God due for man's sin in his soul. "About the ninth hour, Jesus cried with a loud voice, My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?" — Matthew 27:46.
Q. 7. How did Christ humble himself in regard of the consequents of his death?

A. Christ humbled himself in regard of the consequents of his death, in that — 1. He was buried. "And when Joseph had taken the body, he wrapped it in a clean linen cloth, and laid it in his own new tomb." — Matthew 27:59-60. 2. He continued under the power of death for a time, namely, until the third day. "As Jonah was three days and three nights in the whale's belly, so shall the Son of man be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth." — Matthew 12:40.
Q. 8. What doth Christ's humiliation assure us of?

A. Christ's humiliation assures us of our redemption, through the merits of his sufferings. "In whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins." — Ephesians 1:7.
Q. 9. What doth Christ's humiliation, especially his death, teach us?

A. Christ's humbling himself unto death doth teach us — 1. To humble ourselves and be lowly, like unto our Master. "Learn of me, for I am meek and lowly in heart." Matthew 11:29. 2. That as Christ died for our sins, so we should die to sin, and not be unwilling to suffer and to die for his sake, if called thereunto. "If we be dead with Christ, we shall also live with him. Reckon yourselves to be dead indeed unto sin." — Romans 6:8, 11. "Forasmuch as Christ hath suffered for us, arm yourselves likewise with the same mind." — 1 Peter 4:1.

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Preachers & Theologians

Stephen at Reformed Christian UK has posted in interesting piece on the theologians that have most influenced him and asked for others opinions. I found this very thought-provoking. I cannot limit the list to 4 as Stephen has but here goes (in no particular order):

Cornelius Van Til - various writings

Herman Bavinck - The Doctrine of God

Lorraine Boettner - The Reformed Doctrine of Predestination, The Millennium

A.W. Pink - various writings

Ken Gentry - various writings

James Jordan - Through New Eyes

Greg Bahnsen - By This Standard

R.J. Rushdoony - various writings

John Frame - Worship In Spirit & Truth and other various writings

Thomas Manton - Psalm 119

Samuel Rutherford - The Trial & Triumph of Faith

John Flavel - everything he has written - still my favorite Puritan to read - Keeping the Heart is outstanding!

Thomas Boston - The Beauties of Boston

John Calvin - need I say it - Institutes

As I go on in this life I'm sure there will be more and I'm sure there are more than this who have profoundly affected my Christian walk and journey through this life.

Scottish Presbyterian Poll

What Scottish Presbyterian Church would you feel at home in? created with QuizFarm.com

You scored as Disruption Free Church You score as 'Disruption Free Church'. You think that the spiritual independence of the Church is vital, but you do not disapprove of Establishment Disruption Free Church 70% Reformed Presbyterian 65% Free Presbyterian Church 58% United Presbyterian 58% Auld Kirk 43% 18th Century 'Moderate' Auld Kirk 25%

I'm somewhat surprised by the results of this poll. But, some of the questions simply had no correct answer - as usual the questions and results are biased based on the author's own ideas. Nevertheless, its fun taking these and they make you think through some issues. Take the poll yourself and let me know how it turns out for you.

New Poll on Christian History Author

Please vote for your favorite Christian History author on the sidebar and leave a message why you think your author is the best. Its hard for me to decide as I've been reading so much history lately I quite like them all. I guess I'll throw my vote to Gonzalez for now. For those that voted already please leave a message.

Spurgeon on Election

I believe the doctrine of election, because I am quite sure that if God had not chosen me I should never have chosen him; and I am sure he chose me before I was born, or else he never would have chosen me afterwards; and he must have elected me for reasons unknown to me, for I never could find any reason in myself why he should have looked upon me with special love. - Charles Spurgeon

Blogs Worth Noting

Highland Theological College

A couple of blogs have caught my attention lately and worth a mention. Stephen Barton's blog is definitely worth a look. I believe he's in his third year at Highland Theological College and has posted some good stuff and I look forward to more. Scrape, whose blog is called Legendary Truth, has an insightful blog. Pilot & family man, his blog is good read.

An Evening Praise

Giver of all, another day is ended and I
take my place beneath my great
Redeemer's cross, where healing streams
continually descend, where balm is
poured into every wound, where I wash
anew in the all-cleansing blood, assured
that Thou seest in me no spots of sin. Yet
a little while and I shall go to Thy home
and be no more seen; help me to gird up
the loins of my mind, to quicken my step,
to speed as if each moment was my last,
that my life be joy, my death glory.

Quoted from the Valley of Vision

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Morning Needs

O God the Author of all good, I come to

Thee for the grace another day will

require for its duties and events. I step

out into a wicked world; I carry about

with me an evil heart. I know that without

Thee I can do nothing, that everything with

which I shall be concerned, however

harmless in itself, may prove an occasion

of sin and folly, unless I am kept by Thy

power. Hold Thou me up and I shall be safe.....

Quoted from the Valley of Vision

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Westminster Wednesday

Let's jump right into #26 this week.

WSC
Q. 26. How does Christ execute the office of a King?
A. Christ executes the office of a King, in subduing us to himself, in ruling and defending us, and in restraining and conquering all his and our enemies.

Keach's Catechism reads the same.

Westminster Lareger Catechism
Q. 45. How doth Christ execute the office of a king?
A. Christ executeth the office of a king, in calling out of the world a people to himself, and giving them officers, laws, and censures, by which he visibly governs them; in bestowing saving grace upon his elect, rewarding their obedience, and correcting them for their sins, preserving and supporting them under all their temptations and sufferings, restraining and overcoming all their enemies, and powerfully ordering all things for his own glory, and their good; and also in taking vengeance on the rest, who know not God, and obey not the gospel.

Let's turn to Matthew Henry for an exposition on this weeks q&a:

1. Is Christ put into the office of a King? Yes: I have set my King upon my holy hill of Sion, Ps. 2:6. Does he execute that office? Yes: he shall reign over the house of Jacob for ever, Luke 1:33. Is he King as Mediator? Yes: he hath authority to execute judgment, because he is the Son of man, John 5:27. Is his kingdom a spiritual kingdom? Yes: my kingdom is not of this world, John 18:36.

2. Is Christ universal monarch? Yes: for all power is given to him both in heaven and on earth, Matt. 28:18. Has he a right to rule all? Yes: he is Lord of all, Acts 10:36. Does he rule all? Yes: he is the governor among the nations, Ps. 22:28. Does he rule all for the good of his church? Yes: he is head over all things to the church, Eph. 1:22. Is he in a special manner the church's King? Yes: 0 daughter of Sion, thy King comes, Zech. 9: 9.

3. Does Christ, as a King, subdue his people to himself? Yes: Thy people shall be willing in the day of thy power, Ps. 110:3. Does he do it by the word of his grace? Yes: he draws with the cords of a man, and with the bands of love, Hos. 11:4. Does he do it effectually? Yes: he makes ready a people prepared for the Lord, Luke 1:17. Does he conquer the opposition of the carnal mind? Yes: for the weapons of our warfare are mighty through God, to the pulling down of strongholds, 2 Cor. 10:4. Does he set up his throne in the soul? Yes: bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ, 2 Cor. 10:5. And does he rule there? Yes: for he writes his law in their hearts, Heb. 8:10.

4. Does Christ, as a King, reign in his church? Yes: The Lord is our Judge, the Lord is our Lawgiver, the Lord is our King, Isa 33:22. Does he enact laws? Yes: he gave commandments to his apostles, Acts 1:2. Does he commission officers? Yes: By me kings reign, Prov. 8:15. Does he give judgment? Yes: we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, 2 Cor 5:10. Is homage and allegiance due to him? Yes: for at the name of Jesus every knee shall bow, Phil. 2:10. Does he rule in righteousness? Yes; the sceptre of his kingdom is a right sceptre, Ps. 45:6.

5. Does Christ, as a King, protect his subjects? Yes: for he shall be as a hiding place from the wind, Isa 32:2. And does he secure the peace of his kingdom? Yes: for this man shall be the peace, Mic. 5:5. Has he authority to pardon sin? Yes: the Son of man hath power on earth to forgive sin, Matt. 9:6. Has he authority to reward services? Yes: I will give thee a crown of life, Rev. 2:10.

6. Does Christ, as King, restrain his enemies? Yes: on this Rock will I build my church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it, Matt. 16:18. Will he conquer them at last? Yes: for he must reign till he hath put all enemies under his feet, 1 Cor 15:25. Will he conquer death itself? Yes: the last enemy that shall be destroyed is death, 1 Cor 15:26. Does he count those his enemies that will not have him to reign over them? Yes: Those mine enemies which would not that I should reign over them, bring hither, and slay them before me, Luke 19:27.

7. Is Christ a merciful King? Yes: he is meek, and having salvation, Zech. 9:9. Is he the poor man's King? Yes: he shall deliver the needy when he cries, Ps. 72:12. Has he a large kingdom? Yes: he shall have dominion from sea to sea, Ps. 72: 8. Have we reason to hope it shall be larger than now it is? Yes: for the kingdoms of the world are become the kingdoms of the Lord and of his Christ, Rev. 11:15. Shall it be a lasting kingdom? Yes: his throne shall be as the days of heaven, Ps. 89:29. And when the mystery of God shall be finished, shall the kingdom of the Redeemer be resigned to the creator? Yes: then cometh the end, when he shall have delivered up the kingdom to God, even the father, 1 Cor 15:24.

8. Ought we to rejoice in Christ's dominion? Yes: Let the children of Sion be joyful in their King, Ps. 149:2. Must we accept him for our King? Yes: Take my yoke upon you, Matt. 11:29. Must we pay tribute to him? Yes: Send ye the Lamb to the ruler of the land, Isa. 16:1. Must we obey him? Yes: for he is the Author of eternal salvation to all them that obey him, Heb. 5:9.

Westminster Shorter Catechism Books

In light of our Westminster Wednesday study of the WSC, check out this brief selection of outstanding books on the Westminster Shorter Catechism.

Psalm 119:33-40

Pslam 119:33-40

33 Teach me, O Lord, the way of your statutes; and I will keep it to the end.
34 Give me understanding, that I may keep your law and observe it with my whole heart.
35 Lead me in the path of your commandments, for I delight in it.
36 Incline my heart to your testimonies, and not to selfish gain!
37 Turn my eyes from looking at worthless things; and give me life in your ways.
38 Confirm to your servant your promise, that you may be feared.
39 Turn away the reproach that I dread, for your rules are good.
40 Behold, I long for your precepts; in your righteousness give me life!

I particularly like and need to often reflect on verse 36. Our own natural inclination is not for the things of the Lord but our own selfish desires. Couple that with verse 38 as we spend so much time looking and lusting after what we don't need. All we need can found in the Lord.

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Psalm 28:3-4

I was listening to Ian Hamilton this morning on the way into work speaking on Psalm 28. When he came to vss. 3&4 he gave an excellent explanation for the statement by the Psalmist, Do not drag me off with the wicked, with the workers of evil, who speak peace with their neighbors while evil is in their hearts. Give to them according to their work and according to the evil of their deeds; give to them according to the work of their hands; render them their due reward. Rather than explain away that under the New Covenant the concept of forgiveness has changed somehow, he directed the listener to Luke 18:7 which states, And will not God give justice to his elect, who cry to him day and night? Will he delay long over them? In other words, the Psalmist is just asking the Lord to do what he says He will do in Deuteronomy, that is, bless those who are obedient and curse those who are not. Luke 18:7 simply confirms that nothing has changed under the New Covenant.

The imprecatory Psalms so often confound modern commentators. They are, and sometimes very creatively, explained away. Others ignore them and others choose not to believe they are canonical. The above is one of the simplest and most direct explanations I have heard. Many thanks to Ian Hamilton for making what others think so difficult and easy concept to understand.

Westminster Wednesday

Let's delve into Q&A 25 of the Westminster Shorter Catechism.

Ques. How doth Christ execute the office of a priest?

Ans. Christ executeth the office of a priest, in his once offering up of himself a sacrifice to satisfy divine justice, and reconcile us to God, and in making continual intercession for us.

Number 29 of Keach's Catechism is the same:

Q. 29. How does Christ execute the office of a priest?
A. Christ executes the office of a priest, in His once offering up of Himself, a sacrifice to satisfy divine justice, and reconcile us to God, and in making continual intercession for us.

Q&A 44 of the Westminster Larger Catechism reads this way:

Q. 44. How doth Christ execute the office of a priest?

A. Christ executeth the office of a priest, in his once offering himself a sacrifice without spot to God, to be a reconciliation for the sins of the people; and in making continual intercession for them.

Matthew Henry explains:

1. Did fallen man need a Priest? Yes for every high priest is ordained for man in things pertaining to God, Heb. 5:1. Did Christ execute the office of a Priest? Yes: We have a great High Priest, Jesus the Son of God, Heb. 4:14. Was he appointed to this office? Yes: for Christ glorified not himself to be made a High Priest, Heb. 5:5. Was he confirmed in this office? Yes: for the Lord swore, and will not repent, thou art a Priest for ever, Heb. 7:21.
2. Did Christ as a Priest, make atonement for sin? Yes: he is a merciful and faithful High Priest, to make reconciliation for the sins of the people, Heb. 2:17. Did he do this by the sacrifice of himself? Yes: He appeared to put away sin by the sacrifice of himself, Heb. 9:26. Was be himself the Priest? Yes: for through the eternal Spirit he offered himself, Heb. 9: 14. Was he himself the sacrifice? Yes: he made his soul an offering for sin, Isa. 53:10. Was he himself the altar? Yes: for we have an altar, Heb. 13:10. Would not the legal sacrifices serve? No: for it was not possible that the blood of bulls and goats should take away sin, Heb. 10:4. Did God declare them insufficient? Yes: Sacrifice and offering thou wouldst not, ver. 5. Was this sacrifice necessary then? Yes: what the law could not do, in that it was weak, that Christ did, Rom. 8:3.
3. Did Christ as a sacrifice, bear our sins? Yes: his own self bare our sins in his own body on the tree, 1 Pet. 2:24. Did he bear them by the Father's appointment? Yes: the Lord laid on him the iniquities of us all, Isa. 53:6. Did he suffer for them? Yes: he was wounded for our transgressions, and bruised for our iniquities, ver. 5. And not for any sin of his own? No: Messiah shall be cut off, but not for himself, Dan.9:26. Did he suffer to satisfy for sin? Yes: he was once offered to bear the sins of many, Heb. 9:28. And was the satisfaction accepted? Yes: he gave himself for us a sacrifice to God of a sweet smelling savour, Eph. 5:2.
4. Did Christ offer himself voluntarily? Yes: No man taketh my life from me, but I lay it down of myself, John 10:18. Was it his own act and deed to make his soul an offering? Yes: for he said, Father into thy hands I commend my spirit, Luke 23:46. Did this sacrifice need to be repeated? No: for by one offering he perfected for ever them that are sanctified, Heb. 10:14. Did Christ do this for the purchase of our pardon? Yes: for when he did it, he said, Father forgive them, Luke 23:34. Was it designed to save us from ruin? Yes: he gave his life a ransom for many, Matt. 20:28. And to reconcile us to God? Yes: for he made peace through the blood of his cross, Col.1:20. Is this our plea for peace and pardon? Yes: Who is he that condemns? It is Christ that died, Rom. 8:34. Is Christ then the great propitiation? Yes: he is the propitiation for our sins, and not for ours only, but for the sins of the whole world, 1 John 2:2. And have we hereby access to God? Yes: he suffered the just for the unjust, that he might bring us to God, 1 Pet. 3:18. And had the Old Testament saints the benefit of this sacrifice? Yes: for he was the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world, Rev. 13:8.
5. Does Christ, as a Priest, make intercession? Yes: for he bare the sin of many, and made intercession for the transgressors, Isa. 53:12. Is he always doing this? Yes: he ever lives, making intercession, Heb. 7:25. Does he do this as an Advocate? Yes: if any man sin, we have an Advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the Righteous, 1 John 2:1. And as a High Priest? Yes: Aaron shall bear their names before the Lord, Exod. 28:12. Does he make intercession in the virtue of his satisfaction? Yes: for by his own blood he entered into the holy place, Heb. 9:12.
6. Is Christ a Priest after the order of Aaron? No: but after the order of Melchisedec, Ps. 110:4. Is he a royal Priest? Yes: for he is a Priest upon his throne, and the counsel of peace shall be between them both, Zech. 6:13. Is he a Priest that needs a successor? No: for this man, because he continueth forever, hath an unchangeable priesthood, Heb. 7:24. Is he a priest that needs a sacrifice for himself? No: for the law makes men high priests which have infirmity; but the word of the oath makes the Son, who is consecrated for evermore, Heb. 7:28. Have all believers an interest in Christ's priesthood? Yes: for we have a High Priest over the house of God, Heb. 10:21. Is this an encouragement in our approaches to God? Yes: let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, Heb. 4:16. And is this it we must depend upon for our acceptance with God? Yes: for spiritual sacrifices are acceptable to God only through Jesus Christ, 1 Pet. 2:5.

This q&a is well worth some time to ponder the wonder of Christ's work as preist for us. Let's spend some time meditating on this this week with grateful hearts.

New Additions

Just thought I'd share some new adds to my library - everyone a gem and worth every penny!

The Life and Times of Jesus the Messiah by Alfred Edersheim. This is a classic. If you don't have this take moment to check it out.

Always Reforming edited by A.T. B. McGowan. I'm still reading this but its very insightful and if you're stuck in a theology from the 17th century perhaps you should have a look at this.

A Scottish Christian Heritage by Iain Murray

Revival and Revivalism by Iain Murray

Evagelicalism Divided by Iain Murray. How can you go wrong with anything written by Murray?

Shared Life by Donald Macleod. A little classic on the importance and right understanding of the Trinity.

See the scrolling widget on the sidebar for links on these books.

Westminster Wednesday

Before we move to number 24 of the Westminster Shorter Catechism let me say that starting this week I will also be posting the correspondig q&a of Keach's Catechism which, as most of you know, is the catechism for the London Baptist Confession of Faith. Additionally I'll be posting the the corresponding Heidelberg Catechism q&a and other correlating materials as well.

So, let's get to it. We're getting more specific in this week's q&a on Christ's offices.

Q. 24. How doth Christ execute the office of a prophet? A. Christ executeth thc office of a prophet, in revealing to us his word and Spirit, the will of God for our salvation.

From John Flavel we read,

Q. 1. What doth Christ’s prophetical office imply?

A. It implies man’s natural blindness and ignorance; 1 Corinthians 2:14. But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God, for they are foolishness unto him; neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned.
Q. 2. What else doth it imply?

A. That Christ is the original and fountain of all that light which guides us to salvation; 2 Corinthians 4:6-7. For God who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.
Q. 3. How doth Christ teach men the will of God?

A. He doth it by external revelation of it; Acts 3:22. For Moses truly said to the fathers, A prophet shall the Lord your God raise up unto you of your brethren, like unto me, him shall ye hear, in all things, whatsoever he shall say unto you. And by internal illumination; Luke 24:45. Then opened he their understanding, that they might understand the scripture.
Q. 4. What need then of man’s ministry?

A. Very much; for Christ hath instituted ministers as instruments, by whom he will teach us; Ephesians 4:11, 12. And he gave some apostles, and some prophets, and some evangelists and some pastors, and teachers, for the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ. Acts 26:18. To open their eyes, and to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins.
Q. 5. Can no man savingly know the will of God without the teachings of Christ?

A. No; though common knowledge may be obtained in a natural way, yet not saving; Matthew 11:25. At that time Jesus answered, and said, I thank thee, O Father, Lord, of heaven and earth, because thou hast hid these things from the wise and prudent, and hast revealed them unto babes.
Q. 6. How appears it that Christ is appointed to this office?

A. We have the written word for it; Acts 3:22. For Moses truly said unto the fathers, A prophet shall the Lord your God raise up unto you of your brethren, like unto me, him shall ye hear in all things, whatsoever he shall say unto you.
Q. 7. What is the first instruction from hence?

A. None need be discouraged at their natural weakness, if Christ be their teacher; Matthew 11:25. At that time Jesus answered and said, I thank thee, O Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because thou hast hid these things from the wise and prudent, and hast revealed them unto babes. Psalm. 19:7. The testimonies of the Lord are sure, making wise the simple.
Q. 8. What is the second instruction?

A. That it is a dreadful judgment to be spiritually blinded under the gospel; 2 Corinthians 4:3-4. But if our gospel be hid, it is hid to them that are lost; in whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them.
Q. 9. What is the third instruction?

A. That prayer is the best expedient to obtain saving knowledge; James 1:5. If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.
Q. 10. What is the last instruction?

A. Learn hence the transcendent excellency of the knowledge of Christ above all other knowledge; Philippians 3:8. Yea, doubtless, I count all things but loss, for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord.

Keach's Catechism:

Q. 28. How does Christ execute the office of a prophet?
A. Christ executes the office of a prophet, in revealing to us, by this Word and Spirit, the will of God for our salvation.

Heidelberg Catechism (actually this corresponds to WSC #23):

31. Q. Why is He called Christ, that is, Anointed?
A. Because He has been ordained by God the Father, and anointed with the Holy Spirit, to be our chief Prophet and Teacher, who has fully revealed to us the secret counsel and will of God concerning our redemption; our only High Priest, who by the one sacrifice of His body has redeemed us, and who continually intercedes for us before the Father; and our eternal King, who governs us by His Word and Spirit, and who defends and preserves us in the redemption obtained for us.

The book The Westminster Shorter Catechism in Modern English can be purchsed from Amazon.com (See the side bar.)

Origen Prayer

Lord God, Let us keep your Scriptures in mind and meditate on them day and night, persevering in prayer, always on the watch. We beg you, Lord, to give us real knowlwedge of what we read and to show us not only how to understand it, but how to put it into practice, so that we may...obtain spritual grace, enlightened by the law of the Holy Spirit, through Jesus Christ our Lord, whose power and glory will endure throughout the ages. Amen.

- Origen

Irenaeus on Error

Error never shows itself in its naked reality, in order to be discovered. On the contrary, it dresses elegantly, so that the unwary may be lead to believe that it is more truthful than truth itself. - Irenaeus of Lyons

Westminster Wednesday

Before we jump into the study of Q&A #23, let's be reminded why we study the WSC. Speaking to some children, John Murray said, It will not only give you the most perfect human compendium of Christian truth that there is in the whole world, but it will be the finest mental exercise, and it will lay a foundation in your mind and in your life for a hundred other things as well as for true religion. If John Murray considers the catechism the most perfect human compendium of Christian truth then it certainly is worth a bit of study on our part. Let's take a look at number 23 of the Westminster Shorter Catechism.

Q: What offices doth Christ execute as our Redeemer? A: Christ, as our Redeemer, executeth the offices of a prophet, of a priest, and of a king, both in his estate of humiliation and exaltation.

From Thomas Vincent we read:

Q. 1. What is it to execute an office?

A. To execute an office, is to do or perform what belongeth to the office.
Q. 2. How many offices doth Christ execute as our Redeemer?

A. There are three offices Christ doth execute as our Redeemer — 1. The office of a prophet: "Moses truly said unto the fathers, A prophet shall the Lord your God raise up unto you, of your brethren, like unto me; him shall ye hear in all things whatsoever he shall say unto you." — Acts 3:22. 2. The office of a priest: "Thou art a priest for ever, after the order of Melchizedek." — Heb. 5:6. 3. The office of a king: "Yet have I set my King upon my holy bill of Zion." — Ps. 2:6.
Q. 3. In what estate doth Christ execute these offices?

A. 1. Christ doth execute these offices in his estate of humiliation here on earth. 2. Christ doth execute these offices in his estate of exaltation now in heaven.

And from Matthew Henry:

1. Is Christ a complete Redeemer? Yes: for it pleased the Father that in him should all fulness dwell, Col. 1:19. Is he completely qualified for the undertaking? Yes: for God giveth not the Spirit by measure unto him, John 3:34. Is he authorized for it? Yes: for all things are delivered to him of the Father, Matt. 11:27. Has he a full commission? Yes: for the Father judgeth no man, but has committed all judgment to the Son, John 5:22. And has he an ability equal to his authority? Yes: for as the Father hath life in himself, so hath he given to the Son to have life in himself, ver. 26.
2. Is there all that in Christ which fallen man stands in need of?

Yes: for Christ is all, and in all, Col. 3:11. Is he light? Yes: I am the light of the world, John 8:12. Is he life? Yes: in him was life, and the life was the light of men, John 1:4. Is he our peace? Yes: he is our peace, Eph. 2:14. Is he our head? Yes: he is the head of the body, the church, Col. 1:18. Is he the door? Yes: I am the door of the sheep, John 10:7. Is he the way? Yes: I am the way, the truth, and the life, John 14:6. Can we come to God as a Father, otherwise than by Jesus Christ as Mediator? No: for no man cometh to the Father but by me, John 14:6. Is he our food? Yes: I am that bread of life, John 6:48. Is he our friend? Yes: This is my beloved, and this is my friend, Cant. 5:16.
3. Is Jesus Christ a Redeemer in office?

Yes: for God hath exalted him with his own right hand to be a Prince and a Saviour, Acts 5:31. Is he duly put in office? Yes: for him hath God the Father sealed, John 6:27. Does he duly execute his office? Yes: for he was faithful to him that appointed him, Heb. 3:2. Is he a Prophet? Yes: This is of a truth that Prophet that should come into the world, John 6:14. Is he a Priest? Yes: he is the Apostle and High Priest of our profession, Heb. 3:1. Is he a King? Yes: he is King of kings, and Lord of lords, Rev. 19:16.
4. Did Christ execute these offices in his state of humiliation?

Yes: I have glorified thee on the earth, John 17:4. Does he execute them in his state of exaltation? Yes: for in heaven itself he now appears in the presence of God for us, Heb. 9:24. Is he then an all-sufficient Saviour? Yes: he is able to save to the uttermost all those that come to God by him, Heb. 7:25. And is he as willing to save as he is able? Yes: Whosoever comes unto me I will in no wise cast out, John 6:37.

Need for Creed

Yes, we need creeds. They define us and what we believe and keep us in orthodoxy. Ken Gentry has listed some of the reasons why we should maintain the creeds:

1. Creeds serve as a basis for ecclesiastical fellowship and labor

2. Creeds serve as tools of Christian education

3. Creeds provide an objective, concrete standard of church discipline

4. Creeds help to preserve the orthodox Christian faith in the ongoing Church

5. Creeds offer a witness to the truth to those outside the Church

6. Creeds provide a standard by which to judge new teachings arising within the Church

Without a creed one doesn't really know what a church believes. It protects both the church and the individual from external heresy and internal perversions of truth. A creed is absolutely necessary. Gentry affirms this when he wrote, The Scriptures are careful to instruct the Church to preserve the faith. Hebrews 13:9 warns 'Do not be carried away by varied and strange teachings.' Paul gives instruction to the early church leaders in this vein. To Timothy he wrote: 'Retain the standard of sound words which you have heard from me, in the faith and love which are in Jesus Christ.' (2 Tim. 1:13). Titus was urged to be careful to see that an overseer 'hold fast the faithful word which is in accord with the teaching, that he may be able to exhort in sound doctrine and to refute those who contradict.' (Tit. 1:9). And, Although the special, direct revelation of God ceased and the corpus of Scripture was finalized in the first century, it was still necessary for the continuing Church to interpret and apply the completed revelation. The interpretation and application of Scripture is a process, not an act. It has required the involvement of many devout men working through many centuries to systematize, compile, and disseminate the fundamental truths of Scripture. The fact that the truth of Scripture is of no 'private interpretation' is a foundational principle of creedal theology. NO interpreter of Scripture works alone. All must build on the past labors of godly predecessors. It is not the interpreters or groups of exegetes who agree with the historic, orthodox interpretations of the past and who find themselves in the mainstream of Christian thought who are suspect. Rather it is those who present novel deviations from historic Christendom who deserve careful scrutiny. Creeds help to preserve the essential core of true Christian faith from generation to generation.

We must realize that no creed, confession or catechism is perfect and as times change, so should our statements of faith to reflect and address those changes. But that does not disqualify those statements already penned by those who've gone before us. They are useful and should be in place to assist us and monitor us in our individual and corporate walk before our Lord. The principle of Semper Reformanda should always be engaged.

Read Gentry's article in in entirety here.

On Reading

Al Mohler has posted some good thoughts on reading. Here are a few:

Maintain regular reading projects.

Read all the titles written by some authors.

Write in your books; mark them up and make them yours.

I seem to always have several books I'm reading through and several more I want to read. I find these posts fun and insightful.

Read the entrire post here.