SelfWire:
Joe Thorn breaks down confessionalism, subscription, doubt, New Calvinism, and the practice of Christian orthodoxy
Recommended Reading:
Recovering a Covenantal Heritage: Essays in Baptist Covenant Theology edited by Richard C. Barcellos
New Calvinism: New Reformation or Theological Fad? edited by Josh Buice
Showing posts with label Joe Thorn. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Joe Thorn. Show all posts
Monday, November 5, 2018
Wednesday, May 10, 2017
Podcast Wednesday: Sola Scriptura, Billy Graham Rule, The Button, and more
Why Sola Scriptura Matters from Russell Moore
The Billy Graham Rule from Doctrine and Devotion
Tony Merida speaks with Joe Thorn about the planting of his church and other topics on the Acts 29 Podcast
Equipping You In Grace presents Kristen Wetherell and Sarah Walton– Hope When It Hurts – Biblical Reflections to Help You Grasp God’s Purpose in Your Suffering
Vern Poythress on Interpreting Scripture with Nancy Guthrie
The Bible Answer Man is No Longer Biblical? from When We Understand The Text
If the Bible Is So Clear, Why Are There So Many Different Interpretations? with Kevin DeYoung
Comic fans, you will love this one as the guys over at Gotham Central discuss The Button: Part 1 from Batman #21
The Billy Graham Rule from Doctrine and Devotion
Tony Merida speaks with Joe Thorn about the planting of his church and other topics on the Acts 29 Podcast
Equipping You In Grace presents Kristen Wetherell and Sarah Walton– Hope When It Hurts – Biblical Reflections to Help You Grasp God’s Purpose in Your Suffering
Vern Poythress on Interpreting Scripture with Nancy Guthrie
The Bible Answer Man is No Longer Biblical? from When We Understand The Text
If the Bible Is So Clear, Why Are There So Many Different Interpretations? with Kevin DeYoung
Comic fans, you will love this one as the guys over at Gotham Central discuss The Button: Part 1 from Batman #21
Monday, April 24, 2017
Book Review: The Life Of The Church by Joe Thorn
In the first section of the book, Thorn talks about the church as a community. It is no secret that most of our culture believes the church is the building, which the Bible tells us it is the people. Joe addresses our need for the community of faith and how it strengthens us as we walk with Jesus. Joe talks about the need for the church to meet in small groups whether in a home or another location where believers can read the word and pray together. Finally, in this section Joe addresses hospitality. Many people think hospitality is letting people into their home, which there is nothing wrong with that. Joe says hospitality is allowing people into your life at great costs to you. This little chapter on hospitality is much needed in the church today because many people have no idea what Biblical hospitality is.
The next section of the book deals with the pulpit, which is a no-brainer for most believers. Joe says a church is to worship God together. Yes, we can worship God alone, but a true believer seeks community with fellow believers and worships God together as a family. As we worship, we are to worship God in spirit and in truth based on the written of Word of God. Speaking of the Word, that is what the church is to be proclaiming. Joe mentions Liturgy which many churches don't know what this is. A good liturgy, according to Joe, takes the Christian from guilt to praise. To make the Christian see the ruin of their sin and the grace that God has given them in Christ. Joe does say there is no Biblical grounds for a liturgy, but he can testify to the benefits it can bring.
The final section of the book deals with the church being sent out into the world. The church is not a retreat for the saved, though many churches have made it that way, but it is where we receive our marching orders from the Savior. Joe encourages his readers that we must participate in the culture around us. Whether it is a neighborhood watch program or a soccer team. We must be engaged with the culture in various ways. We are also to be in conversations with the culture. That means evangelize. Share Jesus using words, which is something Joe stressed on. Finally, Joe addresses multiplication which means being involved and interested in churches beyond your walls. Being involved in church planting and church revitalization.
Joe Thorn once again delivers another great book on the church. Just like his other books, the chapters are to the point for anyone to pick up and read.
Thanks Moody Publishers for letting me review this book.
Monday, March 27, 2017
Book Review: The Character of the Church by Joe Thorn
This is second of three books that Joe has written on about the nature of the church. This one deals with what makes up the local church. Joe begins by stating many, including Christians, have the wrong idea about the church. Some would say it is the building while others think it is a movement. Joe addresses those who are part of God's universal church, which are those who have been truly saved by God which is called the invisible church. Then there are those who are part of a local church that attend weekly meetings. They are either saved or not which is called the visible church.
The rest of the book deals with what the church does and how the church conducts itself. First, it is the Word rightly preached. Joe starts this section of the book going over the Bible's authority, sufficiency, and its usefulness. Next, we have the ordinances of the church that are used correctly. Joe does deal with baptism which he gives a good, solid teaching on believer's baptism followed by what is the Lord's Supper. Joe takes time to address in who shall partake in the Lord's Supper which is an area of disagreement for Christians with the exception that only those who are saved shall partake of it.
Next, Joe addresses the leadership of the church. Every church has one chief shepherd and that is Jesus Christ. Regarding who shall serve as leaders, Joe talks about elders, which are the pastors of the church who provide spiritual leadership, and deacons, who are the ones who take care of the physical needs of the church. Joe takes time to address the congregation and what their roles along with church membership.
Later, we read about church discipline and how it should play a vital role in every congregation. Finally, Joe talks about the mission of the church which is divided into two parts: discipleship and evangelism. The church is called to make disciples to follow Jesus and to share the gospel so other can put their faith in Jesus.
As we Joe's previous book, The Heart of the church, he gets right to the point without chasing any rabbits. The chapters are short easy to read for anyone who wants to know more about what the church is and what is does. I appreciated his chapter on whom shall partake of the Lord's Supper. That is one thing church leaders need to have more of a discussion about.
Thanks Moody Publishers for letting me review this book.
Thursday, March 9, 2017
Book Review: The Heart of the Church by Joe Thorn
The church needs to take its roots back in the gospel. Joe has written a book geared toward that called, The Heart of The Church: The Gospel's History, Message, and Meaning. This is the first of the three books (more like booklets) that Joe has written on the church. The other two focus on the character and life of the church. This one deals with what the gospel is and how God saves us.
Joe begins with the history of scripture by going over what is the Bible and its theme. He goes to address what happened in the beginning that allowed sin to come in the world which produced the promise of a Messiah, who will bring about our salvation. Next, Joe talks about the importance of the life of Christ which is important to the gospel message. Then we come to the Resurrection where that is the one thing that confirms the gospel because without it, we would be still in our sins and looked on as fools.
The next section is on what the doctrine of the gospel which is what God did in saving us and what savings us is suppose to bring forth. Finally, Joe shows us God's work as shown in the gospel. Our salvation is all about God. God condemns justly, saves sovereignly, atones effectively, calls irresistibly, and sustains faithfully. If you think this addresses the five points of Calvinism, you are correct, which Joe beautifully shows the truth of the gospel in these last five chapters.
This book is amazing. I had a hard time putting it down. Joe writes in a way that is to the point without going into much jargon. His writing is clear especially in the final five chapters of the book. As I mentioned, this is the first of three books on the church. I am eager to dive into the other books.
Thanks Moody Publishers for letting me review this book.
Tuesday, October 18, 2016
Joe Thorn on Coveting and Contentment
This sermon by Joe Thorn was delivered in 2013 at Coram Deo Church.
Books by Joe Thorn:
Note to Self: The Discipline of Preaching to Yourself
Experiencing the Trinity: The Grace of God for the People of God
Books by Joe Thorn:
Note to Self: The Discipline of Preaching to Yourself
Experiencing the Trinity: The Grace of God for the People of God
Friday, May 13, 2016
Around The Web-May 13, 2016
Christ's Call to Make Disciples by R.C. Sproul
Is there a difference between male and female? by Denny Burk
The Means of Grace by Joe Thorn
3 Lessons I’ve Learned from the Reformation by Harry Reeder
A Black Man’s Hope for Complementarians by Taelor Gray
Who Made Satan? by Matt Smethurst
After watching this video, you may never look at Doritos the same way again.
How many of you remember Voltron? I sure do. It was one of my favorite cartoons as a kid. Even got the series on DVD. I don't think I have watched all of it yet. Anyway, NetFlix has a reboot of the series coming in next month and I am excited.
Is there a difference between male and female? by Denny Burk
The Means of Grace by Joe Thorn
3 Lessons I’ve Learned from the Reformation by Harry Reeder
A Black Man’s Hope for Complementarians by Taelor Gray
Who Made Satan? by Matt Smethurst
After watching this video, you may never look at Doritos the same way again.
How many of you remember Voltron? I sure do. It was one of my favorite cartoons as a kid. Even got the series on DVD. I don't think I have watched all of it yet. Anyway, NetFlix has a reboot of the series coming in next month and I am excited.
Friday, March 18, 2016
Around The Web-March 18, 2016
“I Don’t Feel At Home In the Republican Party Anymore” by Trevin Wax
The Theology of Donald Trump by Michael Horton
Does The Bible Have Errors by R.C. Sproul
Confessions: Thick or Thin? by Jonathan Leeman
Confessions: Old or New? by Bobby Jamieson
Joe Thorn on the These Go to 11 Podcast discussing did Satan wanted Jesus to die and Easter services
Dave Jenkins and Jason Garwood on the meaning of Good Friday
John Piper discusses his new book, A Peculiar Glory, which is on sale along with other books
Time for a little humor and theological truth from Donall and Conall as they talk with Richard Dawkins
The Theology of Donald Trump by Michael Horton
Does The Bible Have Errors by R.C. Sproul
Confessions: Thick or Thin? by Jonathan Leeman
Confessions: Old or New? by Bobby Jamieson
Joe Thorn on the These Go to 11 Podcast discussing did Satan wanted Jesus to die and Easter services
Dave Jenkins and Jason Garwood on the meaning of Good Friday
John Piper discusses his new book, A Peculiar Glory, which is on sale along with other books
Time for a little humor and theological truth from Donall and Conall as they talk with Richard Dawkins
Wednesday, February 17, 2016
The Necessity of Confessions
Earlier this month, I wrote that creeds and confessions are expressions of the faith. I did not say the church should have one yet many in the church think that way because we have the Bible.
In this post, Joe Thorn writes about the importance and why the church needs confessions of faith:
For twenty years, I have considered myself a “confessional Christian.” That means I subscribe to a historic confession of faith that I believe beautifully and accurately summarizes the Christian faith. This doesn’t surprise people who know me. I tend to wear my convictions on my sleeve. Literally. The tattoos that cover my chest and arms speak to the faith I hold dear. The tattoo on my hand reads “1689” for the 1689 Baptist Confession of Faith.
Because I love God, I love his word. And because I love God and his word, I love theology. And because I love theology, I love confessions of faith. To know God is to believe who he has revealed himself to be in Christ, to rest in his grace, and to obey him in faith. In all of this, we are dependent on the Holy Scripture, and are compelled to affirm and articulate the truths revealed therein. This is where confessions of faith play a vital role in the spiritual health of the Christian and the local church.
No Creed Except the Bible?
A confession of faith is a clearly articulated statement of what a group of Christians believe about God, the gospel, the church, and the Christian life. Presbyterians are well-known for the development and use of their Westminster Confession and Catechisms to great effect.
Of course, Presbyterians are not alone in their confessional heritage. Baptists, Congregationalists, Lutherans, and Anglicans all have a long history of writing up and using confessional standards in their churches. But today confessionalism is largely absent in evangelical churches. This may be due in part to the rise of independent, non-denominational churches that do not have close ties to denominations or bodies of churches working together. Or in some instances, it may simply be the result of a lack of theological conviction.
Even with the growing interest in Calvinism among evangelicals in recent years, too often the resurging interest in doctrine has not led to a robust understanding of Reformed theology or an embrace of Reformed confessions.
In my own context, I occasionally hear some Baptists say things like, “We need no creed but the Bible.” While I affirm their belief in the supremacy and sufficiency of the Scripture, such a sentiment ignores the purpose and use of confessions. And by the way, such a statement is itself a confession.
Proper confessions of faith, like Westminster, or the 1689 Baptist Confession, serve four purposes: clarity, unity, charity, and safety.
1. Clarity
Confessions identify core Christian beliefs in the context of a world that does not believe the truth and popular teaching that does not conform to doctrine that accords with godliness. If we are to know the truth, we must be able to explain it beyond simply quoting the Bible. This is, in part, why God gave the church teachers — to unpack the truths of Scripture.
What do we believe? What matters to us as the people of God? A confession lays this out for all to see. And keep in mind, confessions do not function as an authority on their own, but direct us toward truth and reaffirm the Scripture as God’s perfect and authoritative word for the church.
2. Unity
In identifying core beliefs, confessions provide a basis for doctrinal unity within a church and between like-minded churches. Before there can be a community of faith, there must be a faith to confess. The very basis of our communion and community is the truth of God and his gospel.
It is not enough to want to be together, or to even affirm that “Jesus is Lord.” We must be bound together by the faith once for all delivered to the saints clearly presented in the language of the people. Such unity is not only desirable with modern churches, but the churches that have gone before us. A confessional church does not view itself as an island to itself, but a part of the great continent of the church.
3. Charity
Yes, confessions draw important lines of distinction between various churches or denominations, but even then they will reveal that our differences are either of secondary or essential importance.
For example, the 1689 Baptist Confession of Faith is the common confession of Reformed Baptist churches. It was written in 1677 during a time of persecution by the Church of England against dissenters, and would not be publicly affirmed and signed until 1689 when the Act of Toleration passed giving freedom to Protestants who differed from the state church.
Baptists built this confession upon the labors of our Presbyterian and Congregational brothers’ work; namely, the Westminster Confession of Faith and Savoy Declaration. They used these earlier confessions because they believed them to be biblical and well-written expressions of the faith. Baptists edited these confessions to point out their own theological distinctives as Baptists. In doing this, Baptists demonstrated much agreement with these and other groups of believers while remaining faithful to their theological convictions.
4. Safety
Confessions are not only a public affirmation of doctrine, but are also a means of instruction and a help in shielding the church from error. Creeds and confessions have historically developed in the context of theological disagreement or heresy, where the church was forced to clearly demonstrate what the word of God says in matters of great importance. A church without a confession is a church that is under-protected against the assaults of the enemy, who desires to create confusion over, and cast doubt upon, the word of God.
Every church needs a confession. It is popular today to draw up our own, and while this is much better than no confession, too many of these are thin, poorly written, and incomplete, lacking the attention to detail the groups of pastor-theologians have often labored over in earlier generations.
A confessional church is a church that believes the truth is worth knowing and making known. It is a church that unites with the churches that have gone before it. It is a church that desires clarity, unity, charity and safety for the people of God.
In this post, Joe Thorn writes about the importance and why the church needs confessions of faith:
For twenty years, I have considered myself a “confessional Christian.” That means I subscribe to a historic confession of faith that I believe beautifully and accurately summarizes the Christian faith. This doesn’t surprise people who know me. I tend to wear my convictions on my sleeve. Literally. The tattoos that cover my chest and arms speak to the faith I hold dear. The tattoo on my hand reads “1689” for the 1689 Baptist Confession of Faith.
Because I love God, I love his word. And because I love God and his word, I love theology. And because I love theology, I love confessions of faith. To know God is to believe who he has revealed himself to be in Christ, to rest in his grace, and to obey him in faith. In all of this, we are dependent on the Holy Scripture, and are compelled to affirm and articulate the truths revealed therein. This is where confessions of faith play a vital role in the spiritual health of the Christian and the local church.
No Creed Except the Bible?
A confession of faith is a clearly articulated statement of what a group of Christians believe about God, the gospel, the church, and the Christian life. Presbyterians are well-known for the development and use of their Westminster Confession and Catechisms to great effect.
Of course, Presbyterians are not alone in their confessional heritage. Baptists, Congregationalists, Lutherans, and Anglicans all have a long history of writing up and using confessional standards in their churches. But today confessionalism is largely absent in evangelical churches. This may be due in part to the rise of independent, non-denominational churches that do not have close ties to denominations or bodies of churches working together. Or in some instances, it may simply be the result of a lack of theological conviction.
Even with the growing interest in Calvinism among evangelicals in recent years, too often the resurging interest in doctrine has not led to a robust understanding of Reformed theology or an embrace of Reformed confessions.
In my own context, I occasionally hear some Baptists say things like, “We need no creed but the Bible.” While I affirm their belief in the supremacy and sufficiency of the Scripture, such a sentiment ignores the purpose and use of confessions. And by the way, such a statement is itself a confession.
Proper confessions of faith, like Westminster, or the 1689 Baptist Confession, serve four purposes: clarity, unity, charity, and safety.
1. Clarity
Confessions identify core Christian beliefs in the context of a world that does not believe the truth and popular teaching that does not conform to doctrine that accords with godliness. If we are to know the truth, we must be able to explain it beyond simply quoting the Bible. This is, in part, why God gave the church teachers — to unpack the truths of Scripture.
What do we believe? What matters to us as the people of God? A confession lays this out for all to see. And keep in mind, confessions do not function as an authority on their own, but direct us toward truth and reaffirm the Scripture as God’s perfect and authoritative word for the church.
2. Unity
In identifying core beliefs, confessions provide a basis for doctrinal unity within a church and between like-minded churches. Before there can be a community of faith, there must be a faith to confess. The very basis of our communion and community is the truth of God and his gospel.
It is not enough to want to be together, or to even affirm that “Jesus is Lord.” We must be bound together by the faith once for all delivered to the saints clearly presented in the language of the people. Such unity is not only desirable with modern churches, but the churches that have gone before us. A confessional church does not view itself as an island to itself, but a part of the great continent of the church.
3. Charity
Yes, confessions draw important lines of distinction between various churches or denominations, but even then they will reveal that our differences are either of secondary or essential importance.
For example, the 1689 Baptist Confession of Faith is the common confession of Reformed Baptist churches. It was written in 1677 during a time of persecution by the Church of England against dissenters, and would not be publicly affirmed and signed until 1689 when the Act of Toleration passed giving freedom to Protestants who differed from the state church.
Baptists built this confession upon the labors of our Presbyterian and Congregational brothers’ work; namely, the Westminster Confession of Faith and Savoy Declaration. They used these earlier confessions because they believed them to be biblical and well-written expressions of the faith. Baptists edited these confessions to point out their own theological distinctives as Baptists. In doing this, Baptists demonstrated much agreement with these and other groups of believers while remaining faithful to their theological convictions.
4. Safety
Confessions are not only a public affirmation of doctrine, but are also a means of instruction and a help in shielding the church from error. Creeds and confessions have historically developed in the context of theological disagreement or heresy, where the church was forced to clearly demonstrate what the word of God says in matters of great importance. A church without a confession is a church that is under-protected against the assaults of the enemy, who desires to create confusion over, and cast doubt upon, the word of God.
Every church needs a confession. It is popular today to draw up our own, and while this is much better than no confession, too many of these are thin, poorly written, and incomplete, lacking the attention to detail the groups of pastor-theologians have often labored over in earlier generations.
A confessional church is a church that believes the truth is worth knowing and making known. It is a church that unites with the churches that have gone before it. It is a church that desires clarity, unity, charity and safety for the people of God.
Friday, February 5, 2016
Around The Web-February 5, 2016
Jared Wilson talks Ministry and Calling
5 Rookie Pastor Mistakes by Hershael York
5 Ways To Love Your Wife by Darrin Patrick
Paul Tripp on the spiritual battle with weight loss
The Reformed Pubcast talks with Joe Thorn about the Devil
The latest book from 9 Marks, The Church In Hard Places, is now available at Westminster Bookstore
Russell Moore on how to engage politics through hymns.
R.C. Sproul on true forgiveness.
5 Rookie Pastor Mistakes by Hershael York
5 Ways To Love Your Wife by Darrin Patrick
Paul Tripp on the spiritual battle with weight loss
The Reformed Pubcast talks with Joe Thorn about the Devil
The latest book from 9 Marks, The Church In Hard Places, is now available at Westminster Bookstore
Russell Moore on how to engage politics through hymns.
R.C. Sproul on true forgiveness.
Friday, August 28, 2015
Around The Web-August 28, 2015
The Bible is Not an Instruction Manuel by Jared C Wilson
WTS Books has two specials going on. The first with Russell Moore's latest book, Onward along with other books. The second is with The Reader's Gospel.
Joe Thorn was on the Reformed Pubcast in the episode called, Grumpy Old Baptists
Scholars Say "Gospel of Jesus's Wife" Probably a Fake
Cough Drop Christianity by Jeremy Wilson
Should Christians “Disown” Gay Sons and Daughters? by Jonathan Leeman
Five Words Which Could Change Your Bible Study by Mike Leake
Michael Boling on The Doctrine of Election
WTS Books has two specials going on. The first with Russell Moore's latest book, Onward along with other books. The second is with The Reader's Gospel.
Joe Thorn was on the Reformed Pubcast in the episode called, Grumpy Old Baptists
Scholars Say "Gospel of Jesus's Wife" Probably a Fake
Cough Drop Christianity by Jeremy Wilson
Should Christians “Disown” Gay Sons and Daughters? by Jonathan Leeman
Five Words Which Could Change Your Bible Study by Mike Leake
Michael Boling on The Doctrine of Election
Friday, May 29, 2015
Around The Web-May 29, 2015
The guys over at The Reformed Pubcast has created a new website called The Reformed Pub. Check it out.
When Your Heart Isn't In It by Joe Thorn
Why Are Behaviors the Bible Condemns Considered ‘Morally Acceptable’ by Christians? by Joe Carter
What Are Justification and Sanctification? by Guy Waters
Matt Chandler Apologizes for Lack of Compassion in Church Discipline Cases
A Requiem for the Boy Scouts by Albert Mohler
How many of you have seen the "Thug Life" videos? Have you seen the ones put together by Baptist Humor? I would like to share a couple of my favorites featuring Voddie Baucham, Steven Lawson, and John MacArthur.
When Your Heart Isn't In It by Joe Thorn
Why Are Behaviors the Bible Condemns Considered ‘Morally Acceptable’ by Christians? by Joe Carter
What Are Justification and Sanctification? by Guy Waters
Matt Chandler Apologizes for Lack of Compassion in Church Discipline Cases
A Requiem for the Boy Scouts by Albert Mohler
How many of you have seen the "Thug Life" videos? Have you seen the ones put together by Baptist Humor? I would like to share a couple of my favorites featuring Voddie Baucham, Steven Lawson, and John MacArthur.
Friday, May 8, 2015
Around The Web-May 8, 2015
Why Bible Study Isn't Enough by Jeff Vanderstelt
Why Not to Have a Woman Preach by Thomas Schreiner
The Blessings of Bivocational Ministry by D.A. Horton
The Glory of the Cross Displayed in Daily Following Christ in Everyday Life by Dave Jenkins
This video is a trailer to Jared C Wilson's latest book, The Prodigal Church
Justin Taylor talks with Joe Thorn about his latest book, Experiencing The Trinity
Why Not to Have a Woman Preach by Thomas Schreiner
The Blessings of Bivocational Ministry by D.A. Horton
The Glory of the Cross Displayed in Daily Following Christ in Everyday Life by Dave Jenkins
This video is a trailer to Jared C Wilson's latest book, The Prodigal Church
Justin Taylor talks with Joe Thorn about his latest book, Experiencing The Trinity
Tuesday, March 31, 2015
Christ Empowers Us To Live For Him
The love of Jesus for His people was of the highest order (John 15:13). He laid down His life for His friends-unworthy sinners who needed redemption. By His loving and sacrificial death you are rescued from sin and hell and a powerless life of futility...Those for whom Jesus has died are empowered to live for Him instead of for themselves.
Joe Thorn, Experiencing The Trinity
Joe Thorn, Experiencing The Trinity
Wednesday, October 15, 2014
How Can You Love Your Brothers and Sisters In Christ?
Jesus said we are to love one another (John 13:34-35). Many Christians just do not know how to. Joe Thorn wrote a post on 10 ways for believers to love their brothers in Christ:
1. Put Them First
"Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves." (Phil. 2:3)
Self-denial lives at the center of love. True love denies self and supports another. Putting others first should be more than an act of humility, but an act of affection. It's not that we think so little of ourselves, but that we feel so warmly toward our brothers and sisters in Christ that we are happy to lay aside our interests and preferences so that another may experience blessing.
2. Seek Their Good
"always seek to do good to one another" (1 Thess. 5:15)
Love does more than put someone else first. One's desires may be destructive, or their path may lead to danger. Love will seek their good, their betterment, their advancement. The questions we ask must be, "How can I personally help my brother do well?" "How can I serve my sister so that she prospers in faith and life?"
3. Ask for Their Forgiveness/Forgive Them
"forgiving each other; as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive." (Col. 3:13)
If you love your fellow saints then you will ask for their forgiveness when you sin against them, and will freely forgive them when they sin against you. Sin grieves the heart of a believer for in it we know we have sinned against the Lord, hurt someone made in the image of God and recreated in the image of Jesus Christ. And as a people who have been forgiven of far worse crimes than have been committed against us, we must also forgive those who sin against us.
4. Listen to Them
"be quick to hear" (James 1:19)
Love listens. Just as God hears us when we call to him, so must we listen to others. We need to listen in order to gain understanding either of truth, or of the one speaking. Until we listen to another we are ill-equipped to know their needs and seek their good.
5. Include Them
"Show hospitality to one another without grumbling." (1 Pet. 4:9)
Hospitality is a welcoming of others into your life. Love includes; it draws near to others and invites them in. It will not dismiss people because they are different or difficult, but will pursue them and offer them a place at the table. Love looks around, sees the uninvolved or unknown, and extends a hand of welcome.
6. Be Generous
"You will be enriched in every way to be generous in every way" (2 Cor. 9:11)
God has given you what you have for more than your own personal enjoyment. You are called by God to steward what he has entrusted you by sharing it with others. Love seeks to give, and give big. As John Calvin said, “the legitimate use of all our gifts is a kind and liberal communication of them with others.”
7. Sacrifice
"Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends." (Jn. 15:13)
Generosity is important, but it's easy to pick and choose what we will be generous with. Many today have an easier time parting with their money than their time. They would rather be generous with their wallet than their calendar. Such "generosity" is giving without real sacrifice. Love, in denying self, goes farther than an easy offering. Love gives untill it hurts. If you love your brothers and sisters it will be seen in your willingness to sacrifice what you have, and even yourself, for their good.
8. Tell the Truth
"let each one of you speak the truth with his neighbor, for we are members one of another." (Eph. 4:25)
Love doesn't lie. In fact, it speaks truth. This isn't about offering true opinions, but truth itself. It is willing to offer hard words when needed. Love corrects, rebukes even, but not from a mere love for truth. It is also connected to a sense of concern and compassion for people.
9. Encourage Them with the Gospel
"Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing." (1 Thess. 5:11)
Love doesn't flatter, but it does encourage. Biblical encouragement is a kind of preaching; a gospel word offered to those who need it. Love points people to Jesus Christ, in whom we see love in its brightest display. Those around you need to hear how the good news of Jesus' life, death, and resurrection, remains good news for them today. It's not just for the lost. It is for the found. For without it we drift back to false hopes, doubts, and fears.
10. Pray for Them
"pray for one another" (James 5:16)
If you love your brothers and sisters you will pray for them. It is sad that we so often quickly;y promise, "I'll pray for ya!" only to walk away and never approach God on their behalf. Even sadder is that those who need the prayer are happy enough with the false promise. They appreciate the nice thought, and think it's better than nothing. But it's not. It's just nothing. Love prays. It seeks God's action in their lives. It pleads with God for greater grace on behalf of others. And to this God responds.
There are many other ways in which we should be loving one another in the church, but here's a start. Let us love not "in word or talk but in deed and in truth." (1Jn. 3:18) We can do this because we have come to know the love of God through the death of Jesus Christ. We have been saved by love (Rom. 5:8) and for love (1 Peter 1:22).
1. Put Them First
"Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves." (Phil. 2:3)
Self-denial lives at the center of love. True love denies self and supports another. Putting others first should be more than an act of humility, but an act of affection. It's not that we think so little of ourselves, but that we feel so warmly toward our brothers and sisters in Christ that we are happy to lay aside our interests and preferences so that another may experience blessing.
2. Seek Their Good
"always seek to do good to one another" (1 Thess. 5:15)
Love does more than put someone else first. One's desires may be destructive, or their path may lead to danger. Love will seek their good, their betterment, their advancement. The questions we ask must be, "How can I personally help my brother do well?" "How can I serve my sister so that she prospers in faith and life?"
3. Ask for Their Forgiveness/Forgive Them
"forgiving each other; as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive." (Col. 3:13)
If you love your fellow saints then you will ask for their forgiveness when you sin against them, and will freely forgive them when they sin against you. Sin grieves the heart of a believer for in it we know we have sinned against the Lord, hurt someone made in the image of God and recreated in the image of Jesus Christ. And as a people who have been forgiven of far worse crimes than have been committed against us, we must also forgive those who sin against us.
4. Listen to Them
"be quick to hear" (James 1:19)
Love listens. Just as God hears us when we call to him, so must we listen to others. We need to listen in order to gain understanding either of truth, or of the one speaking. Until we listen to another we are ill-equipped to know their needs and seek their good.
5. Include Them
"Show hospitality to one another without grumbling." (1 Pet. 4:9)
Hospitality is a welcoming of others into your life. Love includes; it draws near to others and invites them in. It will not dismiss people because they are different or difficult, but will pursue them and offer them a place at the table. Love looks around, sees the uninvolved or unknown, and extends a hand of welcome.
6. Be Generous
"You will be enriched in every way to be generous in every way" (2 Cor. 9:11)
God has given you what you have for more than your own personal enjoyment. You are called by God to steward what he has entrusted you by sharing it with others. Love seeks to give, and give big. As John Calvin said, “the legitimate use of all our gifts is a kind and liberal communication of them with others.”
7. Sacrifice
"Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends." (Jn. 15:13)
Generosity is important, but it's easy to pick and choose what we will be generous with. Many today have an easier time parting with their money than their time. They would rather be generous with their wallet than their calendar. Such "generosity" is giving without real sacrifice. Love, in denying self, goes farther than an easy offering. Love gives untill it hurts. If you love your brothers and sisters it will be seen in your willingness to sacrifice what you have, and even yourself, for their good.
8. Tell the Truth
"let each one of you speak the truth with his neighbor, for we are members one of another." (Eph. 4:25)
Love doesn't lie. In fact, it speaks truth. This isn't about offering true opinions, but truth itself. It is willing to offer hard words when needed. Love corrects, rebukes even, but not from a mere love for truth. It is also connected to a sense of concern and compassion for people.
9. Encourage Them with the Gospel
"Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing." (1 Thess. 5:11)
Love doesn't flatter, but it does encourage. Biblical encouragement is a kind of preaching; a gospel word offered to those who need it. Love points people to Jesus Christ, in whom we see love in its brightest display. Those around you need to hear how the good news of Jesus' life, death, and resurrection, remains good news for them today. It's not just for the lost. It is for the found. For without it we drift back to false hopes, doubts, and fears.
10. Pray for Them
"pray for one another" (James 5:16)
If you love your brothers and sisters you will pray for them. It is sad that we so often quickly;y promise, "I'll pray for ya!" only to walk away and never approach God on their behalf. Even sadder is that those who need the prayer are happy enough with the false promise. They appreciate the nice thought, and think it's better than nothing. But it's not. It's just nothing. Love prays. It seeks God's action in their lives. It pleads with God for greater grace on behalf of others. And to this God responds.
There are many other ways in which we should be loving one another in the church, but here's a start. Let us love not "in word or talk but in deed and in truth." (1Jn. 3:18) We can do this because we have come to know the love of God through the death of Jesus Christ. We have been saved by love (Rom. 5:8) and for love (1 Peter 1:22).
Friday, August 9, 2013
Around The Web-August 9, 2013
Joe Thorn and a few friends write about what books all pastors should read
Ten Things Pastors Like Least About Their Jobs by Thom Rainer
Uniquely Wired, Uniquely Placed by Matt Chandler
9 Things You Should Know About Human Trafficking by Joe Carter
Rodney Stark says that attendance in local churches are at an all-time high in American
Ten Things Pastors Like Least About Their Jobs by Thom Rainer
Uniquely Wired, Uniquely Placed by Matt Chandler
9 Things You Should Know About Human Trafficking by Joe Carter
Rodney Stark says that attendance in local churches are at an all-time high in American
Friday, July 5, 2013
Around The Web-July 5, 2013
Beasts, yet Cowards by Joe Thorn
Aaron Armstrong reviews Eric Mason's book, Manhood Restored
10 Things Every Christians Should Know About Islam by Zane Pratt
Broad Coalition Says Contraception Mandate a Religious Liberty Threat
A couple of years ago, Matt Chandler was preaching at one of the Acts 29 Bootcamps talking about fulfilling your ministry when he does an impersonation of Mark Driscoll.
Aaron Armstrong reviews Eric Mason's book, Manhood Restored
10 Things Every Christians Should Know About Islam by Zane Pratt
Broad Coalition Says Contraception Mandate a Religious Liberty Threat
A couple of years ago, Matt Chandler was preaching at one of the Acts 29 Bootcamps talking about fulfilling your ministry when he does an impersonation of Mark Driscoll.
Thursday, May 30, 2013
Why Is It Called A Worship Service?
Joe Thorn:
As we gather for worship this Sunday let's consider that it's called a worship "service" for a reason. Corporate worship is both the celebration and depiction of the gospel. In the gospel we believe in Jesus Christ as the Son of God who has made full and complete atonement for our sins. We receive him. Our Savior came to serve us (Mt. 20:28). Christianity is more about receiving than doing. It does not neglect duty. In fact what we receive empowers us to act. But ours is a faith that accepts before working.
And so our gathered worship is itself a service of the good news. We come together to receive the word and sacraments. We believe the gospel proclaimed in both. Yes, God's people offer praise and prayer and even ourselves to the Lord, but he is already our Lord. Our offerings are to him who has already done all the work necessary to save us. He is our God, and we are his people.
This is not merely a worship event. It is not simply a worship gathering. It is God's service to his people through the church. Come ready to receive what God offers freely in his Son Jesus Christ.
Be sure to check out Joe's first book, Note To Self: The Discipline of Preaching to Yourself
As we gather for worship this Sunday let's consider that it's called a worship "service" for a reason. Corporate worship is both the celebration and depiction of the gospel. In the gospel we believe in Jesus Christ as the Son of God who has made full and complete atonement for our sins. We receive him. Our Savior came to serve us (Mt. 20:28). Christianity is more about receiving than doing. It does not neglect duty. In fact what we receive empowers us to act. But ours is a faith that accepts before working.
And so our gathered worship is itself a service of the good news. We come together to receive the word and sacraments. We believe the gospel proclaimed in both. Yes, God's people offer praise and prayer and even ourselves to the Lord, but he is already our Lord. Our offerings are to him who has already done all the work necessary to save us. He is our God, and we are his people.
This is not merely a worship event. It is not simply a worship gathering. It is God's service to his people through the church. Come ready to receive what God offers freely in his Son Jesus Christ.
Be sure to check out Joe's first book, Note To Self: The Discipline of Preaching to Yourself
Saturday, October 13, 2012
How Big Is Jesus To You
And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross. Therefore God has highly exalted him and bestowed on him the name that is above every name, so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father (Philippians 2:8-11, ESV)
The bigger and more biblical your understanding of who Jesus is, the more likely he is to be such an object of love and adoration that the idols that aim at capturing your attention and swaying your allegiance will lose their power...Instead of making a joyful noise and singing earnestly for the victory Christ has over sin and death, you express a dispassionate approval and mouth the words to the words sung in worship. But there is often a fire in your belly and shouts for joy when your favorite college football team is victorious over the competition. This is probably why the church in North America-because small Jesus does not inspire awe, command respect, lead to worship, or compel us to talk of him (much less suffer for him). And small Jesus is too little to arrest the attention of the world.
So please remember-Jesus is bigger than you tend to think. He is the perfect revelation of God, the radiance of his glory, the exact imprint of his nature; he is the Creator and Sustainer of all that exists. Everything belongs to him and exists for him. He is the author of your salvation, the perfecter of your faith, and the only one in whom you can find life.
Joe Thorn, Note To Self
The bigger and more biblical your understanding of who Jesus is, the more likely he is to be such an object of love and adoration that the idols that aim at capturing your attention and swaying your allegiance will lose their power...Instead of making a joyful noise and singing earnestly for the victory Christ has over sin and death, you express a dispassionate approval and mouth the words to the words sung in worship. But there is often a fire in your belly and shouts for joy when your favorite college football team is victorious over the competition. This is probably why the church in North America-because small Jesus does not inspire awe, command respect, lead to worship, or compel us to talk of him (much less suffer for him). And small Jesus is too little to arrest the attention of the world.
So please remember-Jesus is bigger than you tend to think. He is the perfect revelation of God, the radiance of his glory, the exact imprint of his nature; he is the Creator and Sustainer of all that exists. Everything belongs to him and exists for him. He is the author of your salvation, the perfecter of your faith, and the only one in whom you can find life.
Joe Thorn, Note To Self
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