Author's posts
Dec 06
The Promises of the OT, to the Hebrews, Do Apply to Us Believers
I was looking at Isaiah 43:1–2. These are wonderful words of loving promise. However, they are addressed to Jacob (and, by implication, the nation of Israel). My question was, does this apply to me as a 21st Century believer? Quick note: The phrase “Thus saith the Lord” appears in the King James OT over 400 …
Nov 24
Theocracy, Theology, Theonomy, and all that
Various terms using “theo,” including the etymology. Prefix “Theo-” = God (from Greek theos) 1. Theocracy Meaning: Rule or government under God’s authority.Other Part: -cracy = rule, power (kratos). 2. Theodicy Meaning: Defense of God’s goodness amidst the existence of evil and suffering.Other Part: -dicy from dikē = justice → “the justice of God.” 3. …
Nov 14
Art (paintings) by Leonid Afremov
Leonid Afremov developed a wonderful painting style using a palette knife and oil paint. Demonstrating an excellent use of (often bright) colors, he has a huge range of themes from rainy city streets to serene landscapes to actual locations and recognizable cathedrals. He passed away in 2019. On Twitter it was posted: “Artist Leonid Afremov …
Oct 20
Topping Off the Sermonic Meal
Here are some notes and take-aways from the article, here, by the same title. Just like a good meal needs a quality, and not skimpy, dessert, a sermon needs a sweet conclusion. “The goal of preaching is not ultimately to provide people with memorable information but transformational inspiration. If we preachers have done our job …
Sep 09
Longing for Home
The world has an inconsolable longing. It tries to satisfy the longing with scenic vacations, accomplishments of creativity, stunning cinematic productions, sexual exploits, sports extravaganzas, hallucinogenic drugs, ascetic rigors, managerial excellence, and so on. But the longing remains. What does this mean? Lewis says, “If I find in myself a desire which no experience in …
Aug 28
Past, Present, and Future in Perspective
Three questions: I put together this document to answer these questions, using scripture and quotes.
Jun 29
The hyrax makes it home in the rocks
First, what is hyrax and where is it in the Bible? Second, (and more importantly) what is the significance? I asked ChatGPT about the small mammal that lives (hides) in the rocks. The response is here: The animal you’re referring to is the hyrax, also known as the coney or rock badger in some Bible …
Jun 14
The Great Directives
Introduction and Background In the life of faith, we have the two Great Commandments and the Great Commission. Great Commandments In the Old Testament: In the New Testament: The Great Commission The Great Directives In addition to the great commands and the great commission, I lift up, what I am calling, the two great directives. …
Jun 09
Always Reforming Sermon/Speech by Augustus Lopes
Here is an excellent sermon/speech titled, “Semper Reformanda,” which means always reforming. Always reforming is a principle of the Reformed church. The address as a good description of history, geographical implications, the state of affairs of Christianity in the 21st Century and, most importantly, some suggestions for getting/keeping the church on track. Included is Os …
1 John 4:19
http://quoteseverlasting.com/quotations/category/c-s-lewis-2/