Incarnation Anyway

This one considers a counterfactual question: if Adam hadn’t sinned, would Jesus have come in the flesh anyway? It does so based on theological considerations and I think it is right and draws some helpful theological implications.

Brothers, Aspire to Be Lay Elders

‘Scott Corbin encourages young men to aspire to be lay elders rather than viewing the role as unimportant because it is unpaid or not an “official” staff position. For those who are biblically qualified for the role, serving as an elder is a great blessing to the church and a worthwhile use of your time and gifts for the sake of Christ’s kingdom.’

Random Thoughts about Preaching and Being Preached To

I found this one helpful from Tim Challies. As ever, with these kinds of lists, you may not agree with everything but you will almost certainly agree with something.

Hope in the Face of Death

‘Mr. Smith was not a Christian. He did not, as far as I knew, trust in Christ for his salvation. People must have thought I was nuts, reading my Bible, witnessing, and praying for a man in a catatonic state, but such is the power of the gospel—even in the face of imminent death, we can cry out in hope and prayer that Christ will save those we love.’

The Six Major Views of Baptism

I suspect there may be a few quibbles from some quarters about just what bracket they are said to fall under in this one. Anglicans are tricky inasmuch as it probably depends which specific Anglican you are discussing as to where they would land. However that notwithstanding, this is a useful outline of 6 main views on baptism.

Why Did God Reject Cain’s Offering?

I have thought about this story lots over the years. I have long come to some combination of the third and fourth options offered in this one. 

From the archive: What do we mean by ‘pastorally gifted’?

‘When considering ministry, or looking at people for ministry, I’ve heard lots of people comment – words to the effect – ‘he’s pastorally gifted’ or ‘they’ve definitely got pastoral skills’. I have always been fascinated by exactly what people mean when they say this.’