Recently, I have been working through a few books of Systematic Theology. That topic simply means that you take what the Bible says about a certain topic and then summarize it all in one place. Technically, you have more going on depending on the purposes of the author writing the book (history, philosophy, etc.), but … Continue reading Thinking About God: Encouragement from Perplexing Theology
“Don’t mess with Texas” reads the bumper sticker on the large pickup truck with the gun rack in the back window. The state motto for Texas is “friendship” and was chosen in 1830. The meaning comes from a local Indian word for “allies” or “friends.” But today the slogan that seems more popular at times … Continue reading The God Who is Like Texas
Recently I have been teaching through Baptist beliefs in Sunday School. Last week we discussed the idea of individual freedom in regards to belief and church membership. One of the key aspects of a Baptist church is the idea of voluntary association. In some church models, for example the Catholic church, membership is often involuntary. … Continue reading Can a Speeding Ticket Change Your Heart?
All your friends sit in your living room, having just dined sumptuously at your table, and now take up residence on your furniture. Tea and coffee have been served all around and a lively conversation keeps on going. In a bit, you will break out a game of Settlers of Catan or maybe something more relaxed, like Carcassonne. Much … Continue reading Better Than a Party
Students praying for my family in September, 2023. 2023 was a terrible year for me and my family. One of the worst things that could happen, did. Yes, I recognize that every bad situation could be worse. I recognize that others have gone through even more terrible and grievous situations. And at the same time, … Continue reading Anchors for the Soul: The Cloud of Witnesses and the Crowd of Witnesses
Robyn wanted her testimony read at her funeral. With a patch over one eye to stop her double vision, and with a finger on her iPhone’s swipe keyboard, Robyn composed her testimony. Sometimes she was able to use her laptop, but the awkward angle of her hospital bed didn't always allow this. But no matter … Continue reading Robyn’s Testimony: Her Final Words to the World
While studying the book of Proverbs, I stumbled on a quote that made me scratch my noggin. But this was only after I gasped in amazement because I thought I agreed with it. “Tradition means giving votes to the most obscure of all classes, our ancestors. It is the democracy of the dead. Tradition refuses … Continue reading The Democracy of the Dead
Jerry Bridges gives us the key to understanding trials in his book Trusting God. For those who have had a share of suffering and adversity, this nugget will be helpful. Bridges uses Job as a Biblical example of someone who experienced suffering and affliction. Bridges points out that Job asks God the same question we … Continue reading The Most Important Question to Ask in a Trial.
Monday is the day of Myron Houghton's funeral. Because of Covid-19 seating restrictions, it will also be lived-streamed here. While we grieve his absence, we do not grieve in hopelessness. He knew the Savior, the Lord of Lords. On Monday, we remember his life and ministry to us. But on Monday, as his is at … Continue reading Catalogue of Tributes to Dr. Myron Houghton
Dr. Bauder stared over his handle bar mustache. I knew I had said something that didn’t quite add up. His eyebrows communicated as much. Brett Williams had asked me a question, and I answered it in what I thought was a straightforward manner. But his confused look told me something was amiss. Another student asked … Continue reading Theology, Puns, and the Love of God: A tribute to Dr. Myron Houghton.
Thoughts Worth Thinking 