“Before baptism, the minister is to use some words of instruction, touching the institution, nature, use, and ends of this sacrament, shewing . . . that they [children] are Christians, and federally holy before baptism, and therefore are they baptized.” Westminster Directory for the Publick Worship of God, emphasis mine
The First Days
We are not living in the last days. When God created the heavens and earth, He rested on the seventh day, declaring that His work was complete, it was finished. But when our Lord Jesus recreated the heavens and earth, He rose from the dead on the first day, as much as to say, it …
Wives: The Neo-Legalism
Once there was a young man who liked to suit himself in all his leisure activities. He had very strong views on Christian liberty, believing that liberty to be threatened on every hand. Of course, in his mind Christian liberty was defined as the right to do whatever he felt like doing-watching grimy art films …
Eating the Cross
The cross of Jesus Christ attracts those chosen by God, and that same cross repels those who are perishing. The words of life are delicious to those who are being saved, and they are repulsive to those who rest in their own wisdom. In His discussion of His body and blood, the Lord Jesus scatters …
A Proud Stomach
Jesus teaches that all men whom the Father gives to Him will in fact come. He also says that no one can come on his own authority, at his own initiative. This meal is an “invitation only” event. At the same time, the whole world is invited — Jesus Christ is the bread of God …
From Now to the End of the World
God, Our Heavenly Father, We glorify Your name over every other name we know, and we ask for Your presence and blessing as we feast before You. You are the God of all gods, and Your Son, our Lord Jesus Christ, is the Lord of the Sabbath, and He rules over this day for our …
Just a Metaphor, Right?
Once a man thought to go to church and have a look around. He was not a true worshiper, but simply thought that joining the church would advance his business prospects in that community. There were many people who assembled there, and membership would surely be good for business. He was met at the door …
Monocovenantalism, a Great Word, or What?
One of the charges leveled against me for my Auburn Avenuing is that of monocovenantalism. But what is that, exactly? If the critics mean that I hold that there has only been one covenant throughout the history of mankind, then the charge is false. God made one covenant with mankind in Adam, and He made …
Thanks for Coming, Officer
The state of mind called Massachusetts is all set for homosexual marriages on Monday. A friend of mine put it well this morning. “Oh, great. Now John Kerry can marry Ted Kennedy.” Here is how the political skirmishing will go. Homosexual marriage, once legal in one state, will attract homosexual couples from the other 49 …
Barbecued Tofu
A certain man lived in a small town, a long way from any large city. One day, the Lord told this man that He wanted him to prepare a glorious barbecue that would feed everyone in that town. “Shall I send out invitations?” the man asked. “The smell of the meat cooking will be the …