Thursday, April 30, 2015
Authentic Devotion - Ben Stuart Sermon Jam
Wednesday, April 29, 2015
Wednesday, April 22, 2015
Book Review: Honest Evangelism by Rico Tice
If
there is anything that gets most Christians nervous, it's the topic of
evangelism. We get distracted, apathetic, preoccupied, fearful or overwhelmed.
Rico Tice seems to come alongside and say I know what you are feeling, I feel
it too. Rico Tice's approach to evangelism in "Honest Evangelism: How to
Talk about Jesus even when it's tough", is the approach of a friend that
knows how you feel. His work is the most honest approach to evangelism that
I've read. It's not a technical, expositional, historical, or case study
approach. It's one mans fears and hopes for evangelism, shared with the rest of
us.
His
first words of admitting evangelism is hard, puts us on the footing of work
that is ahead. Yet almost immediately, he provides a biblical hope in the task.
In
his first chapter Rico shows how believers are already equipped to share the
gospel. He warns of the inevitable hostility that people will exhibit and it is
that hostility that he sees as the main reason why people don't do evangelism.
What seems to be a helpful element in each chapter is showing how within the
problem lies the pathway to the solution: "The same rising tide of
secularism and materialism that rejects truth claims and is offended by absolute
moral standards is proving to be an empty and hollow way to live". The
interesting dichotomy that he presents in our task is how it is "more and
more likely to find people quietly hungering for the content of the gospel, even as our
culture teaches them to be hostile towards it"
Knowing
what to expect, in the second chapter Rico presents a helpful mindset to
present the gospel: "talk to people about Jesus because we want to, long
to, and are excited to, even though it's tough". The reality of the
consequences of hell provide the antithesis to delight.
Lest
we get too far a this point, Rico provides a helpful idol inventory in chapter
three, that might be getting in the way of our evangelism. Chapter four
provides the most solid theological examination through sovereignty, grace, and
power What would be a natural follow up to this theological foundation, chapter
five provides some helpful content to our message. From being quick to listen,
slow to speak (James 1:19 ), Rico suggests we present the truth
of the gospel from an everyday, natural part of our conversations with people.
From this everyday gospeling is a refreshing natural approach instead of all to
"now-I-am-sharing-the-gospel-with-you" canned methodology. In a
simple to remember summary, Rico suggest a "identity, mission, call"
description of Christ (2 Cor. 4:5 )
as a good summary of the gospel. Much like Jesus approach His own explanations,
Rico suggest checking understanding with questions. Ask who they think Jesus is
(Mk. 8:27 -29 ) Secondly, explain His mission: show why He
came (Mk. 8:30 ).
As an answer to guilt, death (Mk. 8:31 ). Finally, present His call (Mk. 8:34 ).
Rico obvious has the reader in mind at this point, for he invites the read to
consider if they have repented of their sin.
Chapter
6 tries to eliminate common excuses for evangelism and invites the reader to
just be themselves. Rico presents biblical examples of evangelism from Peter
(confrontational), Paul (intellectual) the ex-blind man (testimonial), and the
woman at the well (invitational). I would have appreciated more detail at this
point. I was wondering if it is appropriate to use an approach related to the
audience, although it may not be our usual way of thinking. In a brilliant
follow up to individual approaches, Rico points to the "striving
together" role that the church has. This section could have had a chapter
each, especially a "church wide" approach to evangelism.
In
"getting started (or re-started), in chapter seven, Rico surveys the
changing methodology of evangelism, giving modern barriers. This is one section
that I think many books on evangelism forget. Rico flat out presents the need
for time and effort in the task. His approach is unusual in suggesting that we
ask our audience particular questions. Finally, he presents the character
qualities necessary to not cause unnecessary offence His conclusion in chapter
8, reiterates the need for prayer, proclamation and availability. Naturally,
the appendix contains lists of helpful resources.
Honest
evangelism is honest: honest about fears and the future reality of the task. It
is hard to get much more personal. This work is an excellent addition for the
everyday believer in Christ to fulfill their calling to evangelize.
Monday, March 30, 2015
Should Canada ban the niqab? Athar Khan vs John Downs
Marissa Semkiw of TheRebel.media moderates this lively panel discussion:
Athar Khan, a Muslim activist, says this head covering is not Islamic but was imposed on the religion. "Non-Muslim liberals don't get it," he says. "This is part of a broader campaign" to introduce sharia to Canada. He wants the niqab banned outright.
Broadcaster John Downs disagrees, saying it isn't up to Prime Minister Stephen Harper (or anyone else to impose) their opinions about the niqab on the rest of Canada.
Is the niqab oppressive? Liberating? Voluntary? Imposed? It's a fascinating debate about freedom, rights and responsibilities that you'll want to keep going in the comments.
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Who are Canada's radical Muslim leaders? FIND OUT and fight back at CanadianJihad.ca
http://canadianjihad.ca/#/#petition
Friday, March 27, 2015
Debating Ontario's New Sex-Ed Curriculum: John Downs vs Christina Liu
Parent Christina Liu hopes this won't be the case. She says the program isn't age appropriate. For example, in Grade 3, children will learn about same-sex relationships.
Broadcaster John Downs says parents who oppose the curriculum are "hyping" the content," and in many cases are motivated by homophobia. He says children aren't receiving specific instructions on how to perform certain sexual acts.
Marissa Semkiw raises the troubling prospect that former Deputy Education Minister Benjamin Levin, who was recently convicted on child pornography charges, had influenced the curriculum's content.
JOIN TheRebel.media for more news and commentary you won’t find anywhere else.
http://www.TheRebel.media
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Ontario's sex-ed curriculum sexualizes young children, undermines parental authority and imposes the government's morality on every Ontario family. VISIT ProtectOurKids.ca to sign the petition:
http://www.ProtectOurKids.ca
Thursday, March 26, 2015
J. R. Miller - People with Sore and Bruised Hearts (Christian devotional)
http://vid.io/x3F
J. R. Miller - People with Sore and Bruised Hearts (Christian devotional)
Luke 7:37 A woman in that town who lived a sinful life learned that Jesus was eating at the Pharisee’s house, so she came there with an alabaster jar of perfume.
Matthew 11:28 “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.
J.R. Miller playlist: http://www.youtube.com/view_play_list...
Link to my "Christian Devotional Readings" Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Christ...
A Treasury of Ageless,
Sovereign Grace,
Devotional Writings http://www.gracegems.org/
James Russell Miller was born on March 20, 1840 at Frankfort Springs, Pennsylvania and died on July 2, 1912. Besides authoring over 80 books, booklets, and pamphlets, he was the Editorial Superintendent of the Presbyterian Board of Publication and a very active pastor in a succession of churches.
The crucible of his education was his service with the United States Christian Commission, an agency set up to minister to the troops, during the civil war. When the war ended he completed his theological studies and was ordained and installed on September 11, 1867. On June 22, 1870, when he was thirty, he married Miss Louise E. King.
The end of life on earth came without warning on the afternoon of July 2, 1912. JR's wife, Louise Miller, and their only daughter, Mary Wanamaker Miller (Mrs. W.B. Mount), were present, but it was impossible to summon the sons — William King Miller and Russell King Miller. One moment he seemed to be resting quietly; the next he was at rest.
He was one of the best selling Christian authors of his era. His books had a total circulation of over two million copies during his lifetime and in 1911 the Presbyterian Board of Publication, under his direction, published over 66 million copies of its periodicals.
Wednesday, March 25, 2015
John Piper: The Pursuit of Joy Is Not Optional
An excerpt from "When I Don't Desire God" by John Piper. Available now as a free Ligonier Connect course in partnership with desiringGod.org: https://connect.ligonier.org/school/c...
Tuesday, March 24, 2015
Is Jesus the Only Way to God?
Read more: http://www.reasonablefaith.org/the-de...
Tuesday, March 10, 2015
Becoming Worldly Saints, Michael Wittmer – Session 8 – What is Our Destiny?
Can you serve Jesus and still enjoy your life?
You long to be radically committed to Jesus, but you're not sure what that means for your everyday life. Do you want to...
• Enjoy your life but also make a difference for Jesus?
• Live a biblically balanced life, full of vibrancy and joy?
• Make wise day-to-day decisions that testify to the goodness of God?
You can seize the abundant life God has planned for you. Michael Wittmer's book and small group study will show you how.
Monday, March 09, 2015
Becoming Worldly Saints, Michael Wittmer – Session 7 – What is the Gospel? Where is the Kingdom?
Session 7 – What is the Gospel? Where is the Kingdom? To receive the FREE study guide and learn more visithttp://zondervanacademic.com/becoming...
Can you serve Jesus and still enjoy your life?
You long to be radically committed to Jesus, but you're not sure what that means for your everyday life. Do you want to...
• Enjoy your life but also make a difference for Jesus?
• Live a biblically balanced life, full of vibrancy and joy?
• Make wise day-to-day decisions that testify to the goodness of God?
You can seize the abundant life God has planned for you. Michael Wittmer's book and small group study will show you how.
Friday, March 06, 2015
Becoming Worldly Saints, Michael Wittmer – Session 6 – What’s Wrong with Us?
Can you serve Jesus and still enjoy your life?
You long to be radically committed to Jesus, but you're not sure what that means for your everyday life. Do you want to...
• Enjoy your life but also make a difference for Jesus?
• Live a biblically balanced life, full of vibrancy and joy?
• Make wise day-to-day decisions that testify to the goodness of God?
You can seize the abundant life God has planned for you. Michael Wittmer's book and small group study will show you how.
Thursday, March 05, 2015
Becoming Worldly Saints, Michael Wittmer – Session 5 – Why are We Here? Work and Rest
Can you serve Jesus and still enjoy your life?
You long to be radically committed to Jesus, but you're not sure what that means for your everyday life. Do you want to...
• Enjoy your life but also make a difference for Jesus?
• Live a biblically balanced life, full of vibrancy and joy?
• Make wise day-to-day decisions that testify to the goodness of God?
You can seize the abundant life God has planned for you. Michael Wittmer's book and small group study will show you how.
Wednesday, March 04, 2015
Becoming Worldly Saints, Michael Wittmer – Session 4 – Why are We Here? God and Neighbor
Session 4 – Why are We Here? God and Neighbor. To receive the FREE study guide and learn more visithttp://zondervanacademic.com/becoming...
Can you serve Jesus and still enjoy your life?
You long to be radically committed to Jesus, but you're not sure what that means for your everyday life. Do you want to...
• Enjoy your life but also make a difference for Jesus?
• Live a biblically balanced life, full of vibrancy and joy?
• Make wise day-to-day decisions that testify to the goodness of God?
You can seize the abundant life God has planned for you. Michael Wittmer's book and small group study will show you how.
Tuesday, March 03, 2015
Becoming Worldly Saints, Michael Wittmer – Session 3 – Right Living in God’s Good World
Session 3 – Right Living in God’s Good World. To receive the FREE study guide and learn more visithttp://zondervanacademic.com/becoming...
Can you serve Jesus and still enjoy your life?
You long to be radically committed to Jesus, but you're not sure what that means for your everyday life. Do you want to...
• Enjoy your life but also make a difference for Jesus?
• Live a biblically balanced life, full of vibrancy and joy?
• Make wise day-to-day decisions that testify to the goodness of God?
You can seize the abundant life God has planned for you. Michael Wittmer's book and small group study will show you how.
Monday, March 02, 2015
Becoming Worldly Saints, Michael Wittmer – Session 2 – Where are We?
Can you serve Jesus and still enjoy your life?
You long to be radically committed to Jesus, but you're not sure what that means for your everyday life. Do you want to...
• Enjoy your life but also make a difference for Jesus?
• Live a biblically balanced life, full of vibrancy and joy?
• Make wise day-to-day decisions that testify to the goodness of God?
You can seize the abundant life God has planned for you. Michael Wittmer's book and small group study will show you how.
Friday, February 27, 2015
Becoming Worldly Saints, Michael Wittmer – Session 1 – The Tension of Life
Can you serve Jesus and still enjoy your life?
You long to be radically committed to Jesus, but you're not sure what that means for your everyday life. Do you want to...
• Enjoy your life but also make a difference for Jesus?
• Live a biblically balanced life, full of vibrancy and joy?
• Make wise day-to-day decisions that testify to the goodness of God?
You can seize the abundant life God has planned for you. Michael Wittmer's book and small group study will show you how.
Thursday, February 26, 2015
Becoming Worldly Saints: Can You Serve Jesus and Still Enjoy Your Life? - Michael Wittmer
Can you serve Jesus and still enjoy your life?
You long to be radically committed to Jesus, but you're not sure what that means for your everyday life. Do you want to...
• Enjoy your life but also make a difference for Jesus?
• Live a biblically balanced life, full of vibrancy and joy?
• Make wise day-to-day decisions that testify to the goodness of God?
You can seize the abundant life God has planned for you. Michael Wittmer's book and small group study will show you how.
Wednesday, February 25, 2015
Jennifer Rothschild: Beauty of the Heart
View the complete program at: http://dod.org/programs/the-perfectio...
©2015 Our Daily Bread Ministries. All Rights Reserved.
Follow Day of Discovery on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/dayofdiscovery
Tuesday, February 24, 2015
Where Does Real Beauty Come From?
Every day, thousands of voices tell women and girls how they should look. Images and commercials scream for attention, promising that if you just wear this designer label or lose that weight, you’ll be acceptable.
The Perfection Deception gets to the heart of true beauty as defined by God. Join several women—Jennifer Strickland, a former model; Sabrina Black, a counselor; authors Regina Franklin and Jennifer Rothschild, along with several young women—as they discuss the pressure women face to be perfect . . . and the one true place they can find their heart’s desire.
©2015 Our Daily Bread Ministries. All Rights Reserved.
Follow Day of Discovery on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/dayofdiscovery
Monday, February 23, 2015
Searching for Identity
View the complete program, The Perfection Deception, at: http://www.dod.org/
Every day, thousands of voices tell women and girls how they should look. Images and commercials scream for attention, promising that if you just wear this designer label or lose that weight, you’ll be acceptable.
The Perfection Deception gets to the heart of true beauty as defined by God. Join several women—Jennifer Strickland, a former model; Sabrina Black, a counselor; authors Regina Franklin and Jennifer Rothschild, along with several young women—as they discuss the pressure women face to be perfect . . . and the one true place they can find their heart’s desire.
©2015 Our Daily Bread Ministries. All Rights Reserved.
Follow Day of Discovery on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/dayofdiscovery
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