Applying the Word

2010-11-21T21:08:00.000-05:00

2010-11-21T21:06:00.000-05:00

2010-04-19T19:39:00.002-04:00

Blog is Moving!!!

2009-10-20T14:07:00.001-04:00

I am moving this blog to combine with my Reading for RETransform8tion blog.
Visit me here at the Living Water Blog

Why I Think Preaching is Serious... Even though I love to Laugh

2009-10-12T11:41:00.003-04:00

Check out this article from 9 Marks and Greg Gilbert. I don't want to fall prey to being the funny-man pastor, although I love the fact that we laugh so much at OPBC.

Why I Usually Don't Preach Politically Charged Sermons...

2009-10-09T20:53:00.003-04:00

There is plenty of "Christless" Preaching these days. Morality without Christ is NOT Christianity. Too often our emotions and our political ideals can cloud our understanding of the nature of "by grace through faith" Christianity. Too often preaching and "Christian" politics can prop up worldly affairs as preeminent over and above the affairs of the soul. Preaching like this leads to "white-washed tombs"... clean on the outside and dead and rotting on the inside. We don't need political sermons... we NEED the Gospel of Jesus Christ. The hope of the world is found in the Gospel... not in political "rightness"... pun intended.
Here is a lengthy quote from Michael Spencer ... I would challenge you to read the rest of the article HERE.

Sermons about moral and cultural problems. We live in a time of continuing moral breakdown. There is no doubt that the Judeo-Christian underpinnings of our culture are being eroded. Traditional values are under attack. The role of religion in society is disputed in almost every niche of the public square.

The church feels particularly sensitive to this breakdown. There is a sense of moral and prophetic outrage. Some Christians see the demise of cultural morality as proof Jesus will soon return. Others see moral breakdown as a threat to our children and our political freedoms.

For these reasons, many evangelical sermons deal with the moral and cultural crisis. This sort of preaching has a long history in evangelicalism, so we ought to know the dangers of preaching against saloons and movie theaters. But it seems we haven't learned our lesson.

A generous segment of today's social and cultural preaching is increasingly Christless. Instead of Jesus, the message is either personal moral fortitude or collective political action. Because this sort of preaching appeals to the fears and emotions of evangelicals, it is commonplace. Thanks to people like James Dobson, Jesus has become the patron saint of any conservative's social and political agenda. While many of these crusaders are doubtless correct on the Biblical worldview, they are also usually too busy getting us to the polls to get us to Christ.

The Bible is certainly not oblivious to moral issues. The prophetic voices in scripture testify to God's holy concern with how we treat one another, and how justice is exhibited in society. But the key to scripture is always Jesus, not moral or social reform. In some of his most shocking words, Jesus says that there is a comparison that can be made between religion that helps the poor and the Gospel that commands all men everywhere to repent and believe.

Evangelicals are emotionally--and politically--engaged with cultural battles like homosexual marriage and abortion. They have demonstrated substantial growth in their support of ministries of mercy. But some of this political and moral involvement has been at the cost of Christ-centered preaching. "The Crisis"--whatever it might be--is never the point of our discipleship. We are always followers of Jesus.

Young Married Couples...

2009-10-06T08:01:00.003-04:00

I have had the distinct honor of performing many weddings for young (and some not so young) couples. This past summer, several of our own young couples were married. Now, Focus on the Family has a new blog that is geared to helping young married couples in the first years of marriage. I hope it is a helpful tool.
Check out the Young Married Life blog here.

Online video chat by Ustream

The Bible and Facebook

2009-09-29T09:17:00.002-04:00

Here is a link to a great blog post from Steve Marquardt. Does the Bible have anything to say about how much time we spend on Facebook? Check it out for yourself here.

9Marks God Exposed Conference Live Blogging

2009-09-25T18:08:00.002-04:00

The first day sessions have been instructive and challenging. I am looking forward to tonight's session. I have had a great time eating with old friends and visiting with my sister's family as well.
Keep up to date on the conference and the messages by following the live blog at the 9Marks Blog.

God Exposed Conference...

2009-09-24T15:30:00.002-04:00

I have the great joy of attending the God Exposed Conference this weekend at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary. Great preachers will teach and discuss the need for expository preaching for healthy churches. The conference is co-sponsored by the Seminary and 9 Marks Ministry. I'll give updates after sessions.

Pray that this will be a fruitful time of learning and challenge. I also have the opportunity to see some old friends and my sister and her family.

This Sunday be prepared to answer the question from Nehemiah... On the Road to Revival: Will You Quit?

I Don't Wanna Be Like Mike...

2009-09-17T10:51:00.002-04:00

Thanks to Voddie Baucham for this timely and masterful article comparing the speeches (and therefore legacies) of Michael Jordan and David Robinson at the recent Basketball Hall of Fame ceremony. Consider the comparison.
READ THE ARTICLE HERE.

See David Robinson's Speech

I'd put Jordan's speech up, but it was too long... it takes three videos on YouTube.
You can watch it here... if you want.

Pray for a Great Commission Resurgence

2009-09-15T12:19:00.004-04:00

God has left us a mission to accomplish by His power and His presence with us. Our convention is in the middle of looking at an overhaul to focus on accomplishing this task. Will you pray for the Great Commission Resurgence Task Force and for a Great Commission Resurgence in the Southern Baptist Convention? Visit www.pray4gcr.com.

Prayer or Programs: Gospel or Gimmicks?

2009-09-11T09:51:00.003-04:00

As we consider prayer and Biblical living as the center of our Gospel community, here is an interesting article from Matt Schmucker at 9 Marks titled "Blessing of the Bikes (I'm Not Kidding!)" He visits lots of churches and shares an interesting experience.
What are we saying about ourselves as a church? Are we marked by the Gospel or by Gimmicks?

Read the article HERE.

Building a Biblical Worldview by Randy Alcorn

2009-08-29T22:51:00.001-04:00

Where do your ideas about God and life come from? Too often our "beliefs" are formed, or at least colored and tinted by the world, our friends, culture, or our emotions. Randy Alcorn has some great thoughts on believing and living the Word. Read it here.

Everyone Should Read this Post

2009-08-26T16:54:00.000-04:00

From Kevin DeYoung, a TREMENDOUS post on living the missional life when we are BUSY. Ever feel like you can't accomplish all you should for Christ, then check out this post and find HOPE.
Read it HERE.

Memorizing Scripture

2009-08-18T17:57:00.002-04:00

So often people tell me they have a difficult time memorizing Scripture. There are many tools for helping with this. And here is a new one from Michael Scott. It's called the Verse Card Maker and it will fetch your Scriptures and lay out business size cards for you to print... up to 100 of them. Just another helpful tool in the fight for holiness. Hide His Word in your heart that you might not sin against Him.
VERSE CARD MAKER

Success in Ministry

2009-08-14T10:42:00.003-04:00

What is Success in Ministry? Tony Payne has some thoughts worth reading... He will be posting 10 propositions for Christian ministry as he prepares for his new book on ministry. (Thanks Phil and JT for posting this) May we always be a church that concerns ourselves with what most concerns Christ

The measure of how ministry is progressing in your church or fellowship, and the way to evaluate whether you are making progress, is not attendance on Sunday, signed up members, people in small groups, or the size of our budget (as important and valuable as all these things are!). The real test is how successfully you are making disciples who make other disciples. Are we seeing people converted from being dead in their transgressions to being alive in Christ? And once converted, are we seeing them followed-up and established as mature disciples of Jesus? And as they become established, are we training them in knowledge, godliness and skills so that they will in turn make disciples of others?

This is the Great Commission—the making of disciples who obey all that Christ has taught, including the command to make disciples. And this is the touchstone of our faithfulness to Christ's mission in the world, and the sign of a healthy church: whether or not it is making genuine disciple-making disciples of Jesus Christ.

Stories and Kids... Monsters Under the Bed

2009-08-04T10:15:00.002-04:00

On the Al Mohler Radio program, guest host Russell Moore interviewed singer-songwriter and author Andrew Peterson, a favorite of mine. They discussed the importance of telling stories (and especially THE story) to our kids. There is some really good stuff here. Listen to the whole thing here. When was the last time you turned the fear of monsters and turned it into an opportunity to tell of the only hope we have? When was the last time you took a walk through an "enchanted forest?" Storytelling... it's what Jesus did and what we can recapture as a means to speak the Gospel story into the lives of our kids. Read the recap of the show here from Between Two Worlds.

REACH Powhatan/ Richmond Recap

2009-08-03T18:13:00.002-04:00

What a great week of ministry!!! This is an exciting time at OPBC as we have taken the first major step in daily missional living with our REACH Powhatan/ Richmond camp. Youth and adults joined forces to share the love of Christ with those around us and opened our eyes to the everyday mission field outside our front door. What are you doing for Jesus HERE and NOW?

What is this RADICAL thing all about?

2009-07-24T00:58:00.002-04:00

We are committing ourselves to be Biblical, Intentional and Radical as a church in fulfilling our mission to our community and world. The word "radical" can carry all kinds of meanings for folks, conjuring up visions of riots and terrorists. But a radical lifestyle is really just a lifestyle of being willing to risk anything to fulfill your purpose. What are you willing to risk for the task of reaching Powhatan and beyond?

Our Culture and the Gospel

2009-07-24T00:47:00.003-04:00

Matt Chandler has some great thoughts on the "De-churched"... those who grew up in church and have been "inoculated" against the Gospel. Does this describe your friends and family?

Balancing Social Concerns with Gospel Living and Proclamation

2009-07-24T00:25:00.003-04:00

Here is a great conversation from some men who are SO much smarter than I could ever hope to be, John Piper, DA Carson and Tim Keller. Listen as they discuss the balance and tension between social gospel living and proclamation of the gospel. My favorite parts...
1) We aim to relieve suffering... present and eternal suffering.
2) A proper/ Biblical view of hell will motivate us to get the proper balance between social concerns and gospel proclamation.

What Do New Directions Actually Mean for OPBC? (Part I)

2009-07-23T01:33:00.001-04:00

As promised, here are a few thoughts on the changes at OPBC and how areas of ministry are actually affected as we are restored to being the church Christ has called us to be.

What's New at "Old" Powhatan Baptist Church?

2009-07-21T13:11:00.003-04:00

You know... the word OLD in our name has bothered me a little until recently. I always thought it screamed of stodgy, antiquated, sit on your hands church that would never reach a community. But, slowly my mind has been changing. I now see it as a great opportunity to be restored to a great history of Gospel saturated and Gospel sharing in Powhatan County.
OPBC was formed by two young Baptist preachers before the USA even existed. After being jailed in Chesterfield County for preaching the Gospel without license, these two young men formed a church in Powhatan County. NUMBERS of people were sovereignly saved through the preaching of the Gospel by these men both in Dupuy's Meeting House and through the prison windows. The church was constituted in 1771 and one of the first pastors was jailed for preaching in Chesterfield as well. But the Gospel spread like wildfire. There are records of 75 people coming to Christ at one time.
And now, we have an opportunity to return to this "OLD" style of church life. A Gospel-centered church life. A community of faith living in a non-Christian/ post-Christian world... boldly proclaiming the only hope... Jesus Christ.
For the next few days, I will be giving more practical implications of returning to our purpose as the body of Christ in Powhatan County.
Here is an overview of our new initiatives. Just click on the photo to enlarge. The foundation has been built... and now we are to build ministries around being Biblical, Intentional, and Radical for Christ and the Gospel.

Happy 500th Birthday!!!

2009-07-10T10:49:00.002-04:00

Today is the celebration of the oft maligned John Calvin's 500th birthday. He was born July 10, 1509. He is one of t he most misunderstood, reviled, loved, misquoted, revered men of Christian history. You should get to know him for yourself. Was he right all the time? NO. Was he a lot smarter than me. Uh, YES. Can you learn a great deal from his life and witness? ABSOLUTELY.

Three things to remember about Calvin:
1) His name is not a bad word.
2) His God is HUGE and SOVEREIGN.
3) His mind was brilliant.

Here are a few posts from around the blogosphere that will introduce you to the late, great John Calvin.

Ideas on How to Celebrate Calvin's Birthday... a good list of resources by the Sola Panel
Beginning of a 9 part series on Calvin's life and ministry at Desiring God
A Birthday cake idea from World Magazine over at Between Two Worlds
Desiring God's 1 day special on A Portrait of Calvin by THL Parker or you can download it for free.

Keep your eyes open on the web at great sites like these for more info on John Calvin.
Here is his Wiki.

Church: Love It, Don't Leave It

2009-07-02T12:51:00.002-04:00

Kevin DeYoung and Tedd Kluck were guest columnists at the Washington Post yesterday. This is a great article and you should check it out. Here is an excerpt...

"Here's what Bono, Oprah, and the guru speakers on PBS won't tell you: Jesus believed in organized religion and he founded an institution. Of course, Jesus had no patience for religious hacks and self-righteous wannabes, but he was still Jewish. And as Jew, he read the Holy Book, worshiped in the synagogue, and kept Torah. He did not start a movement of latte-drinking disciples who excelled in spiritual conversations. He founded the church (Matt. 16:18) and commissioned the apostles to proclaim the good news that Israel's Messiah had come and the sins of the world could be forgiven through his death on the cross (Matt. 28:18-20; Acts 2:14-36)."

READ THE ARTICLE HERE...

EZRA 2: God's Remnant

2009-06-22T12:23:00.002-04:00

There will be no audio available for my sermon on Ezra 2. But, I do have some thoughts for this week as we seek to apply the word of God. Two thoughts for today that I mentioned yesterday.

1. Ezra 2 is not an easy passage of scripture to read, much less to preach. But 2 Timothy 3:16-17 makes it clear that Ezra 2 is important and essential to our walk with Christ. Paul writes...
All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be competent, equipped for every good work.

Now, I know the names are intimidating (but wouldn't it be fun to name your son Pochereth-hazzebaim and be there on the first day of Kindergarten when the teacher takes roll?) and many of us automatically skip these passages of Scripture. But we need to start asking what these passages mean and deal with them.

2. In light of Father's Day, Ezra 2 makes a stirring statement about "heads of households." It was the "heads of households" who led the families to gives as they were able. It was the "heads of households" who led their families to value the Temple and the worship of God. It was the "heads of households who concerned themselves with the continuity of the covenant and the covenant people. God brought restoration THROUGH FATHERS.

The question for us as fathers is simple... How many fathers valued sleeping in on the Lord's Day as a "gift" from their wives and kids OVER the gift of leading their families to the house of the Lord to give, to serve, to WORSHIP? What kind of viewpoint will our kids have of their HEAVENLY FATHER if their earthly father values a pillow, a race, a game, "relaxation" over Jesus Christ?

My Wife, My Love

2009-06-15T16:51:00.002-04:00

Today (Monday, June 15) Jo Anny and I celebrate 7 years of marriage. There has been no greater blessing found in Jesus Christ than Jo Anny. Her consistency, her passion, her skill as a mother and wife, and her passion for the body of Christ continually drive me to greater heights as her husband. I find myself constantly realizing the greatness of God's grace as I realize that He gave her to me. I pray that I will be able to fulfill my Godly role to present her holy and blameless before the Lord.
Jo Anny, thank you for your love, for your perseverance, for your patience, for our daughters, and for making it so easy to be your husband. I love you.

Vacation Bible School

2009-06-15T16:46:00.003-04:00

I am so excited about VBS this year. As we dive into Peter's life and ministry, we will learn the following truths. Join us every day this week.
Monday: Because Jesus loves me and chooses me, I can follow Him.
Tuesday: Because Jesus is the Son of God, I can worship Him.
Wednesday: Because Jesus died for me, I can confess Him as my Savior.
Thursday: Because Jesus forgives me, I can still serve Him.
Friday: Because Jesus helps me, I can follow God's plan for me.

Preparing for Ezra and Nehemiah... Before the Pews

2009-06-05T09:45:00.005-04:00

This Lord's Day , as I preach through Ezra and Nehemiah. As I prepared for this series, a few thoughts came to mind about preparation.

Every week, I spend upwards of 25 hours preparing sermons. My goals...
1. To be faithful to the inspired text.
2. To be faithful to the meaning of the text.
3. To be faithful to the purpose of the text.
4. To clearly expose the meaning and purpose of the text.
5. To apply the meaning and purpose of the text to daily life in our families, church, work, relationships, and personal holiness.

What do you do to prepare yourself for hearing and applying the Word of God? How can you prepare yourself to hear the Truth and then go and live the Truth? Here are a few suggestions for an expositional listener... BEFORE YOU REACH THE PEW THIS SUNDAY.

1. Be a Bible reader... Read Ezra this week. It's 10 chapters and can be read in no time. Then read each chapter or passage as the weeks go on.
2. Pray for understanding... Pray that the Holy Spirit would illuminate your heart and mind and cut to your heart through the Truth of Scripture.
3. Pray for Your Pastor... As he prays, prepares and preaches... He is the conduit being used by God to bring the Word of God into your life. I need your prayers.
4. Pray for Ears to Hear... Come to the pew prepared to listen and apply.
5. Prepare yourself physically for Sunday morning... Use Saturday night as a time of rest, not a time to stay up as late as possible. A rested mind on Sunday will be a transformed mind on Monday.

For more info on being an expositional listener, check out Thabiti Anyabwile's What is a Healthy Church Member? And/Or check out my discussion of the book here.

Enough Said???

2009-06-05T09:06:00.001-04:00

Ralph Winter... A Visionary, now with the Lord

2009-05-21T18:05:00.002-04:00

Ralph D Winter is now with Jesus, worshiping with the nations the Lamb who was slain. He was a visionary, a missionary, a mentor to giants, and so instrumental in how we take the Gospel to unreached peoples around the world. (His concept by the way).
My good friend Doug works at the US Center for World Mission
Please pray for all involved with this organization and those close to Dr. Winter.
You can read John Piper's tribute to Dr. Winter here.
Here is a video of Dr. Winter...

Piper Quote from reFocus Conference at Moody Bible Institute

2009-05-20T09:43:00.001-04:00

"The longer I live the less optimistic I am that I will end without sin and the more grateful I become for the blood of Christ imputed to me. As I grow older I do not feel myself becoming gloriously holy but I find myself feeling great love for the gospel."
--John Piper

Do you love the gospel more each day?

Death is Not Dying

2009-05-19T12:00:00.003-04:00

Everyone needs to check out the video or audio of this great message presented by Rachel Barkley, a 37 year old wife and mother dying of cancer. The message is simple... DON'T WASTE IT.

Check out the video and audio here.

It is well worth the 55 minutes.

Pics from N. Africa

2009-05-09T13:16:00.002-04:00

Check out some of the pics from our N. Africa trip. It was a great trip and the Father has opened many doors among the Saharawi. Continue to pray.

We're Back!!!

2009-05-08T12:53:00.000-04:00

Our team is back from N. Africa... rejoicing, tired, sunburned, and happy to have seen God move. Details and pics to come!!! Thanks for your prayers.

Great Week at the Gospel Coalition National Conference

2009-04-24T20:29:00.002-04:00

What a great and challenging week at the Gospel Coalition National Conference. I had a great time with my friend Phil Auxier and I was encouraged and challenged by all the preachers and workshops. The audio and video are up and available for download or to listen/watch online. Just click here and click on the message title for the audio and video.

While there were TONS of spiritual highlights of the week that will bear much fruit... here are a few of the lesser known (and possibly less spiritual) moments to remember.
5. In one workshop the speaker Tim Savage, who I admire even more now (and that is difficult because I think he has written the MOST IMPORTANT BOOK ON MINISTRY EVER, outside the Bible) was heckled by some crazy guy... and he handled it wonderfully...
4. John Piper's Hunchback of Notre Dame impression... just watch the video to see what I mean.
3. D.A. Carson... "Pass the port..." you had to be there... or you can watch it when the video comes out.
2. Running into two old friends from college, one from Winston-Salem and one from Chicago... 2 guys I hung out with quite a bit in college and haven't seen for 12 years. We had a great (and late) night talking and catching up.
1. Paradise Pup... char grilled hamburgers from the Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives show... A great burger... watch what we experienced here.

Great Day 1 at Gospel Coalition

2009-04-21T23:46:00.002-04:00

What an amazing day at the Gospel Coalition National Conference... I can honestly say that I already see that this trip will bear great fruit at OPBC... I have been encouraged and challenged and fed tremendously... and this is just day one... Tomorrow looks to be another amazing day.
We will hear from two more pastors and will attend workshops. My workshops will be on Preaching in a Christianized Culture and Power in Weakness: The Heart of the Gospel Ministry.

For a great recap of Day One... see Phil's blog here... he links you to recaps of the messages. Live streaming again tomorrow and audio and video should be up soon.

The Gospel Coalition National Conference Part 1

2009-04-21T08:48:00.000-04:00

I arrived in Rosemont (outside Chicago) yesterday, and after about 45 minutes of waiting for the shuttle, checked into the Embassy Suites with my good friend Phil Auxier from Crestview Bible Church in Hutchinson, KS. We had a great meal of Chicago Style Deepdish Pizza last night and got a few essentials at Walmart... And today it begins...

10:00 AM Registration and FREE BOOKS
LUNCH
1:00 PM Intro and Worship
2:00PM Session 1 with Tim Keller of Redeemer Presbyterian in NY
4:00PM Session 2 with John Piper of Bethlehem Baptist in Minneapolis and Desiring God Ministies
7:00PM Session 3 with Phil Ryken of 10th Presbyterian in Philadelphia.
8:00PM Session 4 with Mark Driscoll of Mars Hill in Seattle.

Watch the livecast HERE.

The Gospel Coalition 2009

2009-04-20T17:41:00.003-04:00

This week I have the great privilege of being in Chicago for The Gospel Coalition's 2009 National Conference. This should be an amazing week. Keep up to date with livecasting of each main session. The video and audio will be up within one day of each session. Should be awesome.

Matt Chandler on Why the Church Needs to Change

2009-04-16T11:15:00.002-04:00

Let's get this right!!!

What do YOU think of when I say "SBC?"

2009-04-14T10:30:00.003-04:00

Whereas I am an ardent supporter of the Southern Baptist Convention... and
Whereas I am, and always will be, concerned that the Gospel of Jesus Christ be central in all things in my life, our church, and the Southern Baptist Convention... and
Whereas our testimony before the world is not just perceived as individuals but corporately...
I do hereby find it disturbing, and somewhat humorous, that the world (at least the Twitter world) perceives the Southern Baptist Convention in this way.

I always wanted to write a resolution for the SBC, and this is probably the closest I will get...
Check out Timmy Brister's article about the "research" that led to this labeling and wordling.

Consider, when asked, what word would people use to describe YOU and OLD POWHATAN BAPTIST CHURCH?

A Conversation With Death on Good Friday: by John Piper

2009-04-10T11:01:00.001-04:00

(Author: John Piper) From Desiring God Ministries

CHRISTIAN:

Hello, Death, my old enemy. My old slave-master. Have you come to talk to me again? To frighten me?

I am not the person you think I am. I am not the one you used to talk to. Something has happened. Let me ask you a question, Death.

Where is your sting?

DEATH, sneeringly:

My sting is your sin.

CHRISTIAN:

I know that, Death. But that's not what I asked you. I asked, where is your sting? I know what it is. But tell me where it is.

Why are you fidgeting, Death? Why are you looking away? Why are you turning to go? Wait, Death, you have not answered my question. Where is your sting?

Where is, my sin?

What? You have no answer? But, Death, why do you have no answer? How will you terrify me, if you have no answer?

O Death, I will tell you the answer. Where is your sting? Where is my sin? It is hanging on that tree. God made Christ to be sin—my sin. When he died, the penalty of my sin was paid. The power of it was broken. I bear it no more.

Farewell, Death. You need not show up here again to frighten me. God will tell you when to come next time. And when you come, you will be his servant. For me, you will have no sting.

O death, where is your victory?
O death, where is your sting?
The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law.
But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory
through our Lord Jesus Christ. (1 Corinthians 15:55-57)

Holy Week Devotional Thoughts

2009-04-08T12:10:00.001-04:00

Check out the Holy Week Devotional thoughts each day from Nancy Guthrie's Jesus, Keep Me Near the Cross over at the Reading for Re/Transform8tion blog. Updated daily this week.

For the Bible Nerds of the World... Like Me

2009-04-07T10:43:00.002-04:00

Check out this amazing original languages tool...
Reader's Version of Greek and Hebrew Testaments

Enjoy this Story

2009-04-03T20:25:00.003-04:00

Come to Powhatan High School Sunday @ 6:00PM

2009-04-03T19:37:00.002-04:00

An Invitation from Rick

2009-04-01T10:11:00.002-04:00

Admittedly, I've never been a big Rick Warren fan, but c'mon... this is over the top. What are your thoughts? Check out this invitation here. "Come to Jesus and get a free copy of my book."

What is a Cross-Centered Church?

2009-03-26T09:00:00.000-04:00

CHECK HERE...

FREE RESOURCES

2009-03-24T10:34:00.002-04:00

Check out these free resources from Jim Elliff and CCW. They are great for those seeking info on Christ and for those who are taking the Gospel to others. FREE DOWNLOADS HERE.

Finding Joy in the Simplicity of Loving Jesus

2009-03-16T15:09:00.003-04:00

Thanks to OPBC for allowing me the opportunity to go and hear my former seminary professor, Don Whitney, this past Lord's Day at Grace Bible Church in Midlothian. As Kenny Van Horn filled the pulpit at OPBC, delivering a great message on joy in the Christian life, I was challenged also by the called to simple devotion to Christ. One of the easiest ways to lose joy in the Christian life is to feel overloaded by the complexity of following Christ and growing in Him. Don Whitney gives a great remedy for this. I want to share this with you. You can listen to his message, "A Pure and Simple Love," HERE.
Here is an excerpt.

Now we understand that reading the Bible or memorizing it isn't what's important. It's whether we read the Bible or memorize it because we love Jesus. It's not how often or how long you pray, but is there love for Christ in your heart while you're praying. Giving money for the work of God's kingdom or telling others about Jesus isn't just another Christian responsibility. These are the expression of devotion to Christ. Feedint the hungry, meeting the needs of the poor, are not to be done out of a mere sense of duty, but out of love for Christ. Making restitution for wrong things we've done in the past isn't something we do just to clear our conscience. We do it because we love Jesus. Serving in the church isn't something we commit to out of shear obligation here. It's something we do because we love Jesus. We can live like a Christian on the job not just because we want to maintain a good testimony, but because we love Jesus and we want to please Him. All of these circumstances and responsibilities are different and sometimes they involve great complexity but there is a simplicity behind all of them. No matter how many circles, how many responsibilities, how complex it gets, at the center is something very, very simple. Love for Jesus.

What is a Healthy Church Member?

2009-03-12T12:55:00.003-04:00

Check out the new post on What is a Healthy Church Member? by Thabiti Anyabwile. We are blogging through this book and a couple of others at the Reading for Re/Transform8tion Blog.

Other books we're blogging through:
Finally Alive by John Piper
When Sinners Say "I Do" by Dave Harvey

There will be several new book starting next week.

If You Love God You Will Love Your Brother

2009-03-12T11:17:00.003-04:00

One of the applications for this week's sermon was loving our brothers and sisters sacrificially by giving in times of need. We are in a recession. While you have been giving faithfully to the ministry of OPBC, we can continue giving more to help our brothers and sisters who are struggling in these tough times.
The Deacon Board met Monday night and approved a new ministry to help provide for the needs of church members during lean financial times. You can be involved. A few things.
1. Please donate gift cards in $25 increments for TARGET, FOOD LION, or SHEETZ. These are businesses that are near enough to our area to serve our people and places where basic needs such as food, clothing, and gas can be taken care of.
2. These cards will be distributed by the Deacons through our Deacon Family Ministry.
3. All requests for help and all donations will be kept completely confidential. Only the Deacons and Staff will know.
4. You can make your donations through the church office, the Deacons, and the offering plate.

GET INVOLVED... Find ways to help others to show the Love of Christ.

Blogging Through Finally Alive

2009-03-04T10:43:00.004-05:00

Check out the Reading for Re/Transform8tion blog as we blog through Finally Alive by John Piper. Here is a quote to sum up Part One: What is the New Birth?

In the new birth, the Holy Spirit supernaturally gives us new spiritual life by connecting us with Jesus Christ through faith. Or, to say it another way, the Spirit unites us to Christ where there is cleansingfor our sins (pictured by water), and he replaces our hard, unresponsive heart with a soft heart that treasures Jesus above all things and is being transformed by the presence of the Spirit into the kind of heart that loves to do the will of God. (p. 42)

Don Whitney at Grace Bible Church in Midlothian

2009-03-03T11:24:00.003-05:00

REGISTER TODAY for this conference with Don Whitney. EVERYONE SHOULD GO IF POSSIBLE.
MARCH 13-15, 2009
Simplifying Your Spiritual Life
REGISTER HERE.

(I will be out of town, but you should go)
Don Whitney is one of my former professors and I want to have him come out to do a conference for us in the future.

Remember Lot's Wife

2009-03-03T09:35:00.002-05:00

Check your own love of the world and the works of your own hands as you remember Lot's wife.
Read the short article from Mark Altrogge.

ESV Study Bible Online Free Trial

2009-03-03T09:22:00.001-05:00

Crossway has announced that for March only, they will offer the online version of the ESV Study Bible (what I use in my personal study) for FREE. Just follow the instructions here.

2009-03-02T13:50:00.001-05:00

Christianaudio.com offers monthly free audio book downloads. This month is Spiritual Disciplines for the Christian Life by Don Whitney, one of my old professors. This is a book you should download and listen to. It helped me restore joy in my spiritual life. Download it here.

Some Fun from 2 Andys (or is it Andies)

2009-02-23T19:28:00.001-05:00

How to Preach and HOW NOT TO PREACH about the Recession

2009-02-23T17:10:00.001-05:00

Thanks to JT at Between Two Worlds.
Check out the whole message at www.desiringgod.org

Reading for Re/Transform8tion

2009-02-17T09:56:00.002-05:00

Check out the new list of books being read for Re/Transform8tion at my book blog...
www.readingforreform8tion.blogspot.com. One is even a free pdf download from www.desiringgod.org. Read along with me.

Happy Valentine's Day

2009-02-14T14:17:00.004-05:00

Here is a post from John Piper on two of his favorite Valentines. I just bought the book and will review is in the next couple of weeks over at Reading for Re/Transform8tion.

When Ball Becomes Baal (CCWblog.org)

2009-02-12T10:06:00.002-05:00

Jim Elliff, over at www.ccwblog.org has a great article for those parents who struggle with wanting their kids to succeed at sports but who also want their kids to know Christ. Here is a quote...

Like "athlete's foot" on the hygienically-challenged teenager, sports has taken over more and more of the life of believers. Almost overnight we have awakened to the sad fact that, in many communities, sports has even usurped the hours believers meet on the Lord's Day. All too often members are saying to church leaders, "We'll be gone next Sunday because of the soccer tournament." (Read the whole article here... thought provoking stuff)

IF YOU HAVE AN HOUR (or 800)

2009-02-09T09:09:00.002-05:00

If you are struggling with finding something great to listen to or watch, just check out the Conference Messages page at DesiringGod.org. All of the audio from last week's Pastor's Conference, as well as other conferences from the past 20 years are all up with free audio (and in many cases video). Enjoy.

Crazy Sale at Sovereign Grace Store

2009-02-03T14:17:00.004-05:00

Check out this sale... free shipping in the US and 50% off international (did you hear that Neal and Stephanie?)

Reading for Re/Transform8tion

2009-01-30T14:04:00.005-05:00

Today marks the beginning of a new blog experience for me. I am taking one of my three addictions (the other two being Pepsi and bacon) and turning it into a blog. I hope it is helpful for everyone. Check it out at www.readingforreform8tion.blogspot.com.

Repentance and Transformation: The Humbling Reality of Christ's Substitution for Us

2009-01-27T09:36:00.002-05:00

The Gospel in 1:25...

John Piper's Charge to Our President

2009-01-27T09:25:00.002-05:00

Be Courageous, Mr. President. Pray for our new president's heart to change.

Roe No More from Between Two Worlds

2009-01-22T10:22:00.002-05:00

Justin Taylor at Between Two Worlds posted this intriguing story about the infamous "Jane Roe" of Roe vs Wade. Read the story here and make sure to read her account of things here.

My Child's Life is Priceless... and so is this video.

2009-01-20T21:19:00.001-05:00

We are working on verses 7-21, but she only has through verse 15 memorized so far. Not bad for a 4 year old. Oh, and her mom wants to make sure you all know her hair is a mess because it is bed time. She usually has it combed. Great job, Chesed.

Abortion and Racism: Happy Martin Luther King Jr Day.

2009-01-19T10:51:00.005-05:00

Here are some resources to behold the greatest injustices in America and their links. Remember, the only hope to stop this injustice is the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Proclaim the Truth of the Good News in Love.

When is Abortion Racism? by John Piper
Alveda King Calls Abortion "Racist"

Art Azurdia: God Saves Bad People

2009-01-16T14:11:00.001-05:00

Praise God for salvation by grace alone, through faith alone, in Christ alone, to the glory of God alone.

Some Saturday Fun

2009-01-10T11:06:00.002-05:00

Just a great story about the oldest person in the world... it made me laugh... check it out here. And yes, there is a Bacon Today blog... and yes, I subscribe to it.

A Different Look at the BCS National Championship Game

2009-01-08T09:22:00.002-05:00

I am a college football fan... that is an understatement. I love college sports and sports in general. Tonight is the NCAA BCS National Championship Game between Oklahoma and Florida. Admittedly, I am not a fan of either team. In fact, I don't care who wins the game because I believe that Utah should be the national champions. So the game itself is an afterthought for me. But I AM a fan of Tim Tebow. He is an intense competitor and just plain fun to watch on the gridiron. But he is so much greater as a believer than a football player.
For more on Tim Tebow, check out this article from Pat Forde at ESPN.com. Praise the Lord for consistent Christians who understand that our identity in Christ is not a matter of ELEVATED Christianity but a matter of EVERYDAY Christianity.

How's Your Bible Reading and Scripture Memorization Going?

2009-01-06T21:19:00.002-05:00

Just a quick word of encouragement... Just 30 minutes a day and you will read the Bible through this year and memorize 52 passages of Scripture in 2009.

Remember, you can get the daily readings and weekly verses to memorize at our home page here.

We are currently reading through Job in our chronological Bible reading. Desiring God Ministries has some great insight into how to read the book of Job. Check these out below.

How Should I Read the Book the Job? by John Piper
7 Implications of the Book of Job by Abraham Piper
Lessons to Learn from Job's Friends by Abraham Piper
Job: The Book by John Piper... CHECK THIS OUT!!!

Happy Reading!!! Give feedback on ways you are keeping up with your reading! Encourage One Another.

Edwards on Redemption

2009-01-05T13:13:00.002-05:00

Jonathan Edwards--

The redeemed are dependent on God for all. All that we have—wisdom, the pardon of sin, deliverance, acceptance in God’s favor, grace, holiness, true comfort and happiness, eternal life and glory—we have from God by a Mediator; and this Mediator is God. God not only gives us the Mediator, and accepts His mediation, and of His power and grace bestows the things purchased by the Mediator, but He is the Mediator. Our blessings are what we have by purchase; and the purchase is made of God; the blessings are purchased of Him; and not only so, but God is the purchaser. Yes, God is both the purchaser and the price; for Christ, who is God, purchased these blessings by offering Himself as the price of our salvation.

How To Pray for Your Pastor in 2009

2009-01-04T19:52:00.000-05:00

Thanks to Ligon Duncan at T4G. If you are wondering how to pray for your pastor this year, here are great suggestions. If you as a church will pray for me in this way, I will feel loved beyond measure. Check out the post here.

Why Kevin and Katie Bates are my Heroes...

2009-01-03T19:39:00.003-05:00

Check out this post from Justin Taylor and then praise the Lord for families who choose LIFE in a culture of DEATH. Thanks Kevin and Katie.

Check out the post here.

10 Questions for the New Year

2009-01-02T08:58:00.002-05:00

From Don Whitney... and old professor of mine at Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary.

Check out the article here... and consider these questions as you seek to honor and follow the Lord in 2009.

Happy New Year: A Prayer for 2009

2009-01-01T11:38:00.003-05:00

Here is a prayer to pray as we enter 2009 and the unsure waters of the year. It is from Valley of Vision and looks to the hope and encouragement of the new year for those in Christ. (Originally Posted at www.challies.com)

O Lord,
Length of days does not profit me
except the days are passed in Thy presence,
in Thy service, to Thy glory.
Give me a grace that precedes, follows, guides,
sustains, sanctifies, aids every hour,
that I may not be one moment apart from Thee,
but may rely on Thy Spirit
to supply every thought,
speak in every word,
direct every step,
prosper every work,
build up every mote of faith,
and give me a desire
to show forth Thy praise;
testify Thy love,
advance Thy kingdom.

I launch my bark on the unknown waters of this year,
with Thee, O Father as my harbour,
Thee, O Son, at my helm,
Thee O Holy Spirit, filling my sails.
Guide me to heaven with my loins girt,
my lamp burning,
my ear open to Thy calls,
my heart full of love,
my soul free.

Give me They grace to sanctify me,
Thy comforts to cheer,
Thy wisdom to teach,
Thy right hand to guide,
Thy counsel to instruct,
Thy law to judge,
Thy presence to stabilize.
May Thy fear by my awe,
Thy triumphs my joy.

2009-- The Year of the Word

2008-12-30T17:53:00.007-05:00

Let’s make 2009 “The Year of God’s Word” at Old Powhatan. We claim to be people of the Word, that we believe the Word, but the question is, how well do we KNOW the Word? This year, I want to give us two challenges. And the fruit of completing these challenges will be infinite. Join with me in meeting these challenges.

1. Read the Bible Chronologically this year. On my first Sunday at OPBC I challenged folks to read the Word of God faithfully and I handed out copies of a chronological Bible Reading Plan. In 2009, let’s read the Word of God chronologically and TOGETHER. Here are a couple of ways you can do this.
Go to http://www.gnpcb.org/esv/devotions/chronological/ for daily readings right on your computer. Follow along with the readings and read the Bible in a year.
Go to www.powhatanbaptist.org and enter our website. On the homepage of our website will be each weeks readings and a link to read them online or pick up a copy of each week’s readings in the Welcome Center at church.

2.Memorize a Passage or Verse of Scripture each week in 2009. Hiding the Word of God in our hearts will aid us in meditating on His Word and is encouraging and exhorting one another to godliness. Each week I will post a verse to memorize on my blog and on our website. These verses will also be available each week in our bulletin. Our memory verse for January 4-10 is Proverbs 3:5-6 Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.

Join with us as a church family in making 2009 the Year of the Word. Read, Study and Memorize God’s Word with us this year. And watch God do amazing things in and through you and our church. HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!

A Pastoral Farewell: Thank You, Derrick

2008-12-29T14:20:00.002-05:00

Yesterday was Derrick's last Sunday on staff with us here at OPBC. He has served faithfully with us for the past year and a half as our Youth Ministry Intern. As he heads off to Southern Seminary in Louisville, KY, I wanted to take a few moments and a few words to express my appreciation and my prayers for Derrick.

Derrick, thank you for stepping into a difficult situation. With no experience, no way of knowing what this new pastor guy was going to be like, and following the man, the myth, the legend... you stepped in and took up the gauntlet. While there have been hiccups along the way... one thing I can say above all else is... YOU HAVE BEEN PASSIONATELY FAITHFUL. Thank you.

Derrick, thank you for your friendship. Getting to know you has been the best part of ministering with you over the past year and a half. Thank you for opening up and sharing what the Lord was doing in your life, both in hard times and in rejoicing. I praise the Lord for His faithfulness to you and Amanda, and look forward to your relationship growing into a true marriage of two into one.

Derrick, thank you for keeping me on my toes. Your passion for learning and your eagerness to handle God's Word truthfully and carefully have been an encouragement to me and a challenge to me. I pray that your zeal for God's Word will only grow as you head off to study more in depth.

Derrick, I pray that you will not lose your evangelistic zeal. Do not grow cold in sharing your faith, but stand firm in truth and share in grace. I pray that the more you learn, the more you will understand that you don't know, and the more you will tell others.

Derrick, I pray that you will stay humble. No degree, no learning, no skill can take the place of a humble servant, willing to faithfully lay down his life for his sheep. Don't be a proud shepherd. Be a humble servant.

Derrick, we love you. I am proud of you, and OPBC looks forward to being a part of what God continues to do in and through you, wherever He may lead.

MERRY CHRISTMAS... I've Got Some Good News

2008-12-25T09:58:00.001-05:00

Check out this video from John Piper... and celebrate the TRUE GOOD NEWS OF CHRISTMAS

A Hodge-Podge of Christmas Stuff (For the Rest of Christmas Week)

2008-12-22T11:06:00.002-05:00

These are the videos from Andrew Peterson's GREAT Christmas concert "Behold the Lamb of God." Enjoy the trip through the entire story of God's redemption leading up to the birth of Jesus. Most were filmed live in Nashville in 2004. Merry Christmas. (There are a couple of songs missing that I could not find the videos to, but you can order your own DVD of the concert here.)

A Hodge-Podge of Christmas Stuff Part VII

2008-12-21T20:26:00.001-05:00

At least Linus knows what's up...

A Hodge-Podge of Christmas Stuff (Part VI)--That's six for non Roman numeral folks

2008-12-20T09:02:00.003-05:00

Here is a great clip of the Indiana University group Straight No Chaser. Just some GREAT holiday fun with the song "The Twelve Days of Christmas."

A Hodge-Podge of Christmas Stuff (Part V)

2008-12-19T07:32:00.002-05:00

Tony Reinke wrote a great article on "Glorifying God in Our Christmas Shopping." As we enter our final weekend of Christmas shopping, here are a few things to consider. Read the article here.

A Hodge-Podge of Christmas Stuff (Part IV)

2008-12-18T00:01:00.000-05:00

That's Christmas... an outreach tool of St. Helen's of Bishopgate Church... A Great tool for engaging non-believers with the Gospel and a great reminder of the Good News that is the Gospel.

Not and endorsement of YouTube...

A Hodge-Podge of Christmas Stuff (Part III)

2008-12-17T22:15:00.002-05:00

The Star of Behtlehem... What Was It?
An interesting discussion of the 4 most popular views on what the Star over Bethlehem... from Ray Fowler. Check it out here.

A Hodge-Podge of Christmas Stuff Part II

2008-12-16T14:28:00.003-05:00

Justin Taylor suggested these three sermons by Sinclair Ferguson as a way to remind us of the glory and majesty of our Savior... the one we celebrate this Christmas. Check them out here.

What Angels Long to See
What Angels Come to Do
What Angels Want to Say

A Hodge-Podge of Christmas Stuff (Part I)

2008-12-15T11:50:00.003-05:00

The plan is to post Christmas posts for the next week and a half... Keep coming back to see (and maybe hear) some thoughts and resources for the Christmas season.

First up is a compilation from Titus 2 Talk Blog of various resources they have put together from trustworthy people around the web. There are some great ideas on traditions and gifts, as well as some things to think about(even about Santa Claus). Check it out here.

Things We Say Wrong...

2008-12-06T08:56:00.001-05:00

Not an endorsement of Youtube or the makers of this film, although they do have some funny stuff.

Advent Is Here!!!

2008-11-30T15:28:00.002-05:00

As we celebrate Advent starting today, here is a great tool from Christ the King Presbyterian Church in Raleigh, NC. My family will be using this booklet this advent season. Join with us. You can download the pdf booklet here. It is perfect for adults and children.

Hospitality Lifestyle

2008-11-28T11:24:00.002-05:00

From Nancy Leigh DeMoss... 10 Reasons You Can't Afford NOT to Be Hospitable...

1. Hospitality is one of the most practical ways to express the love of Christ.

2. Hospitality reflects the hospitable heart of God.

3. Hospitality is a great way to build unity and community with other believers.

4. The Bible promises rewards for those who practice hospitality.

5. Hospitality is one of the most effective ways to create a hunger for Christ in the hearts of non-believers.

6. Hospitality will help you deal with loneliness and depression.

7. Hospitality will help us deal with selfishness.

8. Hospitality will help you deal with materialism and help you get values that are eternal.

9. If you have children, hospitality is a great way to cultivate in their hearts a passion for ministry and a heart for serving other people.

10. God commands us to be hospitable.

Not Much To Be Thankful For

2008-11-26T09:39:00.002-05:00

An old friend, Jim Elliff, wrote this several years ago and posted it at www.ccwblog.org. Take care with your thankfulness, or lack thereof this Thanksgiving and always.

Table Mountain reigns over Cape Town, South Africa. When we first got sight of it from the highway, we were unable to take our eyes off of its stately, presiding presence. Its abrupt cliffs, rising up out of Cape Town on the oceanfront etched its postcard beauty in our minds. As you see, I can get rather poetic about it. But . . .

Not everybody sees it this way. My first child was with us in the back seat playing with an inexpensive toy. We tried to get him to see this impressive sight but, because he was only eight months old, he wasn't the least bit interested. Though we begged him to look, he obviously didn't believe anything worth seeing was out there. He may have not even known what a mountain is, for all I know. Tourists pay thousands of dollars to see this and he couldn't care less!

Like a child enamored with a small toy when there is so much to see, many people are caught up in such insignificant trifles. They long for sex and cars and honor and possessions as if these are what life is actually about. Even the best of it all is so temporary and circumstantial. So you win a few accolades along the way, and you add to your pile of things—are these really so important?

When it comes to Thanksgiving time, such people really have little to be thankful for—not because much more is not there to experience (He even invites people to know Him!), but because they are entirely too enamored with what is only marginal by comparison.

What if you were called on this Thanksgiving to give a report of what you were thankful for? If you could say, not what you ought to say, but what is strictly true, what would come out of your mouth? What makes you really happy?

I once heard a man use the phrase, "the expulsive power of a new affection." He used it about the story of the woman at the Samaritan well. Jesus promised her a "fountain of water springing up to eternal life." She was told that she would never thirst again. When she grasped the meaning of this, she immediately "left her water pot" and ran into the city to tell the great news.

She drank of something, Someone, so satisfying that she forgot the whole reason for her trip to the well! Someone was more attractive than anything she had ever encountered. And she was a veteran at chasing her cravings. She had married five husbands and was living with yet another man. But her true longings were not met until that encounter with Jesus.

There, outside of the window of your own limited experience is something more fulfilling than you've known before, something for which you will be far more thankful if you could only see it.

Christ is that one who satisfies. You don't just have to take my word for it, or the word of millions of others through the centuries—you may keep on playing with your toys and forget Him if you wish. That's every person's prerogative.

But there is much more.

"Whoever drinks of this water will thirst again, but whoever drinks of the water that I shall give him will never thirst. But the water that I shall give him will become in him a fountain of water springing up into everlasting life." John 4:14

LOTTIE MOON CHRISTMAS OFFERING

2008-11-23T20:27:00.002-05:00

Check out these informative resources for Lottie Moon Christmas Offering 2008. Remember OPBC's Goal of $7,000. Give that others may KNOW.

Click here to see how dollars are used on the International Mission Field.

Family Worship Resource Package... A Great Deal

2008-11-18T12:14:00.002-05:00

Grace and Truth Books is offering a great deal on a package of some of the best books on Family Worship. These books are how-to books and great resources for you and your kids. The regular price is $70, but Grace and Truth is offering them for $29. Check it out here. Order yours today.

Hitler and the Housing Bubble...

2008-11-17T13:26:00.002-05:00

As we consider our fight against the love of the world... as we strive against the lusts of the flesh, the lusts of the eyes, and the pride in possessions... here is a clever parody to get the point across... How fleeting are the things of this world...

This is not an endorsement of youtube or the makers of this film.

Post Election True or False Quiz

2008-11-05T10:18:00.001-05:00

From the Founders Blog... A True or False Quiz for Christians on the morning after...

Post-Election Analysis: True or False?

My friend, Dr. Wyman Richardson, pastors FBC of Dawson, GA. He sent the following "True-False Test" to me yesterday. It is timely and very helpful in giving us perspective on the presidential election. Take the test, then ask yourself how you should respond to the election results.

True/False: The day after the election, regardless of who wins, Jesus will still be King.
True/False: The day after the election, regardless of who wins, our responsibilities as Christians will not have changed one iota.
True/False: The day after the election, regardless of who wins, the greatest agent for social change in America will still be winning the hearts and minds of men and women through the gospel, not legislation.
True/False: The day after the election, regardless of who wins, my primary citizenship will still be in this order - (1) the Kingdom of God, (2) America, not vice-versa.
True/False: The day after the election, regardless of who wins, the tomb will still be empty.
True/False: The day after the election, regardless of who wins, the cross, not the government, will still be our salvation.
True/False: The day after the election, regardless of who wins, our children will still be more concerned with whether or not we spend time with them than with who is President.
True/False: The day after the election, regardless of who wins, my neighbor will still be my neighbor, and loving him/her will still be the second greatest commandment. (Do you know the first?)
True/False: The day after the election, regardless of who wins, the only way to see abortion ultimately overturned will still be winning men and women to a high view of life through the gospel of Christ.
True/False: The day after the election, regardless of who wins, the only way to see gay marriage ultimately defeated will still be winning men and women to a biblical view of marriage through the gospel of Jesus Christ.
True/False: The day after the election, regardless of who wins, my retirement will still not match my treasure in Heaven.
True/False: The day after the election, regardless of who wins, "Jesus Is Lord" will still be the greatest truth in the Universe.
True/False: The day after the election, regardless of who wins, we will still know that God is in control.

Election Day... another Tuesday in the life of a Believer...

2008-11-04T13:18:00.002-05:00

As we consider the fact that (as the AP put it) half of us will wake up tomorrow disappointed, here is a collection of some of the gems that have been blogged and posted in the past days leading up to the election. Remember that we stand as believers in Jesus Christ... the same yesterday, today and forever.

John Piper, "Grateful for (Almost) Any Government"
Al Mohler, "Final Thoughts before Election Day"
Girl Talk and John Piper, "We Don't Live for Politics"