“What is man?” (Ps 8:4). Theological anthropology (i.e., discourse about the nature, actions, and ends of human beings) is the discipline devoted to addressing the psalmist’s question within the context of the psalmist’s awe and wonder before the majesty of God. Anthropology lies at the center of contemporary controversies both inside and outside the church. […]
Reflections on Christian assurance
The evangelical internet has been in a state of moderate agitation the past couple of days in response to a sermon by John Piper in which he touches on the relationship between “faith” and “feeling.” I have no intention of entering that particular conversation. But it does provide an occasion for addressing an issue of […]
“Jesus Christ is the light of the world”: rightly relating the church’s ministry, mission, and worship
“Almighty God, whose Son our Savior Jesus Christ is the light of the world: Grant that your people, illumined by your Word and Sacraments, may shine with the radiance of Christ’s glory, that he may be known, worshiped, and obeyed to the ends of the earth; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who with you and […]
Ends of the incarnation
Christmas (along with Good Friday, Easter, Ascension, and Pentecost) is one of five “evangelical feast days” that celebrate key moments in the Son of God’s saving mission. On these days, the church turns its attention in a special way to the redemptive historical events that mark “the fullness of time” (Gal 4:4; Eph 1:10): the time […]
Ten Things I am Thankful for in 2019
“Bless the Lord, O my soul, and all that is within me, bless his holy name! Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits” (Ps 103:1-2). Giving thanks is the most fitting action that intelligent creatures can perform in response to the manifold goodness of God. God bestows upon his people […]
Leadership lessons from 3 John: notes on a “Diotrephen” spirit
The thin little letter of 3 John punches well above its fighting weight when it comes to theological and pastoral insight. And I mean punches. Third John further elaborates the conception of truth expounded in John’s Gospel and other letters. John identifies the truth as a way of life, and rejoices that his children are […]
