Non Nobis Domine (Not Unto Us, O Lord)

East Point Church is Online!

2008-09-10T08:12:00.007-04:00

East Point Church is online! And I could not be happier. Being a part of the leadership for East Point Church is one of the greatest privileges of my life. We are eagerly anticipating what God will graciously and mercifully do through us. While this is good news, the bad news is that I will not be blogging at Non Nobis Domine any more. No, I will not stop blogging. East Point Church has a blog and I will blog there from now on. So come on over sometime!

Writing and reading the content of this blog has really been an encouragement and challenge for me over these few years. I thank each of you for your participation, comments, encouragements and critiques. I hope you will visit us at East Point Church so we can continue the conversation for Reformation. There is much work to be done. And while I will not be working here, do know that the labors continue as the Kingdom of God is expanding and Christ is proclaimed.

So we solicit your prayers. Our vision is for a fellowship of believers who Worship God, Preach Christ, Disciple Believers, and impact our community and world with the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

See ya at EPC!

The Gospel Coalition 09

2008-09-09T07:11:00.005-04:00

I have the distinct pleasure of being a member of The Gospel Coalition. TGC is a fellowship of Gospel ministers who desire to reclaim the Gospel as the central and defining message of the church. Every other year TGC sponsors a conference in which some central elements of the Gospel and its impact on the preacher and the church is examined. This coming year, the conference will be held on April 21-23, 2009. The theme of the conference is Entrusted with the Gospel: Living the Vision of II Timothy. Registration is open.

Here is a brief video of Tim Keller explaining one of the key elements of TGC conferences. You can find more videos on the conference at the website.

RNC vs. DNC

2008-09-05T07:19:00.006-04:00

The conventions are over and I have a question, "All rhetoric aside, which convention would you have liked to attend?"

The Republican National Convention:

or the Democratic National Convention:

The Republicans can be thankful that presidential campaigns are not won or lost at conventions. If it were so, the Democrats would win in a landslide. The RNC looked and sounded like something out of the 70's.

Hip Hop and Republican?

2008-09-04T17:00:00.003-04:00

Check 'em out.

Check out the website: http://hiphoprepublican.com/

Also here is a story on the consternation of a growing number of socially conservative African-Americans. Even for black conservatives the issue is not black and white.

Out of the Black Shadows

2008-09-01T11:15:00.003-04:00

What have I been reading lately? Well, a number of books. Perhaps the most enjoyable and stimulating has been Out of the Black Shadows: The Amazing Transformation of Stephen Lungu by Stephen Lungu. I gave the book to my son to read and before he started reading it he asked if I had read it. I said no. Everyday I would see him engrossed in the book and I realized that not only was I probably missing a good read, but I was also missing an opportunity to dialogue with my son on spiritual matters contained in the book. So I took up the book as well. He was over half way finished and I told him that I would catch him and pass him in no time. (He thinks I read fast. But I don't read real fast, I just read diligently) Sure enough, once I picked the book up, I could not put it down. The book is autobiographical and yet it is full of suspense, tragedy, trial, and triumph in the Lord.

Stephen Lungu was born to a teenage mother in Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe). She was forced to marry a much older man who would become Stephen's father, but she never cared for him. Likewise he did not care much for her and thought Stephen to not be his son. Eventually his mother abandoned him on the streets and there began a life of homelessness and crime. Soon Stephen became a gang leader of the Black Shadows (thus the name of the book), and a black nationalist terrorist and a hater of Christianity. One night he attends a gospel tent meeting with the intentions of setting off home made bombs. But the gospel that was preached gripped his heart and the bombs remained in the bag, though the cries of his heart were let out as he repented of his sins and trusted Christ as his Savior. Thus began an amazing life long ministry of evangelism to Africa and around the world.

This is a wonderful book and an amazing story of God's grace beyond measure. It reminds me of the power of God in the simple proclamation of the Word to drastically and dramatically change lives. If you have not, do yourself a favor and pick up this book. I am sure you will not want to put it down.

Clayton County Schools Fail

2008-08-28T21:12:00.002-04:00

Most of you know that my wife and I homeschool our children. If you know this, it is not because I have championed the homeschool movement on my blog. It is our conviction that homeschooling best represents our values at this time and we find that it best allows us to develop the minds and character of our children according to our faith and convictions. Yet, I will be the first to admit that homeschooling is not perfect. We are not perfect parents or perfect teachers, nor do we have perfect students. Yet, for us we believe it is best and so we continue. We do not make it an issue of legalism and support the decision of other Christian to choose a different path for the education of their children. Nevertheless, I could give you list of reasons why we homeschool even as many could give a litany of reasons why they don't. However, today the list of reason for homeschooling in the county in which we live grew.

Today the sad news came down that the public schools in Clayton County GA, the county of our residence and the public school district in which we reside, have lost their accreditation. According to reports, Clayton County schools are the first in the nation in the past 40 years to lose accreditation, failing to meet eight of nine improvement mandates. (Read more).

This is tragic news, as many of the children in our neighborhood - children who spend many afternoons playing in our yard; children we have come to know well and to love are going to school everyday not knowing their future or the status of their education simply because the grown-ups, those who are suppose to be responsible, were anything but responsible and risked squandering the children's education for their 0wn personal, financial, and political gain. Though our children are not enrolled in the public schools, my heart still breaks for those who are. If this is not a strong argument for school choice, I don't know what is. I pray for the sake of these children that responsible grown-ups can get this thing together. God help them.

Banging it Out!

2008-08-18T17:31:00.002-04:00

I come from a large family. I have 7 brothers and two sisters. In an African-American family that large you are bound to have some enigmas. Indeed we do. Meet my brother Larry. Larry is a gifted brother. He has a masters degree in English. Has taught at the college level. Has written two novels and several essays and articles for newspapers around Michigan. Here is the enigma. My brother Larry is also a convicted felon, serving life in prison for murder. I won't go into the details of his crime, but know that according to him, it was an accident and a crime of passion. He and the victim (his fiancee at the time) were the only witnesses to the crime so his account is the only one we have. Whatever the circumstances, Larry received life with the possibility of parole. Yet, even in prison he continues to muse on a variety of topics and continues to produce literature. In fact, every now and then he sends me an essay or a poem he is seeking to get into a local newspaper or off-beat publication.

This past week, I hit upon an idea. I decided to create a blog on which to publish a few of his articles. I invite you to take a peek at Banging It Out. My brother does not claim to be a Christian, though some of his writings have a spiritual element to them. Mostly, however, his writings are worldly and secular. In this they reflect his current state of mind. However, of late I have been reading a hint of morality and thoughts of the providence of God in his letters. Maybe the Lord is working on his heart. At least, let us pray that He is.

Nevertheless, my brother remains an enigma. Even while in prison he continues to produce and look forward to the day when he is paroled and get a second chance at making a positive impact on society. Until then, I admire the fact that he is still banging on that keyboard.

And a little child shall lead them?

2008-08-18T07:36:00.003-04:00

I don't think the prophet had this in mind. Speechless!

New Life 2008 Online

2008-08-16T09:59:00.002-04:00

The audio for this year's New Life Bible Conference is online! (click here) The theme was "The Book of Galatians: What Difference Does the Gospel Make." I not only had the privilege of participating, but even more I was challenged and encouraged by the messages I listened to from the other brothers. I know we have a tendency to overstate these things and so I won't say that this was the best New Life Bible Conference I have attended. However, I will think it.

Dropping Calls

2008-08-15T08:55:00.007-04:00

Don't give up on God. God has not given up on you. I was reminded of this recently as I sat and spoke with a young man who is going through a tough spot right now. It seems he is going through a kind of dead zone. You know, those areas around town where we seem to drop calls and we spend alot of time saying, "Can you hear me now? Can you hear me now?" Well, it seems to him that God is not hearing him, as if most of his calls to heaven are being dropped. These dead spots in our lives can last for a little while, or they can seem to go on for long periods of time. And it may appear that God is not hearing, and our calls are not getting through. It seems we spend our time asking God, "Can you hear me now?" Here are two points of action we might consider during times like this:

1. Ask someone else for the use of their phone. We do this all the time don't we. When we seem not to have a signal, we ask someone else if they have a signal and then we may even ask to borrow their phone. In other words, ask someone else to pray for you and with you. Inform others that you don't appear to be getting through to God. Tell them to make a few calls for you. The biblical admonition to pray for one another and with one another is one of God's ways of getting us through the dead spots. It also reminds us of our need and love for one another (Jam. 5:16; Col. 4:3).

2. Keep moving - dead spots are not forever. Sooner or later, as you know, you will reach a place where you have a good signal. Don't just resign yourself to that dead spot, but keep moving until you find the area where you can make the call. God has not shut the lines of heaven to you. Nor is He out of service. Believe that He is willing and able to answer. You must keep moving in faith and trusting that one day you will get through because dead spots don't last always. Have faith in God! (Mark 11:22; Luke 12:28-32) . Be not dismayed because God cares for you! (Dt. 31:8; Isa. 41:10; 1Pet. 5:7)

Beloved, if God can raise Jesus from the dead, surely he can get you through your dead spot. So take heart and be reminded that the triumph of the gospel is also the triumph over apparent dropped calls to heaven.

"51" Things I Love About Politics

2008-08-13T19:30:00.004-04:00

In their latest issue, Comment Magazine published an article I wrote last year about 50 Things I Love About Politics. As I reread the list, the obvious omission was any reference to Barack Obama. Surely if I was making the list today Obama's name would be included. I am not sure what number I would give him, but I would probably say something like:

51. Barack Obama. For those of us who do not agree with his position on abortion, we wait (but will not hold our breath) for the Republican party to set forth a viable African-American candidate for president. Until then, we disagree with, but we still are encouraged by the success of Obama's candidacy.

For what it is worth, here is the article once again:

When I was asked to set forth 50 things I love about the world of politics, my first thought was that I did not have 50 things I love about politics. However, on second thought, I realized that between things I love and things I love to hate, I had more than 50 things . . .

1. The Sovereignty of God. God changes times and seasons; he removes kings and sets up kings—Daniel 2:21.
2. My mother—thirty-nine years of public service as an elected local public official.
3. The President of the United States. Without a doubt the most difficult, public, and fascinating job in the world—wouldn't want it for anything.
4. The Declaration of Independence. "We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness."
6. The American Civil War (or "The War of Southern Rebellion"). America at its worse and yet determined to be its best . . . An awful war for a great cause . . My favourite period of American history.
7. Abraham Lincoln. The man met his moment, and no president ever met it better. (Read the entire article)

Books You Haven't Read

2008-08-13T11:25:00.005-04:00

I must admit that I am probably the only reformed blogger who has not read Tim Keller's The Reason for God. Someone at church a few weeks ago asked me if I had read it. I said, unfortunately, no. Why? Well, its not because I am not interested. Anything Tim does is interesting to me. Tim is one of the preachers I have on my mp3 player, which I listen to as I do yard work. In fact, I have his messages, which are themed in the book. No, the main reason I have not read Tim's book is because I feel like I have. With so much about the book on the internet and so much of the book being discussed and reviewed; and video and audio messages about the book, I feel I have already read it. It may actually be the first virtual book in our collective reformed internet community mind.

For more on this idea, read this review from Comment Magazine of How to Talk About Books You Haven't Read . I am not advocating an end to reading books - no way. But I find it interesting that the internet is making it more and more possible for us to talk intelligently about books we have not read. Is this a good thing? Are we getting too much information about a book before we read it and thus not leaving much for our own investigation?

An Overlooked Gem

2008-08-11T10:23:00.004-04:00

Do you have any books you've been hoping to read, but have not made the time to do so? I have quite a few. I often find myself consumed with a writing project, sermon preparation, research on a particular issue, or just being husband and father and thus some good-intended reading gets neglected. Yet, every now and then something in my stack of books just catches my attention and I say, "Let me just take a moment and skim this book to make sure I am not missing something I've been wanted to know." Every now and then when I do this I find an overlooked gem of a book and I don't put it down until I am finished. Recently this happened to me with the small, but insightful book Seeking God by Peter Jeffery.

Believe it or not, I have been looking for a little, non-intimidating book to give to new believers (or those who think they are) that will challenge them with their understanding of salvation and encourage them if they truly have been converted. Lo and behold, I had it on my shelf for sometime now, but did not know it. I would encourage you to get a copy of this book. It will not be easy to find (I have tried the normal book sources and they do not have it). Nonetheless, if you search the internet you can find a copy. I am pretty sure you will find your efforts worthwhile.

BTW, let me know if you find a place to get multiple copies fast. Also, do you know of any other little books that cover the nature of our salvation in a terse yet encouraging fashion?

Christ with no Christ?

2008-08-09T10:02:00.003-04:00

Tragically I have witnessed in the greater Atlanta area new churches spring up and experience rapid growth. These churches have been established with the understanding that they are not your mom's and dad's church, but rather are committed to a "new thing." They claim to be doing church differently. Part and parcel to this difference seems to be a different gospel proclamation. Recently I listened to a sermon from the pastor of one of these places. The sermon was not very long, less than 30 minutes (I'm cool with that if the message is clear and biblical). But the tragic aspect to the sermon was that while his words were lauded and on occasion he was applauded, the message he preached proclaimed nothing of Jesus Christ. For nearly 30 minutes he stood up before a so-called church gathering and said nothing of the person and work of Jesus Christ.

Correct me if I am wrong, but did not Paul say, "We preach Christ and him crucified?" Can we preach Christ and not mention Christ? Can we proclaim the faith and not proclaim the Author and Finisher of that faith?

Robert Smith in Doctrine that Dances writes:

As Jesus admonished that the Scriptures be searched because they testify of Him (John 5:39), preachers of Christian doctrine make Christ the heart of their preaching. If the Bible is read backwards, one will see that Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God, was slain from the foundation of the world (Rev. 13:8). This means that in the mind of God, Calvary was a forethought and not an afterthought. God did not react to the fall of Adam and Eve, but rather He pre-acted before the the fall of Adam and Eve. The Old Testament proclaimed that Christ is coming. The New Testament announced that Christ has come and will come again. (p. 23)

Graeme Goldsworthy in Preaching the Whole Bible as Christian Scripture writes:

Is it possible to preach a Christian sermon without mentioning Jesus? I want to avoid simplistic answers here. Perhaps I can put it another way: Why would you even want to try to preach a Christian sermon without mentioning Jesus? Is there anywhere else we can look in order to see God? To see true humanity? To see the meaning of anything in creation? (p. 115).

While the temptation in preaching will be strong to proceed directly from, say, the godly Israelite to the contemporary believer, this method will inevitably produce distortions in the way we understand the text. There is not direct application apart from the mediation of Christ....While, no doubt, the direct approach will produce nice thoughts and, to a limited extent, even edifying ones, we simply can not afford to ignore the words of Jesus that the Scriptures testify to him. (p. 116)

Christ without Christ? Friends, where there is no Christ, there is no church. This is a sad and growing trend around here. May we stand firm upon the gospel of Jesus Christ. And may we preach it from every text of God's revealed Word.

Sublimely Ridiculous!

2008-08-08T08:32:00.002-04:00

There is the ridiculous, and then there is the sublimely ridiculous. After looking at this clip, is there any wonder why we need more churches. When this too often is the alternative, we must be all the more urgent to establish churches where God, not gimmicks, is the focus; and where people come to hear the gospel and not watch the goofy.

Too funny not to laugh. Too sad not to cry.

15 years - Like a Rock!

2008-08-07T11:00:00.005-04:00

Today my wife and I celebrate our 15th wedding anniversary. By God's grace we are beginning to learn something about this thing called marriage. One of the things that we have learned is that there is much yet to learn. Yet, through it all, my wife and her love has been like a rock. And thus, my tribute to her is taken from Like a Rock by Bob Seger (a personal favorite):

15 years now
where they go?
15 years
I still love her so.
I sit and I wonder sometimes
How she still loves me.

Sometimes late at night
Oh, when we're bathed in the moonlight
She comes to me and makes it right
And I recall
I recall

Like a rock
I see it in her face
Like a rock
Even in my mistakes
Like a rock
Her love is still great
Like a rock

Like a rock
She's there thru thick and thin
Like a rock
She's a lover and a friend
Like a rock
And I'd do it all again
Like a rock

Oh, Like a Rock!

The Grip of God's Grace

2008-08-05T10:19:00.002-04:00

This week in Bible Study we examined the glorious doctrine of The Preservation of the Saints. Here are a few of the points we examined as we thought through the Bible's teaching that believers are secure in the glorious grip of God's securing grace. When thinking about the nature of our salvation, consider:

The God of Salvation. Who is He that saves? Is salvation based in the Word of God? Will God go back on His word or forego His promises? Jonah 2:9; Jer. 31:3; 32:40; Isa. 43:3; Rom. 10:8-10; 2Cor. 1:20-22

The Goal of Salvation. Why does God save us? What is the goal of salvation in this life? How are we to understand the term “eternal life?” Isa. 43:7; 45:25; John 3:16; 5:24; 6:47, 51.

The Grip of Salvation. Do we hold on to God or is God holding on to us? In other words, “Who’s holding who?” Should I understand my salvation in my own hands or in the hands of God? Matt. 18:12-14; Jn. 6:39-40; Jn 10:27-30; Rom. 8:35-39.

The Grace of Salvation. Can I out sin the mercy and grace of God? Does not the blood of Christ redeem me from all my sin? Rom. 5:17, 20-21; 8:31-34; 1Jn. 1:7.

We sang one of my favorite hymns, which sums up this beautiful doctrine so well:

A Debtor to Mercy Alone by Augustus Toplady

A debtor to mercy alone,
Of covenant mercy I sing;
Nor fear, with Thy righteousness on,
My person and offering to bring.
The terrors of law and of God
With me can have nothing to do;
My Savior's obedience and blood
Hide all my transgressions from view

The work which His goodness began,
The arm of His strength will complete;
His promise is yea and amen,
And never was forfeited yet.
Things future, nor things that are now,
Not all things below nor above
Can make Him His purpose forego,
Or sever my soul from His love.

My name from the palms of His hands
Eternity will not erase;
Impressed on His heart it remains
In marks of indelible grace.
Yes, I to the end shall endure,
As sure as the earnest is given
More happy, but not more secure,
The glorified spirits in heaven.

Come Ye Sinner

2008-07-28T13:19:00.005-04:00

Have you ever felt like not getting out of the bed on Sunday morning? I have. In fact, this past Sunday was one of those days. It had been a long and exhausting weekend. I had been going non stop day and night since Thursday and the restful moments were few during that time. When Sunday morning had finally rolled around I was exhausted. And as I looked at the clock and knew it was time to get up, I prayed, "Lord, give me one reason why I should get out of this bed and go to church this morning." As I lay there waiting on an answer, the words to this song came to my head, "Come ye sinners, poor and needy, weak and wounded sick and sore." As those words began to rang in my head, when I reached the chorus I heard myself say, "I will rise and go to Jesus, He will embrace me in his arms." There and then the Spirit of God confirmed in me that to the company of the believers and to the Table of the Lord was where I need to go.

One of the rich benefits of having the Lord's Supper every week is that you don't have to wait any longer than a week for the experience of being nourished by His presence in administering the sacraments. And so, as I rose I knew that I would meet Jesus and not only would he embrace me in his arms, but he would nourish my soul through the bread and the cup. And I could not wait!

When we arrived at church, I asked the worship leader for a favor. I asked if we could sing Come Ye Sinners as our opening hymn. He looked at me curiously, yet agreed because he knew I must have a good reason for such a request. Indeed I did. I wish I could play for you the sound of the saints singing this hymn on this past Sunday. It was a wonderful preparation for our Communion time.

While I don't have us singing it on yesterday, here is the late Elder DJ Ward leading the singing of it at the Sovereign Grace Conference last year. While it probably won't minister to you like it did me yesterday, it surely will remind you that Jesus is still inviting us to come and find rest and strength in Him (Matt. 11:28-30).

Come, ye sinners, poor and needy,
Weak and wounded, sick and sore;
Jesus ready stands to save you,
Full of pity, love and power.

I will arise and go to Jesus,
He will embrace me in His arms;
In the arms of my dear Savior,
O there are ten thousand charms.

Come, ye thirsty, come, and welcome,
God’s free bounty glorify;
True belief and true repentance,
Every grace that brings you nigh.

I will arise and go to Jesus,
He will embrace me in His arms;
In the arms of my dear Savior,
O there are ten thousand charms.

Come, ye weary, heavy laden,
Lost and ruined by the fall;
If you tarry till you’re better,
You will never come at all.

I will arise and go to Jesus,
He will embrace me in His arms;
In the arms of my dear Savior,
O there are ten thousand charms.

View Him prostrate in the garden;
On the ground your Maker lies.
On the bloody tree behold Him;
Sinner, will this not suffice?

I will arise and go to Jesus,
He will embrace me in His arms;
In the arms of my dear Savior,
O there are ten thousand charms.

Let not conscience make you linger,
Not of fitness fondly dream;
All the fitness He requireth
Is to feel your need of Him.

I will arise and go to Jesus,
He will embrace me in His arms;
In the arms of my dear Savior,
O there are ten thousand charms.

A Great Cowper Quote

2008-07-22T21:41:00.005-04:00

One of my favorite pastimes is listening to books. I do understand that some folks don't have the constitution for such things, but I thoroughly enjoy it and my children have picked up on my habit and find it a most enjoyable exercise as well. I think I may enjoy them enjoying it as much as I enjoy it myself.

The book I am currently listening to is John Newton: From Disgrace to Amazing Grace by Jonathan Aiken. Newton is one of my heroes. His insight and experience with the grace of God is well known and encapsulated in his immortal words "Amazing Grace How Sweet the Sound." One of Newton's dearest friends was William Cowper. Cowper was even more the poet than Newton. From Cowper we have received the timeless treasure "God Moves in a Mysterious Way - His Wonders to Perform..."

During the Abolition of the Slave Trade movement in late 18th century England, Newton published Thoughts Upon the African Slave Trade, a first hand account of the wickedness and cruelty that was the detestable occupation. William Cowper was also asked to join in the fight against slavery by composing a poem that would prick the consciences of the people against the trade. I love Cowper's response. He said: "I can not contemplate the subject without a degree of abhorrence that affects my spirits and sinks them below the pitch requisite for success in verse."

I feel ya bro.

Experiencing the Presence of God

2008-07-21T12:30:00.002-04:00

We are currently in a series on Worship by the Book at our church here in Atlanta. Along this theme, here is an excerpt from the chapter on Biblical Worship from Experiencing the Truth:

It is amazing to me that so many churches have implemented two distinct worship services. In this approach, the church hopes to appeal to the often conflicting worship styles of the parishioners. For those of an older generation or taste, they offer what is known as the traditional worship. The other service is geared toward those of the present generation or who have a more contemporary taste. This is referred to as the contemporary worship service. More and more churches are implementing this two service approach in the hopes of attracting, or better yet, keeping more people. While this is not a particularly prevalent occurrence among predominantly Black churches, we should be weary of this modern trend and seek to head it off before it reaches our doors.

How deprived we are if all of our songs and forms are contemporary and new. And yet how shallow and inadequate is our worship if all we have are contemporary music and lyrics. We must remember that Christianity is a “forward remembering” faith. In other words, while we are always looking forward to what God has promised us in the grand consummation, we are always remembering what He did for us at the cross. While we are always proclaiming the glories of the returning King, we are also remembering the glories of the resurrected King. Therefore, let us not jettison the past in favor of the present, and let us not neglect the present in favor of the past. Rather let us embrace them together, even in our worship. How enhanced our worship would be if we made sure that we included such songs as Joyful, Joyful We Adore Thee sung to the magnificent arrangement of Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony, as well as Fred Hammond’s Bread of Life, with its irrepressible urban beats. How glorious and worthy of our God and reflective of heavenly realities would our worship be if we were more diligent in making sure we have something old, something new, yet always careful to maintain all things true.
Admittedly, this is no where near an exhaustive treatment of the subject of worship. The Bible has a lot more to say about the who, what, why, and how of worship than most of us realize. Nevertheless, I do hope you have been able to get a glimpse into how Reformed theology could and should impact a worship service within the predominantly African-American context. I remain convinced that Reformed theology and the African-American Christian experience are not irreconcilable or antithetical. When properly understood and applied together they can form a vision of Christianity, even Christian worship, that would call the angels down to investigate these God-exalting, soul-stirring, hands-lifting, mind-renewing, life-empowering, grace-enabling, sin-overcoming, mercy-receiving, humility-mongering, servant-leading, righteousness-hungering, Bible-believing, Christ-worshipping, eternity-anticipating Christians, who happen also to be Black (p. 104-105)

Another Reformed Blogger

2008-07-18T17:17:00.004-04:00

I am always thrilled to learn of brothers and sisters in the blogosphere holding down Reformed convictions. Today I was blessed to learn of another. I'm Speaking Truth... is from a brother who was in the Word Faith movement for 12 years (and you said you did not believe in purgatory). Thankfully, God has graciously led him out and into the more profitable and God-honoring way of historic, biblical, Christianity. And to top it off, he is a fellow Atlantan. God knows we need all the help we can get in this cauldron of false and foolish teachers.

So go over and encourage this brother to keep speaking truth with love as a good Calvinist should :-).

A Dream Deferred

2008-07-16T14:15:00.002-04:00

Langston Hughes once asked the question,

What happens to a dream deferred?
Does it dry up
Like a raisin in the sun?
Or fester like a sore--
And then run?
Does it stink like rotten meat?
Or crust and sugar over--
like a syrupy sweet?
Maybe it just sags
like a heavy load.
Or does it explode?

Sadly we are seeing it as the children of Martin Luther King, Jr take to the courts to settle their squabbles over money. In the house of Dr. King it would seem that the dream is drying up like a raisin in the sun.

The Decline Continues...

2008-07-15T18:50:00.004-04:00

If you need anymore proof as to the legitimacy of Thabiti's thesis in The Decline of African-American Theology or further justification for our writing Experiencing the Truth, here it is:

Without a doubt the lines between the sacred and the secular, the holy and the profane have been so blurred as to not even exist in most religious African-American context. This saddens me because I am a son of the predominantly African-American Baptist Church and continue to believe there is hope, though there is so much to the contrary.

Now some will defend this brother and claim that he is being relevant and contextual. I would beg to differ and say that he is being common and vulgar (in the classical sense of the word). You see, it takes no great effort or spiritual insight to appeal to the fleshly desires and tendencies of people. Appealing to them at their base level will always garner a positive and enthusiastic response. Yet, the call for us as Christians is to realize that our hearts and minds are not to be set on things below, but on things above (Col. 3:1-2).

Most people have a hard enough problem trying to deal with indwelling sin and resist the tempting allurements of the world day-to-day, not to have the same tempting allurements presented to them on Sunday morning as worship.

Friends, according to Scripture our minds are to be renewed (Rom. 12:1-2), not just rearranged.
(HT: PureChurch)

CJ and the "Bruthas"

2008-07-11T13:40:00.004-04:00

CJ Mahaney is making some good reading recommendations these days. Perhaps he is compelled because Thabiti welcomed him into the "bruthahood" at the Together for the Gospel Conference. Or perhaps, and more likely, he is finding these books worth his and everyone's time. You decide.

Voting for Obama? Why?

2008-07-11T08:55:00.004-04:00

Why are Christians (of various ethnicities) going to vote for Barack Obama for President? The reasons are many. Why should Christians not vote for Barack Obama? The reasons are equally compelling. Eric Redmond has offered some helpful insights into why many Bible believing Christians (as if there was another kind) will cast their ballot for the Senator from Illinois. He writes:

While it might seem a contradiction for Christian African Americans to vote for Senator Obama, each of us votes with many contradictions in both the righteous and selfish hopes of having the best possible earthly government and society. (Read more...)

Truth in Signs and Shirts!

2008-07-09T14:38:00.004-04:00

On vacation I came across some very telling signs and shirts:

Apparently terrorist threats in America is not a new thing.

I thought this was a fitting description of the Reformed blogosphere.

New Gospel Coalition Website

2008-07-08T20:16:00.004-04:00

I have the privilege of being a council member of The Gospel Coalition. The Coalition has launched a new website that seeks to be the one stop shop for all things members of the Coalition. I like it because one can find a wealth of sermons and articles from many of the coalition members at one place. Now I can listen to many of my favorite preachers by simply logging into one website. What a wonderful resource. Ben Peays and the other faithful laborers at the Coalition have done us all a wonderful service. So bookmark this page. It will surely prove to be a resource well worth your time.

Drive-In to Jesus

2008-07-08T13:43:00.003-04:00

I could be wrong and just a bit obtuse, but something just does not seem right about any of these pictures. What do you think?

Back from Vacation!

2008-07-06T18:27:00.010-04:00

As you have probably noticed, I have been away for quite some time. Well, thankfully, my wife and I (and some dear, close friends) just returned from a week long vacation to northern Michigan at the Garland Resort. The time with my wife and friends was a most roborant experience. Here are a few of the memories we will long enjoy:

New Life from Antigua

2008-06-26T19:42:00.005-04:00

This past weekend was the annual New Life Bible Conference sponsored by New Life Fellowship Church. I know we are given to hyperbole when it comes to these things, but I must say that this year was the most encouraging. The preached word was effectual and my heart was warmed with every message. The subject was of the utmost importance - What Difference Does the Gospel Make - and the brothers handled it with clarity, passion, and reverence. It would have been enough just to sit for those three days and hear the word of God expounded and applied. But those of us who were able to stay over for the Lord's Day Worship on Sunday at New Life were even more blessed to hear the fiery and faithful preaching Dr. Hensworth Jonas from Central Baptist Church in Antigua.

If you are not familiar with Dr. Jonas and the good work they are doing at Central Baptist Church, I want to strongly encourage you to become familiar with him. He is truly a renaissance man and has an unashamed heart for all things gospel. His church and ministry are reaching many throughout Antigua and Barbuda. You can hear his sermons, watch some of their television broadcast and latest video, and read all about the work of East Caribbean Baptist Mission.

Dr. Jonas is a refreshing reminder that God's glorious work of reformation is not unique to the United States. But Christians of African descent are preaching and experiencing these truths all over the world. Thank God for men like Hensworth Jonas.

Soli Deo Gloria!

Traces of the Trade

2008-06-23T10:15:00.004-04:00

There is a new documentary set to run on PBS this week titled "Traces of the Trade: A Story from the Deep North." In it, a woman reveals that her New England family's wealth and prestige was in the trafficking of human beings (you can view the trailer here).

According to the official synopsis:

In the feature documentary Traces of the Trade: A Story from the Deep North, filmmaker Katrina Browne discovers that her New England ancestors were the largest slave-trading family in U.S. history. She and nine cousins retrace the Triangle Trade and gain a powerful new perspective on the black/white divide... From 1769 to 1820, DeWolf fathers, sons and grandsons trafficked in human beings. They sailed their ships from Bristol, Rhode Island to West Africa with rum to trade for African men, women and children. Captives were taken to plantations that the DeWolfs owned in Cuba or were sold at auction in such ports as Havana and Charleston. Sugar and molasses were then brought from Cuba to the family-owned rum distilleries in Bristol. Over the generations, the family owned 47 ships that transported thousands of Africans across the Middle Passage into slavery. They amassed an enormous fortune. By the end of his life, James DeWolf had been a U.S. Senator and was reportedly the second richest man in the United States. (Read more).

This looks to be interesting. Check your local PBS listing for air times.

WTSBooks' New Category

2008-06-23T10:01:00.003-04:00

Westminster Books has a new category. It is books dealing with the African-American Church. Check it out.

More Blessed to Give...

2008-06-22T09:47:00.002-04:00

Apparently someone believes in it being Christmas all year long. Our brother Lance is giving away copies of some good books. To find out how you can get them, go here.

New Life Opened Last Night!

2008-06-20T13:17:00.004-04:00

The 2008 New Life Bible Conference finally began last evening and man, are we glad. Every year we highly anticipate the coming of June and the start of the conference and every year we are not disappointed. This year was no exception. We began our probe through the Epistle to the Galatians by examining "What Difference Does the Gospel Make." Louis Love opened with an introductory message giving an overview and the background to Galatians and delivering introductory remarks about the chosen theme. I had the pleasure and privilege of examining chapter 1 and encouraging the people with the Gospel-centered beginnings of Paul's letter. Tonight we will hear Galatians 2 with Stephen Love, and Galatians 3 with Thabiti Anyabwile.

If you have never been to a New Life Bible Conference, all I can say is that you must come and see. I don't just say that because I am a yearly participant. Rather I confidently say it based upon the testimonies of others who have come. Consider the testimony of Steven Renkema.

Steve came to the conference for the first time last year. He came as a representative of Reformation Heritage Books, who was gracious in providing a book table for the conference. Steve came to the conference as the primary book vendor. He left as a friend and a gratefully encouraged and challenged attendee. This year he is back and has expressed the same anticipation that I did in the beginning of this post. At the Reformation Heritage Book Blog, Steve wrote:

But of all the conferences that I attended last year my favorite, by far, was the “Godly Life” conference hosted by New Life Fellowship Church just north of Chicago.

You must read the entire post by Steve. You can do so here.

We are thankful for Steve coming to the conference again. We are thankful for the wonderful
resources Reformation Heritage Books sends. Most of all we are thankful for the friendship and mutual encouragement we have been blessed to develop. We invite you to come and be encouraged as well.

"Experiencing the Truth" is Available

2008-06-16T14:07:00.011-04:00

Experiencing the Truth: Bringing the Reformation to the African-American Church is available from Crossway Books. Take a look at some of the content and place your order here.
For those of you who are attending the New Life Bible Conference, this week there will be some copies available.

In case you're interested, here are some of the initial comments from some friends.

“Experiencing the Truth gives great acclamation to black (African-American) church worship, black preaching, and the black Christian experience, rightly showing the strength of Reformed theology for each of these traditions. It also provides a rapier diagnosis of a churchgoing people whose tryst with liberation theology has birthed a practice of Christianity that is too badly deformed to produce a kingdom of God-like presence in the African-American community. The authors offer a careful narrative of orthodox Christianity with a faithful and proper emphasis on the Reformed confessions, creeds, and solas so that African-American believers can find themselves tied to a pre-Middle Passage Christianity without sacrificing their own identities to the heroic personalities of the Reformation. I am excited about a book that would dare to suggest the “irrepressible urban beats” of Fred Hammons’s Bread of Life and van Dyke’s Joyful, Joyful We Adore Thee sung to an arrangement of Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony could be used together to enhance our corporate worship experience! Carter, Jones, and Leach have wed the African-American Christian experience with the Reformation so graciously that that those proud to be the ethnic and religious descendants of Dubois, Douglas, and King can relish equally in their spiritual heritage from Calvin, Luther, and Edwards. The analysis, synthesis, and directives of this collaborative treatise may represent one of the most important works since the now classical observations of Frazier, Lincoln, and Mamiya, for in this work the authors call us to be a church where our need for God can be fulfilled rather than a religious organization that meets people’s self-serving desires. I hope Experiencing the Truth will be an impetus to move the African-American church from the self-deprecating darkness of theological liberalism into the divinely nourishing the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ." —Rev. Eric C. Redmond, author of Where Are All the Brothers? Straight Answers to Men’s Questions about the Church.

“In the midst of so many socially driven critiques of the African-American church, finally we have a book that is theologically robust, historically engaging, and at the same time remarkably easy to read. The authors show no fear as they tackle the tough issues (i.e. preaching, singing, worship, to name a few) facing the African-American in particular and the evangelical church in general. Carter, Leach, and Jones demonstrate their in-depth knowledge of the African-American church and their doctrinal prowess by offering not only sobering critiques but substantial biblical solutions rooted in the historic doctrines of the church. It is not very often a book of this nature is published. I say get it, read it, and discuss it. Any serious conversation about the church of Jesus Christ will include many references to Experiencing Truth: Bringing the Reformation to the African-American Church.” —Louis C. Love Jr, Pastor of New Life Fellowship Church, Vernon Hills, Illinois

“A long line of people offer advice about the church—her ills, her hopes, her needs, and her prospects. But most diagnoses and prescriptions rely on the pundit’s own store of knowledge. In Experiencing the Truth, Carter, Leach, and Jones provide a biblical diagnosis and a biblical prescription for what ails the African-American church and much of the larger church world as well. From theology to preaching to worship and Christian spirituality, these veterans of the church and pulpit apply the scalpel of truth to every major area of church life. They helpful remove the diseased tissue and bandage the strong muscle of the church. Anyone who cares about seeing the cause of Christ advanced in the local church will delight in this volume and be helped in that cause.” —Thabiti Anyabwile, Senior Pastor, First Baptist Church of Grand Cayman

Glory Road: Ken Jones

2008-06-06T17:40:00.004-04:00

Ken Jones is the pastor of Greater Union Baptist Church. He also co-host of The White Horse Inn.

He gave the following answers:

1. What was the first book you read that introduced you to Reformed Theology? Institutes of the Christian Religion, John Calvin

2. List the five most influential books in your Reformed theological journey. The Institutes of Christian Religion, John Calvin; Death of the Death in the Death of Christ, John Owen; Knowing God, J.I. Packer; On the Existence and Attributes of God, Stephen Charnock; Chosen By God, R.C. Sproul

3. List three preachers and/or teachers who were most influential in you journey.
Michael Horton
Rod Rosenbladt
Kim Riddlebarger
James Montgomery Boice
R.C. Sproul

4. If you could give one book to someone interested in Reformed theology, what book would you give? The Death of Death in the Death of Christ, John Owen

5. What doctrine distinquishes Reformed Theology? The Sovereignty of God

Fiction is Dead

2008-06-04T09:11:00.006-04:00

In 1951 no one thought the New York Giants could ever catch, much less beat the Brooklyn Dodgers. The Giants won an unbelievable 37 of their last 44 games. They had to do this in order to force a three game playoff with the mighty Dodgers for the National League pennant. They split the first two games, with the Dodgers winning game two by the score of 10 - 0. The third came saw more of the Dodger domination. Going into the bottom of the ninth, the Dodgers held a 4 - 1 lead. Then the history of baseball changed for ever, as Bobby Thompson hit what some have called the greatest and most improbable homerun in Major League history. In the bottom of the ninth with one out and two men on base, Bobby Thompson hit what is known as "the shot heard 'round the world." A three run homerun and as legendary announcer Russ Hodges said, "THE GIANTS WIN THE PENNANT!!! THE GIANTS WIN THE PENNANT!!!"

Afterward, the sportswriter Red Smith wrote in description of the event, "Now it is done. Now the story ends. And there is no way to tell it. The art of fiction is dead. Reality has strangled invention. Only the utterly impossible, the inexpressibly fantastic, can ever be plausible again."

Last night, as I watched Barack Obama win the Democratic Nomination for President of the United States, I could hear Russ Hodges say, "Obama wins the Nomination! Obama wins the Nomination!" I also could not help but think that for the first time in my life we can say the art of fiction is dead. An African-American has a serious chance at winning the White House. What we thought was impossible and fantastic has become reality. This morning as I read Thabiti's blog (a must read today), I was also reminded that we have come a long ways in this country. And though you may not agree with the politics of Obama, you should at least smile that our country is learning to live out its creed.

Experience the Truth Interview

2008-06-03T10:15:00.005-04:00

By Faith Magazine has an interview with me on our book Experiencing the Truth: Bringing the Reformation to the African-American Church, which is due out next month. You can read the interview here.

Glory Road: Sherard Burns

2008-05-30T15:25:00.003-04:00

Sherard is the Pastor for Christian Education at Glendale Baptist Church in Miami, FL. His survey questions were answered as follows:

1. What was the first book you read that introduced you to Reformed Theology? Chosen By God, R.C. Sproul

2. List the five most influential books in your Reformed Theological journey: Chosen By God, R.C. Sproul; The Institutes of Christian Religion, John Calvin; Reformation Thought, Alistair McGrath; The Death of Death in the Death of Christ, John Owen; Christ of the Covenant, O. Palmer Robertson

3. List three preachers and/or teachers who were most influential in your journey. Lehman D. Bates, R.C. Sproul, John Piper

4. If you could give one book to someone interested in Reformed theology, what book would you give? Chosen By God, Sproul

5. What doctrine would you say distinquishes Reformed theology? The doctrine of God's atoning work - Limited Atonement

Glory Road: Anthony Bradley

2008-05-26T12:21:00.005-04:00

Anthony Bradley is Assistant Professor of Apologetics and Systematic Theology at Covenant Theological Seminary in St. Louis, MO. He is also a Research Fellow for the Acton Institute for the Study of Religion and Liberty in Grand Rapids, MI. He can also be found sharing his thoughts on his popular blog The Institute.

And his survey answers said:

1. What was the first book you read that introduced you to Reformed Theology? Putting Amazing Back Into Grace, Michael Horton

2. List the five most influential books in your Reformed Theological journey: The Institutes of Christian Religion, John Calvin; Puritan Race, Virtue, Vice, and Value 1620-1820: Original Calvinists' True Believers Enduring Faith and Ethics Race Claims, Joseph R. Washington, Jr.; From Creation to Consummation, Gerard Van Groningen; Christ-Centered Preaching, Bryan Chapell; Van Til's Apologetics: Readings and Analysis, Greg Bahnsen

3. List three preachers and/or teachers who were most influential in your journey. Cornelius Henderson, David C. Jones, Gerard Van Groningen

4. If you could give one book to someone interested in Reformed theology, what book would you give? As Far as the Curse is Found, Michael Williams

5. What doctrine would you say distinquishes Reformed theology? The doctrine of Creation, with emphasis on the covenant story of God's sovereign redemption of all creation.

Glory Road: Thabiti Anyabwile

2008-05-23T11:04:00.004-04:00

Thabiti Anyabwile is the Senior Pastor of First Baptist Church of Grand Cayman in the Cayman Islands. He is also blogger at Pure Church, where he goes by the name Fellow Elder. These are his answers:

1. What was the first book you read that introduced you to Reformed Theology? Knowing God, J.I. Packer and Great Doctrines of the Bible, D. Martyn Lloyd-Jones.

2. List the five most influential books in your Reformed Theological journey.
Knowing God, J.I. Packer; Great Doctrines of the Bible, D. Martyn Lloyd-Jones; Bondage of the Will, Martin Luther; What Is Reformed Theology (previously Grace Unknown), R.C. Sproul; Chosen But Free, Norman Geisler (I read as a defense of the non-Reformed view. Its weaknesses pushed me more conclusively to a Reformed understanding)

3. List three preachers and/or teachers who were most influential in you journey.
R.C. Sproul
John MacArthur
Mark Dever

4. If you could give one book to someone interested in Reformed theology, what book would you give? What is Reformed Theology, R.C. Sproul

5. What doctrine would you say distinguishes Reformed theology?
The centrality of the doctrine of God sets Reformed theology apart from other perspectives. It’s not that the glory, sovereignty and centrality of God are somehow unique ideas to Reformed theology, for other systems would in their own ways acknowledge these issues. And it’s not as though Reformed theology has found an inventive niche here that makes this a marketing advantage. Rather, God is central in the entire body of Scripture and Reformed theology most accurately perceives that truth and puts God at the center of its theological outlook.

Glory Road: Reddit Andrews

2008-05-22T08:06:00.003-04:00

Reddit Andrews III is the Senior Pastor of Soaring Oaks Presbyterian Church in Elk Grove, CA. His answer to the aforementioned questions are:

1. What was the first book you read that introduced you to Reformed Theology? Lectures to My Students, C. H. Spurgeon

2. List the five most influential books in your Reformed Theological journey.
Knowing God, J. I. Packer.
Systematic Theology, Louis Berkhof.
The Biography of D. Martyn Lloyd Jones, Ian Murray.
The Works of Jonathan Edwards
Our Reasonable Faith, Herman Bavinck.

3. List three preachers and/or teachers who were most influential in you journey.
Leroy Bailey, Jr.
Gary Cohen
D. Martyn Lloyd Jones
John Piper
Allan Joseph

4. If you could give one book to someone interested in Reformed theology, what book would you give? Systematic Theology, Louis Berkhof.

5. What doctrine would you say distinguishes Reformed theology?

The Glory of the Sovereign God, as opposed to the supposed free will of man.

Glory Road

2008-05-21T10:55:00.003-04:00

I currently have the pleasure of working on a new book project entitled Glory Road: Our Journeys into Reformed Christianity. It is a wonderful project and we are eagerly anticipating its publication in the near future. I say "we" because I have enlisted the help of some good friends and faithful co-laborers in the gospel. These men have agreed to contribute to this book and I for one could not be more happy and excited. As I have been editing the chapters, I found myself strengthen and challenged as they shared their unique insights and perspectives on Reformed Theology. I believe this book will be a must read, not because I am editing it but because of the men who are contributing to it.

Thus saith the LORD, Stand ye in the ways, and see, and ask for the old paths, where is the good way, and walk therein, and ye shall find rest for your souls...(Jer. 6:16).

Part of their contributions has been the answering of a few survey questions. The questions were as follows:

What was the first book you read that introduced you to Reformed Theology?
Besides the Bible, list the five most influential books in your Reformed theological journey
List three preachers and/or teachers who were most influential in your journey?
If you could give one book to someone interested in Reformed theology, what book would you give them?
What doctrine would you say distinguishes Reformed Theology?

Over the next few days I hope to post their responses.

Character not Color

2008-05-12T10:13:00.004-04:00

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr's now famous dream, that we would be judged, "not by the color of our skin, but by the content of our character" apparently has come home to roost at his alma mater. This year the esteemed Morehouse College will graduate for the first time a white student as valedictorian.

From his first day at Morehouse College — the country's only institution of higher learning dedicated to the education of black men — Joshua Packwood has been a standout. Read more.

Congrats to Joshua Packwood for a job well done.

It's Going Down!

2008-05-10T11:14:00.006-04:00

I want to thank Collin Hansen for his recent and much-anticipated book Young Restless and Reformed. In it he detailed the rise and impact of Reformed theology among a new and energetic generation of evangelicals. Colin detailed the impact of such men as John Piper, RC Sproul, CJ Mahaney, Mark Dever and others. Surely we can not truly assess the contributions of these men to the growth of reformed theology in our time. Their impact on me alone has been tremendous. I enjoyed reading Collin's well written account of how Reformational truth is spreading. However, if you read Collin's book you would get the impression that the impact is on young white evangelicals and very little impact is being made among other cultures and ethnic groups. Yet, I for one want to say without fear of contradiction that there is a growing move among young (and older) African-Americans toward the historical and biblical truths of Reformed theology. No, it is not a tidal wave. We won't expect CNN to do an expose on Young, Restless, Black, and Reformed (we'll leave that to Lionel Woods). Nevertheless, all evidence points to the reality that Reformed theology is growing among African-Americans, and I for one could not be more pleased, grateful, encouraged, and challenged.

Brothers and sisters, I honestly believe that a move of God is going down among African-Americans and I am challenged by our responsibilities to be faithful stewards of this move. Our calling is to do all we can to make sure this move does not end with this generation, but is faithfully and emphatically passed on to the next. How do we do this? What are some of the ways in which we can be faithful stewards of this dispensation of God's grace? Here are four ways (I am sure there are many more):

1. Write. As Reformed African-Americans we must write books, articles, booklets, songs, and testimonies on who we are and what God has done and is doing. We must not fear writing on theological subjects that have already been covered by our esteemed brothers of lighter skin tone. Most truth is worthy of being said again. Besides, the historic reformed truths need to be stated in our voice so as to demonstrate that they don't belong to just one ethnic group. Also, surely God desires to testify to the whole body of Christ the glories of his grace through us and thereby encourage our brothers and sisters of different cultures. Unfortunately, we didn't have a large corpus of theological and pastoral material, which was passed down to us. Yet, let not that be said by the generation that comes after us. We must write. To this end, at the New Life Bible Conference in June (I will have more to say about this later), I hear that there will be quite a few offerings from the brothers:

On Being Black and Reformed

Faithful Preacher by Thabiti Anyabwile

The Decline of African-American Theology by Thabiti Anyabwile

Experiencing the Truth by Anthony Carter (with Michael Leach and Ken Jones)

What is a Healthy Church Member by Thabiti Anyabwile

Where Are All the Brothers by Eric Redmond

And I hear more is on the way. Praise God!

2. Plant and Reform Churches. Church planting continues to be God's means of spreading the message and impact of the gospel. A movement that does establish faithful churches is a movement destined for extinction. So we must plant churches. To this end, here in Atlanta I am leading a team of people in the planting of East Point Church. In fact, this evening we are having our first public meeting in which we are inviting all to come out and hear our vision for a church in the city with a passion for gospel truth and gospel living. Also in Atlanta there is planned the Issachar Fellowship, led my man Dhati Lewis. Prayerfully this church plant will be coming to our fair city in the next year or two. This is exciting news! We need more. Yet, not only must we plant churches, but we must also be willing to assume existing churches and do the work of bringing reform to them. This is being illustrated to us by such men as Eric Redmond at Hillcrest Baptist Church and Roger Skepple at Berean Bible Baptist Church. These men are not alone in there reforming efforts. I know there are many others around the country doing the same. We must make sure we continue this labor.

3. Hold Conferences. The gathering of a people for mutual challenge, encouragement, and edification is not only necessary, it is also biblical (Heb. 10:25). One of the ways in which we can fulfill this command is the regular holding of Church and Bible Conferences. Not only does it continue the integrity and accountability of theology, but it encourages the brothers and sisters to know that they are not alone. We already have some good ones going, namely New Life Bible Conference in the Chicago area and the Miami Pastors' Conference in Miami, FL. Both of these are quickly establishing themselves as bulwarks in the movement. Let us remember to attend and support them. Also, let us plan more around the country. Surely the west coast and Texas can use some.

4. Train Disciples. The health and strength of any movement ultimately lies in its ability to disciple the next generation. We must make sure we are developing ways and means by which we are introducing others, particularly those younger, to the faith we profess. If we are not successful in passing the torch of theology and faith to our sons and daughters, we can not - we must not - claim success or faithfulness at all. Therefore, we must identify those among us who have giftedness and a heart for the ministry. And once identified, we must encourage them, train them, and provide them opportunities to serve and to hone their gifts. Let us never begrudge the younger minds or doubt their sincerity, as it too often happened to some of us. But let us strongly encourage them and challenge them to go above and beyond what we are doing.

Brothers and sisters, it's going down! I pray we will be faithful stewards and that future generations will look upon this time and thank God for our labors and be challenged to labor all the more.

Books I'm Reading (or have recently read)

2008-05-09T07:49:00.004-04:00

I have been reminded that I have not listed a current reading list lately. Actually my overall blogging has been slow because of my preoccupation with church and writing responsibilities. Yet, my continuing education continues. A couple of books that have recently contributed to that education are:

Questioning Evangelism: Engaging People's Heart the Way Jesus Did by Randy Newman. I really like Newman's approach. Admittedly, it is not for everyone because not everyone is as engaging as Newman. But for those who can be, this is an excellent resource.

For Us and Our Salvation: The Doctrine of Christ in the Early Church by Stephen Nichols. Nichols is one of my favorite writers. I tend to read all that I can by him.

Galatians by Philip Graham Ryken. Ryken is a good writer and preacher. With the New Life Conference quickly approaching, books on Galatians are at the top of my list. (BTW: Do all the pastors at Tenth Presbyterian Church have to use their middle name? Just wondering.)

Doctrine that Dances: Bring Doctrinal Preaching and Teaching to Life by Robert Smith. This is my casual reading. I am slowly but rewardingly making my way through this one.

Team of Rivals: The Political Genius of Abraham Lincoln by Doris Kearns Goodwin. Lincoln once said, "How do you destroy an enemy? You make him your friend." Lincoln embodied this and it is what set him apart as a politician and a man. I love reading and learning about Lincoln.

An African-American Vision in the PCA

2008-05-05T20:11:00.004-04:00

Let me say this, "I am not a member of the Presbyterian Church in America (PCA)." I say that because it is frequently assumed that I am in the PCA. This is probably because I have some good friends in the PCA and my theology is probably more closely related to that of the PCA than any other group. I find there is much in the PCA to commend and would not hesitate recommending them as a faithful gospel preaching denomination. The PCA also has some good African-American preachers seeking to contextualize the gospel without losing the gospel. In fact, within the PCA is an African-American Ministry, which seeks to promote reformed theology and the PCA among African-Americans. The ministry has a vision. Take a look.

Remembering Elder DJ Ward

2008-05-05T11:50:00.002-04:00

For a copy of the Program from the funeral of Elder Ward, click here. He was truly a unique, gifted, and faithful preacher of the gospel. He will be missed.

Doctrine that Dances

2008-05-02T11:44:00.004-04:00

Here are a couple of good quotes from a book I am reading entitled Doctrine that Dances: Bringing Doctrinal Preaching and Teaching to Life. It is written by Dr. Robert Smith, professor of preaching at Beeson Divinity School (a couple of years ago I mentioned Dr. Smith here). The quotes are seeking to define what doctrinal preaching is:

As Jesus admonished that the Scriptures be searched because they testify of Him (John 5:39), preachers of Christian doctrine make Christ the heart of their preaching. If the Bible is read backwards, one will see that Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God, was slain from the foundation of the world (Rev. 13:8). This means that in the mind of God, Calvary was a forethought and not an afterthought. God did not react to the fall of Adam and Eve, but rather He pre-acted before the the fall of Adam and Eve. The Old Testament proclaimed that Christ is coming. The New Testament announced that Christ has come and will come again (p. 23)

Doctrinal preaching must have an object. We cannot have faith in faith; we do not worship worship; and doctrine does not exist fro doctrine's sake. Doctrinal preaching carries out the mission of magnifying Jesus Christ (p. 25).

The book is so far so good. I am enjoying the read. You may want to consider the investment.

Imam calls for an end to Black Theology

2008-05-01T07:16:00.004-04:00

The respected Muslim leader Imam W. Deen Mohammed has publicly called for a move away from Black Theology.

The irony of Black Liberation Theology is that it was established for the purpose of empowering black people. Yet, like all aberrant teachings, instead of empowering it weakens. Just as a son of Black America is positioned to attain what those in the Civil Rights era did not believe was attainable, it is Black Theology which may prove to be his undoing. Unfortunately, Senator Obama has discovered what we have understood for quite some time, namely that Black Liberation Theology is not just unbiblical, but it does not truly liberate. He has discovered that it is not a help but a hindrance to truth and reconciliation. Did James Cone intend for his theology to be an albatross around the neck of the first truly viable Black candidate for the presidency of the United States? Probably not. Yet, the fact of the matter is that Obama's problem is that black liberation theology is coming home to roost. Perhaps, after this episode in his life, if he is truly a Christian, Barack Obama and his family will seek out a more biblical, evangelical Christian church in which to serve and worship. Only time will tell. In the meantime, a Muslim voice has joined the discussion and calling for an end to the folly of Black Theology. Will we hear him?

Again, Wright is Wrong

2008-04-30T08:05:00.002-04:00

The latest socio-politico-religious discussion has been over the recent publicity tour of Dr. Jeremiah Wright. Here our brother and fellow elder gives some insight into why, once again, Wright is wrong.

At Home with the Lord

2008-04-29T08:08:00.005-04:00

I was informed yesterday that on Friday, April 25, 2008 Elder DJ Ward was found absent from his body yet present with the Lord. Elder Ward was an elder in every since of the word. His warmth for people and his dedication to the gospel will be missed. Yet, the roll of elders in heaven just became one more closer to being complete. For this we rejoice.
Here is a clip I posted earlier this year. I just believe it captures the heart of the man, whom I knew only briefly but felt his passion for the gospel deeply. I can imagine him getting to heaven and proclaiming one more time, "I'm a grace case!"

Here John Piper gives his reflections on Elder Ward.

Tim Keller on The Reason for God

2008-04-19T16:36:00.002-04:00

Westminster Bookstore and the Westminster Gospel and Culture Project has made available three videos recently recorded with Tim Keller on the theme of his recent book The Reason for God.

Tim Keller panel discussion with WTS Faculty
Tim Keller at UPenn
Tim Keller at UPenn Q and A

Thabiti on the Abolition of Race

2008-04-16T17:07:00.003-04:00

Last night at the Together for the Gospel Conference Thabiti Anyabwile delivered a message entitled "Bearing the Image: Identity, the Work of Christ, and the Church". In no uncertain terms he called for the abolition of race. Thabiti began by suggesting that our entire outlook on life has been so misplaced, so wrong-headed, and so inadequate that we either need to change it now or commit ourselves to the closest mental health institution. Why? Because believing in race is like believing in unicorns. You can listen to the entire message here.

Also, here is a short clip of his message:

(HT:Challies)

Heidelblogging "On Being Black and Reformed"

2008-04-14T19:30:00.003-04:00

R. Scott Clark, professor of historical and systematic theology at Westminster Seminary California and blogger at Heidelblog, has written a review of my book "On Being Black and Reformed." You can read part one here. In part one he identifies four strengths in the book. He promises at the end of the review that in part two he will give four weaknesses. I appreciate Dr. Clark taking the time to read my book out of what I imagine is a never ending stream of recommended book titles that cross his desk. Yet even more than appreciation, I am amazed by two things: one, that he found four strengths in my writing; and two, that he only found four weaknesses (he probably found more, but is being kind).

Thanks Dr. Clark. Your review reminds me that, like all of us, my gifts must continue to be used for God's glory. Also, these gifts are far from perfected and I need God's grace and the challenging encouragement of men like yourself if I will continue to faithfully exercise those gifts for the glory of God and the good of His people.

Update: Dr. Clark has posted part 2 of his review here.

Ken Jones on Multiculturalism

2008-04-14T19:26:00.002-04:00

Yesterday, Ken Jones preached on the gospel's impact on the issue of multiculturalism in church. You can listen to his message from Eph. 2:11-22 here.

A Dream Come True?

2008-04-04T14:11:00.003-04:00

Today marks the 40th anniversary of the assassination of Martin Luther King, Jr. As we are bombarded with people giving us their assessment of the progress we have made in fulfilling MLK Jr's dream, I thought it would be interesting to wonder if this is how the fulfillment of his dream would look and sound.

Two men judged not for the color of their skin, but the content of their vocal chords. If the King of Soul and the King of the High C's can get together and get along, surely we all can.

Southwest Christian Fellowship Men's Retreat '08

2008-03-31T11:42:00.009-04:00

This past weekend was the annual Men's Retreat at Southwest Christian Fellowship. The theme for this year's conference was "Act Like Men" - taken from 1Cor. 16:13-14: Be watchful, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong. Let all that you do be done in love.

We spent 2 days and 2 nights at Woodlands Camp and Conference Center in Helen GA. It was time well spent. Not only were we refreshed by the relaxation and recreation of the camp, but we were encouaged and challenged from the Word of God by the teaching and fellowship of our guest preacher, Roger Skepple, pastor of Berean Bible Baptist Church in Atlanta GA. Joining Skepple in the primary teaching was Robert Benson and Ed Pugh. You can listen to and download all four of the messages by going here.

The scope and impact of the Men's Retreat is more than I can cover in this brief blog post. However, let me say that just as God says in his word, "Behold, how good and pleasant it is when brothers dwell in unity...For there the Lord has commanded the blessing, life forevermore" (Psalm 133), our time at the retreat was a blessed witness to the glories of this truth. Men prayed. Men played. Men confessed. Men embraced. Men fell down. Men got up. Men cried. Men laughed. Men shared. Men listened. Men ate. Men relaxed. Men loved. Men learned. Men taught. Men caught. Men grew. Men rested. Men worked. Men sang. Men read. Men prayed. All of this was because Men worshipped.

One of the many highlights of that worship was the Men's Retreat Trio (Ed Pugh, Kelvin White, and Allan Bynoe) singing The Gospel Song by Drew Jones and Bob Kauflin. The words are simple yet profound:

Holy God, in love, became

Perfect Man to bear my blame

On the cross He took my sin

By His death I live again

It was a glorious reminder that the only way we can really act like men is to believe and live upon the gospel of Jesus Christ. Men are never more manly than when they are praying and worshipping.

RC Interviews Ben Stein

2008-03-26T18:59:00.004-04:00

There is a new documentary that is gaining steam and is due out in theatres next month. It is Expelled: No Intelligence Allowed. It is hosted by the actor/comedian Ben Stein and it takes up the issue of intolerance in the academic world against those who would challenge modern theories of Darwinism. The film looks interesting. Apparently it has even caught the eye of RC Sproul. Recently RC interviewed Ben Stein and the both of them discussed the folly of Darwinism and the inescapable reality of an Intelligent Designer of the universe. The dialogue between the two men is really interesting and enlightening. My favorite part is toward the end. As RC is concluding some of his remarks, Stein looks at him and wonders out loud, how RC could know so much about the subject. What Stein discovered is what I learned during my years of working at Ligonier. RC has a mind like a steel trap! He remembers everything. He is literally one of the most informed and diverse thinkers I have ever met. I don't recall ever having a conversation with RC and not going away from it having learned something new. In fact, I was recently listening to a Panel Discussion from the Ligonier National Conference in which RC was joined on stage by CJ Mahaney and Sinclair Ferguson. CJ made the point that the only thing about which he was confident that he knew more than Sinclair and RC was sports. RC did not respond, but I knew from personal conversations that CJ would be quite surprised to find out that RC is very proficient and informed concerning professional athletics. Furthermore, if the question was baseball or golf or the Pittsburgh Steelers, I would put my money on RC. Sorry CJ. But I digress.

Here is the video of the interview. You'll see that it isn't long before Stein realizes that RC's is a mind to be reckoned with.

(HT:Challies)

Eric Redmond on Black Liberation Theology

2008-03-26T09:18:00.002-04:00

Yesterday, our brother Eric Redmond was on The Albert Mohler Radio Program discussing Jeremiah Wright, African-American Theology, and the Church. At his blog, A Man From Issachar, Eric gives an excellent overview of Black Liberation Theology and its grandchild, the insidious Word-Faith Theology, or as Eric calls it Nuevo Negro Liberation Theology. You can read his thoughts here.

Bach on his Birthday (SDG)

2008-03-21T11:25:00.004-04:00

Johann Sebastian Bach was born on this day in 1865. Though it could be argued that there were those equal to him, we can confidently say that no one as ever been any better. Listening to Bach gives you the sense that there is something more profound, more beautiful, more compelling, and more desirable than you had considered before you listened to him. As much as any composer, Bach's true inspiration comes through in his compositions. Therefore, it should not surprise us that he would sign off on his compositions with the letters SDG, meaning Soli Deo Gloria. Truly Bach sensed his giftedness was for the promotion of God's beauty, truth, and good in the world. In this, he should remind and challenge us all to be more aware of our calling and mandate found in 1Cor. 10:31: "...whatever you do, do all to the glory of God."

Yet, not only is it Bach's birthday but it is also Good Friday. As we remember our Lord's passion and call to mine Calvary, I thought it good to consider Bach's interpretation of it in his now incomparable piece St Matthew's Passion. Like Handel's Messiah, Bach's St. Matthew's Passion captures the biblical revelation in music like nothing before or since. If you have some time, listen and appreciate Bach's desire to communicate the suffering of his and our Saviour. Surely, our Lord was forsaken so we would not have to be.

O, the passion! O, the wonder of Christ our God!

Anyabwile a Prophet?

2008-03-19T12:41:00.005-04:00

Yesterday Barack Obama acquitted himself well on national TV. With the eloquence of Abraham Lincoln and the presence of Ronald Reagan, Obama reminded us once again, that even if you don't agree him, you still want to listen to him. We have to wait and see if he is able to overcome the latest barrage of political attacks and steady his presidential bid. If he does, he will have no one but his wrong-headed former pastor Jeremiah Wright to thank for it. Because of the erroneous theology of Wright, Obama has been given a platform and opportunity to speak to the American public that neither Hillary Clinton or John McCain has been afforded. As usual, Obama with his eloquence was able to turn what was possibly devastating, into a unprecedented opportunity. Yet we can only lament that it was the decline in African-American theology that has brought this opportunity. Thabiti Anyabwile practically predicted such a scenario.

Anyabwile, author of The Decline of African-American Theology, on Jan. 4 2008 wondered out loud if the decline in African-American theology would derail the campaign of the first really legitimate African-American candidate for president. Thabiti prophetically stated:

People will be more alarmed at the value system at Trinity United Church of Christ where Sen. Obama worships. It is explicitly Black Nationalist in character and, interestingly, introduces "race" in a way that Sen. Obama, to this point, has not. Already several pundits have picked up on this issue and began to discuss it (see here).

One great irony would be if it were finally the weakness of the African-American church that effectively destroyed the first viable presidential bid of an African American. So many people tout the African-American church for its historic role in promoting justice, but few have seen the connection between sound theology and any true effort at justice. In a sad turn of events, it may be by God's hand the Sen. Obama campaign that forces global light on the damnable heresies and errors, the counterfeit Christianity present in so many churches.

White evangelicals may wonder why most blacks, though they disagree with Jeremiah Wright, would still support Barack Obama. Well, there are several reason. But one for sure is that most blacks who support Obama already knew about the foolishness of Wright and thus this is not new information that would change their opinions of Obama. For them, Wright's comments do not change the message or the man who is promising change to them.

Yet, I agree with Anyabwile. The greater issue is not whether or not Obama wins or loses. The real discussion should be around the damnable theology that is spewing forth from such places as Trinity United Church of Christ and the impact such theology is having on the people who hang on every word.

In the final analysis, Rev. Wright has been dead wrong for along time. We will see if Prophet Anyabwile was dead on in his proleptic analysis.

Update: Here Thabiti is interviewed by Collin Hansen of Christianity Today.
(HT:JT)

You, Me, and Computers

2008-03-19T10:28:00.002-04:00

Have you ever wondered why we have such a love/hate relationship with our computers? Well, today I came across a quote attributed to Albert Einstein (I say attributed because like Shakespeare in literature, Einstein gets credited for every insightful scientific quote) that just may explain our necessary predicament:

"Computers are incredibly fast, accurate and stupid; humans are incredibly slow, inaccurate and brilliant; together they are powerful beyond imagination." -- Albert Einstein.

Ligonier Conference Online

2008-03-15T14:10:00.002-04:00

I have participated in many Bible and theological conferences. I have attended and been encouraged by even more. And I can say with all sincerity that Ligonier Ministries puts on as good a conference as anyone could hope to do. I don't particularly like to rank elements of the kingdom of God. This is a practice that I lament to find far too often in modern evangelicalism and particularly in the blogosphere. The next time some one says this guy is the best preacher, or that blog is the best blog, consider that their thoughts are not God's thoughts and their ways are not God's ways :-). With that said, I do commend Ligonier Conference for its pursuit of excellence and commitment to theological integrity. I was not able to attend this year's conference, but am pleased to see that the conference was streamed live on the internet and the videos can be viewed again here. Of particular recommendation is Sinclair Ferguson's message from Isa. 53 on The Substitutionary Atonement of Christ. Take note that Sinclair reminds us that Christ was not just our representative, but he was also our substitute. An excellent word as we enter the week of our Lord's passion.

Still Alive!

2008-03-12T17:32:00.002-04:00

I know. I have not blogged in a while. I have been busy with a few writing projects as well as local church work. I hope soon to have some news on both accounts. Regardless, I will be back soon and hopefully, better and badder than ever. So, thanks for your concern; but know that I am still alive!

God the Gentleman?

2008-02-28T08:39:00.002-05:00

Here is a quote I came across today at a blog by a worship leader:

"God is always a gentleman. He never comes into a heart uninvited, and never takes over a life without being asked."

After reading it I could not help but think that someone forgot to tell Jonah this. Also, neither was Apostle Paul reminded of this so-called truth. In fact, when I think of my own life, if God had waited on me, I never would have known who He is. Thank God once again that He is not subject to human sentiments of chivalry.

War is almost Hell

2008-02-27T16:19:00.004-05:00

Someone has said, "War is hell." Well, I don't believe war is hell, but I am convinced that it is darn near to it. On the ground in certain places of Iraq is not a desirable place to be, as seen in this recently declassified footage of a truck bomb. This is a brutal reminder that those in Iraq and Afghanistan who are in harms way are in need of our prayers. I am sure we all know someone. May God bless our troops and the men and women of Iraq and Afghanistan who desire life and peace.

Yes We Can!

2008-02-23T09:25:00.003-05:00

I am not a supporter of Barack Obama. I most definitely do not support Hillary Clinton. And am not impressed with John McCain. So, my vote this coming November is up in the air at the moment. However, having said all that I would like to give you some food for thought. As you contemplate how you will cast your ballot this fall, don't be fooled by those who say that lofty words and fancy phrases don't make a difference. Don't be fooled into believing that the ability to give an inspiring speech has little to do with being the leader of people. I would argue that one of the most important aspects of leadership is to inspire people to do more than they believe they can. It is calling people to see what they have yet to see is possible. Speeches have done this throughout time. And continue to do it today. Who can forget the words of William Wallace in Braveheart.

We should never underestimate the ability and responsibility of the President of the United States to inspire and encourage people with his presence and his words. Four years is not a long time to really effect significant change, but the ability to inspire a generation with one's words and presence can have lasting effects for years to come. It is no wonder that the greatest and most respected of our presidents have been men who could turn a phrase and give inspiring orations that have continued to inspire generations later. Abraham Lincoln, Theodore Roosevelt, Franklin Roosevelt, John F. Kennedy, and Ronald Reagan are men who used there presidential pulpit to give some of the most unforgettable words our nation has ever heard from men who have held the office. These men (like them or not) are on any honest man's short list of most inspiring and beloved Presidents. Why? One reason for sure is that they were able to inspire, not only with their presence but with their words.

Today much is being made of Barack Obama's lofty speeches and inspiring oratory. Some say its empty rhetoric. Others say it is just speeches, but no solutions. Yet, I would suggest that at the moment everyone is just giving speeches. And in the history of our nation and world, speeches have made a difference.

Again, I am not a Barack Obama supporter. He and I have serious ideological differences (as well as religious ones). However, I do believe it is refreshing to hear someone who can speak with inspiration once again. We have not had it since Ronald Reagan. It is refreshing to be able to listen to a speech and not be bored two minutes into it. I am not saying that I am going to vote for Obama. But I am saying that it would be nice to have a president once again who could give speeches like Winston Churchill. Now, if we could only have one with Churchill's convictions and leadership. I guess we can't have it all. But then again, if you listen to Obama you might begin to believe "Yes We Can."

Washington Post on Redmond

2008-02-16T10:32:00.003-05:00

I have blogged several times on my man Eric Redmond, pastor of Hillcrest Baptist Church. Those who know Eric know what a wonderful asset he is to the church and to our desire for Reformation among African-Americans. Apparently the Washington Post has discerned this as well. Eric and Hillcrest are featured in today's feature article on faith. Check it out.

BTW
The bow tie is not the left over remains of the Nation of Islam, but remnants of an academician turned pastor. We might need to reformed that as well.

"I'm a Grace Case"

2008-02-12T16:39:00.000-05:00

Every year in August people from all around gather at Main Street Baptist Church for the annual Sovereign Grace Bible Conference (to some it is affectionately simply called "The Conference"). The conference has been pioneered these past 25 years by Elder D.J. Ward, pastor of Main Street Baptist Church. The conference features a variety of preachers, most from a movement of Calvinistic baptist churches known as Sovereign Grace Baptist (you can access last year messages here).

If you have ever had the pleasure of meeting Elder Ward, then you know what a magnanimous and gracious man he is. He has been in the pulpit ministry for many years and yet his enthusiasm for the truth of the Doctrines of Grace and God's Sovereignty in all things has not waned in the slightest. I have had the honor of sharing the pulpit with Elder Ward on a couple of occasions, and I can honestly say that he has encouraged my heart and ministry in the gospel. And don't let his slow gate and gray beard fool you. There is yet fire in his heart and power in his voice. Here is a small taste of what I mean.

One of his joys is singing of the grace and mercy of God. As you can tell from this video and the fact that he is reminded that he is "a grace case."

Bugging for Jesus

2008-02-11T21:16:00.000-05:00

This evening during our family worship time we sang Be Thou My Vision (one of my favorites). After the song, my youngest daughter asked me what "be thou my vision" means. I told her that that was a good question. How do you explain to a normal six year old what the words "be thou my vision" means? I tried to explain to her that to have a vision is to have a goal, an ultimate objective and that Christ should be the goal and objective of every Christian. Of course, that did not register. Then suddenly I remembered that all of us have visions, even little children, even my daughter.

You see, last week she had a box of Gobstoppers, which I took her from her because she did not have a clean bill of health at her last visit to the dentist. Since then, everyday she has asked me when she can have those Gobstoppers back. She is quite diligent in this pursuit. She even reminds me when I forget that I took them. Well, tonight I reminded her that she has a vision. I told here that she has a vision for those Gobstoppers. Her desire and delight is to enjoy those Gobstoppers. Everyday she has designs on how she can get me to give her back those Gobstoppers. Those Gobstoppers is her vision. And Christians should desire God even more than you desire those Gobstoppers.

After I finished, I do believe a light went on because she said, "Oh, Christians should bug for Jesus even as I bug you for the Gobstoppers." I laughed and said "Yes, sweetheart, Christians should be bugging for Jesus."

Are you bugging God for more of Jesus? Or do you bug Him for Gobstoppers?

On George Leile

2008-02-11T10:02:00.000-05:00

Check out this post on George Leile from my man Gunny. Excellent.

A Christ-Centric Life

2008-02-07T08:28:00.000-05:00

A few years ago while I was in Maryland preaching at Hillcrest Baptist Church, I had the pleasure of meeting a dear brother whose commitment to theology and family really impressed me and encouraged my heart. I was also taken by his name. His name is Quincy Jones. I am sure when he tells people his name, he has become use to people doing double takes and asking questions about the other Quincy Jones. Yet, once you begin to speak with Q (as he is known), you will begin to see that this is the Quincy Jones you desire to know and meet more than the other guy.

Quincy is a husband, father, budding theologian and pastor, thoughtful blogger at Truth in the Innermost, seminary student, and accomplished hip-hop artist. He has been involved with ChristCentric for years. They have produced some the most biblical/theological hip-hop music in circulation. Their album The Reformation is the epitome of this theological labor.

As a student at Southwestern Bapist Theological Seminary, Quincy has been interviewed for the seminaries online newsletter. He tells part of his story in this video: http://www.swbts.edu/Qjonesvideo.

Even in the video you can hear a brother whose heart and mind are seeking Christ and his kingdom. Brothers like Quincy remind me and encourage me that God's kingdom is going forth and that He continues to raise up faithful African-American men with a passion for the Gospel of Jesus Christ. In Quincy I am reminded that the kingdom is Christ-Centric and so should our lives be.

Courageous Fatherhood and Manhood

2008-02-06T09:38:00.000-05:00

"Courage is like a muscle. It only gets stronger when you use it."

There are few people who I desire to hear preach on fatherhood and the courage necessary to faithfully fulfill that call than Crawford Loritts. Here is the message he delivered yesterday at the 2008 Desiring God Conference for Pastors. Listen and be challenged and encouraged. Thanks Crawford, we needed that (at least I did).

The NFL: No Friend Left?

2008-02-03T09:46:00.001-05:00

According to a pastor friend of mine, today the NFL stands for No Friend Left. As you know, today is the annual national holiday known as Superbowl Sunday. People will be scrambling to find a place and a seat to watch the most over-hyped sporting event in the world. And sense it is on a Sunday, churches and Christians will seek to take advantage of the world's preoccupation with "the game." My above-mentioned friend told me that this year his church is calling today NFL Sunday, or as he put it, No Friend Left Sunday. He has instructed his parishioners to invite all their friends and family to church on this Sunday with the service being themed around the Superbowl and with the goal of evangelizing them with the effort. He informed me that he would be preaching a sermon on "The Game of Life."

While I applaud his desire to reach the lost, I fail to see how encouraging the saved to engage in worldly thinking on Sunday morning is a good means of reaching this ends. You see, the challenge for the Christian is not knowing how to think worldly and mundane thoughts. That is easy to do. The challenge is to somehow get our minds trained on things above and not on things below. The church and the preacher is to be a primary instrument in the facilitation of this challenge. For the past two weeks our minds have been bombarded with Superbowl propaganda. When we come to church should we receive more of the same? Or should there be a marked difference between the place where football is king and worshipped (namely the world) and the place where Christ is king and worshipped (namely the church)?

Don't get me wrong. I am not against the Superbowl. Let people have their Superbowl and the propaganda that goes along with it. Let people enjoy the hype and festivities that accompany "the game." And may the game be competitive and entertaining. However, when it comes to Sunday morning as we gather to corporately worship our God and Savior, let us leave the temporal and the mundane and let us set our mind on things above and remind each other that we are seated with Christ in the heavenlies. Let those who come to be with us recognize that our minds are not being conformed to the propaganda, but are being renewed and that there is a distinct, unmistakable difference between the worship in the Kingdom of God and the worship in the kingdom of this world.

All week the world has said this is Superbowl Sunday. When the church of Jesus Christ gathers let us tell the truth. This is a day that the Lord has made. This is the Lord's Day. Let us rejoice and be glad in him.

Onward!

2008-01-31T08:20:00.000-05:00

As you can see I have not blogged in a while. I am busy with a few important projects so my blogging will be light for the next week or so. But I will be checking in from time to time to let you know that I am still alive and in fact better than ever (golf game included). Also, I am always excited to find other African-Americans on the internet who delight in Reformational truth. Thus, I point you to a new blog Forward to the Reformation. According to its self description, "This blog is for the glory of God. Its theology is based upon the Westminster standards as well as the London Baptist Confession of 1689. It is geared to engage in discourse regarding Reformation among traditional African American churches such as National Baptist churches. It invites all to contribute."

It is always encouraging to see another voice for change (Obama withstanding) and reformation on the internet. As ML King, Jr. would say, "Something is happening (in the church); something is happening in our world." Indeed, God continues to raise up in this generation men and women committed to the reclamation of truth and the positing of that truth in the church of Jesus Christ. I, for one, am so happy that God is granting me the blessed privilege of seeing and being a part of His wonderful move among His people. I pray we will be faithful with this stewardship and not have the next generation look back at us and say, "What could have been." Rather, I pray they will hear one generation calling out to the next, "Onward! Continue to believe in the sovereign God of your fathers and mothers. Rise up! Continue to trust that He who began this blessed work will complete it through you."

Where Are The Brothers?

2008-01-21T12:39:00.000-05:00

A few months ago I had the distinct pleasure of reading the manuscript of a book from my friend and comrade Eric Redmond. I am excited to learn that the book is close to being released. The book is entitled Where Are The Brothers: Straight Answers to Men's Questions About the Church (read more about it). It is available for pre-order from Amazon and we hope to see the release of it from Crossway Books early this Summer. When I read this book I could not help but say what a timely and critical work this is. I immediately envisioning ways in which I was going to put this book to use. As far as I am concerned, June can't get here soon enough. Also, Eric is the thoughtful and passionate pastor of Hillcrest Baptist Church . And finally we have the church and Eric's sermon's online. Great!

Georgia or Michigan?

2008-01-19T15:15:00.000-05:00

Help! I can't seem to remember if I am driving in Georgia or back in Michigan.

The kids seem to have found a new friend. Tiger the Snowman! I hear he has a ice cold short game.

A Snow Day in Atlanta

2008-01-19T11:28:00.000-05:00

It's snowing in Atlanta this morning!

I moved to Atlanta from Michigan many moons ago to get away from God's fury of flakes. Once again this morning I am reminded that not only do I not know where the snow is stored (Job 38:22), but I don't know the manner of its falling (Job 37:5-6). I would not pretend to compare this morning in Atlanta, to the many years I spent growing up during the wintry months of Michigan, yet for a now established Southerner who sees no fascination with the so called anomaly of snow in Atlanta, today I would prefer to stay in doors. My children, on the other hand, relish the opportunity to get out in the wintry precipitation. I can only marvel at their excitement and naivete and say to myself, "If they only knew."

Reformed Grows on You

2008-01-18T15:40:00.000-05:00

One of the best preachers I have had the pleasure to hear is Crawford Loritts. In fact, someone recently told me, after hearing me preach, that I reminded them of Crawford. Well, if I can communicate the way Crawford has for all these years, then I am more than thankful for God's grace to me. Nevertheless, I have always been encouraged and impressed by Crawford's heart and gifts. He has always been a man who walks what he talks and takes his calling to the gospel ministry seriously.

I recall on one occasion many years ago (let's call it 13 or 14 years ago) having the opportunity to listen as Crawford preached in our church in Atlanta. During the sermon he made a very interesting statement that I have never forgotten. He said, "The older I get the more Reformed I become." I found that interesting because I remember listening to him and wondering if the theology of this preacher is as good as his oratory skills. When he made that statement, I was somewhat comforted, but as you can imagine, still had my questions.

Over the years I have heard him make some statements and have even heard reports of statements made by him (right Lou?) that would seem to suggest that his above statement is true in his life (actually the statement itself is true apart from Crawford, for all those seriously considering the theological truth of the Bible do become more and more Reformed as they embrace more and more of Biblical truth). It would seem that we have been given more evidence of late as none other than John Piper has somewhat confirmed Crawford's reformed theological sympathies (listen here).

If it is true that Crawford identifies himself as reformed, then we can only thank God that He has allowed Crawford to continue to grow older and wiser right before our eyes. I can only pray that I would do the same (and you too).

Change and the Gospel

2008-01-17T10:24:00.000-05:00

In every church either people are being changed by the gospel, or the gospel is being changed by the people.

A Vision for the Future

2008-01-16T11:36:00.000-05:00

Do you have a vision for your children? Whether you realize it or not, you are articulating a vision through your words and actions. The emphases of your life will often become the emphases of theirs and the vision you live will have an enormous impact on them for glory or for shame. With this in mind, our brother Quincy Jones has encouraged us to have a vision for the next generation that God has so graciously placed in our homes. Today I am reminded and encouraged to be ever diligent in making sure that I am passing on Christ to my children and praying that my passion for Him will only be surpassed by theirs.

Thanks Quincy, and may your children grow to faithfully love and serve the Lord you so faithfully love and serve.

On Loving Your Enemies

2008-01-15T08:17:00.000-05:00

Today is Martin Luther King, Jr's birthday. While the nation will commemorate it next Monday with the official national holiday, actually he was born on this day in 1929. I was raised on the speeches of King and learned many of them verbatim from my early childhood. I have read much of his writings and have found them inspiring at many levels. My favorite book from King is Strength to Love. It is a small collection of some of his sermons and speeches on moral authority and Christ-like social actions. Today I want to share an interesting quote from the sermon Loving Your Enemies taken from the text of Matthew 5:43-45. Consider these words from Dr. King:

Now we can see what Jesus meant when he said, "Love your enemies." We should be happy that he did not say, "Like your enemies." It is almost impossible to like some people. "Like" is a sentimental and affectionate word. How can we be affectionate toward a person whose avowed aim is to crush our very being and place immeasurable stumbling blocks in our path? How can we like a person who is threatening our children and bombing our homes? This is impossible. But Jesus recognized that love is greater than like. When Jesus bids us to love our enemies he is speaking neither of eros nor philia; he is speaking of agape, understanding and creative, redemptive goodwill for all men. Only by following this way and responding with this type of love are we able to be children of our Father who is in heaven.

After all these years, I am still wondering if he is right. What do you think?

Is This a New Church?

2008-01-12T20:38:00.000-05:00

This church has just started a couple of miles down the road from our home. Check it out. What do you think? Is there something conspicuously missing or is it just me?

One Day at a Time

2008-01-11T08:03:00.000-05:00

Have you ever seen the commercials from Nationwide with the tag line, "Life comes at you fast?" Here is one of the more popular ones

Seems lately I have been understanding just what that means when it appears that life is coming at you fast. It seems deadlines and commitments never cease. Yet, yesterday as I was spending time quietly listening to my prayers to God, I was impress with these thoughts. As you go about your time, perhaps you too would find similar words to express to God and find comfort in Him knowing and loving you.

"Thank you Lord for your grace one day at a time. As I try to understand and to accomplish all that is set before me, everyday you desire to bring me to yourself and remind me that yesterday is gone and tomorrow on this earth may never be mine. So here is today and you remind me of your grace one day at a time. Perhaps our lives would be less anxious and indeed more fulfilling if we would take more seriously and believe more earnestly in our Lord's words in Matt 6:34 "Do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble." And might I add, "Its own grace."

Thanking God for Ken

2008-01-10T18:22:00.000-05:00

I first met Ken Jones in the 2000. Late in 1999, Sherard Burns and I were working at Ligonier Ministries and thinking seriously about the need to bring a direct assault of Reformed theology upon the predominantly Black church. We discussed ideas of writing, conferences, websites, sermons, church planting, and a wide range of avenues in the pursuit of our vision. Working at Ligonier gave us the opportunity to speak with many African-Americans who appreciated the ministry of Ligonier, but wondered how to get more Reformed teaching into the Black church and who was trying to do it. We also wondered who was out there doing the work we dreamed of doing. Even as we were contemplating these ideas, God brought across our desk an article that changed everything.

The January/February 2000 issue of Modern Reformation came to Ligonier. The theme of the issue was "Wish List for the 21st Century." One article in particular caught our attention. It was written by Ken Jones. It was on, "What We Wish For....The Reformation for the Black Church." We had heard Ken on the White Horse Inn, but had never met him, nor had we heard his heart for Reformation. Yet, when we read this article, our hearts were greatly encouraged and we knew that we had a brother in arms. We decided that we must meet him.

Later that year the National Pastors Conference for Alliance of Confessing Evangelicals was being held in Atlanta GA. Ken Jones was one of the speakers. We knew this was our chance. Sherard contacted Ken to see if we drove to Atlanta would he have time to meet with us. He graciously consented to do so. Six hours on the road from Orlando to Atlanta resulted in us forging a friendship with Ken that I am still thanking God for today. We talked and fellowshipped into the wee hours of the morning, and genuinely enjoyed each others company. We shared ideas and visions, and even laid the foundations for the Miami Pastors Conference that is quickly becoming a must on everyone's calendar.

I mention this because the latest issue of Modern Reformation is available (HT:JT). Ken is in the this issue as well. However, the website is also highlighting the article that first grabbed our attention some 8 years ago. Needless to say, I still have a copy of that issue, but seeing it online again reminded me of how much I appreciate Ken's labor for the gospel. I have done it before, but I want to do it again and thank God for my friend, Ken.

Love you man.

Decline of AA Theology VI

2008-01-07T15:27:00.000-05:00

In the chapter on soteriology, Thabiti briefly compares and contrast the theology of popular contemporary preachers Tony Evans and Creflo Dollar. While both basically hold to an Arminian position on the doctrine of salvation, and according to Thabiti,

"both defined justification as 'right standing before God,' Dollar stressed that, 'I am righteous; therefore I can be healed. I am righteous; therefore I have angelic protection. I am righteous; therefore I will always triumph in Christ Jesus.' Dollar continued with the claim that, 'Every promise in the Bible hinges on my acceptance of the righteousness of God. By simply realizing His righteousness in me, the wrong in my life can be fixed. If I am poor, I have the right to prosperity. If I am sick, I have a right to be healed. If I am in bondage, I have a right to be delivered. Everything can be received through God's righteousness in me'" (p. 210).

In reading this section, it would appear that there was some difference between the position of Evans and Dollar. However, according to some recent reports, the difference there was may have only been cosmetic as Evans has now begun to show that he is more Dollarian than even Arminian, much less Biblical.

We should thank Thabiti for his labors in producing this most important book. God has favored our time with this resource. And let us be reminded that only a sound biblical, historical, and accountable theology keeps us from such sloppy and destructive theological teachings.

Ken Jones Online

2008-01-02T15:21:00.000-05:00

Our brother Ken Jones has finally done us all a gracious favor and placed his weekly sermons online. However, perhaps the thanks should go to Greater Union Baptist Church and the faithful servants there, since we know it was not Ken's computer literacy that made it possible.
Thanks Greater Union for being 21st century computer literate Christians, though your pastor has yet to come. We yet hold out hope!

Best of 2007 (and worst)

2007-12-31T12:40:00.000-05:00

As the New Year dawns, I am reminded of the books I found most encouraging and well worth reading again. Here are my top 5:

5. When Sinners Say "I Do", by Dave Harvey. Harvey begins where all aspects of our lives must begin, with the knowledge of God and ourselves. Good theology leading to good marriages makes for a good book.

4. Sermon on the Mount, by Dan Doriani. As we preached through the Sermon on the Mount this past year, many life changing truths were discovered. Doriani's book was key in my preparation as well as personal growth.

3. Decline of African-American Theology, by Thabiti Anyabwile. Excellent work. A better title would have been, "We Slipt Along Ways Baby: Theology from Jupiter Hammon to T.D. Jakes."

2. Amish Grace, by Donald Kraybill, Steven Nolt, and David Weaver-Zercher. After the murderous shootings at Amish School in Nickel Mines, PA, the Amish showed the world what forgiveness really looks like. Great and informative read!

1. The Pilgrim's Progress, by John Bunyan. I know, its not fair. But every year it remains on my list without peer. Every time I read it I learn something more of God's glory and grace to me in Jesus Christ.

Lastly, here are a couple of books I read that I found disappointing. I am sure some found these books to their liking; I was not among them.

From the Hood to the Hill by Barry C. Black. I really thought I was going to enjoy this autobiographical account of the first black chaplain of the US Senate. Unfortunately, the book was too self-congratulating and indulgent. I suppose that is the nature of autobiographies, but this one was more than this reader could take. Admittedly, I could not even finish it.

If God is So Good, Why Are Blacks Doing So Bad, by James Dixon. This book actually is not a bad book except it was written by a preacher. If it had been written by someone else, I might have thought better of it. However, coming from the pen of a preacher, I expected to hear not just the problem but the solution, namely the gospel. Unfortunately, I did not. Dixon did a good job in diagnosing the issues plaguing Black America but did not offer the only true and lasting solution, namely the application of the gospel of Jesus Christ to all of life. Admittedly, the problem was more my expectation than the author's intention. I just hoped that two would match. They did not.

Eric Redmond Interview

2007-12-30T18:46:00.000-05:00

My man Eric Redmond has been interviewed by 9marks. Redmond recounts his own pastoral experience as well as some of the challenges of inter-ethnic and economic ministry. Eric's blog is A Man From Issachar.

The Golden Compass

2007-12-27T13:37:00.000-05:00

Have you seen the trailer for The Golden Compass? It looks very interesting. My son received a couple of movie passes for Christmas and we plan to go see The Golden Compass soon. Apparently some Christians have sought to boycott the film because of the anti-religion bias of the author of the books upon which the film is based. I suppose you will have to judge such things for yourself. Here is a good review of the film, taking into consideration the issues surrounding it. I plan to see it because it seems like just the type of movie around which my son and I can have great discussion about the nature of the kingdom of God and the challenges the world, the flesh, and the devil pose. Besides, it just looks good!

Decline of AA Theology V

2007-12-27T10:50:00.000-05:00

In accessing the soteriology of early African-American Christian thinkers and preachers, Thabiti writes:

Both the "five solas" and the Synod of Dordt's doctrines of total (or radical) depravity, unconditional election, limited atonement, irresistible grace, and perseverance (or preservation) of the saints provided the skeletal system for theology in the American colonies. Nearly all African American Christians inherited the "five solas" as a general Protestant framework over and against the Roman Catholic view of authority and justification and the Arminian view of man and grace rejected at Dordt. African Americans gained exposure to these views of salvation through their earliest contact with Europeans in the colonies, especially in the North. Southern slave testimonies and northern writers reveal a "soft orthodoxy" consistent with Reformation solas, with some even putting forth a stronger Calvinistic view of salvation owed largely to the influences of the Great Awakening and early Baptists in the South (p. 175).

In reading this I would not help but recall the words of Scripture in Jeremiah 6:16: Thus says the Lord: "Stand by the roads, and look, and ask for the ancient paths, where the good way is; and walk in it and find rest for your souls."

Merry Christmas...

2007-12-24T10:39:00.000-05:00

From our hearts to your home. May you rediscover the glory of the Savior and may Christ become a new Christ to you this Christmas.

The Carter Family

Rachel Marie

Siera Lynn and Sarah Nicole

Anthony Jr.

The twins and Ana Elise

The Carter Kids being the Carter Kids!

God Bless You!

Great Television

2007-12-21T11:33:00.000-05:00

There is not much on television that would garner the adjective "great", but here is one. I do believe that this is the greatest single scene ever shot for the television viewing audience. And no matter how many times I see it, it never gets old.

The Bible says, "...Out of the mouth of infants and nursing babies you have prepared praise..." (Matt. 21:6). Even so, out of cartoons for children.

O, that men would praise HIM!

Decline of African-American Theology 4

2007-12-19T16:41:00.000-05:00

The central question of any theological perspective is "Who is Jesus?" Thabiti reminds us that Liberal and Liberation theology has led the way for decline of Christology in traditional African-American theology. According to Thabiti, Marcus Garvey said, "The life of Christ was intended to show man that he could lift himself by obedience to the highest soul expression (p. 150)." When examining the works of Howard Thurman, Thabiti says,

"Dr. Thurman denied the uniqueness of Jesus implied in the formula 'the only begotten Son'. He believed that 'any who is as sure of God as was Jesus, can hear for himself: 'Thou art my son, my beloved, this day I have begotten thee.' Moreover, becoming the son of God in the sense of acquiring the mind of Christ and having a similar relationship to God, according to Thurman, 'may be achieved without any necessity whatsoever of making a God out of Jesus (p. 152).'"

The liberal theology of Howard Thurman laid the ground work for the liberation theology of James Cone.

The appeal of liberation theology is the expediency and the immediacy of the need. It seeks to address the existential cry of the image of God for freedom, equality, and peace. Yet, the cyanide in this kool-aid is that it perverts the person and work of Jesus into nothing more than an anthropocentric exorcism. Subsequently, Jesus is only relevant in so far as He is willing and able to address my core issues. Thus, I am able to mold Jesus into the god of my issues. This Jesus inevitably becomes more like me than I like Him. Daily this Jesus is being conformed to my image (real and imagined), instead of me being conformed to His image (eternal and true).

Howard Thurman popularized it. Cone made it academically viable. African-America theology has been on a steady decline ever since.

The Mystery of the Manger

2007-12-17T10:39:00.000-05:00

Last evening our Children's Sunday School put on our Annual Christmas Program. Every year this is a much anticipated event as their hard work, dedication, and enthusiasm is demonstrated in their first class performance. Every year parents, family, and friends come from all around to see what production the Southwest Children will put together. This year was no different. This year the lower grades put on A Christmas Present and the older children performed, The Mystery of the Manger. Here is just a small excerpt to one of the songs they performed from the musical The Mystery of the Manger by Celeste Clydesdale. We had to change a few things to fit within our cultural context (if you know what I mean :-), yet the message was still the same. Sounds familiar? The video is amateurish by yours truly and does not do justice to these young performers. Hopefully you can still get the message.

Pastor Resigns, Integrity Remains

2007-12-12T00:20:00.000-05:00

In the midst of all the self-promoting and self-excusing that is popular among the so-called preachers today, it is good to know that there are still men who hold the ministry in high esteem and do not want to bring upon the calling ill-repute. I don't know this man, but I have much respect for his tough but right decision. I pray God reconciles this man with his family and the ministry.

An End to Sagging?

2007-12-10T10:36:00.000-05:00

At least in the Atlanta Public School System. According to reports, the Atlanta Public School Board is going to ban sagging pants. This is a noble idea, however, it will be interesting to see how they can enforce the ban. Unless they have strong parental support, they will have a daily fight on their hands. Can't wait for the development of this one.

Decline of AA Theology 3

2007-12-10T09:27:00.001-05:00

Whether we realize it or not, our anthropology (our understanding of the nature and conduct of humanity) says alot about our overall theology and understanding about God. A biblical understanding of human nature is usually grounded in a biblical understanding of God. When our doctrine of God goes into decline, so too does our doctrine of humanity. Thabiti does an excellent job in setting forth the decline of African-American theology in the area of anthropology. Early African-American writers and theologians expressed an undeniably biblical doctrine of humanity. Here are some quotes that demonstrate this point:

Jupiter Hammon (1711-1806): In the Bible, we are told what man is. That he was first made holy, in the image of God, that he fell from that state of holiness and became an enemy to God, and that since the fall, all imaginations of the thoughts of his heart are evil, and only evil and that continually. That the carnal mind is not subject to the law of God neither indeed can be. And that all mankind was under the wrath and curse of God and must have been forever miserable if they had been left to suffer what their sins deserve.

This was to demonstrat that all humanity (black and white) were under sin and in the same spiritual condition of needing Savior. It also became the foundation for biblical and theological arguments for freedom. In quoting Lemuel Haynes, Thabiti writes:

However, resident in all people despite the Fall was "an innate principle, which is unmoveably placed in the human Species." That innate principle was "Liberty and freedom," which Haynes styled as "a Jewel which was handed Down to man from the cabinet of heaven...Coaeval [sic] with his Existance [sic]" and proceeding "from the Supreme Legislature of the universe." Man's equality with man was evident in the universal impulse toward freedom written by God into the very nature of man and the laws of nature. Efforts to deny this impulse were futile attempts to deny one's self in the case of the bondsman or to usurp the prerogative of God in the case of the enslaver.

In a word, "Awesome!"

Culture Clash 2

2007-12-07T13:58:00.000-05:00

The second post in this discussion is now available at CRC. Our brother, Kevin Smith has chimed in. I hear rumblings that more is to come as the discussion deepens. Go check it out!