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Post by Admin on May 29, 2023 20:23:51 GMT -5
Persevere with Sound Doctrine
CHRIS KING
Bible Covenants I arrived early as the guest preacher at a church. A kind and gracious woman engaged me with some small talk. She told me about their church and then added, “We don’t get into the doctrine here.” The immediate question that came to mind was, “Then what do you get into?” R. C. Sproul says it well, “Countless times I have heard Christians say, ‘Why do I need to study doctrine or theology when all I need to know is Jesus?’ My immediate reply is this: ‘Who is Jesus?’ As soon as we begin to answer that question, we are involved in doctrine and theology. No Christian can avoid theology. Every Christian is a theologian. . . . The issue for Christians is not whether we are going to be theologians but whether we are going to be good theologians or bad ones.”1
The Apostle Paul knows more about the church than anyone alive today. He wrote three inspired letters to church leaders about their responsibilities to the body of Christ. 1 Timothy, 2 Timothy, and Titus are called, “The Pastoral Epistles.” In these letters, Paul delineates what church leaders should value and prioritize. He repeatedly highlights the centrality of sound doctrine in the life of the church, and in pastoral ministry. Following the Apostle’s pen, this blog post will highlight the emphasis on sound doctrine in the church, and then discuss how to employ sound doctrine for the spiritual health of the body.
Sound doctrine is essential to the continued faithfulness of pastors. This is part of a series of blog posts to encourage pastors to persevere in their service. Emphasizing the importance of sound doctrine and knowing how to employ it will help pastors “continue in what you have learned” (2 Tim 3:14).
Emphasize Sound Doctrine in the Church What does it mean for doctrine to be “sound?” Paul laces the importance of sound doctrine throughout the Pastoral Epistles. In 1 Timothy 1:10, he repudiates, “whatever else is contrary to sound doctrine.” The word “sound” translates the Greek word hygiaino (ὑγιαίνω). We derive our English word “hygiene” from this term. Paul understands doctrine as healthy and life-giving for the church.
What is this “doctrine” Paul repeatedly references? He sent Timothy to Ephesus to “charge certain persons not to teach any different doctrine” (1 Tim 1:3). This stands as the burden and occasion of 1 Timothy. The “different doctrine” of the false teachers contrasts the “sound doctrine” Timothy received from Paul. This “doctrine” consists of the body of teaching Timothy had received from his mentor—the core teachings of the Christian faith contained in the Scriptures. In 1 Timothy 1:10–11, Paul describes sound doctrine as “in accordance with the gospel of the glory of the blessed God which I have been entrusted.” Paul later charges Timothy “to keep the commandment unstained and free from reproach” (1 Tim 6:14). The final impassioned command in 1 Timothy is “O Timothy, guard the deposit entrusted to you” (2 Tim 6:20). This final command underscores the importance of sound doctrine in the life of the church. The “sound doctrine,” “the commandment,” and “the deposit” all refer to this body of teaching Timothy had received from Paul.
In 1 Timothy 1:13–14 Paul continues this emphasis by writing, “Follow the pattern of sound words that you have heard from me . . . guard the good deposit entrusted to you.” Here the Apostle calls it a “pattern of sound words.” Paul taught and transferred a body of teaching to Timothy to be protected. In this way Timothy and other pastors are doctrine defenders—we keep these healthy words from being corrupted.
Where do we find this sound doctrine? The sound doctrine we must guard is found in the Scripture. As you follow Paul’s appeals in 2 Timothy 3:10–4:4, multiple references to God’s Word emerge as the source of this sound doctrine. As you examine the progression of this text, you find several synonymous statements referencing the “doctrine” discussed above. Here we clearly find this “sound doctrine” originates from the Scriptures. Consider this sequence of thought (I’ve emphasized the words related to sound doctrine):
“You, however, have followed my teaching” (2 Tim 3:10) “But as for you, continue in what you have learned” (2 Tim 3:14) “From childhood you have been acquainted with the sacred writings” (2 Tim 3:15) “All Scripture is breathed out by God” (2 Tim 3:16) “Preach the Word” (2 Tim 4:2) “For the time is coming when people will not endure sound teaching” (2 Tim 4:3) “And will turn away from listening to the truth” (2 Tim 4:4) All of these refer to this corpus of doctrine, handed down from Paul to Timothy, found within Scripture.
Why is this important? Paul’s letters to Timothy provide an inspired paradigm for ministry. We should follow the instructions of the inspired Apostle. Pastors today should emphasize sound doctrine in the church. Confusion abounds about the function, focus, and features of pastoral ministry. Promoting sound doctrine from the Word provides a healthy remedy to all the confusion infecting the church. Paul shows us that pastors should be men committed to sound doctrine—we should be men of the Word (2 Tim 2:15).
Steven Lawson offers this sad commentary on the reality of many churches:
Sad to say, pressure to produce bottom-line results has led many ministries to sacrifice the centrality of biblical preaching on the altar of man-centered pragmatism. A new way of ‘doing’ church is emerging. In this radical paradigm shift, exposition is being replaced with entertainment, preaching with performances, doctrine with drama, and theology with theatrics. The pulpit, once the focal point of the church, is now being overshadowed by a variety of church-growth techniques, everything from trendy worship styles to glitzy presentations and vaudeville-like pageantries. In seeking to capture the upper hand in church growth, a new wave of pastors is reinventing church and repackaging the gospel into a product to be sold to ‘consumers.2
How this helps pastors persevere. This clear emphasis gives pastors direction and focus for their ministries. It also gives us clarity about our function in the church. We have a paradigm to follow—like a workout program that keeps us and the church healthy. The good servant of Christ Jesus is, “being trained in the words of the faith and of the good doctrine” (1 Tim 4:6). People in churches often pressure their pastors to preach about what they want to hear (2 Tim 4:3–4). The winds of new doctrine constantly attempt to blow us off course (Eph 4:14). This emphasis reinforces God’s will for us and the church and helps us maintain a steady course.
Employ Sound Doctrine in the Church Having traced Paul’s emphasis on sound doctrine, we now turn to practically implementing it in the body of Christ.
Live out godliness. Not only does Paul highlight the necessity of sound doctrine, he also points out the necessity of living it out. Doctrine is for duty and learning is for living. Paul repeatedly stresses this with his use of the word, “godliness” (1 Tim 2:20; 3:16; 4:7–8; 5:4; 6:3–6, 11). Godliness refers to how one demonstrates faithfulness and allegiance to God—the living out of good works. In 1 Timothy 5:4, the widows should, “show godliness.” The unhealthy doctrines of the false teachers lead merely to an “appearance of godliness” (2 Tim 3:5). Pastors must be especially concerned with their lives. We not only teach the flock, but we also set them an example of faithful living (1 Tim 4:12). Paul warns Timothy to “keep a close watch on yourself and on the teaching” (1 Tim 4:16). While rightly championing and emphasizing sound doctrine, we must always strive to live out the commands of Scripture. Spurgeon begins his classic Lectures to my Students with “The Minister’s Self-watch.”
Defend sound doctrine. Paul passionately calls Timothy to “Guard the deposit” (1 Tim 6:20; 2 Tim 1:14). We must not only teach sound doctrine; we must also defend and protect it. Paul requires elders to be men who, “Must hold firm to the trustworthy word as taught, so that he may be able to give instruction in sound doctrine and also to rebuke those who contradict it” (Titus 1:9).
Train other men to be elders in the church. After discussing the deposit entrusted to Timothy, Paul writes, “And what you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses entrust to faithful men, who will be able to teach others also” (2 Tim 2:2). Follow Paul’s example and make sure you’re handing these doctrines down to other men and equip them to teach it to others. This likely refers to the preparation of other pastors/elders in the church (this is why “men” are singled out). Paul did this exact thing for Timothy. What men are you training and preparing for pastoral ministry?
Practice expository preaching. Expository preaching stands as the primary and best method for delivering sound doctrine to the church. The arguments for the superiority and necessity of expository preaching are legion. It stands as the best way to obey Paul’s command to “preach the word” (2 Tim 4:2). If you would like help with expository preaching, you should attend one of G3’s expository workshops or reach out to this ministry for more resources.
How this helps you persevere. The Pastoral Epistles present a paradigm for ministry in the church. By studying them, one learns what a pastor should do and how he should do it. For those of us serving as pastors or elders, we are reminded of the emphasis we should place on sound doctrine, and the responsibility God gives us to guard it. This kind of clarity about our task encourages us as we carry out the hard work of making disciples and preaching the Word. We may not see the fruit we desire from our labors, but we can know we’re following the pattern of sound words Paul wrote to Timothy, Titus, and all the churches. We need to be regularly reminded to “preach the word, in season and out of season” (2 Tim 4:2). Whether it’s a fruitful time or an unfruitful time, we hear Paul’s appeal to “continue in what you have learned” (2 Tim 3:14). The passion we observe in Paul’s commands and appeals should fill us with zeal for our Lord’s work. Healthy doctrine leads to healthy churches. Far better to feed the Lord’s sheep healthy food rather than the latest pragmatic and philosophical dribble.
The Pastoral Epistles help church leaders keep their focus on what should be important in the church. They help pastors understand and define their service to God’s people. These letters help church members understand the role and responsibilities of pastors (this is one reason to preach through these letters for the good of the church). They provide an inspired and timeless paradigm for shepherding God’s flock. Look to them to shape your view of pastoral ministry. Use them to help others see the emphasis on sound doctrine and how to employ it for the health of the body.
References 1 Sproul, R. C. Knowing Scripture. Downers Grove, IL: IVP, 1977, 22. 2 Lawson, Steven. Famine in the Land: A Passionate Call for Expository Preaching. Chicago: Moody, 2003, 25.
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Post by Admin on Jul 21, 2023 23:06:32 GMT -5
Perseverance through Following a Simple Command Share
g3min.org/perseverance-through-following-a-simple-command/ CHRIS KING
Pastor-Shepherd Pastors face a myriad of trials and struggles while shepherding the flock. People they love and trust unexpectedly leave the church and cut off communications. Relationships can leave painful scars. Elders must routinely broach difficult topics and engage in uncomfortable conversations. Shepherds often help members address complicated issues in their lives. Exegeting difficult texts and clearly explaining doctrine regularly pose frequent challenges. Moreover, the faithful pastor must maintain his own commitment to family and personal spiritual disciplines. “Who is sufficient for these things?” (2 Cor 2:16) can easily become their life verse (it’s a good one!).
This is part of a series of blog posts encouraging pastors to persevere in their labor (please share these posts with your pastors). This entry will highlight a very simple truth from 2 Timothy to help pastors endure. Paul wrote his second letter to Timothy to exhort him to continue in what he had learned and believed (2 Tim 3:14). Throughout this epistle, the apostle gives several instructions and commands to help church leaders persevere in their work. One of the simplest, clearest, and most profound of these commands is, “Remember Jesus Christ, risen from the dead, the offspring of David, as preached in my gospel” (2 Tim 2:8). Following this simple command keeps pastors grounded in the truth of the gospel as they navigate the challenges of shepherding the flock.
Remember Jesus Christ, Risen from the Dead A high school football coach I know was invited to watch the Indianapolis Colts workout and practice. He hoped to learn some new drills or special plays from the professionals. In the practice, however, the NFL coaches focused on the fundamentals of stretching, running, blocking, and tackling. He left a bit disappointed, but then realized an important lesson he had already known—even the greatest players at the highest level must practice the fundamentals of the game.
In Timothy’s distress, Paul reminds him of the fundamentals of the gospel and commands him to remember them. “Remember” is a present imperative verb meaning, “continually remember.” We specifically remember Jesus Christ, risen from the dead. Paul uses the perfect tense of the verb “risen,” which describes a past event with abiding implications for the present. This points to glorious spiritual realities associated with the resurrection of Jesus. Jesus was raised for our justification (Rom 4:25). Jesus’s resurrection fulfilled the Scripture and vindicated his teachings (Luke 24:26–27). His resurrection further identified him as God (John 20:28). His resurrection proved he had overcome the world and was given all authority in heaven and in earth (Matt 28:18). His resurrection gives us powerful truths to meditate upon—weighty realities to remember in the midst of our struggles.
Remembering requires mental exercise (as in the previous verse, 2 Tim 2:7). Thus, we must intentionally remember the resurrection of Jesus and the benefits we receive from him. In his book Respectable Sins, Jerry Bridges offers practical means of preaching the gospel to yourself every day. He writes,
What Scriptures do I use to preach the gospel to myself? Here are just a few I choose from each day: As far as the east is from the west, so far does he remove our transgressions from us (Ps 103:12). I, I am he who blots out your transgressions for my own sake, and I will not remember your sins (Isa 43:25). All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned everyone one to his own way; and the LORD has laid on him the iniquity of us all (Isa 53:6). Blessed are those whose lawless deeds are forgiven, and whose sins are covered; blessed is the man against whom the Lord will not count his sin (Rom 4:7–8). There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus (Rom 8:1). There are many others, including Ps 130:3–4; Isa 1:18; Isa 38:17; Mic 7:19; Eph 1:7; Col 2:13–14; Heb 8:12; and 10:17–18.1
Many pastors become mentally fixated on the trials and struggles they face in ministry. Helping other Christians deal with the complicated issues in their lives requires a great deal of mental energy and can easily dominate one’s thoughts. Church leaders often remember the hurtful words or actions of others. Pastors can replay hurtful conversations or interactions in their minds. As sinners, we focus on our own failures or unmet expectations. Remembering Jesus Christ and the benefits of the gospel floods our mind with truth that will revive our soul (Ps 19:8). Meditating on the glories of Jesus’s resurrection helps dispel depraved thoughts.
Martin Luther writes, “Once I debate about what I have done and left undone, I am finished. But if I reply on the basis of the gospel, ‘The forgiveness of sins covers it all,’ I have won. On the other hand, if the Devil gets me involved in what I have done and left undone, he has won, unless God helps and says, ‘Indeed! Even if you had not done anything, you would still be saved by forgiveness.’”2
The difficulties of shepherding the flock can distract you from Jesus Christ. In the early years of my pastoral ministry, Dr. Don Whitney counseled me, “Don’t let the ministry keep you from Jesus.” To encourage perseverance, the author of Hebrews writes, “let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God.” (Heb 12:1–2). He calls us to look to Jesus and then explains the endurance and glorification of Christ. This author later calls us to mental exercise by writing, “Consider him who endured from sinners such hostility against himself, so that you may not grow weary or fainthearted. In your struggle against sin you have not yet resisted to the point of shedding your blood (Heb 12:3–4). Rather than being distracted by our trials and difficulties, we must look to Jesus and consider his suffering.
Describing pastoral ministry, John Calvin writes, “None can faithfully serve the church and sustain the task of feeding the flock unless he looks higher than men. In the first place the office of feeding is in itself laborious and troublesome. For nothing is more difficult than to keep men under the yoke of God, many of whom are weak, others are light and unsteady, others dull and sluggish, and yet others hard and unteachable.”3
Life, relationships, teaching sound doctrine, practicing church discipline, etc. can present complex challenges. Pastors need to maintain the simple practice of remembering Christ as they engage knotty and complicated issues. The glory of Jesus and his resurrection outshines and outweighs the problems of this life. Just one glimpse of Him in glory repays the toils of pastoral ministry.
God has built into the life of the church a regular time for us to remember Christ. The consistent practice of the Lord’s Supper helps us follow Paul’s command in 2 Timothy 2:8. Jesus commands us, “Do this in remembrance of me” (1 Cor 11:24). Then the Lord repeats this command by stating, “Do this, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of me” (1 Cor 11:25). This repetition emphasizes the importance of remembering Christ. Therefore, pastors have a regular time set aside to obey this command.
Encourage struggling pastors to remember Jesus Christ. This simple counsel comes from the pen of the Apostle Paul. Please share the resources you find on G3 with others.
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Post by Admin on Oct 1, 2023 22:48:33 GMT -5
Perseverance through Following a Simple Command Share
g3min.org/perseverance-through-following-a-simple-command/ CHRIS KING
Pastor-Shepherd Pastors face a myriad of trials and struggles while shepherding the flock. People they love and trust unexpectedly leave the church and cut off communications. Relationships can leave painful scars. Elders must routinely broach difficult topics and engage in uncomfortable conversations. Shepherds often help members address complicated issues in their lives. Exegeting difficult texts and clearly explaining doctrine regularly pose frequent challenges. Moreover, the faithful pastor must maintain his own commitment to family and personal spiritual disciplines. “Who is sufficient for these things?” (2 Cor 2:16) can easily become their life verse (it’s a good one!).
This is part of a series of blog posts encouraging pastors to persevere in their labor (please share these posts with your pastors). This entry will highlight a very simple truth from 2 Timothy to help pastors endure. Paul wrote his second letter to Timothy to exhort him to continue in what he had learned and believed (2 Tim 3:14). Throughout this epistle, the apostle gives several instructions and commands to help church leaders persevere in their work. One of the simplest, clearest, and most profound of these commands is, “Remember Jesus Christ, risen from the dead, the offspring of David, as preached in my gospel” (2 Tim 2:8). Following this simple command keeps pastors grounded in the truth of the gospel as they navigate the challenges of shepherding the flock.
Remember Jesus Christ, Risen from the Dead A high school football coach I know was invited to watch the Indianapolis Colts workout and practice. He hoped to learn some new drills or special plays from the professionals. In the practice, however, the NFL coaches focused on the fundamentals of stretching, running, blocking, and tackling. He left a bit disappointed, but then realized an important lesson he had already known—even the greatest players at the highest level must practice the fundamentals of the game.
In Timothy’s distress, Paul reminds him of the fundamentals of the gospel and commands him to remember them. “Remember” is a present imperative verb meaning, “continually remember.” We specifically remember Jesus Christ, risen from the dead. Paul uses the perfect tense of the verb “risen,” which describes a past event with abiding implications for the present. This points to glorious spiritual realities associated with the resurrection of Jesus. Jesus was raised for our justification (Rom 4:25). Jesus’s resurrection fulfilled the Scripture and vindicated his teachings (Luke 24:26–27). His resurrection further identified him as God (John 20:28). His resurrection proved he had overcome the world and was given all authority in heaven and in earth (Matt 28:18). His resurrection gives us powerful truths to meditate upon—weighty realities to remember in the midst of our struggles.
Remembering requires mental exercise (as in the previous verse, 2 Tim 2:7). Thus, we must intentionally remember the resurrection of Jesus and the benefits we receive from him. In his book Respectable Sins, Jerry Bridges offers practical means of preaching the gospel to yourself every day. He writes,
What Scriptures do I use to preach the gospel to myself? Here are just a few I choose from each day: As far as the east is from the west, so far does he remove our transgressions from us (Ps 103:12). I, I am he who blots out your transgressions for my own sake, and I will not remember your sins (Isa 43:25). All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned everyone one to his own way; and the LORD has laid on him the iniquity of us all (Isa 53:6). Blessed are those whose lawless deeds are forgiven, and whose sins are covered; blessed is the man against whom the Lord will not count his sin (Rom 4:7–8). There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus (Rom 8:1). There are many others, including Ps 130:3–4; Isa 1:18; Isa 38:17; Mic 7:19; Eph 1:7; Col 2:13–14; Heb 8:12; and 10:17–18.1
Many pastors become mentally fixated on the trials and struggles they face in ministry. Helping other Christians deal with the complicated issues in their lives requires a great deal of mental energy and can easily dominate one’s thoughts. Church leaders often remember the hurtful words or actions of others. Pastors can replay hurtful conversations or interactions in their minds. As sinners, we focus on our own failures or unmet expectations. Remembering Jesus Christ and the benefits of the gospel floods our mind with truth that will revive our soul (Ps 19:8). Meditating on the glories of Jesus’s resurrection helps dispel depraved thoughts.
Martin Luther writes, “Once I debate about what I have done and left undone, I am finished. But if I reply on the basis of the gospel, ‘The forgiveness of sins covers it all,’ I have won. On the other hand, if the Devil gets me involved in what I have done and left undone, he has won, unless God helps and says, ‘Indeed! Even if you had not done anything, you would still be saved by forgiveness.’”2
The difficulties of shepherding the flock can distract you from Jesus Christ. In the early years of my pastoral ministry, Dr. Don Whitney counseled me, “Don’t let the ministry keep you from Jesus.” To encourage perseverance, the author of Hebrews writes, “let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God.” (Heb 12:1–2). He calls us to look to Jesus and then explains the endurance and glorification of Christ. This author later calls us to mental exercise by writing, “Consider him who endured from sinners such hostility against himself, so that you may not grow weary or fainthearted. In your struggle against sin you have not yet resisted to the point of shedding your blood (Heb 12:3–4). Rather than being distracted by our trials and difficulties, we must look to Jesus and consider his suffering.
Describing pastoral ministry, John Calvin writes, “None can faithfully serve the church and sustain the task of feeding the flock unless he looks higher than men. In the first place the office of feeding is in itself laborious and troublesome. For nothing is more difficult than to keep men under the yoke of God, many of whom are weak, others are light and unsteady, others dull and sluggish, and yet others hard and unteachable.”3
Life, relationships, teaching sound doctrine, practicing church discipline, etc. can present complex challenges. Pastors need to maintain the simple practice of remembering Christ as they engage knotty and complicated issues. The glory of Jesus and his resurrection outshines and outweighs the problems of this life. Just one glimpse of Him in glory repays the toils of pastoral ministry.
God has built into the life of the church a regular time for us to remember Christ. The consistent practice of the Lord’s Supper helps us follow Paul’s command in 2 Timothy 2:8. Jesus commands us, “Do this in remembrance of me” (1 Cor 11:24). Then the Lord repeats this command by stating, “Do this, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of me” (1 Cor 11:25). This repetition emphasizes the importance of remembering Christ. Therefore, pastors have a regular time set aside to obey this command.
Encourage struggling pastors to remember Jesus Christ. This simple counsel comes from the pen of the Apostle Paul. Please share the resources you find on G3 with others.
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Table Talk — For Pastors’ Wives Do You Pray for Your Pastors? If we're all honest, prayer is often a very difficult practice to maintain and an easy area to neglect. If the surveys [PewResearch, Barna] are remotely accurate, prayer is an area of deficiency in the evangelical church today. If parents aren't praying for their children's salvation and the spiritual maturity…
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and Mathew Ahmann in a crowd of demonstrators at the March on Washington
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Post by Admin on Oct 2, 2023 23:34:42 GMT -5
The Second Time Share
g3min.org/the-second-time/ BRAD HORTON
body of water under sky “Now the word of the Lord came to Jonah the second time” (John 3:1). I can honestly say I am grateful that God is merciful and patient. I cannot count the times in my life where I knew God wanted me to do a certain “thing” and I didn’t do it. Yet, he pursued me again to do so. There is a big downside to being disobedient. You often do what you should do, but only after some discomfort in your life. For Jonah, his discomfort was in the belly of a fish, and it seems that made him a little more apt to hear.
We learn too often by disobedience. One would think we would get it after a time or two. God’s message to Jonah had not changed or been altered to fit what he desired: “Arise, go to Nineveh the great city and proclaim to it the proclamation which I am going to tell you” (Jonah 3:2).
“So Jonah arose and went” (Jonah 3:3). It seems he heard and obeyed this time. Being in the belly of a fish might do that to a man. The question arises for us today, will you obey now or later? What will it take for you to be obedient to the Lord’s commands? You will not escape God’s will for your life. You can run, but you can’t hide.
What Was His Message? Obviously, God had given Jonah specific instructions to carry out. He spoke of judgment. In Matthew, John the Baptist came preaching “repent for the kingdom of God is at hand” (Matt 3:2). John didn’t alter the message. Jonah didn’t alter the message either but proclaimed what God had said. This raises the question for us today, why don’t we proclaim what the Scriptures say? Why do some feel a need to culturally alter the words of Scripture?
It’s important today to not deviate from the message of Scripture. Too many are doing this in the pulpit. Jonah’s second opportunity to do what God commanded, demonstrated his obedience to tell exactly what God had said: “Then Jonah began to go through the city one day’s walk; and he cried out and said, Yet forty days and Nineveh will be overthrown” (Jonah 3:4).
His message wasn’t weak; it was the declaration of judgement. God was going to judge this city. Today, why do men think compromising the message of Scripture is beneficial? Whatever the reason, there is no excuse to change what God has clearly stated in the text to make it more acceptable to a culture that doesn’t know God. An altered message won’t present a true gospel message. It will lead people to a false sense of salvation that’s based upon something they have done or will do. What happened when Jonah proclaimed God’s message?
What Was The Response? “Then the people of Nineveh believed in God” (Jonah 3:5). The conjunction “then” signifies they believed after they heard the truth from God’s Word. The king would proclaim for men to repent. What a wonderful story of conversion. The fear of judgement struck the hearts of the entire city, “and let men call on God earnestly that each may turn from his wicked way and from the violence which is in his hands” (Jonah 3:8).
When the Word of the Lord is proclaimed, it will produce true repentance. Although Jonah’s message was short and somewhat out of “have to” than “want to,” God’s Word didn’t return void. It seems to me that if men will preach what God says, he will do the work. It is only God who can turn a man’s heart to repentance. It is the preaching of his Word that brings about a turning, as in the case of the people of Nineveh.
Our case for proclaiming the gospel is clear, preach what God says. In the case of Jonah, he did just that. What’s comforting to me is that God’s Word will be powerful no matter how I speak it. If I stumble in my voice or I am short in my message, he still uses it.
Print Friendly, PDF & Email Related body of water under sky The Miserable Missionary body of water under sky What a Difference Three Days Makes woman walking on pathway with falling leaves near body of water during daytime The Word of the Lord AUTHOR
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Post by Admin on Apr 19, 2024 22:19:27 GMT -5
g3min.org/teaching-biblical-and-systematic-theology-in-discipleship/ CHRIS KING
Open-Bible-Wood-Desk One of the things I love about G3 is the focus on theology for the church. Christians need to learn theology. We need to be teaching other Christians sound doctrine. In this series of blog posts, I argue that making disciples is one of the ways we can strengthen Christians and churches. We need to incorporate intentional and clear discussion about theology into our discipleship methodology. R. C. Sproul says, “Theology is an attempt to understand the truth that God has revealed to us. It’s not a question if we’re going to be engaged in theology or not; it’s a question of whether our theology is going to be sound or unsound.”1
In the last blog post I suggested a basic format for a discipleship meeting with another believer. Here’s how you could structure a one hour meeting:
Prayer requests and opening prayer, 5 minutes
Scripture reading, discussion, and application, 35 minutes
Christian literature (book) discussion, 15 minutes
Closing prayer, 5 minutes
In this methodology, two people (or a small group) spend 35 minutes reading, discussing, and applying a section of Scripture together. Using this method, you systematically work through a book of the Bible together. It can be wise and helpful to supplement this teaching with some sessions focusing on biblical and systematic theology. For instance, after you complete the Gospel of Mark, you could spend 4 weeks studying biblical theology. Or after going through the book of Malachi, you spend 8 weeks studying a systematic approach to the doctrine of salvation (see below for an example).
Use Biblical Theology in your Discipleship Biblical theology examines the progressive storylines found throughout Scripture. It reveals the framework or superstructure of God’s unfolding plans revealed in Scripture. This approach to theology examines how different authors of Scripture contribute to the major narratives throughout God’s Word. This treatment of Scripture employs a wide-angle lens to help us understand how all of God’s Word fits together. It helps us see the unity and consistency of God’s work.
Biblical theology often focuses on the progressive revelation of Jesus Christ evident throughout Scripture. An example of this may look like this:
The Old Testament anticipates and promises the coming of Jesus. In the Gospels, Jesus comes to earth and reveals his identity and purposes. In Acts, the proclamation about Jesus goes throughout the world. The Epistles explain Jesus and define how to follow Him. In this rubric, you could study passages in the Old Testament that point to Jesus, and then find the fulfillment of those passages in the Gospels, Acts, or the Epistles.
Biblical Theology also highlights the covenants found throughout the Scripture. In discipleship, this helps people grasp the “big picture” of the Bible. One can trace the promise made in the Abrahamic covenant all the way through the OT, see how it is fulfilled in Christ and then finds its ultimate consummation in the book of Revelation. You could spend some discipleship sessions studying how the New Covenant relates to the Lord’s Supper (an important regular practice in our worship services). Many Christians remain ignorant about the covenantal promises of God found throughout Scripture. Incorporating biblical theology into our discipleship can help address this deficiency.
Use Systematic Theology in Discipleship In my first year of seminary, I took a course in systematic theology. It sounded cool, but I had no idea what it was. I went to the bookstore to pick up my textbooks (that’s always fun) and was shocked to discover the size of the systematic theology text. It was the largest tome I had ever bought. After some fleeting dismay at the size and price of the book, I resolved to read the entire work—and I did. Reading this textbook changed my life and kindled my love for theology that still burns to this day. As a Christian growing up in church, I hadn’t received much personal discipleship. I believed the Gospel, trusted God’s Word, and knew some things about Jesus and the church; but that was about it. My understanding of Scripture was very limited and fuzzy. When I discovered a systematic approach to doctrines like the deity of Christ, the sufficiency of Scripture, and so many more, I wondered, “Where have you been all my life—this is amazing!” It reinforced the faith I had in God’s Word and clarified so many of my vague beliefs.
Systematic theology seeks to provide an orderly, careful, and coherent treatment of a doctrine through an examination of Bible passages related to that doctrine. Doctrines are arranged systematically under headings like, “the doctrine of God,” or “the doctrine of salvation.” These large headings quickly break down into smaller, more specific topics like this:
The Doctrine of Salvation
Election/Predestination Effectual Call/Regeneration Conversion (Repentance and Faith) Justification Sanctification Perseverance Glorification Think of systematic theology like a filing cabinet where each file represents a different doctrine. When you study the Scripture, you consider where to “file” a given verse or teaching. Each major file (like the doctrine of salvation) contains smaller files within it—like justification. This helps you organize (systematize) doctrines. This can be very useful in apologetics—especially when dealing with people who twist one verse without reference to the rest of God’s Word. In this way, systematic theology functions like the rule: Scripture interprets Scripture (called by some, “The Analogy of Faith”). This means that no part of Scripture can be interpreted in such a way as to render it in conflict with what is clearly taught by another part of God’s Word.2 Thus, knowing how several verses support one doctrine can be very helpful.
Systematic theology functions like a keyword search: you input a doctrine in the search bar, and study/read all the verses related to that doctrine. Doing systematic theology is like putting together a jigsaw puzzle. You begin with the border to provide a framework. The more pieces you have in place, the clearer the image becomes. As the picture comes together, the easier it becomes to find the proper place for the remaining pieces. You shouldn’t force pieces in where they don’t fit.
Historic confessions of faith also serve as excellent tools for studying systematic theology. Most of the confessions organize around major doctrines. They include clear explanations of each teaching with Scripture references. You could supplement studying books of the Bible with considering sections in a confession of faith. The Second London Baptist Confession of Faith works great for this!
What about Historical Theology? Historical theology examines how Christians throughout the centuries have thought about theology and practice. The benefits of studying and discussing historical theology are legion. In historical theology we learn how faithful Christians have articulated, defended, and lived out the truth. In the paradigm of a discipleship meeting suggested above, I think this fits best in the time slot for studying Christian literature.
Reading biographies provides numerous insights into historical theology and church history. Find a good biography on a champion for the truth like Luther, Calvin, Tyndale, or Lloyd-Jones (ask your pastor for recommendations on biographies). I would also recommend the recent biography: R. C. Sproul: A Life by Stephen Nichols. In good biographies you learn about the real-life experiences of imperfect people (like us), and how theology impacted their lives, their times, and their churches. The best biographies inspire us to be more faithful. They provide examples of living out virtues like humility, courage, and patience. We also learn from the failings, flaws, and errors of imperfect people. For all these reasons (and many more) we should incorporate the reading of biographies into our process of discipleship. Historical theology and biographies can help us understand Scripture and live more faithful lives for our Lord Jesus Christ. Who are you meeting with next week for discipleship?
Who are you discipling? Talk to your pastor about making disciples in your church and get to it.
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Post by Admin on May 1, 2024 16:31:06 GMT -5
How Church History Helps Share
g3min.org/how-church-history-helps/ CHRIS KING
brown concrete building under white sky during daytime On chilly winter nights we enjoy drinking a hot drink in a comfy chair in front of a fire. This kind of ideal setting becomes even more enjoyable if we can open a great book on church history. Imagine reading Five English Reformers by J. C. Ryle with pecans roasting on an open fire. This book records the martyrdoms of Hugh Latimer and Nicholas Ridley. As they were preparing to be burned alive, Latimer says to Ridley, “Be of good cheer, Master Ridley, and play the man. We shall this day light such a candle, by God’s grace, in England, as I trust shall never be put out.” Examples of courageous Christians and their heart stirring words fill the history of the church. Modern believers should learn from these great leaders of the past to find encouragement and direction for the present.
Sola Scriptura and Church History Sola Scriptura means “only Scripture.” We use this phrase to explain that only God’s Word is the sufficient and final authority for the faith and practice of the church. This stands true because of the nature of God’s Word—it comes from God and is therefore inerrant and infallible. We hold firmly to these convictions as we approach the study of church history. We recognize church history doesn’t have the same nature as Scripture—it’s fallible. When we read church history we’re not hearing from God, we’re simply learning from the experiences and teachings of faithful men and women (and this can be very helpful). We don’t sacrifice Sola Scriptura when we utilize church history. Spurgeon offers a good perspective on teachers and theologians throughout church history. He says,
I beg of you to search the Bible for yourselves. To the law and to the testimony; if I speak not according to this Word, it is because there is no light in me. I am willing to come to that test. Have nothing to do with me where I have nothing to do with Christ. Where I separate from the truth, cast my words away. But if what I say be God’s teaching, I charge you, by him that sent me, give these things your thoughts, and turn unto the Lord with all your hearts.1
The meaning of Scripture never changes—Romans 1:16–17 meant the same thing in the third century as it did during the Reformation. Its meaning hasn’t changed for today. By examining church history, we see how other faithful Christians understood and taught God’s Word. We find value in studying theologians of the past so long as they help us understand and apply God’s Word. The history of the church serves as a useful tool to help us in a myriad of ways. This blog post attempts to show some of the ways church history helps us today.
Church History Helps us Endure the Perils of the World Facing the challenges of the world can be daunting and discouraging. God promises faithful Christians will face persecution (2 Tim 3:12). Jesus warns that the world will hate us (Matt 10:22; John 15:19). Christian history provides examples of other Christians who endured perilous times. One biographer of Calvin says, “He was not unfamiliar with the sound of mobs outside his house threatening to throw him in the river and firing their muskets”2 On his deathbed Calvin tells the gathered pastors, “I have lived here amid continual bickerings. I have been from derision saluted of an evening before my door with forty or fifty shots of an arquebus ”3
I’ve had difficult days as a pastor, but never people shooting at my house with guns. Reading about the struggles of the Reformers, the martyrs at Smithfield, and the great ejection of the Puritans, gives us a needed perspective for our ministries. Most of us don’t face the dire challenges endured by these faithful heroes in church history. Examining how other believers persevered through severe trials helps us endure our challenges.
Church History Helps us Endure Pain within the Church Many of the churches we read about in the New Testament dealt with internal strife. We also often face strife and disagreements with other Christians in the church; and the example of Jonathan Edwards can help us. Though he was a leader in the Great Awakening, Edwards struggled through many challenges from his church in Northampton. Concerning all the controversy surrounding him, Edwards said, “It seems I am born to be a man of strife.”4 Edwards was eventually put on trial by his congregation. David Hall, one of the witnesses of the trial, describes Edward’s exemplary Christian demeanor. He writes, “I never saw the least symptoms of displeasure in his countenance the whole week, but he appeared like a man of God, whose happiness was out of the reach of his enemies, and whose treasure was not only a future but a present good, overbalancing all imaginable ills of life, even to the astonishment of many, who could not be at rest without his dismission.”5 One biographer summarizes these events by writing, “In Northampton much that Edwards had built up in the past fifteen years came crashing down in one small-town squabble.”6 This would ultimately lead to Edwards being voted out as pastor by an overwhelming majority of his congregation (only 23 of the 230 members voted for Edwards to continue as their pastor). As we endure disagreements and disunity in our churches we can be encouraged by the demeanor of Jonathan Edwards.
Church History Helps us Engage Perplexing Theological Issues The Second London Confession of 1689 states, “All things in Scripture are not alike plain in themselves, nor alike clear unto all.”7 Understanding some Biblical doctrines can be difficult. Furthermore, explaining/teaching these theological points in such a way that people understand presents a major challenge. But we’re not the first people to read the Bible or struggle with some of its complicated doctrines. Church history helps us understand knotty theological issues and express them clearly to others. The great preachers and theologians of previous generations provide a treasury, library, and arsenal of sound interpretation and lucid explanation.
The sovereignty of God and the responsibility of man garners a lot of attention from serious students of the Bible. Spurgeon preached several sermons on this specific issue. In his sermon, “Sovereign Grace and Man’s Responsibility” the Prince of Preachers clearly explains and applies both realities. He offers great examples from Scripture that help clarify this doctrine. Related to this, his sermons “Free Will a Slave” and “God’s Will and Man’s Will” address issues concerning free will. These provide biblical correction and powerful argumentation against common misunderstandings of free will. For a winsome and compelling example of teaching these doctrines, check out Spurgeon’s sermon, “Robinson Crusoe’s Text.” When you meet someone wrestling with the idea of God’s sovereignty, read through one of these sermons with them.
When studying the sovereignty of God, people often ponder how evangelism squares with this doctrine. For this question, refer people to Spurgeon’s book, The Soul Winner. Spurgeon provides a helpful example of pleading for souls in preaching while heartily trusting in the sovereignty of God for salvation.
Many of the errors Spurgeon addresses in these sermons continue to thrive in today’s church. While modern teachers repackage old errors, Spurgeon can help us provide a tested, helpful, and articulate remedy. Spurgeon proves especially helpful in addressing these subjects with Baptists. He was a Baptist preacher and author who remains highly regarded by many who emphasize free will and reject the doctrines of grace (which Spurgeon loved).
Conclusion and Challenges Sir Isaac Newton once wrote, “If I have seen further, it is by standing on the shoulders of giants.” Church history provides modern Christians with this kind of perspective. We can stand on the shoulders of giants as we develop our understanding of Scripture and seek to teach and apply it. We should look to the example and words of those who have come before for encouragement and help in following Christ today.
A couple of church history challenges for the New Year:
Buy your preaching pastor a copy of the two-volume biography on D. Martyn Lloyd-Jones by Iain Murray. Tell him it’s essential reading. Find another Christian in your church and read together The Daring Mission of William Tyndale by Steven J. Lawson.
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