Pilgrim's Progress (2): Trials in the Valley of Humiliation In this section, the Christian family travels through the Valley of Humiliation, the place where Christian fought Apollyon. They find this to be very fruitful ground for Christians. Then they enter the Valley of the Shadow of Death, a place of much temptation and trial for believers. They learn here the value of … [Read more...] about 2.8.09 Study • Pilgrim’s Progress
2.8.09 AM • Romans
The Charge - All Under Sin (Rm 3.9) As we come out of Paul's argument with an imagined opponent (Rm 3.1-8), we are moving into the section where Paul proves his assertions by using God's Word, the only authority for faith and practice. Just before laying out his proof, Paul states his proposition one more time, with this addition: all men are under sin. The emphasis of this … [Read more...] about 2.8.09 AM • Romans
2.1.09 PM • Communion
He is Unclean (Lev 13) [Communion: Leviticus] In Lev 13, we find the first chapter of laws concerning leprosy. Our message gives some of the mundane organizational details of the chapter, then distinguishes what sort of diseases are in view in Lev 13-14. As most have come to believe, the 'leprosy' of these chapters could not have been what we know of today as leprosy. The … [Read more...] about 2.1.09 PM • Communion
2.1.09 Study • Pilgrim’s Progress
Pilgrim's Progress (2): At the House Beautiful The family of believers arrive at the House Beautiful, Bunyan's image of the local church where they gain assurance of salvation, catechising of the young, the dangers of marrying unbelievers, the healing of evil influences (by a medicine called 'ex carne et sanguine Christi'), and several lessons for future meditation. Click … [Read more...] about 2.1.09 Study • Pilgrim’s Progress
2.1.09 AM • Romans
The Source of a Reprobate Religious Mind (Rm 3.5-8) Paul concludes his argument with the Religious man as he imagines the final objections of his Jewish opponent. Paul asserts that all men, Jews and Gentiles are alike under the judgement of God. The Religious man objects that this makes his religion pointless, that surely God will still keep his promises in spite of the … [Read more...] about 2.1.09 AM • Romans