Friday, January 3, 2014

LIFE ISN'T ALWAYS EASY,BUT WITH GOD THERE IS HOPE.

When the storms of life threaten to pull you under, where do you turn for hope to carry on? Find encouragement for your struggles through Linda’s inspirational story of God’s faithful provision through the good times and the bad.
We would like to thank WPJL Radio in Raleigh, North Carolina, for partnering with us on this week’s story.
Find out more of what the Bible says about “Where Can We Find Comfort.”



The one preach Christ of contention, not sincerely, supposing to add affliction to my bonds:-Philippians 1:16;
The counsel of the Lord standeth for ever, the thoughts of his heart to all generations. - Psalm 33:11; 
And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose. - Romans 8:28;
I will say of the Lord, He is my refuge and my fortress: my God; in him will I trust. -Psalm 91:2

Monday, April 29, 2013

BIOGRAPHY OF A GREAT THEOLOGIAN OF OUR TIME.

"Loving a holy God is beyond our moral power. The only kind of God we can love by our sinful nature is an unholy god, an idol made by our own hands. Unless we are born of the Spirit of God, unless God sheds His holy love in our hearts, unless He stoops in His grace to change our hearts, we will not love Him . . . To love a holy God requires grace, grace strong enough to pierce our hardened hearts and awaken our moribund souls." - R.C. Sproul



Biographical Sketch
Dr. Robert Charles Sproul (born 1939 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania) is an American, Calvinist theologian, and pastor. He is the founder and chairman of Ligonier Ministries (named after the Ligonier Valley just outside of Pittsburgh, where the ministry started as a study center for college and seminary students) and can be heard daily on the Renewing Your Mind radio broadcast in the United States and throughout 60 countries. Ligonier hosts several theological conferences each year, including the main conference held each year in Orlando, Florida, at which Sproul is one of the primary speakers. Sproul holds degrees from Westminster College, Pennsylvania, Pittsburgh Theological Seminary, the Free University of Amsterdam, and Whitefield Theological Seminary, and he has taught at numerous colleges and seminaries, including Reformed Theological Seminary in Orlando and Knox Theological Seminary in Ft. Lauderdale. Currently, he is Senior Minister of Preaching and Teaching at Saint Andrew's Chapel in Sanford, Florida, where he began preaching in 1997. Sproul has been an ardent advocate of Calvinism in his many books and audio and video publications, and he is also known for his advocacy of the Thomistic approach to Christian apologetics and his rejection of both evidentialism and presuppositionalism.
R. C. Sproul was ordained to the gospel ministry by the Pittsburgh Presbytery (UPUSA) on July 18, 1965. From 1965 to 1966 he served as Instructor in Philosophy and Theology at Westminster College. From 1966 to 1968 he served as Assistant Professor of Theological Studies at Gordon College. From 1968 to 1969 he served as Assistant Professor of Philosophical Theology at Conwell School of Theology. From 1969 to 1971 he served as Minister of Theology at College Hill United Presbyterian Church. From 1971 to 1981 he served at Gordon Conwell Theological Seminary as Visiting Professor of Apologetics. Also, starting in 1971, he served as Director for The Coalition for Christian Outreach, Inc. until 1976. 1971 was also the year that Ligonier Ministries was founded, and he has served as Chairman of that ministry from that time through the present. Starting in 1977, he was an executive committee member of the International Council on Biblical Inerrancy, until 1983. He also served as Director of Prison Fellowship, Inc. from 1979 through 1984 and Director of Evangelism Explosion III, International from 1980 through 1981. From 1980 to 1995 he served as Professor of Systematic Theology at Reformed Theological Seminary. During this time at Reformed Theological Seminary, he held the John Dyer Trimble, Sr. Chair of Systematic Theology from 1987 to 1995. He also served as Director of the Foundation for Reformation from 1990 through 1999 and from 1982 through the present has served as Director of Serve International, Inc. From 1995 to 2004 he served as Distinguished Professor of Systematic Theology and Apologetics at Knox Theological Seminary.
R. C. Sproul is married to Vesta Ann of Pittsburgh, PA. They have two grown children – a daughter, Sherrie Sproul Dick, and a son, R. C. Sproul, Jr. Dr. R. C. Sproul, Jr., is a theologian and a strong supporter of homeschooling, traditional family roles, and limited government. He founded the Highlands Study Center in Meadowview, Virginia. R. C. Sproul, Sr. and his wife currently reside in Orlando, Florida. In addition to being an excellent Theologian and Author, Sproul also enjoys reading, golf, sketching and painting, music (piano and violin), and hunting. He has a keen interest in a modern Christian Reformation. May God grant that we would have such a Reformation.
Sources – Ligonier Ministries and Wikipedia. Much thanks to John Cobb and Toni Roth of Ligonier Ministries for their provision of Dr. Sproul’s biographical and bibliographical information.
 
Publications Sproul is a prolific author who has written more than 60 books and many articles for evangelical publications. He signed the 1978 Chicago Statement on Biblical Inerrancy, which affirmed the traditional view of Biblical inerrancy, and he wrote a commentary on that document titled Explaining Inerrancy. He also served as the editor of the Reformation Study Bible which has appeared in several editions and was also known as the New Geneva Study Bible.Sproul's work The Holiness of God is considered a modern classic on the subject of God's character, and his book Not a Chance: The Myth of Chance in Modern Science and Cosmology was highly praised by those who reject the materialism advocated by some in the scientific community.Other works include:

Bibliography
Here is his complete Bibliography, listed by year of publication, and including a brief description of the publication:
1973
The Symbol: An Exposition of the Apostles’ Creed. Phillipsburg, NJ: Presbyterian and Reformed Publishing Company.
1974
The Psychology of Atheism. Minneapolis, MN: Bethany Fellowship. Analysis of why men reject the God of the Bible in favor of lesser deities.
1975
God’s Inerrant Word. Minneapolis, MN: Bethany Fellowship. R.C. Sproul convener.
Discovering the Intimate Marriage. Minneapolis, MN: Bethany Fellowship. A Christian understanding of marriage with special emphasis on the meaning of intimacy.
1976
Soli Deo Gloria, Editor. Phillipsburg, NJ: Presbyterian and Reformed Publishing Company. A Festschrift for Dr. John H. Gerstner edited by R.C. Sproul.  It includes articles by Cornelius Van Til, J. I. Packer, John Murray, John Warwick Montgomery, and Roger Nicole, among others.
1978
Objections Answered. Ventura, CA: Gospel Light – Regal Books. A response to common objections to Christianity.
 Knowing Scripture. ( http://www.monergismbooks.com/knowscripture7339.html) Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press. Help for Christians who want to study the Bible. A Basic guide to the science of interpretation.
1980
Stronger Than Steel: The Wayne Alderson Story. San Francisco, CA: Harper and Row. The story of the life and work of Wayne Alderson, the man who defused a potentially explosive strike at a Pennsylvania steel foundry, thereby providing a model for future peaceful negotiations between workers and management.
Explaining Inerrancy: A Commentary. Oakland, CA: International Council on Biblical Inerrancy. R.C. Sproul's commentary on the Chicago Statement on Biblical Inerrancy.  Includes the commentary as well as the text of the statement itself.
1982
Basic Training. Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan Publishing House. Previously published in 1973 by Presbyterian and Reformed Publishing Company under the title The Symbol. An exposition of the Apostles' Creed.
Reason To Believe. Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan Publishing House. Previously published in 1978 by Gospel Light Publications under the title Objections Answered. A response to common objections to Christianity.
1983
In Search of Dignity. Ventura, CA: Regal Books. Explores the meaning and importance of dignity in the life of everyone.
Ethics and the Christian. Wheaton, IL: Tyndale House Publishers. This short book is an introduction to the subject of Christian ethics.
Who Is Jesus? Wheaton, IL: Tyndale House Publishers. This short book examines what the Bible teaches about the person of Jesus Christ.
1984
Effective Prayer. Wheaton, IL: Tyndale House Publishers. This short book is an introduction to the biblical doctrine concerning prayer, its purpose, practice, and power.
God’s Will and the Christian. Wheaton, IL: Tyndale House Publishers. This short book helps those who are seeking to discover God's will for their life, with a specific focus on issues such as careers and spouses.
Johnny Come Home. Ventura, CA: Regal Books. A novel featuring two men who choose dramatically different roads in their lives. Won the Angel Award for 1984.
 Classical Apologetics. Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan. A rational defense of the Christian faith and a critique of presuppositional apologetics.
1985
The Holiness of God. Wheaton, IL: Tyndale House Publishers. An explanation of the definition and importance of what is perhaps God's least understood attribute - His holiness.
1986
Lifeviews. Grand Rapids, MI: Fleming H. Revell, A Division of Baker Book House. A guide for understanding the prevailing attitudes and ideas that shape our culture.
Chosen by God. ( http://www.monergismbooks.com/chosenby3354.html ) Wheaton, IL: Tyndale House Publishers. The classical reformed doctrine of God's electing grace is discussed in its biblical and philosophical context.
The Intimate Marriage. Wheaton, IL: Tyndale House Publishers. Previously published in 1975 by Bethany Fellowship under the title Discovering the Intimate Marriage. A Christian understanding of marriage with special emphasis on the meaning of intimacy.
1987
One Holy Passion. Nashville, TN: Thomas Nelson. The believer's quest to know God the Father is the basis of this study of His biblically revealed attributes and characteristics.
1988
Pleasing God. Wheaton, IL: Tyndale House Publishers. The goal of the believer is found in living a life of faith and overcoming common obstacles that prevent him from genuinely pleasing God.
Thy Brother’s Keeper. Brentwood, TN: Wolgemuth & Hyatt Publishers. Previously published in 1984 by Regal Books under the title Johnny Come Home. A novel featuring two men who choose dramatically different roads in their lives. Won the Angel Award for
1984.
If There’s a God, Why Are There Atheists? Wheaton, IL: Tyndale House Publishers. Previously published in 1974 by Bethany Fellowship under the title The Psychology of Atheism. Analysis of why men reject the God of the Bible in favor of lesser deities.
1989
Surprised by Suffering. Wheaton, IL: Tyndale House Publishers. The sovereign work of God in the life of suffering believers is considered in this compassionate look at the problem of pain.
1990
The Mystery of the Holy Spirit. Wheaton, IL: Tyndale House Publishers. This book focuses upon the hidden and unseen regenerating work of the Holy Spirit in the life of the believer. While preserving the “mystery” of His work, it brings to light many aspects of the Spirit that are vital for all believers to know and understand.
Abortion – A Rational Look at An Emotional Issue. Colorado Springs, CO: NavPress. Abortion is tearing the country in two. In an arena known for inflamed rhetoric, this book carefully and rationally examines the issues in light of natural law, Scriptural law and governmental law.
The Glory of Christ. Wheaton, IL: Tyndale House Publishers. Though humbled as a man, the glory of Christ shone forth at strategic points in the life of Christ. From the angels song of “glory to the new born King” to the promise of His return on clouds of glory, Christ leaves us in awe and worship.
1991
Following Christ. Wheaton, IL: Tyndale House Publishers. Previously published in 1983-1984 as four smaller books: Who Is Jesus?, Effective Prayer, God’s Will and The Christian, and Ethics and The Christian. This book provides answers from our one firm foundation, Jesus Christ.
The Hunger for Significance. Ventura, CA: Regal Books. Previously published in 1983 under the title In Search of Dignity. Explores the meaning and importance of dignity in the life of everyone.
1992
Essential Truths of the Christian Faith. ( http://www.monergismbooks.com/essential0016.html) Wheaton, IL: Tyndale House Publishers. Over 100 key theological terms are defined here in brief expositions that simplify without being simplistic. This book will help set the stage for in-depth theological study.
Before the Face of God – Book I. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Books and Ligonier Ministries. Adapted from 1989 Tabletalk devotionals, this book covers the book of Romans in a verse by verse fashion, with 233 daily studies and practical suggestions for living out your faith.
Thy Brother’s Keeper. Dallas, TX: Word Publishing. Previously published in 1988 by Wolgemuth & Hyatt Publishers, and in 1984 by Regal Books under the title Johnny Come Home. A novel featuring two men who choose dramatically different roads in their lives. Won the Angel Award for 1984.
1993
The Soul’s Quest for God. Wheaton, IL: Tyndale House Publishers. All Christians hunger for a deeper knowledge of God. We are, in fact, on a quest, to be conformed to His image. Drawing from Biblical portraits and the giants of church history, this book takes us from the beginning of the quest in regeneration to its fulfillment in heaven when we shall see Him as He is.
Doubt and Assurance. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Books and Ligonier Ministries. Adapted from articles appearing in Tabletalk, this book examines how doubts about the faith assail us, and true assurance uplifts us. Edited by R.C. Sproul, this book includes chapters by Steve Brown, John Gerstner, Roger Nicole, Os Guinness and others.
Before the Face of God – Book II. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Books and Ligonier Ministries. Adapted from 1990 Tabletalk devotionals, this book covers the book of Luke in a verse by verse fashion. With 260 daily studies and practical suggestions for living out your faith, this book explores the life of Christ and His Good News.
1994
Not A Chance: The Myth of Chance in Modern Science and Cosmology. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Book House. This book exposes the chance theory of the universe's origin for what it is: a logical absurdity and a scientific impossibility. The book is packed with compelling content and helpful graphics, and can help to defend reasonable faith against unreasonable alternatives.
Ephesians. Ross-shire, ( Scotland) Great Britain: Christian Focus Publications. This commentary looks at the issues raised by Paul as he dealt with the Ephesian church. Verse by verse it explores the powerful message of God's sovereign choice and the importance of the church to the believer.
Before the Face of God – Book III. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Books and Ligonier Ministries. Adapted from the 1991 Tabletalk devotionals, this book surveys the Old Testament. With over 250 daily studies, and practical advice for Christian living, this book explores the history of God's people and God's work among us.
Romans. Ross-shire, ( Scotland) Great Britain: Christian Focus Publications. A full-length, verse-by-verse commentary on Paul's epistle to the church at Rome.
1995
New Geneva Study Bible. Nashville, TN: Thomas Nelson. This first Reformed Study Bible since the original Geneva Bible of 1560 provides study aids including textual notes, chapter introductions, theological sidebars, and more. Dr. Sproul served as general editor of the project and wrote the notes for the book of James.
Faith Alone. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Book House. This book explores the doctrine of justification by faith alone. Dr. Sproul explains the doctrine, explores the myriad ways that it is being neglected or abandoned and defends it, with Luther, as "the article upon which the church stands or falls."
The Character of God: Discovering The God Who Is. Ann Arbor, MI: Servant Publications. Previously published in 1987 by Thomas Nelson under the title One Holy Passion. The believer's quest to know God the Father is the basis of this study of His biblically revealed attributes and characteristics.
Mighty Christ. Ross-shire, ( Scotland) Great Britain: Christian Focus Publications: Christian Focus. An introductory level explanation of what the Bible teaches concerning the person and work of Jesus Christ.
1996
The King Without A Shadow. Elgin, IL: Chariot Publishers. A book for children highlighting through a simple story of a boy and his dog, the holiness of God.
Now, That’s A Good Question. Wheaton, IL: Tyndale House Publishers. Adapted from transcripts of the ASK RC radio programs, this book provides brief though sound answers to over 300 common questions. Topics covered include theology, ethics, politics, the Bible, the arts, and more.
The Invisible Hand. Dallas, TX: Word Publishing. This book examines the doctrine of providence. Using both biblical and personal examples, Dr. Sproul demonstrates that we as Christians can put our complete trust in God who works all things for the good of those who love Him.
Choosing My Religion. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Books. Targeted to teenagers, this short book seeks to answer the question: Are there many paths to God, or only one?
Ultimate Issues. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Books. This book addresses the tough issues facing young adults including the purpose of everything, the value of life, the standard of right and wrong, and how one can be acceptable to God.
Explaining Inerrancy. Orlando, FL: Ligonier Ministries. Previously published in 1980 by the International Council on Biblical Inerrancy under the title Explaining Inerrancy: A Commentary. R.C. Sproul's commentary on the Chicago Statement on Biblical Inerrancy.  Includes the commentary as well as the text of the statement itself.
Before the Face of God – Book IV. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Books and Ligonier Ministries. Adapted from Tabletalk devotionals, this book covers the books of Ephesians, Hebrews and James in a verse by verse fashion.
1997
Grace Unknown. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Books. This book shows that the theology of the Protestant Reformers of the 16th century is simply an accurate, systematic summary of the teachings of the Bible. An easy to read style combined with helpful illustrations teaches the reader the foundations of Reformed Theology and its key points.
Willing to Believe. ( http://www.monergismbooks.com/willing4120.html) Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Books. This book argues for a return to the biblical doctrine of God’s sovereignty over salvation, giving historical, biblical and logical reasons for rejecting the “free will” position commonly held today.
The Priest with Dirty Clothes. Nashville, TN: Tommy Nelson. R.C. Sproul’s second children’s book tells the story of a mud-covered priest who can only find cleansing from the Great Prince who offers “new clothes for the heart.”
If There’s a God, Why Are There Atheists? Orlando, FL: Ligonier Ministries. Previously published in 1988 by Tyndale House Publishers, and in 1974 by Bethany Fellowship under the title The Psychology of Atheism. Analysis of why men reject the God of the Bible in favor of lesser deities.
1998
The Holiness of God – Revised and Expanded. ( http://www.monergismbooks.com/holinessgod9655.html) Wheaton, IL: Tyndale House Publishers. Original version published in 1985. An explanation of what is perhaps the most important, yet least understood, attribute of God—His holiness. New material added.
The Last Days According to Jesus. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Books. A response to the skeptic’s charge of error in Christ’s prophecies.
The Reformation Study Bible (in NKJV). Nashville, TN: Thomas Nelson. Previously published in 1995 under the title The New Geneva Study Bible. This first Reformed Study Bible since the original Geneva Bible of 1560 provides study aids including textual notes, chapter introductions, theological sidebars, and more. Dr. Sproul served as general editor of the project and wrote the notes for the book of James.
Renewing Your Mind. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Books. Previously published in 1982 by Zondervan Publishing House under the title Basic Training, and in 1973 by Presbyterian and Reformed Publishing Company under the title The Symbol. An exposition of the Apostles' Creed.
1999
Getting the Gospel Right. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Books. The important differences in two recent popular statements concerning the Gospel are analyzed and compared to Scripture.
In the Presence of God. Nashville, TN: Word Publishing. Devotional readings based on 15 attributes of God.
A Walk with Jesus. Ross-shire, ( Scotland) Great Britain: Christian Focus Publications. Devotional studies of Christ based on the book of Luke.
The Gospel of God – Romans. Ross-shire, ( Scotland) Great Britain: Christian Focus Publications. Previously published in 1994 under the title Romans. A full-length, verse-by-verse commentary on Paul's epistle to the church at Rome.
How Should I Live in This World? Orlando, FL: Ligonier Ministries. Previously published in 1983 by Tyndale House Publishing under the title Ethics and the Christian, and in 1991 by Tyndale House Publishers as part of Following Jesus. This short book is an introduction to the subject of Christian ethics.
 Who Is Jesus? Orlando, FL: Ligonier Ministries. Previously published in 1983 by Tyndale House Publishing under the title Who Is Jesus?, and in 1991 by Tyndale House Publishers as part of Following Jesus. This short book examines what the Bible teaches about the person of Jesus Christ.
 Does Prayer Change Things? Orlando, FL: Ligonier Ministries. Previously published in 1984 by Tyndale House Publishing under the title Effective Prayer, and in 1991 by Tyndale House Publishers as part of Following Jesus. This short book is an introduction to the biblical doctrine concerning prayer, its purpose, practice, and power.
 Can I Know God’s Will? Orlando, FL: Ligonier Ministries. Previously published in 1984 by Tyndale House Publishing under the title God’s Will and the Christian, and in 1991 by Tyndale House Publishers as part of Following Jesus. This short book helps those who are are seeking to discover God's will for their life, with a specific focus on issues such as careers and spouses.
2000
The Consequences of Ideas. Wheaton, IL: Crossway Books. An introduction to the ideas that have shaped the world.
2001
What’s in the Bible: The Story of God through Time and Eternity. Nashville, TN: Word Publishing. This book shows how the stirring stories of the Bible fit together into a cohesive narrative, helping the layperson to read through the entire Bible with greater satisfaction.
Loved by God. Nashville, TN: W Publishing Group. A study of the many aspects of God’s love for His people.
The King Without a Shadow. Phillipsburg, NJ: Presbyterian and Reformed Publishers. Previously published in 1996 by Chariot Publishers. A book for children highlighting through a simple story of a boy and his dog, the holiness of God.
The Hunger for Significance. Phillipsburg, NJ: Presbyterian and Reformed Publishers. Previously published in 1991 by Regal Books, and in 1983 by Regal Books under the title In Search of Dignity. Explores the meaning and importance of dignity in the life of everyone.
2002
Five Things Every Christian Needs to Grow. Nashville, TN: W Publishing Group. An explanation of five vital disciplines that every Christian needs to practice in order to mature in the faith.
Saved from What ? (http://www.monergismbooks.com/savedfrom4171.html) Wheaton, IL: Crossway Books. Starting from the point of view of the wrath that all men are born under, R.C. proceeds to explain the great salvation provided through the life, death and resurrection of Christ for all who believe.
When Worlds Collide. Wheaton, IL: Crossway Books. While addressing the presence of God in the midst of tragedy, Dr. Sproul explores how God has providentially worked in history. When Worlds Collide endeavors to help with the issues of suffering, war, and peace.
The Purpose of God – Ephesians. Ross-shire, ( Scotland) Great Britain: Christian Focus Publications. Previously published in 1994 under the title Ephesians. This commentary looks at the issues raised by Paul as he dealt with the Ephesian church. Verse by verse it explores the powerful message of God's sovereign choice and the importance of the church to the believer.
2003
Dark Side of Islam. Wheaton, IL: Crossway Books. R.C. interviews a former Muslim who explains little known aspects of this religion.
Running the Race. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Books. A book designed for recent graduates to help them face the issues they will soon encounter.
Defending Your Faith. Wheaton, IL: Crossway Books. An introduction to apologetics, the science of defending the Christian faith.
The Glory of Christ. Phillipsburg, NJ: Presbyterian and Reformed Publishers. Previously published in 1990 by Tyndale House Publishing. Though humbled as a man, the glory of Christ shone forth at strategic points in the life of Christ. From the angels song of "glory to the new born King" to the promise of His return on clouds of glory, Christ leaves us in awe and worship.
The Soul’s Quest for God. Phillipsburg, NJ: Presbyterian and Reformed Publishers. Previously published in 1993 by Tyndale House Publishing. All Christians hunger for a deeper knowledge of God. We are, in fact, on a quest, to be conformed to His image. Drawing from Biblical portraits and the giants of church history, this book takes us from the beginning of the quest in regeneration to its fulfillment in heaven when we shall see Him as He is.
The Intimate Marriage. Phillipsburg, NJ: Presbyterian and Reformed Publishers. Previously published in 1986 by Tyndale House Publishing, and in 1975 by Bethany Fellowship under the title Discovering the Intimate Marriage. A Christian understanding of marriage with special emphasis on the meaning of intimacy.
The Character of God. Ventura, CA: Regal Books. Previously published in 1995 by Servant Publications, and in 1987 by Thomas Nelson under the title One Holy Passion. The believer's quest to know God the Father is the basis of this study of His biblically revealed attributes and characteristics.
The Invisible Hand. ( http://www.monergismbooks.com/invisible7094.html) Phillipsburg, NJ: Presbyterian and Reformed Publishers. Previously published in 1996 by Word Publishing. This book examines the doctrine of providence. Using both biblical and personal examples, Dr. Sproul demonstrates that we as Christians can put our complete trust in God who works all things for the good of those who love Him.
2005
Scripture Alone. ( http://www.monergismbooks.com/scropalone0101.html ) Phillipsburg, NJ: Presbyterian and Reformed Publishers. The book Scripture Alone is a statement of the Protestant doctrine of Scripture consisting of Dr. Sproul's most important articles on the subject as well as his commentary on the Chicago Statement on Biblical Inerrancy.
The Reformation Study Bible – ESV .( http://www.monergismbooks.com/reformationstudybible.html) Orlando, FL: Ligonier Ministries. This first Reformed Study Bible since the original Geneva Bible of 1560 provides study aids including textual notes, chapter introductions, theological sidebars, and more.  Dr. Sproul served as general editor of the project and wrote the notes for the book of James.
The Unexpected Jesus. Ross-shire, ( Scotland) Great Britain: Christian Focus Publications: Christian Focus. Previously published in 1995 under the title The Mighty Christ. An introductory level explanation of what the Bible teaches concerning the person and work of Jesus Christ.
 What Is Reformed Theology? ( http://www.monergismbooks.com/whatreformed5593.html ) Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Books. Previously published in 1997 under the title Grace Unknown. This book shows that the theology of the Protestant Reformers of the 16th century is simply an accurate, systematic summary of the teachings of the Bible. An easy to read style combined with helpful illustrations teaches the reader the foundations of Reformed Theology and its key points.
Choosing My Religion. ( http://www.monergismbooks.com/choosingreligion6098.html) Phillipsburg, NJ: Presbyterian and Reformed Publishers. Previously published in 1996 by Baker Books. Targeted to teenagers, this short book seeks to answer the question: Are there many paths to God, or only one?
Ultimate Issues. ( http://www.monergismbooks.com/ultimate625X.html) Phillipsburg, NJ: Presbyterian and Reformed Publishers. Previously published in 1996 by Baker Books. This book addresses the tough issues facing young adults including the purpose of everything, the value of life, the standard of right and wrong, and how one can be acceptable to God.

Wednesday, June 27, 2012

MOM AM STRUGGLING,BUT NO ONE SEEMS TO UNDERSTAND MY PAIN.

A mother passing by her daughter's bedroom was astonished to see the bed was nicely made and everything was picked up. Then she saw an envelope propped up prominently on the center of the bed. It was addressed, "Mom." With the worst premonition, she opened the envelope and read the letter with trembling hands:

Dear Mom,
It is with great regret and sorrow that I'm writing you. I had to elope with my new boyfriend because I wanted to avoid a scene with dad and you. I've been finding real passion with Ahmed and he is so nice-even with all his piercings, tattoos, beard, and his motorcycle clothes. But it's not only the passion Mom, I'm pregnant and Ahmed said that we will be very happy. He already owns a trailer in the woods and has a stack of firewood for the whole winter. He wants to have many more children with me and that's now one of my dreams too. Ahmed taught me that marijuana doesn't really hurt anyone and we'll be growing it for us and trading it with his friends for all the cocaine and ecstasy we want. In the meantime, we'll pray that science will find a cure for AIDS so Ahmed can get better; he sure deserves it!! Don't worry Mom, I'm 15 years old now and I know how to take care of myself. Someday I'm sure we'll be back to visit so you can get to know your grandchildren.
Your daughter, Judith

PS: Mom, none of the above is true. I'm over at the neighbor's house. I just wanted to remind you that there are worse things in life than my report card that's in my desk center drawer. I love you! Call when it is safe for me to come home

Tuesday, June 26, 2012

Do You Believe In The Replacement Theory Of Dating?

Do any of you believe in the replacement theory when you’re dating someone? Have you ever been in a relationship that is just not what you want it to be?
Maybe there isn’t a great sexual connection. Maybe you have an amazing sexual connection, but the emotional connection is lacking.
Maybe it’s one of those relationships of convenience. You know, one in which you spend weekends together but you don’t see each other during the week. Maybe it’s a long distance relationship, and you like that because it gives you time to work on the replacement theory.
The replacement theory does not work. I hope by now you have figured out what the replacement theory is. If not, let me define it for you.
The replacement theory is when you’re involved in a relationship and you’re looking for another one, but you don’t want to leave your current relationship while you’re looking. You want to be sure you will find someone better before you leave the person you’re currently dating.
Looking For Rebound Guy
This never works. Your energy is all wrong when you do that.
First of all, it’s not fair to the person with whom you’re currently in a relationship. To be blunt, it’s actually pretty sleazy because you’re not being honest with that person. You’re looking someone in the eyes and saying “I love you” to that person you are with on the weekends, while you are going out during the week looking for someone to replace them.
So the replacement theory doesn’t work because you’re creating an energy that’s bad both in your relationship and when you’re out looking for another one. You’re actually very desperate such that whenever you meet somebody new you think to yourself, “God I really hope that this person is somebody that could be my next girlfriend (or next boyfriend). I really hope it works out with this person.”
When you have this mindset and this kind of energy, you actually forecast the whole relationship at the time you meet someone and first exchange phone numbers. There’s thus a very desperate energy about people who are in the replacement theory mode because they is an air of neediness around them.
When you are in the replacement theory mode, you’re so afraid to be alone that you feel a need to constantly be with someone. So you climb from one person to the next, and you end up meeting the same person over and over again. Sting had it perfectly right when he wrote that song about if you love someone then set them free.
So if you have used the replacement theory, then you need to be honest with yourself and you need to be honest with the woman (or man) you’re with. You need to realize that the replacement theory does not work, and let that person go.
Go out and embrace who you are. Learn about yourself all over again. Be single. Be open. Learn things that you never before learned.
Most importantly, develop an abundance mindset. People who practice the replacement theory do not have an abundance mindset at all. All you think about over and over again is the lack of things.
If you actually had an abundance mindset, you would never practice the replacement theory in your life. You’d realize that there are plenty of amazing people in the world to be with and date.
It’s the same with jobs. How many of you want a new job, and yet you keep a job you hate until you find that new job? Then when you find a new job this way, the new job is only a little bit better than the old job. Why? It’s because you are living the replacement theory in your work.
Now I know right now that a lot of you are saying, “David, that doesn’t make sense. I need to pay my bills, so I have to do it that way.” You do have to pay your bills, but here is what you need to realize. You can keep your old job while you look for a new one, but realize that the longer you keep the old job the longer your search for a great new job will be.
We can talk more about jobs another day. For now, I want to leave you with a question: How many of you use the replacement theory in your dating life? By David Wygant

Do You Believe In The Replacement Theory Of Dating?

Do You Believe In The Replacement Theory Of Dating?

Saturday, May 26, 2012

The Lord The Perfecter

"I will cry unto God most High; unto God that performeth all things for me" Psalm 57:2.

"The Lord will perfect that which concerneth me" Psalm 138:8.
"Being confident of this very thing, that He which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ" Philippians 1:6.
"For of Him, and through Him, and to Him are all things: To whom be glory for ever" Romans 11:36.

We read that David once succumbed to unbelief, and said, "I shall now one day perish by the hand of Saul" (1 Samuel 27:1). So even the Christian may indeed fear that he will one day perish. This is because he looks at himself and what is in him, and does not set his trust wholly on God. It is because he does not yet know God as the Perfecter. He does not yet know what is meant by His name, "I am the Alpha and the Omega: the Beginning and the End: the First and the Last" (Revelation 21:6; 1:8). If I truly believe in God as the beginning out of whom all comes, then I must trust Him as the continuation and the end, to whom all goes.
God is the beginning. "He which hath begun a good work in you"; "Ye have not chosen Me, but I have chosen you" (John 15:16). We are to be thankful for God's free choice, made before the foundation of the world, that we became believers and have the new life.1 Those who are still unconverted have nothing to do with this election--for them there is the offer of grace and the summons to surrender.

Outside, over the door of the Father, stands the inscription, "Him that cometh unto Me, I will in no wise cast out" (John 6:37). This everyone can see and understand. No sooner are they inside the door than they see and understand the other inscription, "All that the Father giveth Me shall come to Me" (John 6:37).2 Then they can understand how all things are of God--first, obedience to the command of God, then, insight into the counsel of God.

But then it is of great importance to firmly hold onto this truth--He has begun the good work. Every thought of God will strengthen the confidence that He will also perfect it. His faithfulness, His love, His power, are all pledged so that He will perfect the good work which He began. Please read how God has taken more than one oath regarding His unchangeable faithfulness. Your soul will rest and find courage in this.
And how will He finish His work? What has its origin from Him is sustained by Him. It will one day be brought to Him and His glory. There is nothing in your life, worldly or spiritual, for which the Father will not care, because it has influence on you for eternity.3 There is no moment of day or night in which the silent growth of your soul is not to go forward. The Father will take care of this, if you believe.

There is no part of your destiny as a child of God that the Father will not continue and complete His work in--even in things which you have not yet given thought to.4 There is one condition--you must trust Him for this. You must in faith allow Him to work. You must trustfully say, "The Lord will perfect that which concerneth me." You must trustfully pray, "I will cry unto God that performeth all things for me." Christian, let your soul become full of the thought--The whole care, for the continuation and the perfecting of God's work in me, is in His hands.5

And how glorious the perfecting will be. In our spiritual life, God is prepared to exhibit His power in making us participants of His holiness and the image of His Son. He will make us fit, and set us in a condition for all the blessed work in His Kingdom that He would have from us. He will make our body like to the glorious body of His Son. We may wait for the coming of the Son Himself from heaven to take His own to Him. He will unite us in one body with all His chosen, and will receive and make us dwell forever in His glory. How can we think that God will not perfect His work'? He will surely do it He will gloriously do it--for everyone who trusts Him for it.

Child of God, please say in deep assurance of faith, "The Lord will perfect that which concerneth me." In every need say continually and with great boldness, "I will call on God, that performeth all things for me." And let the song of your life be the joyful doxology, "For of Him, and through Him, and to Him are all things: To Him be the glory for ever." Amen.

Lord God, who will perfect that which concerns me, teach me to know You and to trust You. And let every thought of the new life go hand in hand with the joyful assurance--He who began a good work in me will perfect it. Amen.

Thursday, May 10, 2012

Discover why prayer is an indispensable part of a healthy relationship with God.

“But when you pray, do not use vain repetitions as the heathen do. For they think that they will be heard for their many words. Therefore do not be like them. For your Father knows the things you have need of before you ask Him” (Matthew 6:7-8).

IDEA: Prayer enables us to live in communion with our Father in heaven.

PURPOSE: To help listeners think about what happens when they pray.
Have you ever wondered whether our prayers are really unnecessary?
Do you find it comforting to know that God knows our needs better than we do?
Doesn’t that lead to the question, “Is there any real need for us to pray at all?” – It’s nice but unnecessary?

I. Can you think of other reasons for prayer besides getting things from God?
Through prayer we enter into communion, into a personal relationship with God the Father.
In human relationships speech is a necessary element in fellowship.
What happens in marriages in which couples no longer to speak each other? Why?
Does the importance of speech in a friendship mean that friends need to be talking with each other all the time? What is the difference in a friendship where friends walk together in silence and one in which they refuse to talk with each other?
What is the significance to the assertion by the apostle John, “In the beginning was the Word . . .”?

II. Although God has spoken to us, we must cultivate fellowship with Him by speaking with Him.
Only when we come before Him and express in our words everything that distresses us can we really experience His peace.
Have you ever thought about making a list of what you want to talk to the Father about?
Have you ever discovered after you have prayed that you have been changed by the experience?
When we stop talking with God and cease living in communication with Him, then all we do is end up talking about God. After a time we might talk neither with God nor even about Him.