Eternal Approach

These compromises within Evangelicalism and Fundamentalism are caused by our misunderstanding of the vast difference between the works of God and the works of the Christian.

We have too much confidence in the value of our own efforts. Christians tend to believe that their devotion, sincerity, depth of good intent, and dedicated will are what the Lord is seeking from them.

Many an altar-call for missionaries has led to sincere believers launching out into the deep on the strength of their own emotion and devotion. Only to find themselves in misery after the novelty of being in the field wears off. Wondering if they were truly called of God after all.

This is a common problem in many areas of full-time Christian ministry. Where the emotion of the moment has influenced a life-changing decision. As opposed to a true calling of God.

And it is a common experience of most believers to daily re-dedicate their wills and desires to better behavior and better works. All based upon their assessment of the previous day’s spiritual successes or failures.

But, is this truly the way that the Lord produces His works in us?

Continue reading “Works Confusion: Part 2 – The Lord’s Way of Change” →

Much of the confusion and compromise that plagues the church is fueled by a misunderstanding of the place that good works have in a believer’s life.

The Evangelical landscape is entangled with confused teaching ranging from eternal insecurity, sinless perfectionism, the second work of grace, being baptized in the Spirit, and the need for outward manifestations to confirm one’s salvation.

Each of these teachings are as destructive as a foolish landscaper who plants a tree on one day and then digs it up the next. Never being certain if the roots have taken hold. Never certain if the tree is going to grow.

Who eventually kills the tree he planted.

Continue reading “Good Works Confusion” →

As we look forward into this new year, perhaps the one thing we have gained in our culture right now is clarity.

Yes, I know that sounds a bit crazy; but what I mean is that we are now able to see more clearly where people stand than in the past.

Because, people are more outspoken these days. Leaving no question about what they think. Even if what they think is outrageous or crazy, at least many are crystal clear in expressing their positions.

And there is actually some value in that.

Continue reading “Clarity in the New Year” →