R.C. Sproul: A Tribute to the Greatest Theologian of Our Time

This is the only personal item I have from R.C. Sproul: an autographed cap from the Legacy Club where he and Hank Hanegraaff played golf. I'm not a golfer myself, but I will treasure it forever!

I realize there’s no need to add my meager voice to the overwhelming tributes to Dr. Sproul by so many friends, pastors, and theologians, but as I pondered his passing last Thursday, an overflow of gratitude welled up that I had to put into words.

One of my most profound memories of Dr. Sproul was when he came to the studios of the Christian Research Institute in September of 2007. He was scheduled to do two broadcasts and I was very excited. I remember him coming through the front door with Vesta as I sat at my desk in the windowed control room. I watched as Hank came down and greeted them and led them down the hall to his office. About an hour later they came into the studio and I watched him through the glass as we tested his microphone before we went on air. In God’s providence, however, I never got the chance to shake his hand and officially meet him because I had to leave work early that night.

Back then I had no idea the incredible impact R.C. would have on my life. Of course I had heard of him and Ligonier Ministries, but in the ensuing years I got to “know” him through his books and teaching, just as countless others had done before me. Although I didn’t experience the blessing of knowing him personally, I grew to love this man like a second father: his gravelly voice, his beaming smile, his captivating teaching, his clear writing style, and his passion for the things of God. He was infectious. Even my kids enjoy listening to him. I longed to just sit at his feet and learn.

I remember especially in the summer of 2010, when I was wrestling with the doctrines of grace and trying to understand the relationship between human responsibility and the sovereignty of God. Where did I go? I turned to R.C. for the answers. I devoured his books and lectures, and I also read the works of theologians he recommended like Luther, Calvin, and Edwards. It took several years to unlearn what I had been taught most of my life. It was a radical transformation from Pentecostal to Presbyterian, but R.C. helped me understand that I had to believe what Scripture actually taught, not what I wanted it to teach. Through Dr. Sproul’s ministry I learned that God was absolutely sovereign over ever particle of dust in the universe; there were no maverick molecules. I learned that God had chosen me for salvation before the foundation of the world. And I learned that God was unimaginably holy, so His mercy in saving a wretch like me was nothing short of a divine miracle.

Without a doubt, R.C. Sproul is my favorite teacher, and in my humble opinion, he was the greatest theologian of our time. He was an absolutely brilliant man with an encyclopedic knowledge of the Scriptures and church history, but what made R.C. so effective was his unique ability to take complex theological doctrines and philosophical concepts, and make them understandable to guys like me. He was one of those rare men that the Lord gifted with the capacity to mine the deep treasures of Scripture and bring them to the surface in a way that everyone in the body of Christ could access. I can’t even begin to count the ways R.C. has shaped my understanding of theology. When I was a child all I ever wanted was to be a professional musician when I grew up. Now that I’ve grown up, I want to be a theologian, like R.C. My life has been forever changed by his ministry.

Like a modern-day Luther, the legacy he has left us will endure for generations. R.C. spent his life teaching, preaching, and defending the gospel of Jesus Christ. In a word, he lived for the glory of God. He finished his course, he kept the faith. Let his life be a testimony to us all, that time is precious; therefore, we must live every moment with eternity in view. While we mourn our loss, we know that R.C. will never mourn again, for he now beholds, face to face, the glorious refulgence of the thrice holy God.

And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Behold, the dwelling place of God is with man. He will dwell with them, and they will be his people, and God himself will be with them as their God. He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away.” Rev. 21:3-4

We Need Another Reformation

Much ado has been made over the 500^th anniversary of the Protestant Reformation, me included. I welcome the attention because refocusing on the history and theology of the Reformation will bear lasting fruit. Why? Well, there is so much we could say about the Reformation, but at its core, it was a recovery of the gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ as taught in Scripture. So a re-emphasis on the authority of Scripture and the power of the gospel can only be a good thing. We desperately need this in the church today. We need another Reformation.

We don’t need signs and wonders, and new revelations as the Charismatics insist. We don’t need health and wealth as the prosperity gospel promises. We don’t need to believe in ourselves and follow our dreams as the gospel of Disney would have us believe. No, what we need is to return to the basics: Word and sacrament, true Christian fellowship, and a laser like focus on the person and work of Christ.

With all the worldliness that has crept into the church, the prevalence of these false gospels, the general lack of discernment, and the woeful ignorance of Biblical hermeneutics, the church is in dire need of reform. It needs massive, gospel-centered, Christ-exalting, human-humbling, God-honoring reform.

Reforming Our Churches

But how can we achieve this? Ultimately, we cannot reform the church on our own, only God, in His providence can do that. Yet we can follow His revealed will. We can read, study, and preach the Scriptures faithfully. Much of the fruit of the Protestant Reformation was caused by a desire to go (ad fontes) back to the sources. When the Reformers began reading the Bible in its original languages, they found truths that had been hidden, not only by the Latin Vulgate, but by the entire Roman Catholic system. The result was an explosion of gospel-centered preaching that exalted Christ and His Word. The Reformers taught that Christian belief and practice does not come from church tradition or the Pope, but from Scripture alone. When the truth of God’s Word was elevated over the traditions of men, reformation came to the church.

Reformed Resurgence

I thank God for the resurgence of Reformed theology over the last decade or so because it has emphasized, among other things, a renewed awareness of God’s absolute sovereignty over all things. When God is magnified and honored as the supreme potentate, man is rightly humbled and the church thrives. Too much of today’s so-called Christianity is focused on man; man’s achievements, man’s autonomous free will, man’s happiness, etc. God has been relegated to an observer trying to make good out of the choices we make, instead of ordaining and governing the course of human history to fulfill His purposes. Or worse, God has been perverted into a cosmic genie who is there to make all our dreams come true. “As long as you have enough faith, or pray with the right intensity or frequency, God will bless you. He’s just waiting on you. He wants to save and restore and accomplish His will, but He just can’t do it without your help.”

This is not what the Bible teaches. This is not the sovereign God of Scripture who works all things after the council of His will (Eph. 1:11); who frustrates the plans of the people (Ps. 33:10); who rules the kingdom of men and gives it to whom he wills (Dan. 4:32); who makes peace and creates calamity (Isa. 45:7); who does whatever He pleases on earth and in heaven (Ps. 115:3, 135:6); who can do all things and cannot be thwarted (Job 42:2); who said, “apart from me you can do nothing,” (John 15:5); for from Him and through Him and to Him are all things. To Him be glory forever. Amen! (Rom. 11:36)

This is our God! None can stay His hand or say to Him, “What have you done?” (Dan. 4:35). He is all-powerful, unimaginably wise, and He is sovereign over everything; over kings and presidents, good and evil, world history, football games, sparrows, the hairs of our heads, salvation, the human will, everything! This truth of God’s absolute sovereignty over all things must be proclaimed if we want to see reformation.

Reforming Our Message

In Mark 1:15, the initial message Jesus preached was: repent and believe the gospel. We need to get back to this simple message. Too much of the so-called preaching today is about making people feel good. “God wants you to be successful. He wants bless you. He wants to make all your dreams come true. You need to dream bigger; aim higher; follow your heart. You can have your best life now!” This is not the gospel. It’s man-centered, not Christ-centered. Where is the message about denying yourself and taking up your cross, and following Jesus (Luke 9:23)? Of course God wants to bless His people, but He wants to bless us in Christ. There are no true blessings outside of Him. This is not our best life now! No, we are exiles in this world awaiting our heavenly home where we will see Jesus face to face. The Christian life is filled with trials and tribulations (John 16:33; James 1:2-4), and God brings them into our lives to uncover our sin and conform us to His image.

Preaching about sin is also lacking from our message. People don’t want to hear that they are sinful, that makes them feel bad. They only want to hear about the love of God, but not His wrath. Yet God is a God of both mercy and justice. One of the fundamental aspects of the gospel is that Jesus died to bear the wrath of the Father against sin. If we don’t begin to grasp God’s infinite holiness and our utter wretchedness by comparison, we won’t understand this. Without God’s just punishment against sin, we have an empty gospel.

Finally, we need to proclaim that God is sovereign over salvation. If you are a Christian and believe God is sovereign over everything, then that must include salvation. Since God is sovereign over all things then He is sovereign over who will be saved. You can’t claim God is sovereign over everything except salvation, otherwise He isn’t really sovereign. You can’t have it both ways. This is vitally important because it highlight’s God’s freedom to glorify Himself as He sees fit by saving an elect people to display His great mercy (Eph. 1:5-6). If God merely helps us with salvation, or if He does 99% and we do 1% by cooperating with Him, then He will not be fully glorified. No, unless we realize that we are completely helpless apart from God’s free grace, we will continue to believe that we contribute something to our salvation.

The Bible is absolutely clear that salvation is of the Lord. It is not of the will of the flesh or of the will man, but of God (John 1:12-13). It doesn’t depend on human will or exertion, but on God who has mercy (Rom. 9:16). Therefore, He has mercy on whomever He wills, and hardens whomever He wills (Rom. 9:18). Throughout Scripture, God is the one who chooses His people (Deut. 7:6; Eph. 1:3-5; Rom. 8:29-30). We must reclaim this truth of God’s kingly freedom over salvation so that Creator and creature are seen in their proper perspective and God alone receives all the glory!

Modern Reformation

500 years later, the sound of Luther’s hammer pounding on the castle church door in Wittenberg still echoes throughout the ages. The spark that lit the Reformation must be rekindled in each generation. We must carry the torch of the Reformers and continue to boldly proclaim the authority of Scripture and sovereign grace of God in Christ Jesus. We must earnestly pray that the Lord will revive His church and bring about a new reformation.

Why We Should Celebrate the Reformation

October 31^st 2017 marks the 500^th anniversary of the Protestant Reformation, and I’m going to argue that every non-Catholic should at least take some time to reflect, if not celebrate, this momentous era in church history. Unfortunately, for many evangelicals today the Reformation is some vague event in the past that holds little or no significance. Many have no idea what took place or why, and probably don’t care. “Reformation Day?” they ask. “What are you talking about? Isn’t October 31^st Halloween?”

I understand this question. When I was growing up we didn’t celebrate Reformation Day, in fact, I never heard of it. Yet Reformation Day commemorates not only the day Martin Luther nailed his 95 Theses to the castle church door in Wittenberg, but the recovery of Biblical truth that had been obscured for centuries by the Roman Catholic Church. Not the least of these truths was the very gospel of Jesus Christ. Yes, at the heart of the Reformation was a recovery of the gospel.

What are we Protesting?

Unfortunately, the term Protestant is losing its meaning today. While there are many in the visible church who would fit nominally into the category of Protestantism, most have no idea what they are protesting. The main reason for this is because they are ignorant of church history as well as the theology driving the Reformation. The Mainline denominations have become theologically liberal and many Protestants have no earthly idea what Rome actually teaches or what they themselves believe, and therefore, they don’t understand the need for division. Yes, that’s right, the need for division. But aren’t we supposed to be one big, happy, ecumenical family? Aren’t we supposed to promote unity? Aren’t we all supposed to get along?

Let me ask a simple question: should Bible-believing Christians be united with Mormons or Jehovah’s Witnesses? No, of course not! Why? Because Mormons don’t believe that God was eternally God, but rather, they believe that “Heavenly Father” ascended to godhood. He was once a man who used to live on a planet orbiting a star named Kolob. Jehovah’s Witnesses overtly deny the deity of the Lord Jesus Christ, and have their own version of Scripture which edits texts concerning Christ’s divinity. This is not orthodox Christianity. They may use our terminology but they are not Christian, in fact, they are cults.

Well, what about the Roman Catholic Church? Reformed Christians, or what I like to call, true Protestants, argue that Rome is not a cult, but it adds many traditions to the Christian faith and distorts the purity of the gospel. Try as you may, but you won’t find the Scriptures teaching seven sacraments, or Purgatory, or indulgences, or the Treasury of Merit, or the propitiatory sacrifice of the mass, or petitioning Mary, or the necessity of the Pope. All of which, by the way, the Roman Church still affirms. Imagine a church that had become so corrupt that it actually burned, strangled, and drowned Christians for speaking out against the authority of the Pope, or for committing the crime of translating the Bible into a language that laypeople could understand. This was the case in the 16^th century. The church was corrupt, both morally and doctrinally; it had lost its way, and the Reformers were bold enough to call for renewal.

Old Time Religion

Despite the accusations of the Roman Catholic Church, the Reformers weren’t teaching new doctrine, they were merely recovering the old Biblical doctrines which had been obscured by the traditions and sacramental system of Rome. Let me give a graphic example by way of contrast. At the Council of Trent, the Roman Catholic Church anathematized anyone who believed in justification by faith alone. They also repudiated the doctrine of imputation; the Biblical teaching that our sins were imputed to Christ on the cross and His righteousness is imputed to us by faith. Again, just to be clear, Rome stated that anyone who believes salvation is by faith alone should be cursed. And they have never recanted this ruling.

On the contrary, we would say that the doctrine of justification by faith alone is absolutely essential to the gospel; without it you don’t have a gospel. The only way sinners can be justified before a holy God is not by any merits of their own, but by the perfect righteousness of Christ alone. So the Roman Catholic Church has anathematized the gospel of Jesus! Their false gospel attempts to add to the perfect work of Christ. And as Paul told the Galatians, if righteousness comes through works, then Christ died for no purpose, (Gal. 2:21). We cannot have unity with a church that teaches a different gospel, (Gal. 1:6-8).

The Significance of the Solas

This is why the Reformers developed the five solas of the Reformation: Sola Scriptura (Scripture Alone), Sola Gratia (Grace Alone), Sola Fide (Faith Alone), Solus Christus (Christ Alone), and Soli Deo Gloria (Glory to God Alone). The Reformers taught that Scripture alone is the only infallible rule of faith and practice; that we are saved by God’s grace alone, through faith alone, in Christ alone, so that all glory goes to God alone! The Pope is not the final authority, the Bible is. Grace is not a substance infused at baptism that must be cooperated with; it is the merciful disposition of a loving God who effectually recuses sinners. Faith is not something we can make shipwreck of if we commit a mortal sin; faith is the gift of God whereby we are counted as righteous, forever. The righteousness of Christ cannot be added to by the merits of the saints, it is absolutely perfect. That is why He cried, “It is finished!” Jesus kept the whole law for us; He intercedes for us, therefore, He is able to save to the uttermost, (Heb. 7:25). How can God be fully glorified if we add anything, no matter how small, to His saving work? That little word alone makes all the difference. These truths insure that God receives all the glory.

The Latin phrase, Post Tenebras Lux was the hallmark of the Reformation. It meant: after darkness, light. So, like the sun rising in all its splendor, dispersing the darkness of Rome’s ecclesiastical gloom, the brilliance of God’s free grace in Christ illuminated the 16^th century with dazzling light. 500 years later, its glistening gospel beams still shine forth as a testament of God’s glorious saving power, and that, is something worth celebrating!

Thoughts on Hank Hanegraaff from an Insider

First, I would like to say that I learned a lot from Hank when I began working for the Christian Research institute (CRI) back in 2006.  His strong stand against the Word of Faith movement helped me to analyze its teachings in light of Scripture and spot the errors.  I also learned how to share my faith and counter the heresies of many cults and world religions.  Further, I learned the vital art of hermeneutics, which before, I had little knowledge of.  At CRI I had access to various theological beliefs from many different denominations, and I found it helpful to understand different Christian traditions and why they believed what they believed.  I am grateful to Hank for all of this.  In fact, it was through the Bible Answer Man (BAM) broadcast that I first encountered Reformed theology.

As we received calls on the program about the sovereignty of God, free will, predestination, and the extent of the atonement, etc., I began to rigorously study the Scriptures and read books on these subjects.  Ironically, although Hank rejects Reformed theology, it was because of working for him that I first learned about it and embraced it.

The Move Towards Eastern Orthodoxy

The Christian life involves growth in our relationship with Christ and in our knowledge of His Word, and conformity to His image as the Holy Spirit works in our hearts.  We call this sanctification.  We don’t expect a new believer to have the same grasp of Christian teaching as a seasoned veteran.  My point is merely to say that Hank’s theology, just like the rest of us, has developed over time.  When we hear the Word preached and read our Bibles, we grow in our understanding.  In Hank’s case, however, I noticed an underlying problem—the lack of consistency.  In my opinion, Hank’s theology is a mashup of many different beliefs.  He doesn’t like to be put into a box.  He seems to borrow from multiple Christian traditions to form his own sort of hybrid.

For example, his view of soteriology is Semipelagian at best, if not Pelagian, yet he denies Pelagianism.  His eschatological view is a twist on partial preterism, yet he denies this also.  His apologetic approach could be classified as Classical with aspects of Evidentialism, but he denies that he adheres to one particular school.  He often quotes from Martin Luther and Charles Spurgeon and champions the Reformer’s view of biblical interpretation, but fails to consistently apply it and rejects many of their interpretations.  Hank could never write a systematic theology book because his theology is all over the map.  He’s far too inconsistent.  Again, this is just my opinion, but for the last 11 years, I have probably listened to Hank speak more than anyone else on the planet.  It was my job, day in and day out.

As far as Eastern Orthodoxy is concerned, I began to notice this change gradually over the last couple of years.  So it was no surprise to me whatsoever when Hank converted.  I saw this coming a mile away.  Anyone who carefully listened to the Bible Answer Man broadcast should have seen this coming as well.

I noticed that when talking about the Lord’s Supper, phrases like, “the real presence of Christ” began to be used.  He began to speak of the doctrine of theosis and use the word “veneration” when talking about Mary.  Since I didn’t know much about Eastern Orthodoxy, I had to do some research.  The more I studied Orthodoxy, however, the more troubled I became.  And as I listened to Hank each night, I began to hear answers to questions that were not rooted in Protestant teaching and biblical exegesis, but rather from an Orthodox perspective.  I was already struggling with much of Hank’s theology, but this made it increasingly difficult to work for him.

On the 4/11/17 BAM broadcast, Hank repeatedly made the statement that his theology hasn’t changed over the last thirty years.  This is simply false.  I’m sorry to be so blunt, but even if he hadn’t converted to Eastern Orthodoxy, this would still be untrue.  The fact that he has converted makes it all the more so.  All you need to do is listen to Hank 5-10 years ago, or even 3 years ago, and listen to him now, and you will notice significant differences.  How in the world can he truthfully claim that his theology hasn’t changed?  This is absurd!  Of course it’s changed and everyone knows it.

Why I Wouldn’t Recommend Listening to BAM

I’m no expert on Eastern Orthodoxy, but there are at least two things that are very disturbing about it.  Orthodoxy denies the doctrine of Sola Scriptura (Scripture alone), and the doctrine of justification by faith alone.  Since these doctrines are foundational to the Christian faith, their rejection cannot be taken lightly.  Now, will Hank borrow only the things he likes from Eastern Orthodoxy and reject other things?  I wouldn’t be surprised.

Here’s the heart of the matter.  Hank doesn’t seem to think the doctrine of justification by faith alone to be what he calls an “essential of the Christian faith.”  Historic Protestantism would beg to differ.  Many years ago Hank himself used to strongly emphasize this doctrine, which is another proof that his theology has drastically changed.  The whole reason for the Reformation was a debate over the authority of Scripture and justification by faith alone; two doctrines Orthodoxy denies.  So Hank has thrown the entire Protestant Reformation under the bus.  As a Reformed Christian myself, I believe Scripture is the sole infallible authority for faith and practice and that justification by faith alone is essential to the gospel.  Without it, you don’t have a gospel.

In fact, for many years now, Hank’s answers on BAM have been sorely lacking in biblical exegesis and Christ-centered teaching.  He often appeals to philosophy when answering questions, and he often “shoots from the hip” without bothering to go to Scripture.  He also tends to not answer people’s questions directly, but rather, wanders off on tangents that do not address the point.  I’m sorry to say this, but Hank’s overall message is just not gospel centered.  He spends far more time in his opening monologues on current events, politics, and the creation evolution debate than he does on biblical exposition and application.  It’s sad to see how little Bible there is on the “Bible” Answer Man broadcast.

CRI’s Future

I don’t know what the future holds for CRI, but I will say this.  Even before Hank’s official conversion, CRI was struggling financially and down to a very small staff.  With the loss of radio stations and supporters due to Hank’s departure from Protestantism, I can’t imagine this will be good for business.  I pray that God will provide for my former coworkers if things do end up going south.

There are also some serious questions that need to be answered in light of Hank’s conversion.  Do those still employed by CRI support this radical change?  Is Eastern Orthodoxy now the official position of CRI, which is supposed to be a non-denominational, para-church ministry?  Do CRI supporters, who are largely Protestant, welcome this change?  As Dr. James White has rightly pointed out on the Dividing Line, if you’re answering questions from an Eastern Orthodox perspective rather than from a purely biblical perspective, how can you still truly be the host of a program called the Bible Answer Man?

Final Thoughts

Despite being laid off without any real explanation, and despite our vast theological differences, I’m still praying for Hank.  I pray that his chemotherapy treatments will go well and that he will make a full recovery.  I pray that he and his family will have peace during this very difficult time, but more importantly, I pray that God will open his eyes to the truth!

To Boycott or Not to Boycott

I realize that I am treading on dangerous ground. There are many opinions on the recent Target bathroom debacle and even Christians are divided over whether or not to boycott the store. As I’ve struggled through this issue, I’ve tried to look at it from different angles, apply biblical principles, and weigh the opinions of others with an open mind. This has not been an easy decision. Target is like a home away from home for my family; we shop there all the time. Nevertheless, we decided to boycott Target—here’s why.

Are We Really Having This Conversation?

In principle this issue is a no-brainer. The fact that we even need to have these conversations shows the depth of depravity into which our country has fallen. This nation has completely lost its way and can no longer distinguish between right and wrong. It isn’t a matter of discrimination; it’s simply a matter of safety and plain old common sense. If you have boy parts, you use the men’s room; if you have girl parts, use the ladies room. It’s really not that hard. Those who are confused about this need compassionate help and godly council, not free access to bathrooms. Implementing policies like this is a recipe for disaster. Gender is determined by your biology, not by how you feel. I may truly feel like a duck-billed platypus, and insist on it, but that doesn’t make me a platypus. My feelings on the matter do not change the reality of my biology. More importantly, our gender is ultimately determined by our Creator.

“For you formed my inward parts; you knitted me together in my mother's womb. I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works; my soul knows it very well,” Psalm 139:13-14.

For someone to say they feel like the opposite gender is actually rebellion against their Creator. It is sinful at the most fundamental level, because they are placing their finite feelings and desires above the infinite God who made them in His image. They are essentially telling God He made a mistake.

Objections

Some say you cannot legislate morality. I would say it depends on what you mean by legislating morality. If by that, you mean changing hearts and behaviors, then no, you cannot legislate morality. Only the gospel can change hearts, however, we can limit evil and perversion by enacting laws that prohibit and punish crimes. A harsh punishment may make someone think twice before committing a crime. Do people break the law anyway? Yes, all the time, but if we didn’t have moral laws, we would have anarchy. So in that sense we can legislate morality. Should we eliminate speed limit laws just because people break them every day? Should we remove laws regarding theft or murder just because there are thieves and murderers who disregard them? Of course not! So the logic that says sexual predators are going to do what they do whether or not bathrooms laws exist, simply doesn’t work. Just because someone may break the law is no reason to open up the floodgates.

God gave us His moral code; the Ten Commandments, to define what sin is and restrict its pervasive nature; to put boundaries around our wickedness and show His holy character. Knowing full well that people would break His law is no reason to do away with it. The problem with our country is that people don’t believe in objective moral standards anymore, and that is why we are seeing this insanity over bathrooms. If there’s no objective standard then everything becomes a matter of personal preference. Everyone can do what is right in their own eyes.

Some may argue that if we boycott every business we disagree with we won’t have anywhere left to shop. Believe me; I feel the weight of this argument. However, I think this is a different issue. In light of the controversy in North Carolina and Mississippi, Target has overtly made a policy to counter these rulings; a policy that directly affects the safety of our families. Why should the gender confusion of less than 1% of the population be imposed on the rest of the public. Do we really want to support a company that thinks it’s a good idea for adult men to share the same bathroom as little girls? There’s also something called guilt by association. 1 Tim. 5:22 and 2 John 11 warn against partaking in the sins of others. This is something we need to prayerfully consider.

Some may argue that the Bible says nothing about boycotting stores. Right, but the Bible doesn’t tell us not to boycott either. Since the Bible doesn’t contain speed limit laws, does that mean we should remove them?

Some may say that boycotts don’t really work, yet the recent outrage over this same type of policy in North Carolina did make a difference. Because of the outcry over the Charlotte City Council's ordinance, and because of Governor Pat McCrory’s courage, a ridiculous ruling was overturned. Perhaps Target will see a large portion of their customers taking their resources elsewhere and change their policy. If people, especially Christians, voice their concerns with kindness and respect, God may use it to reach people with the truth. Maybe the boycott won’t change Target’s policy. Maybe nothing will happen, but at least the truth will be heard.

Conclusion

Make no mistake, we are in a war of ideas, and those in favor of these bathroom policies want to silence all opposition. They may preach tolerance, but they use a double standard. If you don’t embrace their position wholeheartedly, you are immediately labeled a bigot and accused of hatred. No, we don’t actually hate people, we just disagree with them. There’s a difference.

As Christians, we must be salt and light, and therefore, we must stand up for decency, morality, and biblical principles. God created us male and female and that distinction is a good thing. He has clearly defined the roles and purposes for each gender in Scripture, so blurring this distinction is an affront to our Maker. We must stand up and shine the light of the gospel into a very dark and confused world. If we remain silent, who will sound the clarion call of truth?  That is why we are speaking out on this issue.

The Only Hope for a Godless Nation

Is it the End of the World as We Know it?

In some sense I would say, "Yes." But let me explain. In light of the seeming endless cycle of news stories about terrorism, same-sex marriage, racism, and the growing hostility against Christianity, this may be a legitimate question to ask. Things are changing for the worse at a mind-boggling pace. And certainly America is not the same country it was 100 or 50 years ago, or even when I was a child. This does not mean, however, that I have fallen victim to a "gloom and doom" mentality. No, I do not believe the sky is falling or the end is coming. Nevertheless, things have gone south quickly and many Christians are shaking their heads, wondering what has happened to their country. Yes, America has lost its way. Yes, the government has failed. Yes, morality has plummeted to an all-time low. Evil is called good and good is called evil. Everything is upside-down. In fact, I do not even recognize this nation anymore and for the first time in my life, I cannot say I'm proud to be an American. I am a citizen of another country (Phil. 3:20).

Many factors have contributed to this downward spiral, but I am not going to address that here. My purpose is to attempt to offer hope in the midst of troubled times. I will say this, however, and perhaps this is a topic for another post, but a nation who slaughters their own children by the millions and not only condones, but delights in egregious immorality, and whose highest courts have the audacity to redefine the God-ordained institution of marriage, cannot avoid His judgement. I do not claim to be a prophet, but my own personal conviction for America’s moral collapse is because it is under the wrath of God; people have been given over to a depraved mind (Rom. 1:18-28).

So what's the answer? Well, despite popular opinion, there is no political leader that can fix the insanity around us. There is no political party that has all the answers. No amount of right-wing conservativism is going to get the job done. So what should we do? We should look to Jesus. Christians need to stop looking to politics for solutions and look to Christ. He is not confused or scratching His head, wondering what to do next. He is in control and has promised to build His church (Matt 16:18). The true Church will be triumphant because Christ is the head of the church and He will not fail. We cannot look at the circumstances around us through the eyes of the media and expect to be encouraged. We must look to Jesus. We must look at the world through the lens of the gospel. What color are your glasses?

Gospel-Colored Glasses

For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek. (Rom. 1:16)

For since, in the wisdom of God, the world did not know God through wisdom, it pleased God through the folly of what we preach to save those who believe. For Jews demand signs and Greeks seek wisdom, but we preach Christ crucified, a stumbling block to Jews and folly to Gentiles, but to those who are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God. (1 Cor. 1:21-24)

There is no hope for this nation outside of the gospel. For it alone has the power to change hearts and minds. Christ crucified is the only answer. The person and work of the Lord Jesus Christ can transform the darkest of hearts; and when hearts change, behavior changes. This is our only hope. If you are looking to anything but Christ as the answer to your problems or the problems of the world around you, you are looking in the wrong direction.

How can we make sense of our surroundings, when it seems like the whole world is in upheaval? We do so by continually going back to the foundation. God is sovereign, He is still on the throne, and Jesus saves sinners like you and me. The way to steel ourselves against the coming tide of darkness is by diving into the Word and prayer. There is no magic formula. We must immerse ourselves in the Word of God; know it, live it, and preach it. What was the message of Jesus even when His own people rejected and hated Him? The gospel. What was Paul's response to persecution, suffering, and imprisonment? The gospel. What was the first century church's answer to Rome's radical depravity, and the threat of martyrdom? The gospel. So what should we do in the midst of a wicked and godless nation? Preach the gospel!

Peace in Persecution

For many of us who have grown up in a very different America, it is difficult to believe Christians could be persecuted for their faith, yet we have already seen the beginnings of this. Whether or not it will increase to the level seen by the early church or to what we are now witnessing in the Middle East, I am not going to speculate; God knows. However, we should not be surprised that the world hates us. In fact, we should expect this. After all, what has light to do with darkness? What has evil to do with good? Isn't this exactly what Jesus said we would face?

And you will be hated by all for my name's sake. But the one who endures to the end will be saved. (Matt. 10:22)

And this is the judgment: the light has come into the world, and people loved the darkness rather than the light because their works were evil. (John 3:19)

Blessed are you when people hate you and when they exclude you and revile you and spurn your name as evil, on account of the Son of Man! (Luke 6:22)

This should be no surprise to us. Persecution is exactly what we should expect. We haven't really faced persecution in the West so some of us are shocked when we see it. For the most part, we have lived in relative ease, but those days are over.

Too many so-called Christians today want the world to like us; approve of us; share our values, but this cannot be. This is misguided thinking. This is not the teaching of Scripture. Friendship with the world is enmity with God (James 4:4). We cannot expect unbelievers to love God or the things of God because their minds have not been renewed and their hearts are hard. They love darkness rather than light.

Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. (1 John 2:15)

This is the true test isn't it? Loving the things of this world proves that you are not a lover of God. When persecution comes, those who claim to love Christ, but are really friends of the world will be weeded out like tares among wheat. But those who are true disciples of Christ will endure because we have a hope that the world cannot overcome.

I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world. (John 16:33)

We have a certain hope that suffering cannot take away. Jesus didn't promise that there wouldn't be tribulation, in fact He said, "You will have tribulation," but He did promise that He would be with us. We can have peace in the midst of suffering and persecution because of Jesus Christ the victor, who has conquered sin and the grave by His death and resurrection! No matter what we may face, whether hardship or death, we shall prevail because God is for us! So be encouraged and remember Paul's words in Romans chapter 8:

What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? He who did not spare his own Son but gave him up for us all, how will he not also with him graciously give us all things? Who shall bring any charge against God's elect? It is God who justifies. Who is to condemn? Christ Jesus is the one who died—more than that, who was raised—who is at the right hand of God, who indeed is interceding for us. Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or danger, or sword? As it is written,

“For your sake we are being killed all the day long; we are regarded as sheep to be slaughtered.”

No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord. (Rom. 8:31-39)

Jesus Defines Marriage

Jesus already defined what marriage is so regardless of the Supreme Court's decision to spit in God's face, marriage is still what it always has been. But to those who claim the name of Christ and yet support so-called same sex marriage, I have several questions and concerns that you might want to consider.

Which passages of Scripture reinforce your point of view? Where do you go in the Bible to find a positive case for homosexuality? Where does Scripture affirm a union between those of the same gender? I guarantee you won't find it, rather you will find just the opposite. What then is the basis for your approval? How do you explain Jesus' reaffirmation of God's intention for marriage to be between a man and a woman in Matthew 19:4-5?

He answered, “Have you not read that he who created them from the beginning made them male and female, and said, ‘Therefore a man shall leave his father and his mother and hold fast to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh’?

The Supreme Court is not ultimately supreme; Jesus is. And since He is God and proved it by rising from the dead, He alone has the authority to define marriage.

Such Were Some of You

To those who think one can be gay and a Christian, how do you explain Paul's words in 1 Corinthians 6:9-11? When listing various sins including homosexuality, Paul said, "Such were some of you. But you were washed, you were sanctified." Some of the Corinthian believers used to be idolaters, adulterers, thieves, and homosexuals. But Paul said they no longer do these things because now they are washed and sanctified and justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ.

In Romans 1:26-27, Paul speaks of women exchanging "natural relations for those that are contrary to nature," and men giving up "natural relations with women and [being] consumed with passion for one another, men committing shameless acts with men and receiving in themselves the due penalty for their error." What does "contrary to nature" mean? What about “the due penalty for their error”? If homosexuality is natural, what is Paul referring to here?

Despite the rhetoric, homosexuality is not natural. In fact, you have to deny your own nature to behave in this way. A Ph.D. in biology is not required to see this. Homosexuals cannot produce life; they cannot procreate, which should be their first clue. They cannot raise their own children as God intended. They need outside intervention from people of the opposite sex because it requires a male and a female to reproduce. This is so blatantly obvious that I shouldn't even have to say it! Not to mention the myriad of diseases associated with this behavior. Ever wonder why a man and a woman in a committed monogamous marriage never get sexually transmitted diseases?

Does Love Win?

If we should all just love one another, as we so often hear, how do we define love? Does Jesus' love for sinners mean He condones their sin, or did He call sinners to repentance? (Luke 5:32) What about the many times Jesus spoke of hell? Does that mean He's unloving? What about Revelation 6:16, which speaks of the "wrath of the Lamb"? He is not only a God of love, but also a God of wrath.

Yes, Jesus loves sinners. He came to save sinners like you and me, however, He calls sinners to turn from their sin and be holy. Jesus offers mercy to the penitent; those who deny themselves and take up their cross and follow Him. Those who rebel, however, will be condemned. (John 3:18, 5:28-29) Love speaks the truth; it doesn't condone sin. Love pleads with people to turn from their destructive behavior.

Oh, and by the way, disagreeing with homosexuality isn't hatred; it's called having a different opinion. But since our country seems to be comprised of three-year-olds who are offended by everything and pitch a royal fit if you tell them, "No," I guess disagreement isn't tolerated anymore.

That's Not a Slope, It's a Cliff

Further, where do those who approve of so-called same sex marriage draw the line? Should anyone be allowed to get married? If consenting adults of the same sex should have "equality" why should minors be discriminated against? Why should polyamory be discriminated against, why should incest be discriminated against? Why not? Isn't it bigoted to say otherwise? If one considers these relationships to be perverse, on what basis is that judgment made? If they love one another, isn't that enough? Don't these types of relationships deserve equality too? By the same logic used to justify homosexual marriage, these types of relationships should also be considered equal, and good. Those who approve of the redefinition of marriage have no logical or moral reason to say otherwise.

Mark my words, polygamy, intergenerational relationships, and all other kinds of perversion are next on the list. It's not a slippery slope, it's a cliff.

God's Word is the Authority

You see, when the Bible is no longer the objective moral standard, anything goes. If you claim to be a Christian, that means you are a follower of Christ and His Word.

The Bible is clear on this issue (1 Cor. 6:9, 1 Tim. 1:10). Christianity and homosexuality cannot be harmonized. What has light to do with darkness? (2 Cor. 6:14) Woe to those who call evil good and good evil, (Isa. 5:20). Do we celebrate fornication? Do we revel in adultery? Of course not. Christians still sin, yes, but the difference between an unbeliever and a believer is that we weep over our sin and plead for God's mercy. We don't embrace it. We don't rejoice in it. We look to Christ who shed His own blood to cover our sin and bore the punishment we deserved.

Gay Christianity is an oxymoron; a non sequitur. There is no such thing. On the other hand, a believer who struggles with homosexual desire yet recognizes it as sin, and wants to live their life according to God's principles, deserves our love and prayers. But those who claim to be followers of Christ and embrace homosexual practice and so called "gay marriage," have abandoned the God they claim to worship and trampled His holy Word.

Why Do I Harp on Arminianism?

In this post, as before, I am using the term Arminianism as an umbrella term for non-Reformed Christianity. I realize that many modern evangelicals do not agree with every point of classical Arminian doctrine such as what’s generally called the doctrine of eternal security, which classic Arminianism denies, however, for the sake of brevity I will use this title. If theology can be divided into categories, the chief point of contention is on the way of salvation, which modern and historic Arminianism are in agreement on, and this will be my focus.

First, before I delve into this, a word about my motivation. Some may wonder why I harp on Arminianism so much, especially when I unwittingly believed its tenets for so long. Well the short answer to that question is because theology matters. What you think about God and the Christian life affects everything. It is for this very reason that I harp on Arminianism, because when your eyes are opened to the truth; you cannot help but speak about what you have seen. Can a blind man, after his eyes are opened, remain silent? Can a deaf man who suddenly hears, not shout for joy? My eyes have been opened to see the truth in God’s word which has always been there, yet I somehow missed. My “conversion” to Reformed theology was so transformational; it was almost as if I was saved all over again. I cannot help talking about it. I cannot stop defending it. I cannot quench the fire burning in my heart to see Reformed, biblical truth proclaimed. I will not!

Doctrine Divides

We hear this over and over; to the point that many people don’t even want to discuss doctrine. They just want to get along. They claim we are splitting hairs over an in-house debate that isn't overly important. The mantra goes something like this: "We should all just love Jesus and love one another." I agree with this wholeheartedly as far as it goes, yet the minute you ask, who is Jesus?, you're up to your neck in doctrine. Yes, doctrine does divide, but that is the whole point. For example: if we take the view that doctrine is divisive and should therefore be avoided, then was there no need for the Protestant Reformation? Didn't the Reformation divide people? Should we just try to get along with Roman Catholics and not discuss the whole reason we are Protestants? No, we should not sweep our theological differences under the rug; we should evangelize Roman Catholics because they are preaching a different gospel.

Was there no need for the apostles to preach the gospel of grace over against the Judaizers? For the sake of unity, should they have ignored the fact that we are not justified by works, but by the righteousness of Christ imputed by faith? Didn't this teaching cause division? Just read the book of Galatians. Even Jesus Himself said He had come to bring a sword, so that family members would be divided against themselves, (Matt. 10:35-36).

Sound doctrine is what separates us from cults and false religions. Mormons and Jehovah's Witnesses believe in Jesus you know. Should we therefore allow them to become members of churches and preach in our pulpits all in the name of unity? Of course not, we should call them to repentance and show them the truth about Jesus, which of course, involves doctrine.

A Gospel Issue

Most Christians today reject Pelagianism and believe that grace is necessary for salvation; however, non-Reformed Christians believe the grace given in salvation can be resisted. In other words, grace is necessary, but not sufficient to save. Reformed Christians believe in saving grace, that is, grace that actually saves. When God effectually calls someone unto salvation, He accomplishes it. His grace does not fail.

If you ask an Arminian if he was saved by grace through faith in Jesus Christ alone, he will emphatically say, “Yes!” Arminians rightly believe in salvation by grace, through faith, in Christ alone. So what's the big deal? Why split hairs? The problem is, they are not consistent. On the one hand they affirm correct soteriology, but on the other hand they champion free will. So their doctrine of salvation leads to the conclusion that we are not really saved by grace alone, because we are saved partly by our own free will.

Many people don’t take their theology to its logical conclusion, but with Arminianism you are forced to conclude that apart from the will of the creature cooperating with the grace of God, Jesus is powerless to save. He wants to save people, but if they won’t give in, then He is thwarted. You are left with an impotent God who is contingent upon the will of His own creations.

Arminians also cannot explain why they believed the gospel but their neighbor didn’t. If we are saved by God’s grace alone, and everyone is receiving this “prevenient” grace; everyone is being "wooed" by the Holy Spirit, then why did you have the power to overcome your sin nature and respond in faith? Why did your neighbor reject the gospel but you embraced it? Arminian theology simply has no answer for this. If you responded positively to the grace of God, but the person in the pew next to you rejected it, then grace wasn’t the cause of your salvation, you were.

I’ve said this before, and I’ll say it again. Either you were saved because you were better than someone, or you were saved because of the sovereign grace of God alone! There is no other option.

Further, I have yet to hear a consistent, biblical answer from a non-Reformed believer as to how an unregenerate person who is dead in sin can freely respond to the gospel and produce saving faith. How can slaves of sin choose righteousness prior to regeneration? Slaves of sin cannot unshackle themselves. Only God can do that. Why do those who love darkness suddenly love light (John 3:19)? Where does their faith come from? If we have the power to repent and believe prior to regeneration, then we aren't totally corrupt. If we aren't totally corrupt, then why do they need grace to believe? But if grace is necessary for salvation, why is it insufficient?

Arminian theology chokes on these questions, and when they really start trying to answer them, they end up sounding like Calvinists, which is highly amusing.

Our will is not unimportant. Reformed Christians certainly believe that we are the ones who willingly choose Christ, but only because He has first chosen us (Eph.1:4-5, 1 John 4:19) and only because we have been regenerated first. As Jesus said in John 3:3, "unless a man is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God," yet Arminians would have us believe that unregenerate people can not only see, but choose the kingdom while they are still dead in their trespasses and sins.

As I’ve said before John 1:13 should be the end of the discussion forever. Believers are those: “who were born, not of blood nor of the will of the flesh nor of the will of man, but of God.”

Now let me be very clear. I'm not saying Arminian Christians don't preach the gospel, of course they do. Many of them are passionate for souls and are doing great evangelistic works, but if you analyze their theology carefully you find inconsistencies and confusion. As Christians we need to be clear and consistent. We need to be precise in our communication, especially when it comes to the gospel. In Colossians 4:3-4, even Paul himself asks for prayer that he might preach the gospel clearly. If the Apostle Paul was concerned about preaching with clarity, how much more should we be?

I harp on Arminianism for the sake of the gospel, because it must be clear. I bring these things up to make people analyze what they believe and why. As I like to say, theology matters, and Reformed theology matters more.

Impoverished Theology

As R. C. Sproul has said, Arminian theology is an impoverished theology; it is a blight upon the church. In fact, he minces no words and calls it out right heresy. Lest you think he is overstating the case, the Synod of Dort in 1618-19 agreed with this. The entire synod unanimously denounced the teachings of Jacobus Arminius, which were delineated in the Remonstrance of 1610, as heretical. This is no small matter. I find it highly ironic that from a historical perspective, Arminians today are aligning themselves with heresy and they don't even realize it.

I agree with Dr. Sproul, Arminianism is an impoverished theology. It demeans the sovereignty of God, unduly promotes the freedom of man, waters down humanity’s sinful nature, and confuses the gospel of grace. These are serious errors that cannot be ignored. Plus, it is hopelessly inconsistent. As James White often says, "The only consistent Arminianism is open theism." But that is a topic for another post.

Now Arminians, or Semi-Pelagians, or non-Calvinists, or whatever you want to call those who are not Reformed, would deny what I have just said. But if you listen to their teaching carefully, and read their books you will see the fallacies. They claim that God is sovereign, but their view of free will undermines it. They claim God is omniscient, but deny His decree; as if foreknowledge is based upon God passively looking into the future. They claim that man is utterly sinful, but they believe sinners can choose Christ prior to regeneration. They claim to believe in salvation by grace alone, but they believe grace is insufficient.

Finally, Arminianism is a man-centered theology. Again, they will deny this, but when was the last time you heard an Arminian preach a sermon on God’s freedom? I've listened to Arminian preachers for over thirty years and I never once heard a sermon on God’s absolute freedom to do as He pleases in all of creation and save whom He wills; His freedom to manifest His glory through the display of both His mercy and justice, although this is exactly what Romans 9:22-24 teaches. Instead, they are far more interested in their own freedom. In fact, I would say that free will should really be the god of the Arminian, because even the Almighty is subject to it. Even God cannot overcome it. In their view, God has somehow limited Himself because He gave His creatures free will that He cannot violate. Yet if God Himself cannot overcome my free will, how is He then omnipotent? If God limits Himself in any way, He is no longer God.

Reformed theology on the other hand is a vast, deep, biblically faithful, God-glorifying theology. It has a rich historical tradition, a wealth of literature, and some of the greatest theologians, evangelists, and teachers in church history. We begin and end with God; God's glory, God's purposes, God's self revelation, and the display of all His attributes culminating in the redemption of a people unto Himself through the incarnation, death and resurrection of the Lord Jesus Christ. The Reformers weren't inventing something new, they were recapturing something old. They recovered the teachings of Paul and the Apostles and Jesus Himself. In short, Reformed theology is synonymous with biblical theology. Anyone who faithfully reads their Bible, lays down their presuppositions, and uses a consistent hermeneutic will see this.

Born of the Spirit

"That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit," (John 3:6).

This was Jesus' response to Nicodemus' question, “How can a man be born when he is old? Can he enter a second time into his mother's womb and be born?” (John 3:4). But Jesus wasn't talking about physical birth; He was talking about spiritual birth. He was describing a birth that is accomplished by the Spirit of God alone. The phrase "born again" literally means, "born from above." This is what John makes so clear in the very first chapter of his Gospel.

"But to all who did receive him, who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God, who were born, not of blood nor of the will of the flesh nor of the will of man, but of God," John 1:12-13.

Which Came First the Chicken or…?

Which comes first, the faith or the regeneration? Arminianism rightly believes that we are saved by grace, through faith, but erroneously contends that faith comes before regeneration. A person believes and then they are born again. This is what many Christians are taught and it sounds perfectly fine on the surface. But the problem with faith preceding regeneration is that it fails to explain how someone who is dead in their trespasses and sins, hostile to God, and not yet renewed by the Holy Spirit is able to produce faith.

The burden of proof is on the Arminian to show from Scripture how someone in the flesh (prior to regeneration) can initiate genuine faith. Any "faith" they produce will be a work of the flesh. Jesus said what is born of the flesh is flesh. Further He said, "It is the Spirit who gives life; the flesh profits nothing," (John 6:63). So the flesh produces flesh, it profits nothing, and only the Spirit gives life. Yet Arminianism would have us believe that someone who is spiritually dead can generate saving faith prior to the Spirit's work in their hearts. No, Arminianism has it backwards.

Regeneration Precedes Faith

Regeneration must precede faith. This is the only real option because those who are in the flesh cannot please God (Rom. 8:8). They can't initiate saving faith because everything they do proceeds from the flesh. Again, only the Spirit gives life.

When discussing the ordo salutis (order of salvation), Reformed theology is not teaching a temporal progression as much as a logical progression. Regeneration is instantaneous. All we are saying is that logically, an unregenerate person cannot have genuine faith because they are still in the flesh. The Spirit must quicken them first so that they are able to respond in repentance and faith.

"And those whom he predestined he also called, and those whom he called he also justified, and those whom he justified he also glorified," (Rom. 8:30).

In Romans 8:30, we see a logical progression in God's work of salvation. Notice that these are the actions of God, not man. God calls, God justifies, etc. And everyone who is called is justified. There are no drop outs along the way. If you are predestined and called, then that calling is efficacious and results in justification. Remember, we are not talking about a chronological order but rather a logical order in God's decree to save His people, (2 Tim. 1:9).

 Jesus answered him, “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born again he cannot see the kingdom of God,” (John 3:3).

If you cannot see or enter the kingdom unless you are first born again, how in the world can faith precede the new birth? Where does this faith come from I wonder? Moreover, how can the Arminian avoid taking some credit (however little) for believing in Jesus? I know they virulently deny this, but if, in their view, faith is not a gift of God, but rather conjured up somehow by spiritually dead people, then consistency should force them to admit they contributed to their own salvation.

This is why Arminian soteriology doesn't have a leg to stand on. So instead of trying to prop it up; it simply needs to be abandoned. Salvation is the work of God alone.

Why Does it Matter?

You might be thinking: why does it matter how we are saved, so long as we are saved? Well the simple answer to that question is because theology matters. How we view God and salvation has eternal ramifications. In the final analysis, either you were saved because you were better than others, (you had faith and they didn't) or you were saved because of God's grace alone. Knowing that we had nothing to do with it guards our hearts from taking any credit and causes us to give all the glory to Jesus who is the author and finisher of our faith, (Heb. 12:2).

Glorious Grace

Most Christians are well aware of what the word grace means. We have heard it described as unmerited favor. Instead of getting what we deserve, we are given mercy. There is nothing we can do to earn or deserve the grace of God. He freely bestows it upon us in Christ. We are saved by grace alone. This is a glorious truth, and there is no one more gracious than God. In this post however, I want to focus on an aspect of grace that we often forget; myself included.

Free Grace

God is totally free. Have you ever really thought about that? He has no restrictions. He is under no obligations. He is absolutely free to do whatever He pleases, (Psalm 115:3, 135:6, Daniel 4:35). This is also true when it comes to His grace.

The mistake that many make is to assume that because God shows mercy to some, He must therefore show mercy to all. But God is under no obligation to show mercy to anyone. Grace cannot be demanded. The fact that He has mercy on anyone at all should astound us, because we deserve nothing but the fires of hell. The problem is that most people, including many Christians, don't really believe this. We have fallen victim to the entitlement mentality of our culture. We think everyone owes us something, even God. On the contrary, God owes us nothing. The moment we think we deserve God's grace is the moment we misunderstand its meaning.

"...I will be gracious to whom I will be gracious, and will show mercy on whom I will show mercy," Exodus 33:19.

Paul quotes this passage in Romans 9:15 to prove there is no injustice on God's part for choosing Jacob over Esau before they were born. It does not depend on human will or exertion but on God who has mercy (verse 16). Then in verse 18, Paul concludes by saying, "So then He has mercy on whomever He wills, and He hardens whomever He wills."

We must understand that God is God. He has the right to bestow grace as He sees fit. No one can point their finger at Him and say, "You have to be merciful to everyone!" No He doesn't. If He didn't show mercy to one single person on planet Earth He would be doing no wrong. If God were to send everyone to hell it would be perfectly just. The question is: do you really believe that? Would you consider God to be just even if He condemned you to hell?

The question we must ask ourselves is not why does God show mercy to some and not others, but why does He show mercy to anyone?

We must remember that no one deserves forgiveness, redemption, or heaven because no one is good. We have all sinned (Rom. 3:10-11, 23). We have committed cosmic treason against a holy God. No, we do not deserve His grace. And yet, God is still gracious. That is what makes Him so glorious. That is what makes the gospel such good news.

"But God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us," Romans 5:8.

Don't you just love the phrase "but God" in the Bible? If it wasn't for the free grace of God in Christ we would have no hope. We would be lost, forsaken; eternally condemned. But thanks be to God that for the sake of Christ, we were granted repentance and faith (1 Cor. 1:30, Phil. 1:29, Eph. 2:8).

Holiness

We will never appreciate the grace of a God until we begin to grasp the holiness of God and the utter wretchedness of our own hearts. God is not like us. He is altogether other. He is holy beyond imagination. When we read about God striking down Nadab and Abihu because they brought strange fire, or Uzzah because he tried to steady the Ark of the Covenant, or the sudden death of Ananias and Sapphira, we gasp in disbelief. And if we were honest, we are appalled. We think the severity of the punishment doesn't seem to fit the crime. But isn't this what sin deserves? The Bible says the wages of sin is death (Rom. 6:23 Ezek. 18:20). In fact, the only reason you're still breathing right now is because of the sheer grace of God. God doesn't owe you life and breath. He isn't required to give you health, prosperity, a home, food, and security. We take all these things for granted, especially in America, but God is not obligated to provide them. He does so because of grace.

We tend to compare ourselves to others and as long as we're not committing adultery, theft, or murder, we think we're okay. But God doesn't compare us with others, He compares us to Himself, and His holiness demands perfection. Which one of us has honored God and kept His commandments perfectly? We all know perfection is something we can never attain. Our righteousness is nothing but filthy rags. That is why our only hope is the righteousness of Another imputed by faith.

"He saved us, not because of works done by us in righteousness, but according to his own mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewal of the Holy Spirit," Titus 3:5.

All Because of Jesus

Until we recognize the depth of our own depravity, we will never truly appreciate grace. If you think you're not that bad, you do not understand the gospel. Only against the darkness of our hopeless condition does the gospel of grace shine so bright. And where better to fix our gaze than upon the Lord Jesus Christ? What better demonstration of grace is there than the work of Christ on the cross? Never in a million years will we be able to repay the debt we owe God. Because of our sin, the very curse of hell hung over our heads by a frayed cord, ready to plunge us into a fiery sea of endless misery until Jesus washed away our guilt with His precious blood. Jesus endured the wrath of the damned for the sake of the elect. Upon the cross, He suffered the full fury of God's righteous anger against sin so that you and I could be forgiven. The very thought should bring us to tears. It should cause our hearts to burst with gratitude; falling to our knees with eternal praise for the glory of His amazing grace!

Grace, grace, a thousand times grace! May we never, ever take it for granted, for it was not cheap. It cost Jesus everything.

Israel or True Israel?

As with many of my posts, I know this is not going to make me popular, but the current situation with Israel has sparked a desire to share some thoughts on the subject and hopefully shed light on misunderstandings many people have with regard to Israel.

First, I want to say that this will not be a political post. If fact, I dislike politics in general, and I think many Christians today need to realize that while politics are important, they will never solve the problems of this world. Politics are not the answer; the gospel is. Only the return of Christ and the consummation of His kingdom will ultimately put all wrongs to right. Second, my purpose is to attempt to look at this situation from a biblical perspective and try to show why unconditional support for the nation of Israel may not always be wise. Now before you light torches to burn me as a heretic, hear me out.

Race or Remnant?

Many Christians are under the misapprehension that Israel is God's chosen people based upon race. The Bible says otherwise. One of the texts often quoted is Deuteronomy 7:6-7:

“For you are a people holy to the Lord your God. The Lord your God has chosen you to be a people for his treasured possession, out of all the peoples who are on the face of the earth. It was not because you were more in number than any other people that the Lord set his love on you and chose you, for you were the fewest of all peoples."

Yes, this is absolutely true, but notice the reason for God's choice. It wasn't because Israel was so special, but because "the Lord set his love" on them. God chose to love them for His own purposes. Yet how many times did Israel disobey the Lord? How many times did they provoke Him to anger because of their idol worship? The texts would be too numerous to cite. Anyone who has read the Old Testament knows this. They continuously rebelled against God and broke His covenant over and over. God, however, continued to set His love upon them. In fact, Deuteronomy 7 sounds an awful lot like the doctrine of unconditional election.

I find it ironic that many who champion the modern state of Israel are diametrically opposed to the doctrine of election. They have no problem with God distinguishing Jews from other people, but cannot bear the thought that God would unconditionally choose the elect before the foundation of the world. What do you think election is if not choosing a particular people? I'm sorry to say this, but to affirm the Jews are God's chosen people, but deny that God chooses His elect for salvation is hypocritical. The key factor to recognize is that God's choice is not based on ethnicity, but according to the purpose of His will (Eph. 1:5, 11).

Now I realize that during Old Testament times, the vast majority of Gentile nations were left in darkness, however, there was a mixed multitude that left Egypt in the Exodus (Exod. 12:38). And there were laws that applied to Israelites as well as to aliens and sojourners (Exod. 20:10, Lev. 16:29, 22:18). Further, many Israelites were apostate. But God kept for Himself a faithful remnant, (Rom. 11:4, 1 Kgs. 19:18) which is true Israel; not a specific nation, but rather, people from every tribe, tongue, and nation.

And they sang a new song, saying, “Worthy are you to take the scroll and to open its seals, for you were slain, and by your blood you ransomed people for God from every tribe and language and people and nation," (Rev. 5:9).

These are God's chosen people, from every race under heaven that have been purchased by the blood of the Lamb.

Not All Israel is Israel

In Romans chapter 9 Paul says, "But it is not as though the word of God has failed. For not all who are descended from Israel belong to Israel," (Rom. 9:6). What in the world does that mean Paul? What are you talking about? Well, in the rest of the chapter, Paul goes on to show that God's choice was not based upon race. Rather, "the children of the promise are counted as offspring," (Rom. 9:8). God chose Isaac over Ishmael, Jacob over Esau, why? Paul tells us in verse 11, "…in order that God's purpose of election might continue, not because of works but because of him who calls."

In the book of Galatians Paul explains that whether you are a Jew or a Gentile is irrelevant. In Galatians 3:16 he says the promises were made to Abraham's offspring, who is Christ, and then in verses 28 and 29 he says, "There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is no male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus. And if you are Christ's, then you are Abraham's offspring, heirs according to promise." God told Abraham he would be the father of many nations (not Israel only) and that through his offspring (Jesus) all the nations of the earth would be blessed (Gen. 12:3, 22:18, etc.).

In fact, the very language used for Israel in the Old Testament is used by Peter and applied to the church.

"But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light," (1 Pet. 2:9).

Did you know there are Palestinian Christians? That's right; Palestinian Christians. That may come as a shock to some people, but it's true. There are also Jewish Christians. We cannot broad-brush people solely based on their nationality. Nor can we let misinterpreted passages of Scripture cloud our minds. We must understand the Bible clearly. All believers are one in Christ. Listen to what Peter said after his encounter with Cornelius:

So Peter opened his mouth and said: “Truly I understand that God shows no partiality, but in every nation anyone who fears him and does what is right is acceptable to him," (Acts 10:34-35).

After hearing Peter's story, the church in Jerusalem responded by saying, “Then to the Gentiles also God has granted repentance that leads to life,” (Acts 11:18).

God has made the two one. He has broken down the wall of separation (Eph. 2:14) and has grafted Gentiles into His family (Rom. 11:17).

The Promised Land

The land of Palestine is a very touchy subject. I know I am treading on sacred ground here (pun intended). But I am going to say something that may shock some people. The modern state of Israel does not have a divine right to the land of Palestine. Gasp! I realize that there are all kinds of eschatological views on this subject, which I am not going to address, however, Christians seem to forget that the promises God made to Israel concerning the land were conditional. That's right; they were conditional. If Israel followed the Lord and kept His commandments they would be blessed, but if they disobeyed, they would be exiled from the land. And this is exactly what happened with the Assyrian and Babylonian captivities. So why would the modern state of Israel which doesn't keep God's covenants, and has for the most part rejected their Messiah, have a divine right to the land? Again, the promises were based upon obedience to the covenant God made with them.

Moreover, the temporal land promises were actually fulfilled. Wait a minute. The land promises were fulfilled? Yes, they were fulfilled. Let's look at a few passages of Scripture.

"Thus the Lord gave to Israel all the land that he swore to give to their fathers. And they took possession of it, and they settled there. And the Lord gave them rest on every side just as he had sworn to their fathers… Not one word of all the good promises that the Lord had made to the house of Israel had failed; all came to pass," (Joshua 21:43, 45).

"Solomon ruled over all the kingdoms from the Euphrates to the land of the Philistines and to the border of Egypt. They brought tribute and served Solomon all the days of his life," (1 Kings 4:21).

Now don't those borders sound familiar? Yes, they do. This is exactly what God promised to give Abraham (Gen. 15:18, etc.). So before you tar and feather me, please read your Bible. God fulfilled His promise. Further, the writer of Hebrews tells us that Abraham "was looking forward to the city that has foundations, whose designer and builder is God," (Heb. 11:10). The Promised Land foreshadowed the rest believers will enjoy someday in the new heaven and the new earth (Rev. 21:1).

We must understand that the land, the temple, the choosing of Israel; all the types and shadows of the Old Testament find their fulfillment in Christ (Matt. 5:17).

Conclusion

So does Israel have the right to exist as a nation? Of course. Should they protect their borders? Yes. Do they have the right to defend themselves against unjust attacks? Absolutely! We should support Israel, but our support must be filtered through the pages of Scripture. The Bible teaches that anyone, whether Jew or Gentile, who is not a follower of Christ is under the wrath of God unless they repent and believe (John 3:36, Eph. 2:3). What Jewish people need is the gospel. It isn't about nationality; it's about spirituality, those who are united to Christ through His death and resurrection. God will always have a remnant, chosen by grace (Rom. 11:5). Therefore, the Jews are only God's chosen people in so far as they have placed their faith in Jesus the Messiah.