So, who really killed Jesus? Was It the Romans? Let’s find out the answer in God’s Word. In Matthew 27:35 we read, “And when they [that is, the Roman soldiers] had crucified Him, they divided his garments among them by casting lots.” From this verse we learn that the Romans crucified Jesus. In fact, crucifixion […]
Can you glorify God in your work? The Dutch Reformed are well aware of Abraham Kuyper’s quote: “There is not a square inch in the whole domain of our human existence over which Christ, who is Sovereign over all, does not cry: ‘Mine!’”1 The Presbyterians would proclaim a similar position, beginning with the first answer […]
Scripture: Esther 4 Background Reading: Matthew 16:21–23; 17:22–23; 20:17–19 The opening line of Esther 4 is revealing. It is the key to understanding this chapter. The text tells us that “Mordecai learned all that had been done.” Mordecai is apparently an official in the Persian government. He has insider information. He knows exactly how much […]
Scripture: Esther 5 Background Reading: Daniel 10:1–9; Ezra 8:21–32 Whenever we attempt to understand historical events, timing of those events is often important. Queen Esther had commanded Mordecai to gather all the Jews in the capital city of Susa and to hold a fast on her behalf for three days. Traditionally, a fast would last […]
Step 4: Direct or Confront the Counselee This step is an essential part of the practice of biblical counseling and is one which sets it apart from various forms of Rogerian psychotherapy1 which are highly utilized by both secular and Christian counselors. While Rogerian-styled counselors utilize a non-directive approach, biblical counselors believe that directives are […]
When we talk about “purpose” we mean a desired result one wishes to achieve. Or, what is the aim or goal one has in mind for doing something? In plain terms we can say that all our acts are governed by purpose. For example, if we get in our car we have in mind to […]
Brian G. Najapfour. The Gospel-Driven Tongue: Lessons from James on Godly Conversation. Grandville, MI: Reformed Fellowship Inc., 2017. Paperback. 72 pages. While Psalms is the anatomy of all the parts of the soul, this book illustrates James as the spiritual anatomy of the human tongue. Brian Najapfour’s passion as a loving pastor reflects the general […]
Martyn McGeown. Micah: Proclaiming the Incomparable God Jenison, Michigan: Reformed Free Publishing Association, 2018. vi + 229 pp. As Rev. Martyn McGeown points out in the introduction of this book, Micah is often neglected in our study of Scripture and preaching. This book is known for the prophetic statement about the birth of Christ in […]
How to Train Your Children to Listen to Sermons Every pastor receives the question from distraught parents: How can I train my children to listen to sermons? In answering this question, I need to stress that everything I’m about to say is dependent on the Holy Spirit’s blessing. If you do everything I’m suggesting in […]
A Spiritual Checkup for the URCNA: Where Are Our Children Going? The Dutch Reformed have a long and stellar tradition dating back to Dordt and beyond. One concept has been a covenantal understanding of Scripture that is exceptional and unique.1 Central to that understanding has been the family and transmitting the faith from one generation […]