Study – From the Study

March 1, 2021February 10, 2021 Derek J. Brown Productivity

Brothers, Kill Distractions

Clear, deep, thorough, penetrating ideas are not formed by short bursts of mental activity.

March 11, 2020March 18, 2020 Derek J. Brown Pastoral Ministry

The Pastor’s Preparation: 10 Encouragements

Pastors must lead the way in recapturing the lost discipline of concentration.

April 19, 2016April 19, 2016 Derek J. Brown Christian Living

I once heard Iain Murray suggest in an interview that Christians should ask the Lord to guide them in what books to read. When I first heard this comment several years ago, I thought it interesting but unrealistic. Recently I've become convinced he is entirely right, and for two specific reasons. First, the process of reading and seeking knowledge is an intimately spiritual exercise. … Continue reading Pray About What Books to Read

January 18, 2007April 2, 2016 Derek J. Brown Christian Living

Why Do You Study Theology? Thoughts from Packer's 'Knowing God'

I recently started Knowing God by J.I. Packer. I had previously heard many encouraging things about this book from Christians of all ages (as it is, of course, a book that can be considered a true contemporary classic), but it wasn't until just recently that I started reading it. What's more, it seemed that when someone would ask whether or not I had … Continue reading Why Do You Study Theology? Thoughts from Packer's 'Knowing God'

January 9, 2007April 3, 2016 Derek J. Brown Christian Living

Don't Have Time to Read?

For those of you who love to read, want to read, but don't have time to read, take this encouraging word from John Piper's book, Brother's, We are Not Professionals. We think we don't have time to read. We despair of reading anything spiritually rich and substantial because life seems to be lived in snatches. One of the … Continue reading Don't Have Time to Read?

December 4, 2006April 2, 2016 Derek J. Brown Pastoral Ministry

Study Devotionally

Last week I was asked to give the devotional in our Basics of Biblical Greek class at seminary. I chose the text from 1 Timothy 4:16 where Paul exhorts Timothy, "Pay close attention to yourself and to your teaching; persevere in these things, for as you do this you will ensure salvation both for yourself … Continue reading Study Devotionally

October 17, 2006July 5, 2016 Derek J. Brown Christian Living

Studying Scripture and Theology for the Right Reasons

In the introduction to Marriage to a Difficult Man, John Piper writes, Edwards made it plain in his preaching and in his living that he believed great thoughts about God without great love towards people are sure evidences of hypocrisy and the pathway to hell. For Edwards there was no separating high views of God … Continue reading Studying Scripture and Theology for the Right Reasons