Clear, deep, thorough, penetrating ideas are not formed by short bursts of mental activity.
The Pastor’s Preparation: 10 Encouragements
Pastors must lead the way in recapturing the lost discipline of concentration.
Pray About What Books to Read
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
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'
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?
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
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