This past Sunday I made the statement that the underlying reason for our sinful behavior, thoughts, affections and words stems from unbelief. For sure this unbelief manifests itself in a lot of ways but I humbly believe it is an overflow of not believing the truth and promises of God’s Word and instead believing the…
Two weeks ago my wife and I returned from our 10-year anniversary cruise. It was relaxing, rejuvenating and much-needed. We were blessed by my bride’s parents watching our kids for 9 days – yes, read that again, 9 days; they served us in an amazing way in those 9 days by taking care of our…
Several weeks ago I preached through 1 Corinthians 4:14-21 on “Exemplifying Spiritual Parenting.” In weeks past as I preached through 1 Corinthians there were some very “heavy” words delivered by Paul to the “church of God that is in Corinth” (1 Cor 1:2) and subsequently words I shared with my church family (Oak Park Baptist),…
Discipleship happens as we teach and call people to follow us as we follow Jesus.
Almost seven years ago I heard Dr. Chad Brand from The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary say that he had read the Bible through something like thirty times. I was amazed, challenged, encouraged, and motivated. At that time I had been in ministry about three years and I’m ashamed to say at that time I had…
Chris Brauns in Unpacking Forgiveness: biblical answers for complex questions and deep wounds is helpful in defining this so often grossly misunderstood truth. He defines forgiveness as “a commitment by the one true God to pardon graciously those who repent and believe so that they are reconciled…
Several weeks ago I preached a message from Hebrews 5:11-14; a text I chose because I believe it reflected several truths that I wanted to convey to my own heart, as well as the hearts of the hearers at Oak Park. One such truth is that it is the will of God that we grow…
In preparation for a class on “Marriage and Family” in January I’m reading several books, one of which is the “Excellent Wife” by Martha Peace. One chapter speaks to a wife’s fight against anxiety or fear and it goes without saying but Martha’s words need not be relegated to women exclusively; men struggle with fear…
Heavenly Father, I acknowledge and praise you for who you are. Thank you for the blessing of our children. Thank you that you have given us our children to love them and so that we can learn to love you more…for our sanctification…and to glorify you more. Grant us wisdom and grace to train and…
How do you help people who are angry? This is a question that’s been asked of me in an increasing measure lately. Ultimately this is due to the Spirit of God bringing conviction to a person’s heart (John 16:8-11) but another small factor has been my willingness to share about my personal struggle with anger.…
Theology Along the Way 