The Beginning: A Perfect Home - Chpt. 2

Every story has a beginning.  And the beginning is always important.  But the beginning is only the beginning.  It's not the story itself.  In this chapter, we look at the beginning and all the important things that it has to say.  We must remember though, that we are also reading the beginning of the Big Story.

Let's look first at some of those things that the beginning teaches us.

Sermon Prep for 02.21.10 - The Vision Series: Transformed

This week I'll be preaching from Romans 12:1-2 and looking at the whole matter of "transformation."

Moralistic, Therapeutic Deism

This Sunday, I was preaching on the topic of "vision" from Proverbs 29:18 as the opening of a series on the matter of biblical vision, and specifically our vision for ministry at Christ Covenant.

Even a brief study of the key word "khazon" made it clear to me that "vision" is something that comes "from outside our own system of thinking."  We don't develop a vision simply from what we know or observe.  Instead, with information or perspective provided from outside our world - from the message of the Bible and/or the "still, small voice" of the Holy Spirit (however you understand or hear that!) - we come to see our world and our place in it with new insight.  As my friend Ken Priddy says: "Vision is about discernment, not creativity."

The Story and the Song - Chpt. 1

This is a remarkably subtle statement regarding the doctrine of revelation with real importance for how we read the Bible.  And so well written that a kindergartner can get the idea!

Every Story Whispers His Name - Intro

Full Disclosure Statement: I make NO money on the following endorsement:

Go purchase “The Jesus Storybook Bible” by Sally Lloyd-Jones.  (Amazon.com  or Christian Book Distributors)  Find an excuse to read it to children.  Give it away as a gift.  Use it in classes you teach.  Most of all though, take the time to read it yourself.

I’m reading it one chapter per week to my entire congregation during the Worship Service!  Sort of an odd twist on the “Lessons” of liturgical churches.  And each week, I intend to post some reflections on the chapter I’ve just read to Christ Covenant.