How has your spiritual journey been?
I ask this because I would like to think ( though not really being so naive' ) that all Christians are pressing forward and growing, at least weekly. It troubles me to think that some Christians, possibly even those at Resurgence, are not growing at some point. That's why I want to give due credit to Godly men who have influenced me and helped me by their writings. Before I came to understand Free Grace Theology, I was a Reformed, Covenant, "if they aren't livin' for Jesus they are going to Hell," Lordship Salvation proponent. Honestly, the thought of simply "believing" was appalling to me. I mean, how could my heroes like John Piper, John MacArthur, and R.C. Sproul possibly be wrong when they have such big followings, and have written such huge sellers, and have become nationally and internationally known?!?!?!?
Here's the thing. All of these dudes are totally saved and are brothers in Christ. However, the teaching that one must "commit themselves" to Christ or "give up everything" to Jesus, or "turn from their sins" or "be sorry for all of their sins" is in no way a biblical teaching. For those of you that even bother to read my blog, and if you hold these beliefs in high, dogmatic regard, let me say that it will be hard for you to accept that your heroes are wrong. It's kinda like discovering that your parents sin.
The Bible is pretty clear in stating that Jesus simply needs to be believed on for eternal life. Jesus has made a promise to any and all who believe. (Yes, the whole world- John 3:16, 1 John 2:2) By simple faith (defined as "a conviction that something is true") can one have eternal life.
This was a liberating doctrine that finally provided me with assurance, as well as answering many of the biblical questions that I had from early on.
So let me say thank you to the following scholars/ friends:
David Shreve- my brother in life and in faith, for graciously loving me to the truth of the Gospel and caring for me when I was an unlovable person.
Dr. Charlie Bing- for such a work as "Living In The Family Of Grace," which helped me get my bearings in Free Grace thought.
Dr. J.B. Hixson- for treating me with respect when I am nobody and being someone who is always willing to talk through issues, even if it is only twice a year.
Dr. Charles Ryrie- for lighting the torch brightly and shining it all over the place.
Dr. Joseph C. Dillow- for providing me with a better understanding of the "missing link" in contemporary theological thought- rewards, inheritance, and a proper view of works.
Zane Hodges- for "Grace In Eclipse" of which my dad even read twice because it was both deep and accessible.
and lastly.... my brothers in the Preaching Team at Resurgence. They are all willing to listen and grow and as we share our thoughts and study the Word together, we are becoming more faithful ministers of the Gospel of Grace.
We are all first mates ready to respond as Jesus steers the ship.
No comments:
Post a Comment