My family and I stopped in Savannah, Georgia and visited Forsyth Park. After a season of wintry darkness and rain, stepping into a Spring-filled garden of blooms felt like a rebirth. Fountains sprayed their waters. Spanish moss framed every vista. And the soft grass of Spring yielded to a zephyr. It was beautiful and intoxicating. But the beauty of Forsyth Park derives … [Read more...] about Garden Cities
Insist on the Gospel
Growing in Love How do we grow in love? Have you ever thought about this difficult question? In some ways, it’s quite easy to fall in love. In other ways, it’s out of your hands. I remember falling in love with Jess. It was natural and unsought. It just happened. Other people were around, but I fell in love with her. And without much deliberation! So how do we grow in love … [Read more...] about Insist on the Gospel
The Formula for Spiritual Growth
Most people love a formula. Do this. Do that. And you'll get this. Simple. No mystery. No strain. No unpredictability. We want a formula for dating, marriage, work, community, church, sports, and especially for our spiritual lives. Two cups of Bible. One half teaspoon of sermons. Three tablespoons of unsalted community. Stir in devotional book. Evenly pray pan. … [Read more...] about The Formula for Spiritual Growth
Baptism
I have put together a brief FAQ on baptism. I have used this over the years in talking with candidates for baptism, and I thought I would share it has a helpful resource for you. It relies heavily on Grudem's Systematic, but I hope to update it further with other sources. So be sure to check back at hobotheology.com/baptism for updates. What does it mean to … [Read more...] about Baptism
What Are “These Things” in Titus 3:8?
Paul writes to Titus, "The saying is trustworthy, and I want you to insist on these things, so that those who have believed in God may be careful to devote themselves to good works" (Titus 3:8). Sounds important. We better be careful here. So what exactly are "these things?"William D. Mounce (2000) argues: τούτων, "these things," refers back at least to the creed in vv … [Read more...] about What Are “These Things” in Titus 3:8?