Wednesday, January 6, 2010
Faults
It is a blessing that the faults of a man, particularly a man as influential as Luther, should be obvious, so that we are not left guessing where they lay, or fall into false adoration of the man - worshipping the creature rather than the creator.
Monday, January 4, 2010
Book Review: Revival and Revivalism
Revival and Revivalism
by Iain H. Murray
This was not an easy read for me, but it was well worth the effort. Murray presents a detailed historical analysis of the "old school" revivals in early America. He examines the various factors that influenced evangelism during this period, including the pioneering spirit of the age, a lack of trained church leaders, and the tendency of men to take upon themselves the work and the credit which belong to God alone. The errors that slipped in to "methods" of evangelism during this period have profoundly affected the way the church approaches evangelism, even today.
By way of answering, "What makes a revival a true revival?" Murray gives practical insight into a wide variety of other topics. There are gemstones of quotes from various men, and excellent definitions of "church" and "Christian." Most importantly for me, Murray offered insight about the true evidences of the Holy Spirit at work in a congregation. He examines emotion and compulsion against discipline and reverence. It is a fascinating study.
This book has shown me how important correct doctrine is to correct thinking. It makes me want to have a better grasp of the fundamentals. If you aren't used to grappling with theological questions, this book will take some effort. But it is worth the effort.
by Iain H. Murray
This was not an easy read for me, but it was well worth the effort. Murray presents a detailed historical analysis of the "old school" revivals in early America. He examines the various factors that influenced evangelism during this period, including the pioneering spirit of the age, a lack of trained church leaders, and the tendency of men to take upon themselves the work and the credit which belong to God alone. The errors that slipped in to "methods" of evangelism during this period have profoundly affected the way the church approaches evangelism, even today.
By way of answering, "What makes a revival a true revival?" Murray gives practical insight into a wide variety of other topics. There are gemstones of quotes from various men, and excellent definitions of "church" and "Christian." Most importantly for me, Murray offered insight about the true evidences of the Holy Spirit at work in a congregation. He examines emotion and compulsion against discipline and reverence. It is a fascinating study.
This book has shown me how important correct doctrine is to correct thinking. It makes me want to have a better grasp of the fundamentals. If you aren't used to grappling with theological questions, this book will take some effort. But it is worth the effort.
A Holy Passion
O For a Closer Walk with God
from "Creation Sings" CD by Stuart Townend
O for a closer walk with God
A calm and heavenly frame
A light to shine upon the road
Leading to the lamb
Where is that blessedness I knew
When first I saw the Lord?
Where is that soul-refreshing view
Of Jesus and His word?
O Fire of God come burn in me
Renew a holy passion
Till Christ my deepest longing be
My never-failing fountain
What peaceful hours I once enjoyed
How sweet the memory still
But they have left an aching void
The world can never fill
O Fire of God...
The dearest idol I have know
Whate're that idol be
Help me to tear it from Thy throne
And worship only Thee
So shall my walk be close with God
Calm and serene my frame
So purer light shall mark the road
That leads me to the Lamb
O Fire of God...
(original hymn by William Cowper, 1731-1800)
Listen to a sample of this song here: http://www.stuarttownend.co.uk/shop/albums-a-dvds/58-creation-sings-cd-a-dvd-extra (song #5)
from "Creation Sings" CD by Stuart Townend
O for a closer walk with God
A calm and heavenly frame
A light to shine upon the road
Leading to the lamb
Where is that blessedness I knew
When first I saw the Lord?
Where is that soul-refreshing view
Of Jesus and His word?
O Fire of God come burn in me
Renew a holy passion
Till Christ my deepest longing be
My never-failing fountain
What peaceful hours I once enjoyed
How sweet the memory still
But they have left an aching void
The world can never fill
O Fire of God...
The dearest idol I have know
Whate're that idol be
Help me to tear it from Thy throne
And worship only Thee
So shall my walk be close with God
Calm and serene my frame
So purer light shall mark the road
That leads me to the Lamb
O Fire of God...
(original hymn by William Cowper, 1731-1800)
Listen to a sample of this song here: http://www.stuarttownend.co.uk/shop/albums-a-dvds/58-creation-sings-cd-a-dvd-extra (song #5)
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