The meaning of the cross speaks to our deepest human need and its purpose unveils the heart of what we as Christians cling to. In his classic work, The Cross of Christ, the late John Stott unpacks what the cross achieved, how it meets contemporary cultural assumptions and questions, and its practical significance for Christian living.
Soteriology
Experiential Calvinism: A Functional Theology of the Doctrines of Grace (with J. A. Medders)
What are the so-called doctrines of grace? And what bearing do they have on our lives? Jeff Medders joins me to talk about Calvinism and the practical ways it ought to manifest in those who believe it.
Access the episode here. (Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, and more.)
What is the Gospel? by Greg Gilbert (Book Recommendation)
The “gospel” (or good news) is the message of what God has done to save sinners through Jesus. It is the message of salvation, the center of the Christian faith. What is the Gospel? by Greg Gilbert provides a concise and helpful overview of the gospel message. Whether you aren’t yet a believer and are looking to get introduced to what Christians believe, you’re a new believer seeking greater clarity, or you’re a more mature believer looking for a refresher, this book is a valuable resource.
In addition, you can download my study guide for the book.
Redemption Accomplished and Applied, John Murray (Goodreads Review)
Redemption Accomplished and Applied by John Murray
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Lead a group of men in my church through this book. A lot of them found the initial chapters a bit more difficult to weigh through. I would agree that part 1 felt more polemical, and could feel a bit more technical or abstract for those less familiar with this sort of writing or subject matter. However, part 2 seems to take a shift in tone. In these latter chapters especially, one of the things I appreciated about this book was the doxological tone and orientation naturally woven throughout. As I read, I found myself experiencing gratitude to God and standing in awe of Christ. I believe this book originally came out of a series of lectures Murray delivered (?). And it certainly reads like that. It feels a bit different in that way from other systematic treatments of soteriology. Very insightful and well done.
Preservation & Perseverance: Views Charted
“We believe that election is the eternal purpose of God according to which he effectually regenerates, justifies, sanctifies, and glorifies sinners, not on the basis of anything foreseen in them, but solely based on his free and sovereign grace. We believe that this election comprehends all the means connected with its end such that the salvation of all who trust in Christ is guaranteed, that by God’s unfailing grace all genuine believers will persevere in faith unto full and complete salvation.” – SCC Statement of Faith
Kirk E. Miller 