Monthly Archives: May 2013

The Calvinism Advisory Committee of the SBC released their report earlier this morning. You can read it here http://www.sbclife.org/Articles/2013/06/sla5.asp. I would encourage every pastor and church leader to read the report carefully. Here in the Northwest we have deliberately stayed away from doctrinal issues when we come together for our annual meetings. I like to tell SBC folks from other areas that we are so happy to see another Southern Baptist whenever we come together we just lay aside those issues that might divide. There is truth in that. Our convention leadership has worked diligently to create an annual meeting that is more about fellowship and encouragement than doctrinal issues over which we disagree.

However (and you knew that was coming…) we cannot ignore doctrine. I happen to be a Calvinist ( and yes I enjoyed Calvin and Hobbes as well). I meet with fellow evangelical pastors on a weekly basis who are most certainly NOT Calvinists (though I’m not certain about their feelings towards Calvin and Hobbes). We even discuss doctrinal issues from time and time and still love one another. One statement from the recently released document struck me

I am in Fort Worth TX on the campus of Southwestern Seminary this week for the Land Institute Summer Institute dealing with a biblical view of economic issues. We have listened to two presentations so far today. A couple of questions: are we truly engaged in our world if we fail to understand some of these most basic questions: Why do people act the way they do? What are the consequences of the choices we are making? 

I am more aware than ever of the life-altering impact of the gospel. The truth of what God has provided in Jesus Christ is so much more than merely where you will spend eternity. Too often when I present the gospel I fail to think through the full impact of the gospel on an individual’s life. Lord, help me carefully present the gospel and thoroughly follow up with a robust approach to discipleship that helps new believers assimilate all that You have done for us through the cross and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

I had carpal tunnel surgery early Tuesday morning and am back in my study this morning. Still not driving…and learning to use my left hand alone for various tasks…typing slowly with both hands. I have learned a couple of things…Pain pills are a man’s best friend and even minor surgery takes time for recovery. I kind of thought I’d be feeling really good by Wednesday…Wrong! feeling ok today- and anxious to prepare for Sunday…looking forward to being with my people on friday night- annual spring banquet for our church folks…and sunday…always a great time with God’s people.