Works of the Law and Fruits of the Spirit

4. Now, as regards the distinction between the works of the Law and the fruits of the Spirit, we believe, teach, and confess that the works which are done according to the Law are and are called works of the Law as long as they are only extorted from man by urging the punishment and threatening of God’s wrath.

5. Fruits of the Spirit, however, are the works which the Spirit of God who dwells in believers works through the regenerate, and which are done by believers so far as they are regenerate [spontaneously and freely], as though they knew of no command, threat, or reward; for in this manner the children of God live in the Law and walk according to the Law of God, which [mode of living] St. Paul in his epistles calls the Law of Christ and the Law of the mind, Rom. 7:25; 8:7; Rom. 8:2; Gal. 6:2. Read the story »

Unity of Faith

“We stand in a fellowship which holds fast the entire Word of God, the entire revelation, a fellowship in which souls are properly cared for and in which God is given the honor which is due Him. What a blessing we share! We cannot sufficiently praise it!…lt is God who has given us understanding so that we do not swim with the unionistic stream of the day but rather hold the entire Word of God in high esteem and accept it by faith. Read the story »

The Greatest Gift - Freedom

On January 21st, I had the privileged of delivering the chapel sermon on Galatians 4:8-11. It was on one of my favorite topics - freedom. The passage addresses those who would give up the freedom that they have received to return to a life of spiritual slavery. Who’s trying to take your freedom away?

⁸Formerly, when you did not know God, you were slaves to those who by nature are not gods. ⁹But now that you know God—or rather are known by God—how is it that you are turning back to those weak and miserable principles? Do you wish to be enslaved by them all over again? ¹⁰You are observing special days and months and seasons and years! ¹¹I fear for you, that somehow I have wasted my efforts on you. Galatians 4:8-11

Clergy Questions: How do I maintain my language skills?

In this episode, we discuss the importance of maintaining and rebuilding a pastor’s skills in the use of the original languages. Dr. Tim Saleska, associate professor of exegetical theology, reveals two insightful reasons, other than sermon preparation, and suggests several helpful resources. Feel free to share your insights and resources in this post’s discussion thread.