Sanctification

Christ’s People are ‘Thankful, Grateful, Blessed’ All Year Round

Have you noticed the deluge of fall decor for sale in the past decade or so that seeks to encapsulate the season in a few words? Whether it’s beautifully framed wall art, scripted platters or plush kitchen towels, the words “thankful, grateful, blessed” are everywhere.

The Danger of Sin Unlamented

A decline in the spiritual life lies at the heart of every ruined ministry and every fallen minister. What leads to such a decline? Andrew Fuller (1754–1815), arguably the most important Baptist theologian of the late 18th Century, considered this question in a series of magazine articles in the late 1780s.

Silence, Solitude, and Spiritualty

Sometimes, in a social setting, we need someone to remind us when it’s time to stop talking and to start listening. The same can be true of our growth as disciples of Jesus.

A Triage for Practical Theology

A framework of theological urgency is crucial for confessional debates, yet many issues causing division in the church today have more to do with practical application than doctrinal formulation.

The Importance of Scripture Memory in the Christian Life

I would like to explain why Scripture Memory is vital for our Christian life and growth and give some practical guidelines for memorizing verses.

Four Ways to Start the Semester Spiritually Strong

If you’ve taken Personal Spiritual Disciplines with me, you can probably guess much of what you are about to read here—or at least I hope you can. But even if you have taken the class, I hope you’ll find these brief reminders helpful.

Episode 54: Guarding Against Pornography

In this episode, Hershael York talks about individuals recovering from porn addiction and the dangers of allowing it to grow.

Episode 53: What Types of Books Should I be Reading?

In this episode, Hershael York talks about how reading books broadens your mind and your heart.

Episode 39: Preaching Secondary and Tertiary Issues

In this episode, Hershael York explains how a pastor should approach second and third tier theological issues from the pulpit.

You’re a Pastor, Not a Therapist

A pastor’s job is not to dismiss personal experience, but rather to help people see it differently—specifically, to see it according to who God is and the chief purpose of his design for human life.

Humility Is the Main Ingredient of Prayer, Repentance, and Thanksgiving

Prayer is humble because when we pray, we are saying that God is merciful and mighty, that He is wise and sovereign, and that He knows far better than us what is best for us.

Our Groaning Joy

The people of God are living “in this hope”—the time between the advents of Christ when our joy is mingled with the countless “groanings” associated with a fallen world.

How God Helps Us Pray According to His Will

The Spirit of God will use the word of God to help the people of God pray increasingly according to the will of God.

10 Things You Should Know about Prayer

Our Father loves to hear our voices. Nothing is too small to bring to him.

Galatians Is the Antidote to Legalism and Antinomianism

I haven’t grown past my need to walk on a path paved with the grace-saturated words of this letter. I suspect I’m not alone, so here are six reasons I’ll never be able to leave Galatians behind.

A Theology of Disappointment

When you’re living in a broken world, sometimes believing and wanting the right things means you’ll be disappointed.

We Need Old Hymns: God Moves in a Mysterious Way

The world is groaning, we are groaning, but God is protecting us, forging our faith on the anvil of affliction because of his love for us and because of a passion for his own glory.

Perfectionism Will Only Make You Miserable

Perfectionism is the tendency to expect flawless performance from self and others, resulting in frustration at any sign of failure.