Does God Hate the Sin but Love the Sinner? — R.C. Sproul and John MacArthur

That I could manipulate God based on my behavior/works

Jesus defeated death so you can live.

“This mind restrained itself from sinning, not out of dread of punishment alone: but, because it loves and reveres God as Father, it worships and adores Him as Lord. Even if there were no hell, it would still shudder at offending him alone.” Calvin, Institutes.

I grew up in a very fear based, fire and brimstone environment. My hope and prayer in raising my kids is that they will love and trust God because He is most beautiful to them. Not out of a fear of hell, but because He alone is worthy of their affections and worship.

My heart hurts. Come, Lord.

Parents, if you are feeling overwhelmed at the prospect of raising your kids in this world: Go hug your kid...a long and strong one. Look them in the eye. Tell them you love them. Tell them you are with them - no matter what. Bless them in the name of Christ. Go play.

I love this so much.

"When Christ shall come with shouts of acclamation and take me home, what joy shall fill my heart! Then I shall bow in humble adoration — and there proclaim, 'My God! How great Thou art!'" ❤️

Ouch.

#NewProfilePic

Stayed up to watch Matt Rife Christmas special! Worth it!

This year has held both joy and sorrow. And yet, there is Christmas. In the birth of Jesus, we are reminded that God does not remain distant from human suffering. He takes on flesh and enters our broken world. The eternal Word steps into time. Light breaks into darkness.

This week, we reflect and remember: hope was born in a manger. Because God is with us, what feels heavy now is not final, and sorrow does not have the last word. As we look toward 2026, we place our trust in the One who came to dwell with us. Emmanuel. God with us.

“Your faith will not fail while God sustains it; you are not strong enough to fall away while God is resolved to hold you,” J.I. Packer

Nothing but the blood of Jesus

Therapeutic: Jesus delivers us from our negative emotions (fears, doubts, shame). Forensic: Jesus delivers us from the penalty of our sin. The Gospel does yield therapeutic benefits, but emphasis matters. In women’s circles, it’s too often the first without the second.

Jen has been so helpful for me thinking through this.

Theology isn't for academics. It's for the mom in the third row, the new believer asking hard questions, the dad raising his son, the elder who's been faithful for 40 years. You are a theologian. The only question is whether you'll be a good one.

Wow. Sobering truth from Corrie ten Boom. 🔥