Reformation Theology Blog

Pietistic Vs. Biblical Sanctification

How many of us try to clean ourselves up before approaching the Lord's Table, as if there were some degree or level of purity that we could reach that would make us acceptable to God? The command to love God with all your heart and your neighbor as yourself should be sufficient to make you recognize your utter inability to do so. In all likelihood, the thinking that we have to make ourselves right and acceptable before God before he will accept us probably derives its origin from the influential but flawed theology of Pietism.

He shall gather the lambs with his arm

"He shall gather the lambs with his arm, and carry them in his bosom." — Isaiah 40:11.

My soul, mark in this sweet scripture how Jesus is described, in not only attending to all the various needs of his flock but also addressing their specific needs in a manner corresponding to his own character and their condition. In the fold of Jesus, like the sheepfold among men, some are sheep and some are lambs: some of advanced age, and some of younger standing.

The Special Grace of Humility

by Edward Leigh

Humility is that grace whereby a man makes little or no account of himself (Job 42:6; Ezek. 20:43). It is a grace of the Spirit of God, whereby a man, out of true knowledge of himself, his state, and condition, accounts himself vile and walks accordingly before God and man. Every good man is humble (Prov. 30:2; Luke 18:13). Poverty of spirit is the first step to heaven (Matt. 5:3). "High in worth and humble in heart," said Nazianzen of Athanasius. All the stars, the higher they are, the lesser they appear; so must all the saints.

Conformity Over Conviction: Theological Liberalism and Its Failure to Resist the Third Reich

In the 1930s, Germany witnessed a profound transformation within its Protestant churches, influenced heavily by theological liberalism and higher criticism. This shift had significant implications for how churches responded to the rise of Nazi ideology. The mainline liberal churches, which embraced higher criticism and rejected traditional Christian doctrines, largely conformed to the prevailing cultural and political currents, including Nazi ideology.

Explanation of the Moral Law (The Ten Commandments)

by John Calvin

Spiritual Taste Buds

by Thomas Manton

How sweet are thy words unto my taste! Yea, sweeter than honey to my mouth.- Psalm 119:103

What Agreement there is between Christ's Intercessions, and the Intercessions of the High-Priests of Old?

Examining the question, "What Agreement there is between Christ's Intercessions, and the Intercessions of the High-Priests of Old?" unveils a typological relationship which underscores the continuity and fulfillment of the Old Testament priesthood in Christ's eternal priesthood, enriching our understanding of His mediatory work.. As we reflect on the intercessory roles of Christ and the High Priests of old, we uncover both parallels and distinctions that enrich our comprehension of divine intercession.

10 Ways to Endure Adversity and Hardship as a Christian

Recognize the Sovereignty of God: Acknowledge that God is in control of every aspect of your life, including your trials and tribulations. Nothing happens by chance; everything is part of His divine plan. Trust in His wisdom and sovereignty, knowing that He has a purpose for your suffering (Eccl 7:13).

The Armour of God Needful—What It Is

To begin with the first, the furniture which everyone must acquire to fight Christ's battles is 'armour.' The question here will be, what is this armour?

What Kinds of People Infallibly Come to Faith in Jesus?

In this profound declaration, our Lord Jesus Christ unveils the sublime mystery of divine election and the invincible efficacy of God's grace in the salvation of sinners. "All that the Father gives me will come to me, and whoever comes to me I will never cast out." Herein, we are invited to contemplate the eternal counsel of God, by which He has chosen a people for Himself and entrusted them to the care of His beloved Son.