Month: July 2021

  • Grace in ministry: Avoiding the shipwreck (1 Timothy 1:12–20)

    Grace in ministry: Avoiding the shipwreck (1 Timothy 1:12–20)

    “There was a widespread view expressed by participants that within [the church] culture there was an over-emphasis on sin and an under-emphasis on grace”. The report describes how this grace problem permeated the culture. It affected membership commitment expectations, views of authority, pastoral care, and more. And yet, the thing is: Nobody would deny that…

  • “Paul within Judaism” and Romans 2:17–29

    “Paul within Judaism” and Romans 2:17–29

    My article on Romans 2:17–29 supports one key feature of the “Paul within Judaism” perspective, but undermines another common feature.

  • The goals of Bible teaching (1 Timothy 1:1–11)

    The goals of Bible teaching (1 Timothy 1:1–11)

    In gospel ministry and Bible teaching, if you’re not committed to the right goal, or if you have the wrong goal, it’s not just a matter of being ineffective: you’ll be downright dangerous. So what is that goal? What are you seeking to achieve in your gospel ministry and Bible teaching – now and in…

  • Slow-burn crazy-making behaviours: recognising and responding

    Slow-burn crazy-making behaviours: recognising and responding

    Do you know someone who seems to have drama and problems constantly appear around them? Whenever you relate to this person, perhaps you find yourself feeling vaguely guilty, or uncomfortable, or put down, or obligated to affirm them? Do you often feel like you’re questioning yourself and your actions because of what they say and…