Our marriages are to reflect the harmony of heaven. This means we must work diligently to avoid discord and dissension with our spouse. In this issue of Providence Church's monthly newsletter Puritan counselor Richard Baxter offers six practical tips to reduce conflict and bring about the peaceful, joyous relationship God intends.
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The Providence newsletter has just hit the web. This issue is dedicated to the doctrine of vocation. We'll be looking briefly at what the Bible says about this thing we call work. You'll have to read it to find out why we entitled it, "Get out & Spread the Manure." It is interesting to see that Christianity exalts work and gives it dignity. This is unique among religions. Check out why by clicking the above link. Our latest newsletter hits at a topic that is near and dear to my heart. The theme for this issue is that of the Primacy of Preaching. Two of the articles express the inherent power of the spoken word and why sermons ought to demand our attention. The third deals with some practical steps on what we who listen to the Word ought to do. Included in the package is a link to a very nice synopsis of what Reformed theology all entails. One of the things I like about this article is that it deals with more than simply the doctrinal distinctives of our brand of Protestantism. It also deals with our view of personal piety and cultural transformation. I mention this because the section on piety touches on the Reformed view of preaching. It says, "Reformed Christians have a high view of preaching. Preaching is not just a lecture in which the preacher talks about God; it is a Spirit-charged encounter with God in which the preacher, in the reading of Scripture and in preaching, proclaims the Word of God. Reformed Christians actually speak of the sermon as the Word of God to highlight the revelational significance of preaching in the context of public worship." It's guaranteed to be better than your neighbor's fruitcake. That's right, it's our churches latest newsletter! This Christmas issue is dedicated to Jesus as it probes the significance of His name. Unlike most parents, Joseph and Mary didn't have to agonize over what he should be called. The Lord sent them direct instructions via an angel. That's because his name would be a billboard for his life's purpose. As the Thanksgiving season is upon us, it is good to take a few minutes and reflect upon the supreme benevolence of God. That's why this issue of the Providence newsletter is dedicated to the doctrine of God's Providence! It is entitled, "Not a Chance in the World!" When it comes to this doctrine theologins usually speak of God's preservation, concurrence, and government. Each of these are dealt with in this issue in such a way as to lead you to the great comfort that this great doctrine affords to the believer. The significance of October 31, 1517 cannot be underestimated. The tremors are still being felt over 500 years later. That is why we dedicate our latest newsletter to Martin Luther and his posting of his 95 Thesis. In this issue we will commemorate the great acts of our God by looking at the initial spark that ignited the Protestant Reformation. We will talk about Luther's contention with the Catholic Church and their practice of selling indulgences. Moreover, we'll learn why this was considered such a ghastly thing in the eyes of most in that day. Of course, along with the depth of teaching, you will find a number of other items of intrigue. Videos, announcements, quotes, and the ever stimulating....Reformation Polka! God has given us his law, but what place does it have in our lives? That's the topic for this month's newsletter. Articles include: the law and evangelism (with special guest, Kirk Cameron!), God and Government: the role of God's law in relation to the state, and the limits of God's law. You can also test your law knowledge with our law quiz. The aim of this mailing is to stimulate more thought regarding this oft neglected area. Today's tendency is to emphasize the gospel and the realm of salvation and overlook what God says regarding ethics and life. For most, the ten commandments have not been the focus of much meditation. I remember listening to a minister complain about how some civil officials were taking down the commandments from a public place (a courtroom or school, I can't remember which exactly). He was aghast that such a profane thing would be done. I thought to myself, "Well, I've never once heard the commandments read here in this church! Why such a fuss about the neglect of them out among the unbelieving if the church does not express much interest in it either?" As you read and consider what is said in this issue, I encourage you to take a new interest in the law of God. Memorize it, study it, and pray over it regularly. Most likely, you do not know what really happens when your church celebrates the Lord's Supper. My bet is that you think that it is merely a time to remember what Jesus did. True, but that's not the whole of it. It's not even the half of it. You can find out what you've been missing here in the latest issue of Providence newsletter. Looking here can also help you understand how the Table of the Lord can be a poison. It's an issue that you don't want to miss! Want to know what the men at Richland Correctional think about Matt and the classes he teaches? Find out in the latest ministry update that has been sent out! Woo-hoo! The July newsletter for Providence Church is now out. Wonderful bite sized theology; perfect for the armchair theologian. The theme for this issue is worship. In keeping with the focus on Reformed distinctives, the articles deal with the specific issue of the regulative principle of worship. In other words, it deals with why we worship in the wacky way we do. Give a click and check it out. And, by all means, subscribe while you are there so you can get it delivered right to your inbox next time! |
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