Midweek Miscellanies (9/10) – An assortment of articles, book recommendations, blog posts, podcasts and other links that we hope you find helpful.
Podcast pick: Why You Shouldn’t Feel Bad about Enjoying the World. “In this episode, Joe Rigney, discusses why it’s okay to celebrate God’s good gifts. He explains the impact that John Piper and Christian Hedonism have had on his life and theology, the proper place of self-denial in the Christian life, and how to navigate the tension of loving God and enjoying his good gifts.”
Seeking the Lost: A good illustration that points us to God’s heart for the lost, and our call to join him in pursuing them.
A Dangerous Trend: “With the rise of the Internet, there’s been a trend that, if continued, will sap the spiritual vibrancy of God’s people.”
Your Sacrifice Will Not Go Unrewarded: A good reminder of the call to at times sacrifice while following Christ, and how ultimately no sacrifice goes unrewarded.
3 Questions About Self-Care: “…self-care is not wrong for the Christian. We, like everyone else, are finite, limited creatures who need care to survive. The Bible tells us repeatedly that our flesh is like grass and we will wither. It’s a fact of life that we must provide daily care for our limited bodies. But the way in which we do that, as followers of Jesus, will be distinct.”
What did Jesus Teach About Politics?: “I have studied politics most of my life. And like so many, I have lived and died over the many victories and defeats that come with modern campaigns and legislative battles. But the older I get, the more clear it is to me that the most significant thing I have to say about politics is that Jesus Christ is King. Those are the words that should be burning within us.”
Does Every Sin Cost Me an Eternal Reward?: Q&A with John Piper.
Book Recommendation: This is a sample of quotes from Randy Alcorn’s new book. “Several years ago I decided I wanted to compile the best of the best quotations about Jesus I could locate—both in great books and online (triple-checking for accuracy, which is imperative when using the Internet). The result is It’s All About Jesus: A Treasury of Insights on Our Savior, Lord, and Friend.”