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Appreciation of Truth is Not Application of Truth

February 9, 2012 by Rick Holland

Think about it. Endless translations and editions of the Bible, conferences, blogs, mp3 downloads, live streams, video sermons, books, Christian music, CD’s, podcasts, radio shows, social media, and the weekly classes and sermons we take in…

Never has there been a generation with more access to biblical truth.

But is the church any better for it? Are believer’s more holy, more content, more committed to “grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ” (2 Peter 3:18) because of these accesses?

Here is the challenge that my own heart faces daily. With so much truth available, it is easier to appreciate the truth than apply the truth. It’s too easy to think that if we have appreciated, or just plain liked, a quote, a book, a sermon, a blog post, etc., that we have accomplished the intended effect of that truth. Appreciation and application are two very different things.

Don’t misunderstand. We should have a deep and abiding appreciation and attraction to biblical truth. Saying something like, “I loved that book,” or “I really enjoyed that sermon,” those are good things. Would we really want to say the opposite?

However, what a difference there is in being able to point to measurable and evident changes made in our thinking or behavior because of something we have learned. Appreciation of the truth should lead to application of the truth. Otherwise it is like putting a great Christian classic on the bookshelf for eye candy rather than actually reading it. I once heard a sad anecdote that the definition of a Christian classic is a book that everyone has, but no one has read. This illustrates the point.

So what steps can we take to move from appreciators to appliers? Here are some suggestions.

  1. Write it down. Get a notebook or journal and put into writing your responses to the biblical truth you are accumulating. Write out prayers pleading for the Spirit to apply the truth to your life. When taking notes from a sermon, don’t just write the outline, but note the things that you discern the Holy Spirit doing in your heart in response to the sermon.
  2. Talk about it. This is another way of saying become accountable. Foster relationships in which you can discuss not only the truth you are learning, but also the appropriate responses you should have to those truths.
  3. Review. Because truth is flying at us at light speed, take the time to read through that notebook or journal often to refresh your applications.
  4. Pray. Yeah, you knew that was coming. But I would encourage you to speak to God about the things you are learning. Go over your notes with Him in your prayer time and request specific grace for specific application of His truth.
  5. Slow down. I have found that I get more out of a book read slowly or a blog read repeatedly than trying to keep up with everything that comes out at an almost hourly rate.

Don’t let your mind become a museum for truth.

Posted in Bible | Tagged | 11 Comments »

Reading the Bible in a Month: My Wife’s Experience

January 31, 2012 by Rick Holland

Every believer knows the value of Bible reading. The most popular approach is to read through the Scriptures in a year. It seems reasonable that our eyes should read every verse in God’s Word annually. But if that is valuable, what about reading the whole Bible in a month?

In December my wife, Kim, and I were discussing our Bible reading plans for 2012. I had (and have) ambitions to read it through twice this year. I must admit that I felt pretty good about that plan. But imagine my response when Kim said, “I think I want to try to read the Bible through in January.”

I must admit that I was a bit skeptical, but encouraged her to go for it.

Well, she did it.

As we talked about the things she learned, I thought those lessons to be too valuable to keep to myself. So I asked her to write her thoughts out so I could post them. She was reluctant to do so for fear of drawing attention to herself. However, at my urging, she did put together her response to reading the Bible in a month. Here it is…

It is not in heaven, that you should say, “Who will go up to heaven for us to get it for us and make us hear it, that we may observe it?” Nor is it beyond the sea, that you should say, “Who will cross the sea for us to get it for us and make us hear it, that we may observe it?” But the word is very near you, in your mouth and in your heart, that you may observe it (Dt. 30:12-14).

I’m not really sure what made me want to read the entire Bible in the month of January. I think some of it may have been guilt because it had been a while since I read all of God’s Word. I was also convicted that I am not as familiar with this precious book as I need and want to be. Whatever the reasons, I am so glad I did. It both confirmed my ignorance and whetted my appetite to dive deeper into its riches.

The following are some observations that the Lord showed me as I read:

1.     The unchanging character of God is always in the foreground (His holiness, compassion, faithfulness and grace) and shines against the backdrop of man’s continual failures. His focus on the heart stood out this time as well, especially in the Old Testament amidst all the detailed instructions on conduct.

2.     God’s message, plan, and sovereign orchestration of all events to accomplish this plan are consistent on every page. I am convinced that anyone who says the Bible is inconsistent has not spent much time in it.

3.     My reading included about 8 chapters in each of 5 sections daily (Law, History, Poetry, Prophecy and New Testament). I love seeing the Bible’s commentary on itself as well as themes and events being enhanced in different passages. For example, in Acts Peter is called to evangelize Gentiles and in Psalm 67 we see, “Let the peoples praise You, O God; Let all the peoples praise You… God blesses us, that all the ends of the earth may fear Him.” In the same day I would read of the faithlessness of the kings and people of Israel, of God’s faithfulness to Israel in the Psalms, and from the prophets who were speaking truth into their lives. On another day I read about David’s desire for God to have a dwelling place in Psalm 132 and Solomon’s prayer of dedication for the temple in 2 Chronicles 9.

4.     It wasn’t that hard! Yes it took discipline and a good amount of time each day (1 ½ – 2 hrs), but it was very doable. From this point on, reading through God’s Word 3 or 4 times a year does not seem a bit daunting.

5.     I found myself growing in familiarity – the sense in which I am well acquainted with portions of Scripture because I just read them a few days ago. Several times they came to mind readily when dealing with issues in my own heart or in giving counsel to others. Some of these passages were close friends at one time and I’ve missed them. Others were mere acquaintances, but are pulling at me to get to know them better.

6.     After being so immersed in the unfolding of God’s redemptive plan and His repeated warnings and patience with mankind, the final chapters in Revelation carried new meaning. I was overcome with worship for my Sovereign King and Lamb as well as deep sorrow for those who are perishing.

God has lovingly and graciously made it possible for me to know Him through the sacrifice of His Son and the revelation of Himself in His Word. It is not in heaven or across the sea, but it is right beside me on my nightstand. And I pray that it would be ever nearer in my heart and in my mouth.

Posted in Bible | Tagged , | 14 Comments »

My Thoughts on a Great Worship Album- “We Proclaim” by Ekklesia Music

January 18, 2012 by Rick Holland

I’m a music lover, not a music critic. So when I want to review an album it is because I like it and want others to as well. Such is the case with We Proclaim by Ekklesia Music. It is a production of the music that Joshua Spacht has written and arranged for Grace Immanuel Bible Church in Jupiter, Florida.

This album is a journey. It starts and ends in specific places and is a tour de force of gospel contemplation. Profound theology put into interesting phrasing sung by gifted voices backed by some of the most creative orchestration and arrangements I’ve ever heard… that is the best way I can describe it. The album moves from a defined beginning to a reflective end. I like listening to it from start to finish. You don’t want to “shuffle” the order. If you love the gospel and good music, this record will live in your CD player and be repeated in your iTunes.

Here is what I enjoy about the individual tracks.

1.     In the Beginning

The word “epic” has been overused in recent years, but it is the right word for this track. Wow, just wow! If you want to put John 1:1-5 to music it needs to be big. And this song (actually anthem) is huge. Dramatic strings flow seamlessly with aggressive percussion to create what feels like a soundtrack to the Creation event. The vocals have such a full range of dynamics that the choir’s voices sound like they are floating on a cinematic soundtrack. The drums at 3:33, chased by the strings are awesome. And the closing seconds are the way a piece like this is supposed to end.

2.     A Mighty Fortress

I’m not always a fan of changing the melody of a familiar song. But this one works. The original music is like a march, but this arrangement is more of a celebration. Josh Spacht’s voice is among my favorites. And it really cooks on this track. The new melody makes you think freshly about the words. Got to love the hammer dulcimer too. I think Martin Luther would like this rendition.

3.     Called by Your Name

By the time you get to this song, you wonder if you are listening to the same album. But that is what makes the project so enjoyable. It defies genre assignment. These lyrics are drenched with gospel truth beautifully sung by Kristie and Jerry Wragg (father-in law and daughter-in-law). This song has really tight transitions. Excellent bass and drum rhythm flow. Lots of movement in this tune between full orchestration, breaks with vocals and loops, and parentheses with an acoustic guitar floor. I have heard Jerry sing for years. He is as good as I’ve heard him on this song.

4.     Behold the Lamb

I don’t know where to start on this one. This song is the Everest of the album to me. I have loved this song since the first time I heard it on an old PDI album. Mark Altrogge wrote a classic for my soul in this song. And Josh has taken a simple, sweet ballad and turned it into a symphony worthy of Carnegie Hall. First thing you notice is that it is not in a normal time signature. Josh took a 4/4 song and put it into 7/8 time with minimal change to the melody. Genius! The piano works as a trellis around which a masterpiece grows. Everything about this song works: movie-score strings, intense choir pushes, a crunching phat electric guitar, accenting chimes, Josh’s vocal and Mark’s lyrics make your imagination stare at the cross. My iTunes account tells me that this song is in my top 5. Enough said.

5.     Sweet Sacrifice

Putting this song after Behold the Lamb is perfect. If ever a song were sung perfectly, Meghan Baird does so here. Every time I hear this track, I find that the simplicity of it launches me into the complexity of the hypostatic union (that Jesus is both God and man). And the melody is a soothing application of gospel truth to my heart. Great bass and piano work. Turn the lights down, get a cup of tea, close your eyes and let Meghan take you to the cross. The line, “Darkest hour in all of time as the angels watch you die” gives me chills every time. Beautiful song, deep lyrics, compelling melody.

6.     Of the Father, To the World

It is no secret to anyone that knows me that John Martin is one of my favorite singers. So having his voice weave this complex melody into a simple sound is really cool. This song grows from an acorn to an oak in five and a half minutes. It is a giant crescendo, both lyrically and musically, with a great key change. The chorus/refrain is catchy and will have you humming it for days. I love the break with just John and the choir. Rich theology couched in an invitation to worship.

7.     We Proclaim

Again, excellent strings! And the string and brass combination in the intro lets you know something big is coming. Jessica Fleming (daughter of Jerry Wragg) nails this difficult vocal. There are so many interesting things happening in the background it will take you a lot of trips through it to appreciate them all. The background choral vocals really make this track move. And yes, it has a bit of a Broadway musical ending.

8.     Titus 2:11-13

Scripture put to music, is there a better combination? Two great voices, Josh and Meghan, combine to make this so irresistibly beautiful. I heard this song as a chorus in Josh’s church years ago and instantly wanted the music. He wrote the music to nicely match the meaning of the text of Titus 2:11-13. Dramatic orchestral swells and soft breaks serve to put this text of Scripture securely in your memory. I love this song. It serves kind of like the credits at the end of the movie telling you what to do with what you just heard. This would be a great chorus for your church to sing. [Josh, please put more Scripture to music!]

Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged | 4 Comments »

A Letter to My Son on His 16th Birthday

January 17, 2012 by Rick Holland

[This is a letter I wrote to my son on his 16th birthday. I am posting it with his permission]

Luke,

I love you son.

Today you are turning 16. It seems like yesterday you were taking your first steps and not long after that stretching out your legs to ride your big wheel. Now you’ll be driving a car. Turning 16 means you are taking another step toward manhood. It means that in the eyes of the world you are ready for a new set of responsibilities. And I am so thankful I get to have a front row seat to watch your growth.

There are so many things that impress me about you. The truth is that you are way more mature and far godlier than I was at your age. We both know you can be a knucklehead. We both know that you can drive your brothers, your mother, and me crazy. But one of the things that I love most about you is how sensitive and soft you are about your sin. Your quickness in confessing sin and keeping short accounts is something that will serve you the rest of your life.

David told Solomon, “Be strong, become a man” (1 Kings 2:2). Paul told his brothers at Corinth, “Act like men” (1 Cor 16:13). Becoming a strong and responsible man is what God desires and expects from you. Being a man involves two things: masculinity and maturity. Masculinity means you know how to act like a man instead of a woman. Maturity means you know how to act like a man instead of a boy. Now is the time, now is your time to be a man.

What I want to help you do is the combination of David’s and Paul’s counsel: Become a man and act like one. I’m here to help and look forward to you helping me as I grow as well.

On your 16th birthday, I want to encourage you in 16 ways. I could say a lot more than is on this list. But I could not say less. Here you go…

  1. Keep reading your Bible. Remember that it is a supernatural book revealing the living God and will bear supernatural fruit in your life.
  2. Make sure you pray. This great God has given you access to Him anytime and about anything.
  3. Look for ways to remember the gospel every day. Daily sin should bring daily reminders to enjoy the grace of the cross.
  4. Keep loving your Mom. She is the most important woman in your life. And if you look for a wife with her character, you will be exceedingly blessed.
  5. Recognize your influence. You have many eyes on you. Your brothers, your friends, and your acquaintances look to you in ways you can’t imagine and won’t always recognize.
  6. Be a leader. Find ways in every situation to influence the thinking of others to glorify God.
  7. Treat girls like ladies. The way you are learning to treat girls now is setting patterns for life. Open their doors, give them your seat, offer them your jacket, and never let a girl walk to her car alone in the dark.
  8. Read good books. The world belongs to those who read. Find out what the people your respect are reading and consume those books.
  9. Relax. You don’t have to be “right” about everything. (And, oh yeah, you aren’t.)
  10. Be honest. Sometimes telling the truth is painful. But lying has long lasting, destructive consequences.
  11. Laugh. Life has funny moments, but never as funny as you. Learn to laugh at yourself.
  12. Stay off the couch. Between the TV and video games there is a temptation to waste time you can never regain.
  13. Don’t let technology rule you. Don’t become one of those people who are discouraging to talk to because they can’t go long without looking at their smart phones. Stay in the moment when talking to someone in person.
  14. Be humble. Let others praise you. Few things are more ugly than self-congratulations.
  15. Have fun. This world is full of God-given ways to enjoy yourself. Just do so within the parameters of God’s Word.
  16. Keep talking to your Dad. I treasure the way you confide in me and want my counsel. I’m already needing yours.

Again, you are so far ahead of where I was at your age. The world needs men, men of God. Be that man.

Love, Dad

Posted in Uncategorized | 13 Comments »

If I Were Tim Tebow’s Pastor- Part 2 (A Retrospective)

January 16, 2012 by Rick Holland

When I wrote my post about Tim Tebow last week, I had no idea it would generate the feedback it did. In one sense I’m thankful. It is good when believers can talk about convictions with each other. But I’m also a bit perplexed. It is interesting that the post on Tim was hit so many more times than a post the next day on parenting. That in and of itself is revealing.

I received some comments that were critical of the Tebow piece that included helpful corrections for me. For that I’m grateful. But after a few comments I received through emails, Facebook comments, and Twitter tweets, I want to make a few clarifications and answer a few questions.

First, the title (“If I Were Tim Tebow’s Pastor”) was simply a rhetorical device. The intention was to merely communicate something like, “If I had Tim’s ear.” Yes, the post ended with the comment that I would love to be Tim’s pastor. But that was simply an indication of my affection for him and his testimony. I am not Tebow’s pastor and do not have any criticisms of him (I don’t know who his pastor is). If I had it to do again, I would have framed the post in the perspective of a Christian brother to another Christian brother. If I have offended Tim’s pastor in any way, let me publicly seek his forgiveness.

Second, several people had questions about the nature of a public critique of Tebow without a private confrontation of him. I understand the concern. But I also want to be fair about this. Last year I wrote a book entitled Uneclipsing the Son. Among the positive feedback I also received some negative and critical evaluations. All of these criticisms were on blogs and very public. In fact, I don’t remember ever getting a negative critique of the book through private correspondence. But I’m okay with that. I think if you are public about something that public criticism and debate are appropriate. Furthermore, I do not think that Tim is in sin, so my comments were not intended to be a confrontation.

Third, I am thankful for Tim Tebow’s boldness and witness for our Savior. I hope I was clear enough about this but let me say again that he is a great role model to whom I point my three sons. But just like I wish he would shorten his release when he passes, I wish he would clarify his gospel comments when he speaks. Both of those wishes are for him to be better. I know he has accurate and clear thinking on the gospel. I’ve heard this in extended interviews. I’m not a Denver Broncos fan but when Tim talks about Christ, I am a major Tebow fan. Is there anything wrong with wanting him to improve that witness?

Last, concern was expressed that I am being nit-picky about the theology expressed by Tim’s dropping to a knee to pray after a score. I have every confidence that Tim’s intentions are God-honoring and sincere. I just think it unintentionally communicates that God is in the business of assisting Christians to win football games. Does He? Well, yes and no. Owen Strachan’s answers this question very well in an excellent post in The Atlantic. It’s a great read. And make no mistake; Tim’s comments after the loss to New England were outstanding in his efforts to honor God. Nathan Busenitz’s second post on Tebow does a great job highlighting this.

Thank you to so many who responded to the Tebow post. My thinking as been sharpened by those interactions.

Posted in Tim Tebow | 22 Comments »

Parenting 101: You Can’t Bad-Attitude Someone into a Good Attitude

January 13, 2012 by Rick Holland

The implications and influence of our attitudes towards others cannot be overstated. Our tone is usually louder than our message. And tone is more quickly interpreted than words. I’m finding out the hard way that this is the linchpin of parenting.

Having teenage sons in our home creates an interesting environment. Messes happen, chores are neglected, arguments develop, things are lost, procrastination reigns. No, it’s not all negative, but it can get frustrating. But my frustration is not so much that my boys will be boys, but with my response and shepherding of them. Here is the all too easy pattern into which I can fall.

Something happens with one (or more) of my sons that needs correction; they sin. This sin comes to my attention and I feel the reflex of anger in my heart. Then comes a list of questions racing each other in my mind towards my tongue. “What were you thinking?” “What do you think you’re doing?” “Are you kidding me?” “How dare you?” “You were only thinking about yourself, weren’t you?” The list could go on…

Yes, my sons need constant correction. But so does their Dad. But how should that correction be framed? How important is the attitude behind the correction?

If you are a parent who longs to see your children walk with God or a someone who wants to influence your friends and family, there is a helpful pattern for us to follow in Romans 2:4. Paul writes:

Or do you think lightly of the riches of His kindness and tolerance and patience, not knowing that the kindness of God leads you to repentance?

The second chapter of Romans begins with a confrontation regarding being more ready to judge others, including God, before oneself. In verse 4 Paul asks if judgmental spirit has cloaked our understanding of and experience with the gospel. God has demonstrated kindness, tolerance, and patience toward us. And here in the second part of the verse we meet a remarkable principle.

It is the kindness of God that leads us to repentance. Notice that it is God’s attitude, His disposition, which motivates us to change. God motivates us with kindness.

Think of the implications of imitating this attribute of God as we parent our children and try to influence others. Another way to say it is, “You can’t bad-attitude someone into a good attitude.”

When is that last time someone confronted you in anger and your immediate response was something like, “Oh thank you, I am so motivated now to do better and try harder.” Correction packaged in a bad attitude is not motivating, stimulating, or helpful.

If it’s the kindness of God that leads us to repentance, we would do well to encourage repentance in others the same way. But that will only happen when our thinking is flooded with thoughts of God’s kindness, tolerance, and patience toward us in the gospel.

If you are looking for a verse to memorize that will have immediate application in your relationships, my suggestion is Romans 2:4. Once again…

Or do you think lightly of the riches of His kindness and tolerance and patience, not knowing that the kindness of God leads you to repentance?

Posted in Uncategorized | 26 Comments »

If I Were Tim Tebow’s Pastor

January 12, 2012 by Rick Holland

Much has been said about Tim Tebow. And you can count on a lot more. My favorite so far is the post by Nathan Busenitz. But I want to add a few pastoral thoughts to the conversation.

I don’t know where Tim goes to church. So obviously I don’t know who his pastor is nor do I have particular encouragements or criticisms about the nature of how his soul is being shepherded. However, I am a pastor (and a father) who has been asked over and over what I think about Tim Tebow.

I like Tim Tebow. And that is no small thing since he led victories against my beloved Tennessee Volunteers as the Florida Gators quarterback.

I like his positive image. I like his humility. I like his football ability. I like his toughness. I like his 4th quarter comebacks. And I love that is he is unashamed of his Savior, Jesus Christ.

But if I were his pastor, I would offer him some counsel that might seem a bit contrarian.

First, I would discourage Tim from “Tebowing” (dropping to a knee in obvious prayer) after a positive play unless he was doing the same after he had been sacked or intercepted. I don’t have any problem with him praying after good plays, but the theology communicated by doing so publically at that time is just misguided. What should be concluded if Tim throws a touchdown pass against a Christian cornerback or safety? Is God not helping them? And should they Tebow (now a verb) in their success over Tebow? What about the Christian defensive back who intercepts him or the believing defensive end who drops him with a crushing tackle? Couldn’t they be justified to drop to a knee and pray with thanksgiving? Would it be right for a Christian defensive player to be caught on camera Tebowing after causing Tebow to fail?

We are commanded to give thanks for all things (Eph 5:20; Col 3:17). But giving demonstrable thanks to God for first downs and touchdowns has the unintended consequence of a prosperity theology where God’s blessing is success.

Second, I would encourage Tim to change his rhetoric. Instead of repeating the mantra that “I want to thank my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ” (which usually goes unexplained), I would love to hear something like “I’m thankful that God has given me the ability to play football, but I’m more grateful He has saved me from His judgment through the gospel of Jesus Christ.” The difference is subtle, but important. I’m glad Tim names the name of Jesus. When he does so, however, talking about why he is thankful would be clarifying. Jesus is to be praised for securing souls, not scoring touchdowns.

Third, I would ask Tim to consider the implications of his theology. In a recent discussion with one of my sons about Tebowmania, he asked me a great question. “Dad, do you think God is a Broncos fan now that Tebow is their quarterback?” Again, to which team does God provide assistance when both have faithful Christian players? I know Tim wants to be faithful witness for Christ. And his boldness is admirable and convicting. But how much better would that testimony for the Lord be if he added biblical clarity and accuracy to his testimony.

Let me say again, I really like Tim Tebow. He is the kind of role model I want my sons to live like. Because of that I pray he becomes the kind of theologian I want them to think like.

And for the record, I would love to be Tim Tebow’s pastor…

Posted in Tim Tebow | 71 Comments »

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