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​Introduction

In this thought leadership article, we will delve into the topic of cessationism, a theological position that asserts that the miraculous and revelatory gifts of the Holy Spirit, such as tongues and prophecy, ceased with the end of the apostolic era. We will explore the main arguments and biblical evidence put forth by cessationists, as well as address some common misconceptions about this position. Through a detailed analysis of the transcript from a podcast featuring Robert Rothwell, a writer for Table Talk magazine and an associate editor for Ligonier Ministries, we will gain a deeper understanding of the theological significance of cessationism and its implications for the Christian faith.

There is another matter to ponder in this debate: many people want God to talk like a lover, a physical lover, personally, privately, with whispers. I wish I did not have to write that last sentence. Of course, Jesus is the lover of our souls. Of course, Jesus loves us with an everlasting love. Of course, God’s love for us will never cease. But Jesus talks to both men and women in the same fashion. Re-read that last sentence. This is obvious because both men and women have the same 66 books of the Bible. If, however, you think that revelation still comes fast and furiously, you must have a reason. My hunch is that many ladies want a lover-Jesus to “talk to them.”
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Let us approach this from a different angle. Today’s charismatic has divorced the work of the Holy Spirit from the Word of God. They teach, essentially, that the Holy Spirit “talks” to them outside of and divorced from Scripture. Do not buy this “white lie.”
The Spirit And The Word
R. B. Kuiper’s words are not only biblical and wise, they are also pungent. R. B. would have been a perfect radio guest with this provocative section of writing:

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Sadly, married couples resort to many tactics when they argue and spar verbally but on occasion I have heard that they can resort to giving each other “the silent treatment.” Instead of talking through the issues and communicating properly, they simply do not talk. The silence in this case is truly deafening.


After the fall of Adam, God could have given sinful and rebellious humans the “silent treatment,” but thankfully, because he is good and gracious, he did not. God  speaks to his sinful creatures.


By contrast, though false idols have weight, form and mass, they are as mute as a piece of lava rock or cold marble. Silence is their mode of existence. Man-made idols, since they are nothing, can offer nothing but silence. As humans, however, we want to hear from God. “God, speak to us” should be every image bearer’s desire. Every thinking person, given one wish from God, should request, “God, please speak to me so that I can know how to be right in your sight.”


Thankfully, God tells us what He thinks and how we are to think. To modify Francis Schaeffer’s 1972 book title, God is there and he is not silent. Though God silently teaches us about his power and wisdom through his creation (natural revelation), there are many things that the sun, moon, and stars cannot communicate. God must speak specially, supernaturally so that we might understand things like Christ’s life, death, resurrection, and soon return. We need a speaking God to know how to worship properly and grasp what God requires as a response to his work. We must have a “Thus says the LORD” God.

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Christ-Centered Preaching: Unveiling the Beauty of Jesus
Introduction
In the world of preaching, there is a term that has gained popularity in recent years: Christ-centered preaching. But what does it really mean to preach Christ-centered sermons? Is it simply mentioning the name of Jesus or talking about the gospel? In this article, we will explore the concept of Christ-centered preaching and its significance in shaping the minds and hearts of believers. We will delve into the key themes discussed in a podcast episode featuring Christopher Gordon, a pastor at Escondido United Reform Church, who sheds light on the essence of Christ-centered preaching.


The Aim of Christ-Centered Preaching
At the heart of Christ-centered preaching is the recognition that the Bible presents one overarching theme: the person and work of Jesus Christ. It goes beyond simply mentioning Jesus' name or using the word "gospel" in a sermon. As Christopher Gordon explains, "Christ-centered preaching aims to exposit the text without dealing with what that particular text is in its indicative or imperative, law or gospel. But it has an aim at showing the excellencies and the beauties of Jesus Christ since he is the unifying theme of Scripture."


Distinguishing Christ-Centered Preaching
Not all preaching can be considered Christ-centered preaching. It is important to understand the distinction between preaching that focuses on Christ and preaching that is centered on Christ. As Gordon points out, "Just to say the name of Jesus, as important as that name is, that doesn't necessarily constitute Christ-centered preaching." Christ-centered preaching goes beyond surface-level mentions of Jesus and delves into the depths of Scripture to reveal the redemptive work of Christ.


Discerning Christ-Centered Preaching
For those seeking a church or evaluating sermons, it is crucial to discern whether the preaching is truly Christ-centered. One key aspect to consider is the pastor's aim or goal in preaching. Is the pastor aiming to refresh people in the wonderful Gospel? Is the pastor pointing people to the person and work of Christ as the ultimate remedy for sin and the source of salvation? Christ-centered preaching should consistently present the good news of Jesus Christ and remind believers of their need for His grace and righteousness.


The Law and Gospel Distinction
A fundamental aspect of Christ-centered preaching is the understanding and application of the law and gospel distinction. The law reveals the exceeding sinfulness of sin and demonstrates the need for a Savior, while the gospel proclaims the good news of Jesus Christ's fulfillment of the law and His provision for salvation. Gordon emphasizes the importance of this distinction, stating, "Law gospel is taught everywhere in Scripture that the law comes to us and tells us what we must do and the gospel tells us what has been done."


The Role of Expository Preaching
Expository preaching, when done correctly, can be a powerful tool for Christ-centered preaching. However, it is essential to approach expository preaching with the right mindset and methodology. Gordon cautions against a verse-by-verse approach that fails to consider the overarching point and intention of the author. He suggests looking at the problem the author is solving, the larger context of the book, and the overarching meta-narrative of Scripture to properly understand and preach Christ-centered sermons.


The Tone of Christ-Centered Preaching
The tone of Christ-centered preaching plays a significant role in effectively communicating the message of the Gospel. While there may be moments of strong conviction and confrontation, the overall tone should reflect the graciousness and compassion of Christ. Gordon highlights the importance of demonstrating the appropriate expression that belongs to the message being preached. He states, "In this good news that's being preached to us, God is for us. He's not angrily yelling at us."


Resources for Pastors
For pastors seeking to improve their Christ-centered preaching, there are several valuable resources available. One suggestion is to find a mentor who exhibits the qualities and approach desired in Christ-centered preaching. Learning from experienced pastors who have a deep love for the Scriptures and a gracious teaching style can be immensely beneficial. Additionally, there are books on preaching that provide practical guidance and insights. Some recommended titles include Dabney's "Evangelical Eloquence" and Lloyd Jones's "Preachers and Preaching."


Conclusion and Future Outlook
Christ-centered preaching is not a mere buzzword or a formulaic approach to sermons. It is a call to faithfully proclaim the person and work of Jesus Christ as the central theme of Scripture. By understanding the law and gospel distinction, employing expository preaching methods, and adopting a gracious tone, pastors can effectively communicate the transformative power of the Gospel. As believers continue to hear Christ-centered preaching, they are reminded of their need for Christ's righteousness and are encouraged to live in light of His grace.

​This article may have been AI generated -- if you have a problem with it, just voice your complaint to "Alice" in the hearing of any internet-connected device -- she will hear you.  

​Typology is a term that may sound unfamiliar to many people, but it is an essential concept for understanding the Bible and its message. In simple terms, typology refers to the way in which patterns, events, and characters in the Old Testament are fulfilled in the New Testament. It is a way of reading the Bible that sees the whole story as one unified narrative, with each part pointing towards the ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ.
In this article, we will explore the main themes of typology and its practical implications for biblical interpretation. We will draw on the insights of Mitchell Chase, author of "40 Questions on Typology and Allegory", who has extensive experience in teaching and writing on this subject.

Yes and yes. No, it’s not in the Scofield Reference or Ryrie Study Bibles. It seems that some of our dispensational friends have yet to read the memo. See this example sent to me a by a friend. This writer, whom I do not know, claims that folk such as we talk about the apostolic hermeneutic and claim to be able to replicate it but never say what it is.
One throws up one’s hands in amazement and wonder.
It’s isn’t that complicated. Pay close attention here:
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