The Puritan Way

In my study of the Puritans, I have learned that stereotyping is satans way of keeping us from goodness. The Puritans, as a lot, have been far too criticized and looked over as antiquated and backwards. I am learning to look at these our spiritual fathers in a whole "new light" (no pun intended Daniel and Shubal). Consider the following:

1. Puritans had a much better sense of humor than you might expect.
2. They didn't go around lifeless, dull, and dispassionate (in fact it was quite the opposite was true.)
3. They knew what it meant to make churches out of their families with Dad's serving as pastors.
4. They were intent on authentic worship and discipleship.
5. They believed in social action and reached into the community to help all in need.

If you have a hard time believing this, I urge you to surf over to itunes and look for the itunes U section. There you will find a series of wonderful lectures by Dr. J.I. Packer on all aspects of Puritan ideology, philosophy, and practical pursuits. The best part of all is that these podcasts are 100% free. Take advantage of this glimpse into the real life of Puritanism. What you find might just surprise you.

Click on this link to go to the Packer podcast lectures.

Reformed Theology : The New Fad?

A conference was held this week in a quiet little retreat center nestled among the Blue Ridge mountains. The topic of discussion was Reformed Theology. Specifically, what role Calvinism has played in the history of the Southern Baptist Convention and what role should it play in years to come. The conference was called, "Building Bridges" and was led by many well known pastors and convention leaders including, Dr Danny Akin, Dr. Al Mohler, Dr. Tom Ascol, Dr. Tom Nettles, Dr. David Nelson, Thom Ranier, David Dockery, Ed Stetzer, J.D. Greear, and others. Now that the dust has settled there are some specific things, according to reports, that we can definitely take away from this "meeting of the minds".


1. The Doctrines of Grace (Calvinism) have played a prominent role in the development of Southern Baptist Convention.

2. That the convention contains members who vary greatly on their views of the Doctrines of Grace. And that is okay!

3. That the trend for younger theologians and pastors in the convention is in support of the Doctrines of Grace.

4. That holding firmly to the Doctrines of Grace does not kill evangelistic fervor but in many cases has the opposite effect.

5. That the Doctrines of Grace are not a cause for concern or will be the death knell for the SBC.

6. Regardless of your position on the Doctrines of Grace that SBC churches need to do a better job of confronting the culture and evangelizing its communities.

To get more in-depth coverage of the conference click on the following links:

Calvinism On The Rise In Southern Baptist Life - Christian Post

Calvinism Examined In Its Baptist Context - Baptist Press