tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8546760561579466752012-01-31T11:11:59.201-05:00The reflections of a PCA pastor in the upper midwest.Dave Sarafoleanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16722550481632741589noreply@blogger.comBlogger5091100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-854676056157946675.post-903972418753082012012-01-31T06:42:00.003-05:002012-01-31T11:06:50.786-05:00

byFaith Magazine has announced that the time is now to vote to select a topic for "civil conversation" at General Assembly.   Question:  What makes "civil conversation"? Answer:  The PCA 2010 Strategic Plan called for "public forums at General Assembly to test new ideas without vote, offering charitable judgments among elders in the fellowship of ministry." To vote go here to select from a

Dave Sarafoleanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16722550481632741589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-854676056157946675.post-77621876274141908842012-01-30T13:09:00.000-05:002012-01-30T13:09:00.235-05:00

Over the weekend I listened to a fascinating interview about planting confessionally reformed churches.  The interview featured two OPC pastors planting churches in very different parts of our country.  The Rev. Brad Herzog, is planting an OPC church in Queens, New York.  The Rev. Mark Winder is planting a church in Collierville, Tennessee which is near Memphis. What is particularly striking is

Dave Sarafoleanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16722550481632741589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-854676056157946675.post-50092619621659126512012-01-20T15:15:00.019-05:002012-01-20T15:15:00.135-05:00

Debates continue about what it means to be Calvinistic or what it means to be reformed in one's theology.  I once heard someone say that he "was a Five Point Calvinist" but that "he dropped two of the five points depending on whom he was talking."  His comment drew lots of laughs but it is pretty obvious that he wasn't Calvinistic or reformed at all. I don't wish to bash anyone over the head

Dave Sarafoleanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16722550481632741589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-854676056157946675.post-16257234796749186982012-01-19T13:29:00.024-05:002012-01-19T13:29:00.370-05:00

On Saturday January 14, 2012 the Great Lakes Presbytery convened for its stated winter meeting. One of the items on the agenda was an overture to amend Rules of Assembly Operation 8-3 concerning the Theological Examining Committee. In recent years our denomination has required all presbyteries to carefully record in their minutes any exceptions to our confessional standards or Book of Church

Dave Sarafoleanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16722550481632741589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-854676056157946675.post-2490306472983985702012-01-18T08:58:00.047-05:002012-01-18T08:58:00.944-05:00

A few days ago I began hearing about a video sweeping the internet condemning religion.  Kevin DeYoung, of University Reformed Church in Lansing, Michigan commented on it here and here.  His initial response was right on and the follow-up post indicates constructive engagement with the person who created the video.  This is a good example of people working through their differences. Someone

Dave Sarafoleanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16722550481632741589noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-854676056157946675.post-84046661700404403792012-01-16T16:11:00.003-05:002012-01-16T16:17:07.680-05:00

As noted in this blog post, and again here attempt was made at last summer's General Assembly, to amend this portion of our Rules of Assembly Operation. Though the motion that I put forth received a majority of votes it fell short of the required 2/3s majority to change our bylaws. The next day the moderator of the assembly, RE Dan Carroll, encouraged me to work on the language and bring this

Dave Sarafoleanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16722550481632741589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-854676056157946675.post-72146663084958908122012-01-06T17:00:00.000-05:002012-01-06T17:00:37.753-05:00

Trying to memorize a chart like this is a little mind-boggling.  I remember as a new believer debating such things with other new believers.  In the end I pretty much concluded that there were more important things to study. On his blog, Dr. Kim Riddlebarger, has posted a helpful tool for understanding the Bible and eschatology (end time theology).  It is much simpler and concise than the chart

Dave Sarafoleanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16722550481632741589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-854676056157946675.post-17720454730542832582011-12-27T08:53:00.033-05:002011-12-27T08:54:40.317-05:00

Ligonier Ministries has done us a great favor by posting several tools to help believers read through the Scriptures in the coming year.  Some plans have morning and evening readings.  Others have 5 day schedules (presumably weekends are for catching up).  Others feature a 'chronological' reading of the the Scriptures.  Of course this requires some judgment calls since the Scriptures are not

Dave Sarafoleanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16722550481632741589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-854676056157946675.post-37116633346121036012011-12-26T08:08:00.000-05:002011-12-26T08:08:44.574-05:00

Over at Johanes Weslianus, blogger Wes White, has posted a fantastic piece about Christ.  It was written in the 4th century by Gregory Nazianzus.  Click here to read this meditation.  

Dave Sarafoleanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16722550481632741589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-854676056157946675.post-57936132184997824632011-12-09T06:00:00.004-05:002011-12-09T06:00:10.961-05:00

 

Dave Sarafoleanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16722550481632741589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-854676056157946675.post-87309089054809675222011-12-02T14:45:00.003-05:002011-12-02T20:26:07.174-05:00

I guess this photo and song title captures what happens when Federal Vision theology isn't adequately dealt with by the courts of the PCA.  Last fall Siouxlands Presbytery voted not to find TE Greg Lawrence guilty of teaching theological views that were in conflict with the Westminster Confession of Faith (click here for a good summary).  A complaint has been filed and this issue will be

Dave Sarafoleanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16722550481632741589noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-854676056157946675.post-53025488284865034302011-12-01T14:27:00.000-05:002011-12-01T14:27:15.627-05:00

The Aquila Report has posted a good summary of the situation facing Teaching Elder Jeff Meyers (here).  As one of those who signed the original letter of concern (referred to as LOC) about Rev. Meyers' theological views, I feel partially vindicated by the latest statement from the PCA Standing Judicial Commission.  In short, the SJC panel has found that Missouri Presbytery failed to act in this

Dave Sarafoleanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16722550481632741589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-854676056157946675.post-12607374309303257052011-11-09T10:07:00.000-05:002011-11-09T10:07:00.053-05:00

A day or two ago PCA pastor Jason Stellman announced on his blog that he was finished pursuing the case against Peter Leithart for teachings not consistent with the Westminster Confession of Faith.  I have tremendous respect, admiration, and affection for Jason - he has worked extremely hard on this matter facing incredible odds.  In his own words he writes... "Simply and honestly put, my

Dave Sarafoleanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16722550481632741589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-854676056157946675.post-29014796091137240002011-11-04T09:46:00.001-04:002011-11-04T09:46:56.957-04:00

Dr. Carl Trueman has a helpful piece about the Protestant Reformation and one of its most important aspects.  Drawing from Luther's Heidelberg Disputation Trueman compares and contrasts the theology of glory to the theology of the cross.  One of the things that is so striking about the current revival of interest in Reformation theology, broadly conceived, is the absence of perhaps the most

Dave Sarafoleanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16722550481632741589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-854676056157946675.post-88430740258895348312011-11-02T10:45:00.000-04:002011-11-02T10:45:00.654-04:00

A new resource for children.

Dave Sarafoleanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16722550481632741589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-854676056157946675.post-51402986005886916732011-10-31T19:59:00.000-04:002011-10-31T19:59:53.462-04:00

I came across this thoughtful piece and thought it was worth sharing.  Not long ago I talked to someone who would never do this to her daughter.  Seems a little over-protective to me.  Enjoy! ______________________________________________________________________ October 31, 2011 It's a Funeral--Bring the Kids Posted by Megan Last week, my five-year-old son spent a week in Connecticut with

Dave Sarafoleanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16722550481632741589noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-854676056157946675.post-55757468720370695142011-10-27T16:51:00.000-04:002011-10-27T16:51:00.173-04:00

Dave Sarafoleanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16722550481632741589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-854676056157946675.post-16083909167656994332011-10-14T08:24:00.001-04:002011-10-14T08:37:31.098-04:00

As a follow-up to an earlier post, I'm linking to another article by William B. Evans on interpreting Genesis 1 & 2 found at Reformation21, the blog of the Alliance of Confessing Evangelicals.  Since he has argued for an interpretation of those chapters that allows other views than 'six literal days' he has been accused of opening the door to all sorts of aberrant theology.  I won't try to

Dave Sarafoleanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16722550481632741589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-854676056157946675.post-58625960939847210462011-10-07T13:13:00.002-04:002011-10-07T13:19:09.052-04:00

Jason Stellman has reported a few minutes ago that Pacific Northwest Presbytery has voted to find Peter Leithart not guilty that he teaches contrary to the Westminster Confession of Faith.  He served as the prosecutor of this case.  His summary can be found here: Lane Keister who served as assistant prosecutor in the Steve Wilkins case and who testified at this trial has posted his thoughts here

Dave Sarafoleanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16722550481632741589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-854676056157946675.post-87028041920764262932011-10-03T12:10:00.002-04:002011-10-07T12:37:26.888-04:00

Over at the The White Horse Inn Dr. Mike Horton weighs in on the multi-site church model that is now sweeping across the land.  Unfamiliar term?  Well consider this thumbnail sketch: well-known pastor of a mega-church wants to expand his ministry.  Through the 'miracle' of technology he can do that without leaving his own congregation.  Through a satellite uplink he can broadcast himself and

Dave Sarafoleanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16722550481632741589noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-854676056157946675.post-57834475834811519372011-09-30T06:00:00.020-04:002011-09-30T06:00:07.073-04:00

This is one of the funniest commercials that's come along in a long time.  So true to life!

Dave Sarafoleanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16722550481632741589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-854676056157946675.post-72204706957201154092011-09-28T10:40:00.000-04:002011-09-28T10:40:00.844-04:00

Watch the full episode. See more POV. Last evening I watched a fascinating program on PBS entitled The Last Train Home.  It is the story of a Chinese family who are migrant workers in their own country.  They chose to leave their small, rural community to find work in a larger city.  This is not unusual for there are at least 130 million Chinese residents who do the same.  The story

Dave Sarafoleanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16722550481632741589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-854676056157946675.post-66207728177958447152011-09-27T17:07:00.009-04:002011-09-27T17:07:00.286-04:00

A few days ago I read something by the esteemed theologian and pastor, G.I. Williamson, that both surprised and disappointed me.  His comment was made concerning the interpretation of the first two chapters of Genesis.  "The word ‘perspicuous’ here means clear—clear enough for you and I to understand it." In short, according to Williamson, there is only correct interpretation of Genesis 1 & 2

Dave Sarafoleanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16722550481632741589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-854676056157946675.post-23771652795257701332011-09-22T20:29:00.001-04:002011-09-22T20:29:00.828-04:00

Warning: the following story is not for the faint of heart.  A few days ago I read a story about a former abortion clinic worker who has also had an abortion.  She has left that line of work and is now a pro-life activist.  She recounts in vivid detail some of the morbid and macabre gallows humor among the staff of that clinic.  I'm not a particularly squeamish person though the 'humor'

Dave Sarafoleanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16722550481632741589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-854676056157946675.post-59626691392608773332011-09-21T09:50:00.002-04:002011-09-21T09:53:49.207-04:00

Recently I read a thoughtful piece penned by OPC historian, Dr. John R. Meuther. In it he raises the question about who is best qualified to narrate the history of the OPC – Those who have left the denomination or those who remain in it? The article begins by discussing three well-known figures who were once in the OPC but have left - George Marsden, Mark Noll, and John Frame. Of these

Dave Sarafoleanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16722550481632741589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-854676056157946675.post-80265023747944922142011-09-13T10:59:00.002-04:002011-09-13T11:00:30.044-04:00

From his sermon, The Throne of Grace "The throne of grace" (Hebrews 4:16) "These words are found embedded in that precious verse, 'Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, what we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need' and are a gem in a golden setting. True prayer is an approach of the soul by the Spirit of God to the throne of God. It is not the utterance

Dave Sarafoleanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16722550481632741589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-854676056157946675.post-27218318240016426702011-08-29T11:59:00.002-04:002011-08-29T15:22:05.645-04:00

A few days ago I read a refreshing article by Southern Baptist Theologian, Russell D. Moore.  The article concerned the proper observation of the Lord's Supper.  Here is an excerpt:    A man walked out of my church in protest. I didn’t notice it as it was happening, but he told me about it, in a note, a few weeks later. He was angered that he had been excluded. At first, I feared that maybe

Dave Sarafoleanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16722550481632741589noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-854676056157946675.post-91162550480030866482011-08-26T06:20:00.003-04:002011-08-26T14:38:16.788-04:00

OWENSBORO, Ky. — A small group from Rolling Hills Christian Church arrived at a place of unprecedented honesty with each other last Tuesday when they discovered that nobody in the group actually liked anyone else.     "We all realized, ‘You know what? I don’t care for any of you, and I find your kids annoying,’" says one man who was present.     The moment of openness came while they

Dave Sarafoleanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16722550481632741589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-854676056157946675.post-38265531904672219762011-08-25T16:00:00.001-04:002011-08-25T17:02:37.454-04:00

Fellow PCA minister Eric Landry, wrote a thoughtful piece about the recent Willow Creek Leadership Summit.  For those who do not know, this is an annual event hosted by Willow Creek Church in suburban Chicago, designed to spark enthusiasm and entreprenurialism among the evangelical church.  The pastor of Willow Creek is Bill Hybels.  Landry attended the event as the guest of a friend.  Landry

Dave Sarafoleanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16722550481632741589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-854676056157946675.post-3977316309650693652011-08-24T16:15:00.000-04:002011-08-24T16:16:52.677-04:00

A friend sent me a note reminding me of an important date in Protestant history, August 24, 1572.  That day marked the beginning of a massive persecution in France directed toward the Protestant Church which was mostly of the reformed faith (Huguenots).  History.com provides a helpful summary of the persecution.  Roman Catholics also have their own account. Surprisingly, Wikipedia, provides

Dave Sarafoleanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16722550481632741589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-854676056157946675.post-83792311241387842522011-08-23T11:14:00.000-04:002011-08-23T11:14:00.402-04:00

A local news story flashed on my computer screen as I was surfing the web the other day. The last fews words of the title caught my eye: "The pastor whose penned 175 hymns." I clicked on the link and read about a faithful, confessional pastor who serves a small church not far from where I live.   I have not met him but know his brother-in-law who is also an LCMS minister.   Here is a story of a

Dave Sarafoleanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16722550481632741589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-854676056157946675.post-59228864010966475302011-08-18T11:49:00.001-04:002011-08-18T21:19:03.819-04:00

There was a time, quite a few years ago , when I read Leadership Journal.  Every so often I read their blog just to see what's up in the world of broad evangelicalism.  Today an article was posted by Emerging Church guru, Shain Claiborne, entitled Jesus, Bombs, & Ice Cream.  In it he explains a cooperative effort he has set up with Ben Cohen, co-founder of Ben & Jerry's Ice Cream to put in a

Dave Sarafoleanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16722550481632741589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-854676056157946675.post-18129082964081257192011-08-17T21:43:00.000-04:002011-08-17T21:43:02.464-04:00

Over at the Gospel Coalition I found a helpful article by D.A. Carson on conflict in ministry that arises between different generations.  Here is a snippet: About five years after the Berlin wall came down and the communist regimes of Central and Eastern Europe had mostly fallen or been transmuted into something rather different, I had the privilege of speaking at a conference for pastors in

Dave Sarafoleanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16722550481632741589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-854676056157946675.post-22896942418989927712011-08-03T16:24:00.000-04:002011-08-03T16:24:00.158-04:00

David Millener, a professor at Wheaton College, has posted his 9.5 Theses on the Emerging Church.  I found them pretty witty and insightful.  Here is a sample:                                                                          1. I'll say it again: He who marries the spirit of the age will soon become a widower. Do those who married postmodernity realize their spouse is in a nursing home

Dave Sarafoleanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16722550481632741589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-854676056157946675.post-9336255379333027332011-08-01T17:34:00.000-04:002011-08-01T17:34:00.201-04:00

Dr. David Murray of Puritan Reformed Theological Seminary has written a helpful post on a topic not often addressed in pastoral ministry. No, I'm not looking to resign nor am I looking for a call. But I've been around long enough to counsel more than a few friends who've grappled with this concern. Murray's article summarizes some material he's prepared for upcoming lectures. Following that

Dave Sarafoleanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16722550481632741589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-854676056157946675.post-65682524440163324782011-07-15T18:23:00.002-04:002011-07-15T18:23:25.178-04:00

Posts will be sparse for the next few days.  I'll write more when I get the chance.

Dave Sarafoleanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16722550481632741589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-854676056157946675.post-9199179886431973822011-07-14T10:34:00.020-04:002011-07-17T07:07:02.589-04:00

Recently a friend and I were talking about church (the virtues and beauty of Word and Sacrament ministry) when he stopped mid-sentence.  He asked if I had received an email announcing a new PCA church-plant that was trying to attract people by offering free drinks and cigars.  I said, "You've got to be kidding."  He said, "Not at all" and forwarded me the email.  I opened it and couldn't believe

Dave Sarafoleanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16722550481632741589noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-854676056157946675.post-31015169032330528362011-07-07T12:55:00.007-04:002011-07-07T15:55:51.607-04:00

Recently our Stated Clerk published his annual report available here.  Among other things the following figures were reported:  "Total membership and the number of churches increased... * Churches and missions: 1,757, an increase of 17. * Total membership: 346,814, an increase of 414. There has been only one year in which there was a reported decrease in PCA membership (2008, when one

Dave Sarafoleanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16722550481632741589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-854676056157946675.post-63469008511426864642011-06-29T16:07:00.000-04:002011-06-29T16:07:00.656-04:00

William H. Smith has a helpful piece that explains some of the tensions we feel in the PCA.  Here is his working hypothesis:  "The PCA is a majority New Side/New School Presbyterian Church, with a substantial minority that is either New Side/Old School or Old Side/Old School." I realize that the terms New Side/Old Side and New School/Old School don't make much sense to outsiders but they are

Dave Sarafoleanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16722550481632741589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-854676056157946675.post-83203676372790738712011-06-29T11:39:00.001-04:002011-06-29T11:39:01.024-04:00

I've been following the online discussion between Gene Edward Veith and Ben Witherington moderated by Trevin Wax.  Veith is a Missouri Synod Lutheran: Witherington hails from the Methodist/Wesleyan tradition.   Veith wrote the book, God at Work.  Witherington interacted with that title in his work, Work, A Kingdom Perspective on Labor.  The online exchange was broken up into three separate

Dave Sarafoleanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16722550481632741589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-854676056157946675.post-14725358056574981302011-06-28T16:50:00.000-04:002011-06-28T16:50:00.282-04:00

Chandler, Horton, and Keller on the Church in Culture from The Gospel Coalition on Vimeo. Over the last year or two much has been written about the Church and its role in Culture.  On one side are those who claim that the church is called to change and transform culture.  On the other side are those who state that the church is called to the Great Commission (making disciples) which is rooted

Dave Sarafoleanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16722550481632741589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-854676056157946675.post-18644981647060227812011-06-27T11:59:00.002-04:002011-06-28T11:22:59.822-04:00

Fellow PCA minister William H. Smith, (who, incidentally, examined me for ordination in Pittsburgh Presbytery) has written a thoughtful piece about mercy ministry. In our denomination mercy ministry is more than a fad - it has become fashionable, yeah essential to many. Smith argues that many view it as a fourth mark of the church along with preaching of the Gospel, right administration of the

Dave Sarafoleanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16722550481632741589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-854676056157946675.post-28879674362627117692011-06-24T10:41:00.000-04:002011-06-24T10:41:55.014-04:00

Darryl Hart has written a thoughtful piece commemorating the 75th anniversary of the Orthodox Presbyterian Church.  Here is a snippet If Google is a reliable search engine, the anniversary of the Orthodox Presbyterian Church on June 11 passed without any mention by the press. The reasons are not hard to fathom. The OPC is small, and it lacks a celebrity. In an era when megachurches rival Walmart

Dave Sarafoleanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16722550481632741589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-854676056157946675.post-15343729131080535912011-06-21T09:04:00.000-04:002011-06-21T09:04:36.878-04:00

On Father's Day we learned of the loss of a close family friend.  Leroy Housley had my dad's best friend since the 9th grade.  He died suddenly on Sunday.  His wife Mary Lee was very close to my mother as well.  She died a few years back and Leroy remarried since then.  My parents have lots of stories about things they did together as young married couples.  During my growing up years our

Dave Sarafoleanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16722550481632741589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-854676056157946675.post-90561453852428749532011-06-18T21:54:00.002-04:002011-06-21T08:30:12.945-04:00

Upon returning from General Assembly I received some bad news.  Our congregation was informed that we could not use the building we rent for Sunday worship beginning on 6/12/11.  A few days later we learned that the building has been closed indefinitely and we have been released from our rental agreement.  While we have made temporary arrangements to worship at a local Christian School our

Dave Sarafoleanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16722550481632741589noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-854676056157946675.post-18791089961422454532011-06-13T13:00:00.002-04:002011-06-15T13:14:05.114-04:00

Over the weekend I was reminded about another funny quip made during last week's General Assembly.   During the report on the Administrative Committee, Dr. Roy Taylor, stated clerk of the denomination spoke about the work of The Administrative Committee.  It works quietly behind the scenes making sure that that denomination functions correctly at every level.  He used an analogy comparing their

Dave Sarafoleanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16722550481632741589noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-854676056157946675.post-46090822256275948882011-06-09T21:32:00.002-04:002011-06-09T22:00:14.509-04:00

This week I've been in lovely Virginia Beach, Virginia for our denomination's General Assembly.  I'm sure that lot's of folk want to hear what's going on.  I'll try to comment on those matters in the future but for now let the following quotes suffice.  "Hey, that's my seat" - One committee commissioner to another on day two of their committee work.  There were only 40-50 other chairs in the

Dave Sarafoleanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16722550481632741589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-854676056157946675.post-11391622843136008542011-06-02T15:38:00.003-04:002011-06-02T15:38:00.176-04:00

Though set in a Lutheran context this short video is widely applicable.  Enjoy!

Dave Sarafoleanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16722550481632741589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-854676056157946675.post-52978198511733748622011-06-01T13:12:00.000-04:002011-06-01T13:12:29.713-04:00

Over the last few days I've tried to post some things I've been reading.  No success.  At first I attributed it to my lack of technological information.  Now I've learned that others are having problems.  For now I will patiently wait to see if this resolves itself.  For a while I've been growing weary with Blogger and a change to WordPress might be in the works.  Time will tell.

Dave Sarafoleanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16722550481632741589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-854676056157946675.post-14927578551387644382011-05-24T07:45:00.000-04:002011-05-24T07:45:06.274-04:00

In the aftermath of Harold Campings failed prediction about Christ's return, Gene Veith, a confessional Lutheran poked a little fun: So who is left? We need to hear from you. Are the Lutherans all gone? Where are the Calvinists? Did the Baptists get taken? Are the non-denominational Christians gone, or did they need to belong to a denomination after all?Does anyone know if Mr. Camping is

Dave Sarafoleanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16722550481632741589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-854676056157946675.post-56973990502174164572011-05-14T22:24:00.000-04:002011-05-14T22:24:55.488-04:00

The Aquila Report, an independent news voice that primarily serves believers in the Reformed and Presbyterian tradition has posted a helpful article.  It is a brief summary of statements that the PCA (Presbyterian Church in America) has made over the years on the topic of homosexuality.  It begins with this preface: In light of recent decisions by other denominations to approve openly

Dave Sarafoleanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16722550481632741589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-854676056157946675.post-72061633487755589952011-05-08T06:00:00.004-04:002011-05-08T06:00:02.736-04:00

A few days ago an elderly member of my church asked me about the origin of Mother's Day. I admitted that I honestly didn't have a clue. Now I know. Mother’s Day, which falls this year on May 8, is meant to be a joyous event, but the story behind this greeting-card occasion is actually quite tragic. The concept dates back to the 1600s in England. Taking place on the fourth Sunday of Lent, “

Dave Sarafoleanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16722550481632741589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-854676056157946675.post-74417155641433982462011-05-07T04:51:00.001-04:002011-05-07T04:51:01.468-04:00

Here is an amusing video showing one creative use for beer bottles. Hat’s off to this group of Lutherans. I know that some might complain that these are not the good Lutherans (i.e. confessional) and that their witness is tainted. To me that is beside the point. Here are ordinary people using their gifts (albeit in a light and trivial way) to enjoy God’s creation. I guess the best word for this

Dave Sarafoleanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16722550481632741589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-854676056157946675.post-13071481028433888262011-05-06T16:43:00.001-04:002011-05-06T16:43:00.194-04:00

Lot's of ink has been spilled discussing and analyzing the death of Osama bin Laden. In the cacaphony of voices it's rare to find someone saying something new. Yet, that's what Dr. Horton has done.  Here's a sample: Understandably, news of Osama bin Laden's demise at the hands of U. S. Navy Seals provoked cries of celebration. The mastermind of terror, even against civilians (indeed, against

Dave Sarafoleanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16722550481632741589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-854676056157946675.post-67755301983602330282011-05-06T08:03:00.002-04:002011-05-06T09:39:27.810-04:00

I don't blog much about political matters but every so often one comes along that deserves comment. When I saw this headline I was stunned - A Former Planned Parenthood Director receives a lifetime appointment to a federal court? Who's in bed with whom? Thursday, May 05, 2011 Senate Democrats were able to confirm the former director of Planned Parenthood of Rhode Island to a lifetime

Dave Sarafoleanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16722550481632741589noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-854676056157946675.post-53723749435825336782011-04-30T16:21:00.000-04:002011-04-30T18:09:50.317-04:00

At its stated spring meeting held today (April 30, 2011) Great Lakes Presbytery voted to adopt Overture 7 put forth by Ohio Presbytery without dissent.  The overture seeks to separate byFaith magazine from the Administrative Committee budget.  The stated clerk of the presbytery was directed to send this communication immediately to Atlanta with the caveat that the overture be sent to the

Dave Sarafoleanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16722550481632741589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-854676056157946675.post-11729596500522150732011-04-29T11:54:00.001-04:002011-04-29T11:54:00.318-04:00

News has just come out that one of our presbyteries is sending up an overture to the General Assembly for our denomination to sever its ties to the National Association of Evangelicals (NAE).  I've read the overture and am supportive.  Part of the rationale has to do with the NAE and some of its political proclamations.  In the recent past it has made declarations on behalf of its members on

Dave Sarafoleanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16722550481632741589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-854676056157946675.post-74779008120298950882011-04-20T17:31:00.001-04:002011-04-20T17:31:00.071-04:00

Well, the news has broken that Missouri Presbytery has denied the complaint filed by two of its members that its investigation of TE Jeff Meyers was flawed.  The photo says it all.  Truth be told I never expected a different outcome from Missouri Presbytery.  All along they have proven reluctant to consider the possibility that one of their members had strayed from the Westminster Standards.  

Dave Sarafoleanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16722550481632741589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-854676056157946675.post-26529120453242815332011-04-19T11:56:00.000-04:002011-04-19T11:56:00.873-04:00

As part of my on-going studies I recently took a class on Lutheran Orthodoxy by Dr. Robert Kolb, of Concordia Theological Seminary in St. Louis, Missouri.  This book was one of the required texts.  This edition is a new translation offered by a Lutheran minister in a nearby community.  It should be noted that Gerhard wrote this volume at the ripe old age of 23.  It is available at Amazon.com.

Dave Sarafoleanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16722550481632741589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-854676056157946675.post-70228952427105317602011-04-13T10:52:00.002-04:002011-04-13T14:25:13.294-04:00

Darryl Hart has a thought-provoking piece on revivals, revivalism and personal conversion. It is the first-person account of a young person raised in a confessionally reformed church who encounters those who insist that he be able to give a personal testimony of conversion. This account illustrates the profound disconnect that exists between the piety of a reformed church (a piety that grows

Dave Sarafoleanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16722550481632741589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-854676056157946675.post-16683175845102174012011-03-30T16:25:00.005-04:002011-03-30T16:25:00.283-04:00

I found a great article over at the Gospel Coalition about befriending and spending time with non-Christians. Here is an excerpt:   Having recently moved into an anonymous apartment complex so common around the country, my wife and I decided to invite all the people in our building over for Sunday lunch. They didn’t know each other, we didn’t know them, and we had no idea how it would be

Dave Sarafoleanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16722550481632741589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-854676056157946675.post-91822250937261594052011-03-29T08:39:00.001-04:002011-03-29T08:39:00.113-04:00

Here in the frozen north, far from the warm breezes of Atlanta, I've been mulling over the PCA Strategic Plan passed at last year's General Assembly.  Most are aware that the plan was hotly debated: some measures passing by a slim margin of just a few votes.  From time to time stories have shown up in the denominational magazine explaining some new development in the implementation of the

Dave Sarafoleanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16722550481632741589noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-854676056157946675.post-50541648132037457342011-03-24T14:35:00.002-04:002011-03-25T09:46:15.781-04:00

A perpetual issue for churches and pastors is the matter of church membership.  Some downplay it because there isn't an ironclad statement from Jesus or the apostles about it.  Others ignore the issue choosing to attend church the way one chooses a restaurant.  Sadly, some deny any biblical basis for it resulting in all sorts of pastoral issues should scandalous behavior arise in the lives of

Dave Sarafoleanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16722550481632741589noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-854676056157946675.post-43749897528572255972011-03-22T14:29:00.002-04:002011-03-22T21:06:25.993-04:00

I'm preaching my way through John's Gospel on Sunday mornings.  Recently as I worked my way through John 4 I found a very helpful comment about personal evangelism by Dr. James Montgomery Boice.  It came in the context of verse 37 where Jesus tells his disciples, "For here the saying holds true, 'One sows and another reaps.'"  For those who may not have the gift of evangelism please read

Dave Sarafoleanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16722550481632741589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-854676056157946675.post-51936605052130840832011-03-21T08:48:00.007-04:002011-03-23T13:35:34.282-04:00

While the world watched unfolding events in Libya and Japan, and while most sports fans were concerned about the NCAA Basketball Tournament, the feel good story of the weekend came from an unlikely place: Philadelphia.  I happened to be out with my wife for a meal and saw an incredible wrestling match for the NCAA Title in the 125 lb class.  The match featured defending national champion, Matt

Dave Sarafoleanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16722550481632741589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-854676056157946675.post-41423480039117599862011-03-11T09:48:00.001-05:002011-03-11T12:38:00.189-05:00

Jason Stellman over at Creed Code Cult has put out a call for assistance. If you know anything about the gravity of this situation for our denomination then you will understand the importance of this notice.  I will post his comments in their entirety: Well, this is the first time I have ever done anything like this, so bear with me...  As many of you know, the Pacific Northwest Presbytery will

Dave Sarafoleanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16722550481632741589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-854676056157946675.post-29383969885519154102011-03-08T10:33:00.006-05:002011-03-10T14:59:39.461-05:00

Recently I spent some time catching up on the back-log of White Horse Inn audio messages thiat are cluttering up my desk.  In particular I was struck by a clear answer given by Dr. Michael Scott Horton on the relationship between reformed churches (i.e. confessional churches) and reformed Baptists.  The setting for this exchange the Dallas Reformation Conference held at New St. Peter's Church (

Dave Sarafoleanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16722550481632741589noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-854676056157946675.post-81392860271853518232011-02-28T08:52:00.000-05:002011-02-28T08:52:12.279-05:00

I've been on the run for the last couple of weeks due to the unexpectedly death of my mother-in-law.  My running will continue as I complete two classes in the next three weeks.  Blog posts will be sporadic. 

Dave Sarafoleanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16722550481632741589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-854676056157946675.post-27398420456548283372011-02-10T16:38:00.005-05:002011-02-24T10:43:10.265-05:00

In my previous posts (here, here, and here) I have offered comment on Dr. Robert Godfrey's chapter from this book.  That chapter is the text of his inaugural address upon assuming the presidency of Westminster Seminary California in 1993. Today I'd like to explore his fourth point: Committed Calvinism. Godfrey builds his case upon Acts 20 when the Apostle Paul gave his final words to the elders

Dave Sarafoleanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16722550481632741589noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-854676056157946675.post-63048976090102284542011-02-05T22:29:00.003-05:002011-02-07T15:38:00.869-05:00

Following up on my earlier posts, I'd like to discuss the third point of Dr. Robert Godfrey's inaugural address at Westminster Seminary California which calls for Christocentric Calvinism.  What is Christocentric Calvinism?  Dr. Godfrey writes: In that comprehensive and consistent Calvinism to which we aspire we must always remember that Christ must be at the center: Christ's atoning work on

Dave Sarafoleanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16722550481632741589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-854676056157946675.post-73948281201846569112011-01-27T14:42:00.005-05:002011-01-28T08:32:22.641-05:00

Wow. It is amazing how fast our denomination's magazine, ahem, public affairs office, can put out a statement for public consumption when it concerns something that it wants to promote.  It only took months for this office to note dissenting votes when BCO 14 amendments were being defeated by a 2:1 margin last fall.  More recently it took the better part of a week for it to acknowledge that those

Dave Sarafoleanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16722550481632741589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-854676056157946675.post-20682354172510318562011-01-27T10:16:00.004-05:002011-01-27T10:18:30.441-05:00

UPDATE 1/27/11: Based on my post some have inferred that I, along with Dr. Godfrey, advocate a narrow-minded view of reformed theology.  That was not my intent nor was it part of Dr. Godfrey's original address.  Below I have added some more words from his address that dispel that notion.  They are bold and italicized.  As I have repeatedly said, read the book. __________________________ I would

Dave Sarafoleanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16722550481632741589noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-854676056157946675.post-58579882638691182972011-01-25T21:21:00.004-05:002011-01-26T08:48:15.579-05:00

Since July our denomination has been in turmoil over the Strategic Plan it adopted at last summer's General Assembly.  Front and center were the proposed amendments to our Book of Church Order imposing a fee structure (tax) upon all ministers and congregations to fund the Administrative Committee.  Much has been written on this matter as it has been debated throughout the denomination.  Last

Dave Sarafoleanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16722550481632741589noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-854676056157946675.post-57526071468824280302011-01-19T14:30:00.004-05:002011-01-19T22:00:30.278-05:00

Last week news broke that TE Jeff Meyers had been exonerated by his presbytery (Missouri Presbytery) of holding theological views outside the bounds of the Westminster Confession of Faith.  As one of the 29 who signed the "Letter of Concern" I was fairly sure that their investigation would yield this outcome.  Now news has come forth that two members of that presbytery have filed a complaint:

Dave Sarafoleanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16722550481632741589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-854676056157946675.post-51026572391664439662011-01-14T14:29:00.021-05:002011-01-14T14:29:00.049-05:00

Click on the link below for the official report from Missouri Presbytery concerning TE Jeff Meyers. I've only scanned a couple of sections of the report and will refrain from comment for now. UPDATED: MOP-Approved Meyers investigative committee report now available « Johannes Weslianus From the little that I've read, I couldn't blame anyone if, after reading the report you start singing 

Dave Sarafoleanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16722550481632741589noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-854676056157946675.post-85152629060503648182011-01-05T17:33:00.020-05:002011-02-09T08:39:29.419-05:00

                                                          Though there are many fine essays in this book, I'd like to draw your attention to the final essay, The Whole Counsel of God: Courageous Calvinism for a New Century.  This essay was actually the inaugural address given by Dr. Robert Godfrey when he assumed the presidency of Westminster Seminary California in 1993.  I first read the essay

Dave Sarafoleanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16722550481632741589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-854676056157946675.post-43231307410622123552011-01-03T16:59:00.003-05:002011-01-03T16:59:00.197-05:00

 As 2010 wound to a close one of the must have books was this volume, Always Reformed, Essays in Honor of W. Robert Godfrey.  Though I am not an alumnus of WSC I have had interaction with some of its professors, including R. Scott Clark.  I have also had the distinct privilege of sitting under Dr. Godfrey as a professor for a ThM class at Puritan Reformed Theological Seminary.  I won't attempt

Dave Sarafoleanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16722550481632741589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-854676056157946675.post-69491460836484547892010-12-24T08:37:00.002-05:002010-12-24T08:40:37.751-05:00

Here's a heart-warming story about a small town in Minnesota.  Merry Christmas!

Dave Sarafoleanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16722550481632741589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-854676056157946675.post-23786524314106030892010-12-23T07:52:00.001-05:002010-12-23T07:52:00.404-05:00

PCA pastor Jason Stellman, has kicked off a helpful discussion on Two Kingdom Theology under this post Burn, Baby, Burn. He is responding to Dr. Keith Mathison's book review of David VanDrunen's book, Living in God's Two Kingdoms, posted over at Ligonier Ministries. I saw Mathison's review the day it came out but hesitated to post a link simple because I had not read DVD's book. I have still

Dave Sarafoleanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16722550481632741589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-854676056157946675.post-14776323429470256082010-12-22T14:15:00.000-05:002010-12-22T14:15:00.261-05:00

The first half of this video, while kind of humorous, is a good illustration of confusing life in the City of Man with life in the City of God.  The second half partially redeems the entire thing. 

Dave Sarafoleanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16722550481632741589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-854676056157946675.post-43602295176926711112010-12-16T17:36:00.001-05:002010-12-16T17:36:00.409-05:00

PCA pastor Nick Batzig has posted a nice article expounding on a much-overlooked theme of Scripture: Jesus: True Israel of the First Gospel. Here is a sample... In the genealogy at the beginning of the first, Matthew mentions three major epochs in Israel’s history: fourteen generation from Abraham to David, fourteen generations from David to the Exile. The reference to the period from Abraham

Dave Sarafoleanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16722550481632741589noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-854676056157946675.post-45051024840005576152010-12-10T12:59:00.005-05:002010-12-10T12:59:00.394-05:00

A friend sent this to me.  Following the cartoon intro is some incredible video.  I don't think that I would want to do this for a living.

Dave Sarafoleanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16722550481632741589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-854676056157946675.post-8832941909046845202010-12-08T12:38:00.001-05:002010-12-08T12:38:00.920-05:00

Here is a great introduction to Lutheran theology which is particularly helpful as we contemplate John 1:14, "And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us."   There are other applications as well but I will leave those for another time.  Enjoy! Luther's Theology of the Cross Carl R. Trueman No one could have expected that the Reformation would be launched by Martin Luther's Ninety-Five Theses

Dave Sarafoleanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16722550481632741589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-854676056157946675.post-37945020277362109562010-11-30T16:31:00.002-05:002010-12-01T09:59:30.137-05:00

Last spring our denomination published a strategic plan to help it avoid a plateau in its growth. Whether there is an actual plateau has been a matter of serious debate.  One of the most stunning things that came out of the plan was this statement: Means (Specific #4): Partner with national & international ministries with whom we can most effectively participate in God's global mission... a.

Dave Sarafoleanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16722550481632741589noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-854676056157946675.post-3183013577578367422010-11-23T09:50:00.001-05:002010-11-23T12:00:45.354-05:00

This last Sunday evening I had the distinct pleasure of helping welcome a new church into the Presbyterian Church in America.  The church is Knox Presbyterian Church of Harrison Township, Michigan (metro Detroit).  Knox was formally affiliated with the Evangelical Presbyterian Church (EPC) and was one of the founding members of that denomination.  In the photo (double click to enlarge) are

Dave Sarafoleanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16722550481632741589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-854676056157946675.post-60021469661199399192010-11-20T22:53:00.003-05:002010-11-20T22:53:00.473-05:00

Theologian Paul Helm has written a couple of helpful essays on Two Kingdom Theology.  The title reveals that he is interacting with David VanDrunen's recent work, Living in God's Two Kingdoms.  Helm's Deep: From Hippo to Escondido - I Helm's Deep: From Hippo to Escondido - II The second essay includes a discussion of Dooyeword, Van Til, Gary North and Meredith Kline.  It includes this quote..

Dave Sarafoleanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16722550481632741589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-854676056157946675.post-34780774046321008522010-11-18T13:34:00.002-05:002010-11-20T20:55:45.571-05:00

Though I'm a little late on posting this it is well worth your time. Two-Kingdom Theology is in the news these days.  For many it has become a threat to their view of Christ redeeming culture.  Some of these critics have resorted to the ad-hominen attacks to discredit it.  Terms like "Radical Two-Kingdom Theology", "Impotent", "Lutheranism" and more have been used to dismiss it from serious

Dave Sarafoleanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16722550481632741589noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-854676056157946675.post-89013084991160764522010-11-17T12:46:00.003-05:002010-11-30T15:20:53.365-05:00

 Though this is a bit dated it is worth publishing (double-click to see a larger version).  Three years ago in September 2007, Great Lakes Presbytery of the PCA and the Michigan-Ontario Presbytery of the Orthodox Presbyterian Church held a joint meeting at Christ Church PCA, in Grand Rapids, Michigan.  Photos were taken by both groups but until this week I never saw a copy.  Our meeting

Dave Sarafoleanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16722550481632741589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-854676056157946675.post-29134074794232268282010-11-12T22:28:00.006-05:002010-11-12T22:58:36.950-05:00

So get this.  The Gospel Coalition, is by most accounts, going very well.  To those who are more confessional it comes across as "Reformed Theology Light."   Recently the Gospel Coalition released a 10 minute video discussing "New Calvinism."  Seated at the table were Al Mohler, Kevin DeYoung, and Ligon Duncan.  Nothing particularly earth-shattering was said and I came away with an appreciation

Dave Sarafoleanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16722550481632741589noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-854676056157946675.post-28471289987016405952010-11-11T15:04:00.000-05:002010-11-11T15:06:13.053-05:00

Dave Sarafoleanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16722550481632741589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-854676056157946675.post-31287557427298965852010-11-04T15:05:00.002-04:002010-11-12T22:14:04.256-05:00

Today the Layman Online is reporting that the PCUSA is writing off nearly $1,000,000 in uncollected per capita giving for 2009.  Embedded in this story is an astonishing statement: "Further, the GAPJC has held that no punitive action can be taken at any level of governance against those who fail to pay per capita." That is a far cry from what was proposed at the PCA General Assembly - failure

Dave Sarafoleanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16722550481632741589noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-854676056157946675.post-40639498368668895242010-11-03T04:21:00.009-04:002010-11-03T16:32:24.144-04:00

On the heels of yesterday's post I recommend this article What’s Wrong with Theistic Evolution? – Kevin DeYoung. Here DeYoung interviews Dr. Jay Richards of the Discovery Institute about the book he recently edited, God and Evolution.  The book discusses the inherent problems with theistic evolution, not the least of which is this major flaw: DeYoung: You also talk about philosophical and

Dave Sarafoleanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16722550481632741589noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-854676056157946675.post-71014891242442610282010-11-02T06:39:00.000-04:002010-11-02T06:39:06.862-04:00

Dr. Bryan Estelle, OPC minister and professor at Westminster Seminary California, has written a helpful piece with this title.  Here is an excerpt: "I was struck by my brother-in-law's comment several years ago (he is a trained scientist and not a professing Christian), when he claimed that the creationists (he had in mind certain ICR—Institute for Creation Research representatives) are "

Dave Sarafoleanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16722550481632741589noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-854676056157946675.post-41380258160109466752010-11-01T10:50:00.032-04:002010-11-01T12:38:43.056-04:00

Friend and ministerial colleague, Wes White, has an interesting post entitled, If You Are a Protestant, What Are You Protesting? Yesterday, as we all know, was Halloween. But for Protestants it marked the beginning of the Protestant Reformation because on that date in 1517 Martin Luther nailed his 95 Theses to the church door in Wittenberg, Germany. Yesterday I preached on the topic that the

Dave Sarafoleanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16722550481632741589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-854676056157946675.post-73682081022800119842010-10-23T22:58:00.001-04:002010-10-25T21:30:54.366-04:00

Today I did something quite out of the ordinary, at least for me. The last two Saturday mornings found me knee deep in a local river hunting ducks. Normally I would’ve done something in the great outdoors today as well. However, I was invited to attend a panel discussion at the Russell Kirk Center  on the topic of “Protestantism and American Politics.” The panel consisted of Dr. Richard Gamble

Dave Sarafoleanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16722550481632741589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-854676056157946675.post-56663801714906187642010-10-22T08:28:00.001-04:002010-10-22T08:31:23.892-04:00

Looking for affordable, quality books? Looking for a gift to help someone grow in their faith? Ligonier Ministries continues to run their $5 Friday promotion.  Click on the link below to see this week's specials which include this title. Reformed Theology Resources: Browse $5 Friday Products Ligonier Ministries Store

Dave Sarafoleanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16722550481632741589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-854676056157946675.post-64183422976944029122010-10-19T13:03:00.006-04:002010-10-19T13:03:00.364-04:00

A few days ago I came across this essay by Dr. Ligon Duncan on Dispensational Theology.  I'm posting as a bookend to my previous post and what makes historic reformed theology different from the garden variety evangelicalism. A Brief Background to Dispensationalism The dispensational system of theology, if we are honest, is actually a Nineteenth Century phenomenon. Now I don’t want to get

Dave Sarafoleanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16722550481632741589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-854676056157946675.post-11011412599061911142010-10-18T10:30:00.005-04:002011-10-13T08:14:59.952-04:00

Over the weekend a did a bit of surfing the web (the weather was gorgeous and I spent most of Saturday outdoors enjoying God's creation).  Over at The Gospel Coalition I came across something that puzzled me.  Towards the end of an interview he did on studying the book of Genesis, Dr. Bryan Chapell, is asked the following question.  Below it I've posted his answer: What are the major themes of

Dave Sarafoleanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16722550481632741589noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-854676056157946675.post-83699914440409409192010-10-05T13:33:00.005-04:002010-10-05T13:33:00.700-04:00

Since my last post I've been mulling over the whole situation concerning TE Craig Higgins and an article that was critical of him posted on The Aquila Report.  As I reported in my last post Metro New York Presbytery sent word to Dr. Dominic Aquila's presbytery, Rocky Mountain Presbytery, requesting that they investigate him for violating the 9th Commandment.  As is well-known by now, Rocky

Dave Sarafoleanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16722550481632741589noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-854676056157946675.post-36338024186908433682010-10-02T11:54:00.019-04:002010-10-02T19:34:53.237-04:00

Like most, I woke up yesterday totally unaware that Metro New York Presbytery had requested an investigation of Teaching Elder and former General Assembly Moderator, Dr. Dominic Aquila.  The basis for the request was an article posted on The Aquila Report, written by a someone in another denomination, that was critical of a minister in that presbytery.  Metro New York Presbytery alleged that Dr.

Dave Sarafoleanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16722550481632741589noreply@blogger.com5