Sublime

Sermons must sometimes offend to remain faithful to the gospel (Rom. 9:33), but preachers must make sure that the offense is in the truth itself, not in the failure to present it wisely and well (1 Cor. 10:32–33).

Mike Cosper, Rhythms of Grace: How the Church’s Worship Tells the Story of the Gospel (Wheaton: Crossway, 2013);

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Understanding this proper source of our faithfulness challenges preachers to recognize the danger of sermons that do not contextualize their instructions with redemptive truth. When explanation of God’s full provision and unfailing love does not accompany exhortations for corrected behavior and right conduct, then spiritual damage must occur.

YHWH wants their allegiance in action and in thought; this is the primary theme of Deuteronomy.

As Western culture increases its speed in the race away from Christendom, as hostility to orthodox and evangelical Christianity increases and becomes increasingly legislated, we will eventually see a separation of the men from the boys. Which pastors will cave to worldly wisdom in fear for their own livelihoods and comfort, and which will fear God,

Andy Stanley, Johnny Carson, Howard Hendricks, Ronald Reagan, Billy Graham,

“I have taken the Levites from among the people of Israel instead of every firstborn who opens the womb among the people of Israel” (3:12).

Psalm 6, David seems to fear that his sin and eventual death will separate him from God.