Archive for July, 2009

Spurgeon on Hell

“If sinners will be damned, at least let them leap to hell over our bodies. And if they will perish, let them perish with our arms around their knees, imploring them to stay. If hell must be filled, at least let it be filled in the teeth of our exertions, and let not one go there unwarned and unprayed for.” – C.H. Spurgeon

This is one of the many reasons why we must defend the doctrine of Hell, as Jesus did.  It brings eternity into focus and lends a heavy weight to our mission.  It reminds us of the seriousness of sin and the glory of the cross.

The Difference Between Trial and Adventure

father-handStanding in the surf today with my 2 year old son, a small wave came along.  The wave was no higher than my calf, but to him it seemed life threatening.  He reached up and grabbed my hand and the wave splashed on by.

I could see that, for the first time, he had realized that the beach was not just fun, but dangerous as well.  After that, he has not been willing to stand in the ocean without holding my hand.  Eventually, I know that he will learn to play in the ocean without holding on to my hand but until then I’m happy standing there to make him more secure.

What’s interesting is that when I’m holding his hand the danger of the waves is exciting and thrilling.  When I’m not holding his hand, the waves are scary and threatening.

I wonder if this could be how it is with God.  Maybe the difference between a trial and an adventure is whether or not we are holding the Father’s hand or wrestling away from Him in self-reliance?