Atheists sometimes describe terrible diseases by which children suffer and die and declare that they would never believe in a God that would allow such things. Most of us have struggled with pain and evil and the profound issues they raise, while countless books wrestle with the pastoral, theological, and philosophical concerns. This short article, […]
Gleanings from The Religious Affections (Part 18): Distinguishing Sign Three: Gracious Affections Are Founded on the Beauty of Holiness
In the previous article we examined Edwards’ second distinguishing sign, “the supreme excellency of divine things as they are in themselves,” comprising the “first objective ground of all holy affections.” Sign three goes a step further to show that holiness comprises the beauty of God and divine things. [1] “A love to divine things for […]
Sovereignty, Holiness, and the Hardening of Pharaoh’s Heart
Pharaoh was stubborn, and sometimes at the most inopportune times. Scripture tells us he hardened his heart in the face of God’s awesome power and judgment (Exodus 8:15, 32; 9:34). Bruised and battered, he refused to allow Israel to worship God in the wilderness. Occasionally, God also hardened Pharaoh’s heart: Then the LORD said […]
Presuppositions of Faith (5 of 6): The Problem of Evil
In previous articles, we have seen that denials of God’s existence and biblical miracles rest on unreasonable, blind-faith assumptions or presuppositions. But, what about claims of contradictions in Scripture, the foundation of our faith? Do they rest on the same unjustified assumptions? Let’s see as we listen to Mr. A and Mr. C discuss “the […]
