SoCal Theologica: Theological Musings from the West Coast

28,29,30. I want to grow so knowledgeable in the Scriptures that I can bring them out and think on them constantly. This alone however, will not suffice as an end in itself. I just read a book review of Bart Ermann’s new book, “God’s Problem, How the Bible fail’s to answer our deepest question” and Tim Challies wrote about how the book was filled with Scripture, more Scripture, he said, then he had seen in any other book he had read! But it was all head knowledge and did know good in drawing him Dr. Bart to the Savior. Very, Very sad. This is why in the midst of study, in fact as the end of study, worship and prayer must come tied to the process. To pray with a right knowledge of God and a heart that is set in passion for God, a passion based on the understanding of his word expresses, in the fullest sense, this side of heaven, the idea of communion with God! I want to increase in religion as well, religion being the equivalent to walking with Jesus as a follower.

should be “no” third sentence.

Basically I need to read more of Jonathan Edward’s resolutions. I may misunderstand the meaning behind it but number 29 really hits home since I sometimes wonder if God will accept certain confessions of mine or even some of my prayers. Like I said, I might be misunderstanding it, in which case I would appreciate correction : ) Hope all is well Dr. Mooney

28. Resolved, to study the Scriptures so steadily, constantly and frequently, as that I may find, and plainly perceive myself to grow in the knowledge of the same.

I continually say, believe and teach others that the Bible is God’s infallible and absolute revelation truth to man. I love the Bible, and I hope to some day be an elder and a pastor of a local church. But, as I really sit here and think about how much time that I really put into studying, memorizing, meditating on the word of God compared to other things that I do, I do not spend very much time in the Bible as I should as in regards to how high I hold the Bible for truth and reality. I want to live with this same intensity and zeal for the word of God that Edwards had and to go even further than he did! I need to and want to know the Bible and what it is saying about God, us, and how to teach that to others! Thank you Edwards for pushing me.

#29 reminds me of the verse in Romans that says, “For whatever does not proceed from faith is sin.” Often times i read that verse and quickly proceed to the next verse, as subconsciously, and in an instant, ive quickly examined how often i do all things out of faith. Running from that verse gets me no where. I want to resolve to, with Christ, confront and deal with this verse. Edwards resolutions purport this type of steadfastness.

I so often throw out prayers on a whim, only somewhat hoping that God might answer them…To approach God in prayer with the mentality that #29 lays out is completely different than that. I should be approaching God in full high hopes that he will answer my prayers and be working in those things.

One thing I love about Edwards is his practicality. He was not just a master theologian but his theology affected every area of his life. I love # 30. To be able the say by the end of every week that you are in a higher state of religion and a better follower of Christ is a great goal to set. This is practical for the most mature Christian all the way to the newest convert. Thank you for posting these.