For those familiar with the Gospels, you know that Jesus' dominant message was proclaiming the kingdom of God (Mark 1:15). For those familiar with the Apostle Paul, you know that his message "of first importance" was preaching the gospel - that Christ came in accordance with the Scriptures, died for our sins, and was raised to new life on the third day (1 Corinthians 15:1-8).
Too often, these dominant messages have been considered in isolation from each other or pitted against one another. Thankfully, we now have another resource that helpfully brings these two themes together and - in so doing - enriches our understanding of both.
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In addition to directing the Brookside Institute, one of the "hats" that I wear is that of men's pastor. This means I help lead and shepherd a network of men's Community Groups, and spearhead an event every now and then. And I spend a lot of time with guys. I sit with a lot of men in my office, hearing their praises and their problems. I get to know guys over lunch or coffee and hear about what "normal life" looks like for them. I've spent time with men at football games (#GBR) and baseball games and shooting ranges and hospital rooms and backyards.
Most of the guys I interact with are legitimately trying really heard. They're trying hard to find fulfillment and do right by their families. They're putting in effort (most of 'em) to make relationships work and keep the utility payment current. In my experience, a lot of men want to do the right thing. The problem is, they don't always know what the right thing is. A lot of men I meet are trying really hard, but many of them are lined up on the wrong trajectory. I know guys who are putting forth the effort, but their aim is off. As I encourage and exhort men, then, my focus isn't as much on trying to draw forth effort as it is to direct the aim of their lives and where they're pointed. It's not necessarily men's trying that needs attention, it's more often their trajectory. As I work to point men in the right direction (and keep my own alignment on track!), Darrin Patrick's Dude's Guide to Manhood will be a helpful tool for this task. Read books that push you into the Bible - books that increase your love for God's Word, your insight into God's Word, and your awareness of what God's Word is.
I've heard this recommendation more than once. I've made this recommendation more than once. I've experienced the benefits of following this advice more than once. And now I'm eager to draw your attention to another book that lines up perfectly with this recommendation to read books that push you into the Bible. |
Tim WiebeChristian. Husband. Father. Pastor. Learner. Contributor. Reader. Categories
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March 2024
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