Reclamation: Worship

Alisa Childers is a former CCM recording artist. Now a Christian apologist, Alisa produces a podcast, and writes with a focus on apologetics, theology, culture and worship. Alisa has appeared in Brandon Kimber’s American Gospel: Christ Crucified and has a book, Another Gospel: A Lifelong Christian Seeks Truth in Response to Progressive Christianity, coming out in October of 2020.Another Gospel can be ordered hereAlisa’s website with link to her podcast can be found hereImpact 360 video hereIntro created and performed by Isaac Johnson

In Episode 6 of The Pilgrim’s Progress Conversations we look at the beautiful scene between Christian and Good-will at the wicket gate.Why is it important that we understand the Lord intends goodwill toward those who are broken hearted over their sin and who place their trust in Him alone for the forgiveness of their sin?What was Christian’s posture over his sin? How do we know?What is Good-will’s response to Christian’s question at the gate?Have you experienced the Lord’s goodwill toward you by placing your faith in Him for the forgiveness of your sin?Join us as we journey through The Pilgrim’s Progress.Check out Heimler’s History YouTube channel herePastor Mark Herzer’s study guide can be found hereJustin Taylor’s interview with Dr. Jim Orrick can be found hereArtwork compliments of RefToons.comIntro created and performed by Isaac Johnson

Happy Easter! Jesus’ resurrection changes everything. John shows us in his Gospel that Jesus had a message for Mary Magdalene. John 20:17 captures Jesus’ words, “Jesus said to her, ‘Do not cling to me, for I have not yet ascended to the Father, but go to my brothers and say to them, ‘I am ascending to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God.’”Jesus’ resurrection has made possible a different relationship between God and man. Jesus’ resurrection has justified those who trust in Jesus and as such we can now call God our Father, just as Jesus does and we can call God our God, just as Jesus does.That is Good News that causes us to worship our great God!Jesus is risen! He is risen indeed!Soli Deo Gloria!Intro created and performed by Isaac Johnson

In Episode 5 of The Pilgrim’s Progress Conversations we discuss what was wrong with Christian following Mr. Worldly-Wiseman’s counsel and where it led him.What did John Bunyan mean by saying Christian was under Mount Sinai? What’s wrong with trying to live under the law?Evangelist told Christian there were three errors in Mr. Worldly-Wiseman’s counsel. What were they?How can we be turned “out of the way”? How can the cross be “odious” or repulsive to us? How can we be set on a path that leads to death? Join us as we journey through The Pilgrim’s Progress.Artwork compliments of RefToons.comIntro created and performed by Isaac Johnson

Jared Longshore serves as a board member and Vice President of Founders Ministries. He currently serves as an Associate Pastor at Grace Baptist Church in Cape Coral, Florida. Having served in pastoral ministry since 2007, he has earned MDiv and PhD degrees from the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary in Louisville, Kentucky. He and his wife Heather have six children (with one on the way). He is a member of the Evangelical Theological Society.Founders MinistriesThe Sword & The Trowel PodcastBy What StandardWield the SwordBattle for the MindsNo Place for Truth by David WellsThat Hideous Strength: How the West Was Lost by Melvin TinkerIntro created and performed by Isaac Johnson

In Episode 4 of The Pilgrim’s Progress Conversations we talk about The Slough of Despond and Christian’s encounter with Mr. Worldly Wiseman.How is it that we can be convicted of our sin? How did we get our conscience? Is our conscience a gift? Mr. Worldly Wiseman had some advice for Christian that differed from the counsel Evangelist had given Christian. Would it be wise for Christian to listen to Mr. Worldly Wiseman?What is the world’s answer for how you find forgiveness with God and why is this such a sharp departure from what the Bible offers as the answer?Join us as we journey through The Pilgrim’s Progress.Artwork compliments of RefToons.comIntro created and performed by Isaac Johnson

Dr. Nettles has most recently served as the Professor of Historical Theology at The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. He previously taught at Trinity Evangelical Divinity School where he was Professor of Church History and Chair of the Department of Church History. Prior to that, he taught at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary and Mid-America Baptist Theological Seminary. Along with numerous journal articles and scholarly papers, Dr. Nettles is the author and editor of fifteen books. Among his books are By His Grace and For His Glory; Baptists and the Bible, James Petigru Boyce: A Southern Baptist Statesman, and Living by Revealed Truth: The Life and Pastoral Theology of Charles H. Spurgeon.Intro created and performed by Isaac Johnson

In Episode 3 of The Pilgrim’s Progress Conversations we talk about Obstinate and Pliable’s attempt to persuade Christian to return to the City of Destruction. What kept Christian from returning with them was his conviction of the necessity to flee the city that he got from reading the Bible.Earlier in the week I had read an article by Alisa Childers (link below) in which she assessed the deconversion stories of the YouTube famous Rhett and Link. Their decision to walk away from Christianity came about as they were no longer comfortable with the Bible’s sexual ethics. In other words, their ultimate standard of Truth is themselves rather than God.Christian appealed to Obstinate and Pliable to read the Bible for themselves rather than to trust his view. We would all do well to turn to God in His Word rather than trust ourselves or another man’s worldview if it conflicts with what God has said.Whenever we submit ourselves to Scripture we are admitting God knows better than we do.Join us as we journey through The Pilgrim’s Progress.Alisa Childer’s article can be found hereArtwork compliments of RefToons.comIntro created and performed by Isaac Johnson

Chuck Vuolo has been married to Diana for 36 years and they have three grown children. He was a pastor in north Philadelphia for 8 years, which included ministry to Cambodian refugees. For 19 years he served as a pastor in Downingtown, PA. Since 2005 he has ministered among the Old Order Amish here in Lancaster County. Since that time he has also helped to plant a church in Kingsville, MD.Diana Vuolo Diana Vuolo was awarded a full-tuition scholarship to study with the world-renowned teacher, Dorothy DeLay, at the Philadelphia College of Performing Arts (PCPA) where she earned a Bachelor of Music Degree in Violin Performance. She was featured as a masterclass performer for Miss DeLay at PCPA and the Aspen Music Festival. Her professional career began in Carnegie Hall when she performed with a Chamber Orchestra in partnership with Isaac Stern followed by an international concert tour with the Concerto Soloists of Philadelphia. She has performed with The Philly Pops Orchestra, the Saint Louis Symphony and served as concertmaster for Musica Sacra Chamber Orchestra. She was co-concertmaster for Opera Barga in Lucca, Italy and a principal player in the Canton Symphony. In addition to performing, Diana has taught private violin lessons, music theory and ensemble classes over the past 40 years. One of her student ensembles, Volante, was featured on CBS, “The Early Show”. She founded Avalare Strings, a classical crossover string quartet that currently performs in the Philadelphia region. In 2011 Diana founded SWAN. Her SWAN students were featured on an episode of TLC’s “Counting On” in August of 2018.For more information on SWAN click hereIntro created and performed by Isaac Johnson

In Episode 2 of The Pilgrim’s Progress Conversations we talk about the importance of Bible intake and evangelism. We consider how Christian is brought under conviction of his sin through reading his Bible. We also marvel at how the Lord uses people like us to share the Gospel with others. Through our witness, people hear about how we have sinned against the holy and righteous God, how He has sent His Son to take our punishment that we deserve and how if we repent of our sin and believe in Jesus alone for the forgiveness of our sin we will be saved and brought into fellowship with God.Join us as we journey through The Pilgrim’s Progress.Artwork compliments of RefToons.comIntro created and performed by Isaac Johnson

Tim Challies is husband to Aileen and father to three children. He worships and serves as a pastor at Grace Fellowship Church in Toronto, Ontario, and is a co-founder of Cruciform Press. Tim has written numerous books and blogs daily at challies.comTim’s article “Why I Didn’t Sing When I Visited Your Church” can be found hereTim’s article “How is God Present In Our Pain?” can be found hereMore about Epic can be found hereIntro created and performed by Isaac Johnson

I had the great privilege of having 3 of my 4 children on this episode of Reclamation: Worship. This is the first episode in a series looking at The Pilgrim’s Progress. My kids and I will be discussing the timeless classic of the Christian faith and as we walk along this path after Bunyan’s character Christian, I hope to learn how to read this book through the eyes of my children.Join us as we journey through The Pilgrim’s Progress.We kick off our pilgrimage by looking at The Pilgrim’s Progress, A Poetic Journey by Paul and Stephanie Cox. My interview with Paul, discussing how their book came about, can be heard here.Visit RefToons.comPilgrim’s Progress: A Poetic Journey - purchase hereSpecial thanks to Paul Cox for the episode artIntro created and performed by Isaac JohnsonOutro compliments of Sovereign Grace Music

J.C. Ryle concludes Thoughts for Young Men appealing to his readers’ consciences.He challenges his readers to listen to him and heed his counsel. He tells them to think about the comfort they will give their parents and other loved ones; and to think of the good they may be as the instrument of doing good to the world. Lastly, he asks them to think of the happiness that will come to their soul if they serve God.Ryle closes with these words, “The path of the worldly man grows darker and darker every year that he lives; - the path of the Christian is as a shining light, brighter and brighter to the very end. His sun is just rising when the sun of the worldly is setting for ever; - his best things are all beginning to blossom and bloom for ever, when those of the worldly are all slipping out of his hands, and passing away. Young men, these things are true. Suffer the word of exhortation. Be persuaded. Take up the cross. Follow Christ. Yield yourselves unto God.”- Ask your children if they’ve taken up the cross; if they’re following Christ; if they’ve yielded themselves unto God.- What are some things they’ve been challenged by from Thoughts for Young Men?- Ask your children how you can be praying for them.The Banner of Truth TrustIntro created and performed by Isaac JohnsonOutro compliments of Sovereign Grace Music

Ryle closes Part 4: Special Rules for Young Men by focusing on prayer, “For another ting, resolve that wherever you are, you will pray.”Ryle was concerned for those who claimed to be Christians but did not pray. For Ryle, it was an oddity that someone would think themselves a Christians and not regularly find themselves talking with God. He said, “The feeling that we must cry to God for mercy and peace is a mark of grace; and the habit of spreading before him our soul’s wants is an evidence that we have the spirit of adoption.”He observed that few among him prayed. Prayer was not something the young men he knew practiced. Ryle makes a controversial statement when he says, “Young men, believe me, if your soul is to be saved, you must pray.” Obviously Ryle is not suggesting a salvation by works! He’s merely stating that a result of salvation will be that the saved prays. Pray is not a condition for salvation, it is a result of salvation.Ryle offers encouragement and exhortation when he challenges his young readers, “It is only in the strength of this [prayer] that you will get onward towards the mount of God.”- Who are some of the biblical characters Ryle points to who had a vibrant prayer life?- How does Ryle say someone will resist the world, the flesh, and the devil (1 John 2:16)?- Ryle uses an illustration of the needle-grinders in Sheffield. How do they protect themselves from the fine dust that threatens their breathing? How does Ryle say prayer protects us?- Do you find it hard to pray? If so, why? Is it that you don’t know what to say? If you find it difficult to pray, consider reading this book by Dr. Don Whitney. It is a wonderful resource on praying Scripture.The Banner of Truth TrustIntro created and performed by Isaac JohnsonOutro compliments of Sovereign Grace Music

Nearing the end of the fourth part of J.C. Ryle’s Thoughts for Young Men. Ryle considers the public means of grace: “For another thing, be diligent in the use of all public means of grace.”Ryle wants the young men he cares for so deeply to understand the importance of attending to the means of grace the Lord has blessed them with. Some of these public means of grace he focuses on are: regularly hearing the preaching of Christ’s gospel and keeping of the Sabbath. On why God uses means of grace in the lives of the believer, Ryle says, “Because he is a God that works by means, and it is his law and will that in all man’s dealings with him means shall be used.”Ryle says Satan will attempt to persuade believers against means by having us consider some ways that they are ineffective. To that, Ryle argues, “The value of means of grace, like other things, depends in a great measure on the manner and spirit in which we use them.”With respect to the importance of hearing the preaching of the gospel of Christ, Ryle says, “…there is a restraining power and influence in the ministry of the gospel, under which I earnestly desire every young man to be brought. There are thousands whom it keeps back from evil, though it has not yet turned them unto God;” Quoting Whitefield, Ryle reminds the reader, ‘The gospel keeps many a one from the gaol (jail) and gallows, if it does not keep him from hell.’On the importance of keeping the Sabbath, Ryle may hold a stricter view than some of us. Jesus said, “The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath.” (Mark 2:27)Ryle discourages activity on the Sabbath and says, “let none of these things move you to depart from this settled rule, that God’s day shall be given to God.”While I don’t hold to as strict of a view of the Sabbath as Ryle does, I do understand his concern. A general disregard for the Sabbath can lead to disregard for the church, and then a disregard for the Bible, and then God. Ryle also highlights a fascinating anecdote from Judge Hale, ‘Of all the persons who were convicted of capital crimes while he was upon the bench, he found only a few who would not confess, on inquiry, that they began their career of wickedness by a neglect of the Sabbath.’ Even if we don’t hold to a strict view of Sabbath rest like Ryle, we would do well to consider some of the potential pitfalls of taking it too lightly:- What did Jesus mean by saying the Sabbath was made for man?- How can we benefit from observing Sabbath rest?- Am I not appreciating God’s intent for the Sabbath? - How can I lead my family in observing Sabbath rest?The Banner of Truth TrustIntro created and performed by Isaac Johnson

This is the third reading from the fourth part of J.C. Ryle’s Thoughts for Young Men. The third rule is this: “For another thing, resolve never to forget the eye of God.”Ryle is reminding his audience of the omnipresence of God. For Ryle, this reality should affect our actions and our behaviors. Not only does God see our actions, He sees our thoughts and our hearts which generate our actions. He exhorts his hearers to “Live as in the sight of God.” Ryle says this should affect what we do, what we say, what we write, where we go, and what we read. It would be easy for us to apply this practice to the media we consume and how we conduct ourselves with social media.- Do we really live like we believe God is aware of our thoughts and deeds? If not, why?- Knowing God is aware of our thoughts and deeds, how should this affect our heart and actions?- If we’ve acted in ways that we’d be ashamed of others knowing, are we equally ashamed of the fact that God knows?The Banner of Truth TrustIntro created and performed by Isaac Johnson

Brian Davis is a pastor at Risen Christ Fellowship in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He completed a church planting internship at Imago Dei Church in Raleigh, North Carolina, and a pastoral internship at Capitol Hill Baptist Church in Washington, D.C. Brian and his wife, Sonia, have two sons and a daughter.Check out Brian’s work on Spotify hereVisit Risen Christ Fellowship’s website hereIntro created and performed by Isaac Johnson*If anyone has a connection at Spirit Airlines, please let them know Reclamation: Worship would be happy to entertain offers for an exclusive partnership. Also, we’d be honored to be the official podcast for Spirit Airlines.

Jeremy Vuolo is studying theology at The Master’s Seminary in Los Angeles, CA. He is married to Jinger and they have one daughter. Before seminary, Jeremy served as a pastor in Laredo, TX. Jeremy played professional soccer in Finland and in the MLS for the New York Red Bulls. Jeremy and his wife Jinger appear on TLC’s Counting On. More about the show can be found hereLearn more about The Master’s Seminary hereThe Master’s Seminary Institute for Church Leadership click hereThe Master’s Seminary free resources click hereReformed Theological Seminary free resources click hereLigonier Teaching Series click hereBanner of Truth click hereIntro created and performed by Isaac Johnson

This is the second reading from the fourth part of J.C. Ryle’s Thoughts for Young Men. The second rule is this: “For another thing, resolve, by God’s help, to shun everything which may prove an occasion for sin.”For Ryle, it is not enough to merely determine to commit no sin. He says we must “carefully keep at a distance from all approaches to it.”Ryle knows the dangers of living in this world and helps us to identify some of the obstacles that will challenge us - “the books that we read, the families that we visit, the society into which we go.”He offers a valuable tool for the young believer who would be content to say, “There is nothing positively wrong here” by teaching them to assess all situations and ask the question, “Is there anything here which may prove to me the occasion of sin?”Ryle identifies idleness and worldly amusements as traps to avoid.He encourages his hearers to disregard those who would say those of us who are guarding ourselves from sin are being over scrupulous and too particular. The stakes are high and what is at risk is our immortal souls.It doesn’t get any more practical than Ryles’ questions he asks when considering the Lord’s prayer. His point is this, why pray ‘Lead us not into temptation’ if we are not going to be careful to give ourselves over to temptation. Or, ‘deliver us from evil’ if we don’t want to keep out of its way.He carefully reminds us we must not put ourselves into situations that would endanger us and make us vulnerable to sin.- Why does it matter what media you consume (movies they watch, songs they listen to, video games they play)?- Ryle says, “We must not content ourselves with saying, ‘There is nothing positively wrong here’; we must go further, and say, ‘Is there anything here which may prove to me the occasion of sin?’” How can we as a family think carefully about the effects of media on our hearts and minds?- Ryle argues that the man who mingles in worldly amusements is like one who gives Satan vantage-ground. How can the movies we watch, the music we listen to and the video games we play give Satan vantage-ground in our lives?- What are some things that tempt you to sin?- What are some ways you can guard yourself from those temptations?The Banner of Truth TrustIntro created and performed by Isaac Johnson

Sam Emadi (PhD, Southern Baptist Theological Seminary) is a member of Third Avenue Baptist Church in Louisville, Kentucky, and a senior editor for 9Marks.Sam’s article on theological triage and the doctrine of creation can be found hereDr. Albert Mohler’s article on theological triage can be found hereConscience by Andy Naselli and J.D. Crowley can be found hereRegister for Together for the Gospel 2020 hereIntro created and performed by Isaac Johnson

We understand from the testimony of Scripture that there is a correlation between thankfulness/gratitude and worship. The grace of God revealed to us through His Son Jesus Christ evokes gratitude in Christians which in turn leads us to worship our great God. Happy Thanksgiving 2019!Intro created and performed by Isaac Johnson

This reading marks the fourth and final part of J.C. Ryle’s Thoughts for Young Men. Part 4 holds Special Rules for Young Men. The first rule is this: “For one thing, resolve at once, by God’s help, to break off every known sin, however small.” Ryle outlines the tragedy of a life where sin is not dealt with. He traces sin from its beginnings and shows how no one ever sets out to be wicked. Rather, their downfall began with little transgressions which in turn led to something greater. Ryle then goes on to remind us there is no such thing as little sins. He vividly paints a picture of two ways to come down from the top of a church steeple and likens that to two ways of going to hell. In both cases you can jump down or come down by the steps. Ryle suggests more people choose to descend into hell one step at a time. He closes by reciting the words of Jeremy Taylor who described the progress of sin in a man as follows: ‘First it startles him, then it becomes pleasing, then easy, then delightful, then frequent, then habitual, then confirmed! - then the man is impenitent, then obstinate, then resolves never to repent, and then he is damned.’ The Banner of Truth TrustIntro created and performed by Isaac Johnson

The ComicsRefToons is a free-to-read webcomic, inspired by theology and church history.RefToons was born out of a desire to revive the “old dead guys” from church history in the form of humorous and thought-provoking comic strips.In an effort to preserve their legacy, and bring clarity to some of their teachings through visual storytelling, I’ve attempted to bring the “old dead guys” to life in the modern world through the medium of comic strips.The ArtistPaul Cox is a freelance illustrator/cartoonist living and working out of southern Wisconsin with his wife, four kids, and four chickens.Visit RefToons.comRefToons on InstagramRefToons on FacebookPilgrim’s Progress: A Poetic Journey - purchase hereIntro created and performed by Isaac Johnson

This is the final reading from Part 3 of J.C. Ryle’s Thoughts for Young Men which holds General Counsels to Young Men. The sixth counsel in this section looks at the importance of choosing your friends based on their love of God.Ryle discusses the importance of choosing friends because of the potential harm that can come from choosing ungodly friends. He points out that we are creatures of imitation; that our friends influence our tastes and opinions. He says, “Health, unhappily, is not contagious, but disease is.” and challenges his hearers to ask themselves, ‘Will this be a useful friendship to me or not?’Ryle points out the benefits of good, godly friends and highlights the probability of ones wife being chosen among the connections of their friends. The obvious conclusion here is that your wife will have an immense impact on your future spiritual condition. Ryle closes with this profound thought, “But depend on it, bad company in the life that now is, is the sure way to procure worse company in the life to come.”The Banner of Truth TrustIntro created and performed by Isaac Johnson

This episode of Reclamation: Worship is dedicated in loving memory of Leila Judith Grace. Leila the Evangelist! Rev. Dr. Jonathan Gibson (PhD, Cambridge University) is associate professor of Old Testament at Westminster Theological Seminary. Dr. Gibson previously served as associate minister at Cambridge Presbyterian Church in England.Dr. Gibson’s academic interests include biblical theology, covenant theology, Genesis chapters 1–3, inner-biblical allusion and exegesis within the Old Testament, Pauline soteriology, and the doctrines of grace.The Moon Is Always Round - Dr. Jonathan Gibson“Why We Need a Children’s Book About Death” - Jackie GibsonThe Child’s Story Bible - Catherine F. VosIntro created and performed by Isaac Johnson

Part 3 of J.C. Ryle’s Thoughts for Young Men holds General Counsels to Young Men. The fifth counsel in this section looks at the importance of Scripture. He says, “For another thing, determine as long as you live to make the Bible your guide and adviser.”To Ryle, owning a Bible is important but merely owning a Bible serves no purpose if you don’t read it, “Determine that you will not only have a Bible, but also make time to read it too.”He then briefly outlines how these young men were to read their Bibles:- Read it with prayer - asking the Spirit to grant grace to “make you understand it.”- Read it reverently - paying mind to it being the very word of God and being “sure that every practice in your life which is contrary to Scripture, is sinful and must be given up.”- Read it regularly - Ryle reminds us regular reading of the Bible makes one, ‘mighty in the Scriptures’. We are encouraged by Ryle where he says, “Texts will rise up in your hearts in the moment of temptation; Commands will suggest themselves in season of doubt; Promises will come across your thoughts in the time of discouragement”Ryle concludes by saying, “I dwell on these things more because this is an age of reading. Of making many books there seems no end, though few of them are really profitable.” What would Ryle think of the number of books being published today? He finishes with a challenge to put God’s Word first and warns of reading bad books saying, “Take heed what you read. I suspect there is more harm done to souls in this way than most people have an idea is possible.”A final help for measuring other reading material, “Value all books in proportion as they are agreeable to Scripture. Those that are nearest to it are the best, and those that are farthest from it, and most contrary to it, the worst.”The Banner of Truth TrustIntro created and performed by Isaac Johnson

Ben Gibbons is a member of St. Paul’s Castle Hill where he serves as a volunteer with City Alight. City Alight is the music ministry of St. Paul’s. They write songs with biblically rich lyrics and simple melodies for the Christian church to sing. Ben is also a primary school teacher and sees his work there as worship to the Lord.Learn more about City Alight hereLearn more about St. Paul’s Castle Hill hereIntro created and performed by Isaac Johnson

In Ryle’s third section which holds General Counsels to Young Men, Ryle exhorts his readers to remember it is possible to be a young man and yet to serve God.Ryle challenges his readers to focus on serving God at a young age. Ryle sees that the world wants to give young people a pass. But, he answers this by asking, “Where will you find anything of all this in the word of God? Where is the chapter or verse in the Bible, which will support this talking and reasoning of the world?” He allows for the difficulties the young face but sees this as no excuse to disobey God. He encourages the reader with examples from Scripture of the young people God used who served Him despite the pull of the world’s influence on them. Ryle says, “Young men, try to serve God.” What a simple exhortation for all of us. How active are we in our sanctification? How active are in fighting sin and confessing sin so that we may serve God?He closes this reading by reminding us of the Lord’s promises to help us in our trying, ‘Seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you’ (Mat. 7:7)How can we encourage our children to try to serve God? Obviously, we must teach them they are not saved by works. This means the Gospel does not allow for “trying harder” in order to please God. He is pleased by His Son and His righteousness that extends to those who place their faith in Him.The Gospel reminds us that we have the privilege of trying to serve God as a result of our salvation and not as a means of our salvation. The Banner of Truth TrustIntro created and performed by Isaac Johnson

Pat Daly serves as the North American manager of Banner of Truth. He is a husband and father and serves his local church. He holds degrees from The University of Western Ontario and Greenville Presbyterian Theological SeminaryVisit The Banner of Truth hereThe Godly Man’s Picture can be purchased hereMaturity can be purchased hereJohn G. Paton’s autobiography can be purchased hereIntro created and performed by Isaac Johnson

Remaining in Ryle’s third section which holds General Counsels to Young Men, we consider the importance of our soul.I do take issue with Ryle in this reading over his interpretation of 2 Peter 3:10 as well as his understanding of the purpose of our bodies. I believe a more biblically faithful way of understanding 2 Peter 3:10 is one which allows for renewal of the earth rather than annihilation. Ryle’s main point should not be lost on us however and that’s that we must inspect our soul and determine where we stand before God. Ryle says, “He [God] measures all men by one standard, one measure, one test, one criterion, and that is the state of their souls.”Ryle concludes with this critically important statement, “Believe me, the day is fast coming when the soul will be the one thing men will think of, and the only question of importance will be this, ‘Is my soul lost or saved?” Have you surveyed your soul? Have you taken inventory of your soul? Do you care for your soul more than anything else in your life?The Banner of Truth TrustIntro created and performed by Isaac Johnson

Dr. Jim Orrick (B.A., Cumberland College; M.A., University of Memphis; M.Div., Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary; Ph.D., Ohio University) serves as Professor of literature and culture; program coordinator, general studies at Boyce College in Louisville, KY as well as Lead Pastor at Bullitt Lick Baptist Church in Shepherdsville, KY. Orrick’s professional and academic careers have run in two confluent streams. For about 40 years he has been preaching and teaching the Bible, and he has served as pastor of churches in West Virginia, Illinois, and Missouri. At the same time his lifelong love for literature and language arts has enriched his appreciation for God’s Word and also enhanced his ability to interpret and communicate the Truth. He has taught in several colleges and universities. Orrick has contributed chapter to books on literature, philosophy, and church history. He is author of the books, A Year with George Herbert: A Guide to Fifty-Two of His Best-Loved Poems and Encountering God Through Expository Preaching: Connecting God’s People to God’s Presence Through God’s Word, which he co-authored with Brian Payne and Ryan Fullerton.Mere Calvinism - purchase hereGrace Abounding to the Chief of Sinners - purchase hereDangerous Journey - purchase hereAudio Drama - purchase hereMore information about Boyce College can be found hereIntro created and performed by Isaac Johnson

As we resume Thoughts for Young Men, we continue following Ryle’s third section which holds General Counsels to Young Men.Here we are told to seek to become acquainted with our Lord Jesus Christ.Saying this is the corner-stone of Christianity, we understand Ryle is about to drill deep into the importance of a careful and thoughtful contemplation on one’s relationship to Christ. Religion without Christ is hopeless. Ryle pleads with his hearers to “go to Christ”. Ryle then lists reasons why. Jesus is our friend. He has made atonement for our sin. He is our strength. He gifts us with the Holy Ghost to dwell in us and seal us. He cleanses us. He comforts us. He knows our temptations Ryle concludes with, “Hear the request I make of you this day, - if you love life, seek to become acquainted with Jesus Christ.”Do we know Christ? Not, do we merely know of Christ - do we know Christ? Do our children know Christ? May we consider thoughtfully what it means to become acquainted with Jesus Christ.The Banner of Truth TrustIntro created and performed by Isaac Johnson

I’m excited for season three! We'll resume J.C. Ryle's Thoughts for Young Men. We’ll hear from Banner of Truth’s Pat Daly, Dr. Jim Orrick, professor of literature and culture at Boyce College, and many more. Season three will also feature interviews with my kids as we discuss John Bunyan’s The Pilgrim’s Progress. Intro created and performed by Isaac Johnson

Matthew Robinson is founder and director or Media Gratiae. Media Gratiae is an independent nonprofit (501c3) multimedia ministry based out of New Albany, Mississippi. Their desire is to produce film, print, and other media for the glory of Christ and for the good of His Church.Media Gratiae (pronounced "GRAH - tee - ā") is Latin for "the Means of Grace."Visit Media Gratiae by clicking hereMedia Gratiae products including the Behold Your God study can be found hereThe Behold Your God podcast can be found hereIntro created and performed by Isaac Johnson

In this installment of Thoughts for Young Men, Ryle begins Part Three which holds General Counsels to Young Men. The first counsel he gives is for the young men he is addressing to try to get a clear view of the evil of sin. Ryle then draws the attention of his readers to five thoughts: 1) What the Bible says about sin; 2) What an awful change sin has worked on all our natures; 3) What it has cost to make atonement for sin; 4) What sin has done already upon the earth; and 5) The misery and sorrow that sin has caused, and is causing at this very day. Ryle exhorts the young men to pray that God would teach them “the real evil of sin”. Have our hearts grown dull to the destructiveness of sin? Are our children wrestling with their sin and repenting regularly? May we guard our hearts from sin by considering how awful it is and by not forgetting the great price that was paid to free us from it.The Banner of Truth TrustIntro created and performed by Isaac Johnson

Sometimes, we unknowingly stumble upon a life-long pursuit and don't immediately realize it’s impact. For Adam Wright, that life-long pursuit is setting Scripture to music, a resource to help God’s people engage and treasure the Bible more deeply.Adam began this process as music minister for Cahaba Park Church in 2013 writing Psalms to song for a summer sermon series on the Psalms. Almost six years later, he's written and recorded over 25 songs straight from the pages of Scripture under the moniker, The Corner Room. As each passage has a different character and intent, each song he writes takes on a different style, drawing from his deep love of acoustic music. A singer/songwriter at heart, Adam enjoys arranging each passage into an accessible and singable work that makes memorization and meditation a joy.“These songs are a treasure to me,” says Wright. “They've not only impacted my family, my church and my community, but have made a lasting impact on my own personal love and understanding of Scripture. I look forward to where the Lord leads from here.”More info on The Corner Room can be found hereMore info on Cahaba Park Church can be found hereMore info on Act of Congress can be found hereIntro created and performed by Isaac Johnson

In this installment of Thoughts for Young Men, Ryle concludes his thoughts on “Special Dangers to Young Men” by warning against the fear of man’s opinion.Why do we care what others think about us? When should we care what others think about us? Ryle implores the young men who might listen to him to be free from the bondage of the fear of man. Ryle says, “I want you each to care nothing for man’s opinion, when the path of duty is clear.” How different would our society look today if we who are followers of Christ cared not what others thought when we were convicted about a clear path of duty? He asks the young men to consider how unreasonable and how thankless the fear of man is. Ryle’s practical application is rooted in Matthew 10:28 where he challenges us to fear God rather than man. The Banner of Truth TrustIntro created and performed by Isaac Johnson

Devon Kauflin serves as a pastor at Grace Church of Clarksburg by leading corporate worship, preaching and providing pastoral care. He also serves Sovereign Grace Music by contributing to recordings, leading events, and developing strategies for training leaders and better serving local churches. He completed his B.S. in Business from the University of Maryland (2007) and his M.Div. from the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary (2015). He is currently pursuing a PhD at the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. Devon and his wife, Kristine, were married in 2006 and have 4 children.

In this installment of Ryle’s Thoughts for Young Men, he continues to share his thoughts on “Special Dangers to Young Men” by considering the danger of contempt of religion.Ryle was concerned that the young men he knew had little respect for religion. Religion, for Ryle, meant much more than the ill-defined value we assign to it today. For Ryle, when he says religion, he means the activities associated with the active Christian life. He mentions the young men have little interest in worship services, the Bible and “Prayer Books”. He recognized they didn’t care to sing or listen to preaching and lectures. Ryle said that these young men “appear ashamed of seeming to care about their souls: one would almost fancy they reckoned it a disgrace to go to heaven at all.”Ryle challenges these young men by asking how seriously they’ve thought about their contempt of religion. The basis for Ryle’s challenge is the Authority and Reliability of Scripture. He uses God’s Word as the foundation of his warning to his audience.Ryle’s concern is built upon the Word of God. His worldview is underwritten by Scripture. For Ryle, if someone hates the activities of God, this contempt is rooted in a hatred for the Word of God. Ryle quotes Robert South, “Men question the truth of Christianity because they hate the practice of it.”Ryle pleads for these young men to consider God’s faithfulness. He asks a series of questions pertaining to God’s perfect record of keeping his word. Because God has never failed to fulfill His word, Ryle says, “Take care, lest you be found amongst those by whom God’s word is despised.”God’s Word must be the foundation of our lives. How Ryle ties the activities of our lives to our view of Scripture is a needed reminder for us - how we live reflects whether we believe God.The Banner of Truth TrustIntro created and performed by Isaac Johnson

Chris and Carly Wright are the founders of Scripture Type. They design and produce thoughtfully crafted Scripture resources and goods for the treasuring of God’s Word. Be sure to visit Scripture Type and support their work. You’ll also find free resources you can use such as wallpapers, lock screens and coloring pages. Intro created and performed by Isaac Johnson

In this installment of Ryle’s Thoughts for Young Men, he continues on with “Special Dangers to Young Men”. Thoughtlessness and inconsideration are in view today.He opens by saying, “Want of thought is one simple reason why thousands of souls are cast away for ever.” We see this in our day where people busy themselves with the present and think little of their future. We become so self-consumed and inward focused that we don’t take time to think carefully about our souls.Ryle says young men are especially at risk because they are not concerned with the dangers around them. He says, “Believe me, this world is not a world in which we can do well without thinking, and least of all do well in the matter of our souls.”We could all benefit from Ryle’s pleading for thoughtfulness. We could all benefit from Ryle’s pleading for consideration of what we’re doing and where we’re going.We should make time for reflection and we should learn to be still, if only for a few moments.The Banner of Truth TrustIntro created and performed by Isaac Johnson

Tom Ascol has served as a Pastor of Grace Baptist Church since 1986. Prior to moving to Florida he served as pastor and associate pastor of churches in Texas. He has a BS degree in sociology from Texas A&M University (1979) and has also earned the MDiv and PhD degrees from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in Ft. Worth, Texas. He has served as an adjunct professor of theology for New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary, Reformed Theological Seminary, the Midwest Center for Theological Studies and Reformed Baptist Seminary. He is currently a Visiting Professor at the Nicole Institute for Baptist Studies at Reformed Theological Seminary in Orlando, Florida and adjunct professor for Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary through their Southwest Florida Equip Center. Tom serves as the Executive Director of Founders Ministries. He has edited the Founders Journal, a quarterly theological publication of Founders Ministries, and has written hundreds of articles for various journals and magazines. He has been a regular contributor to TableTalk, the monthly magazine of Ligonier Ministries. He has also edited and contributed to several books in addition to authoring From the Protestant Reformation to the Southern Baptist Convention and Traditional Theology and the SBC. Tom regularly preaches and lectures at various conferences throughout the United States and other countries. In addition to contributing to the Founders Blog he also blogs at tomascol.com. He and Donna have ten children, including 3 sons-in-law and a daughter-in-law. They also have five granddaughters, one of whom has preceded them into the land of the living, and five grandsons. All of their grandchildren, by the way, absolutely rock.The Truth in Grace Memory Books can be found hereThe Attributes of God can be found hereThe Sword and The Trowel Podcast can be found hereInformation for the 2019 Founders National Conference can be found hereIntro created and performed by Isaac Johnson

In this installment of Ryle’s Thoughts for Young Men, he continues on with “Special Dangers to Young Men”. The danger in focus today is the love of pleasure.Ryle says strongly that, “if you would cleave to earthly pleasures, - these are the things which murder souls.” He reminds us that we must war against the flesh by putting on the Lord Jesus Christ. He says that earthly pleasures are unsatisfying and echos Blaise Pascal by saying, when speaking of the heart, “There is an empty place there, which nothing but God can fill.”Ryle speaks of the dangers of adultery saying, “The breach of the seventh commandment is the sin above all others, that, as Hosea says, ‘takes away the heart’ (Hos. 4:11)”. He goes on to cite some of the consequences of this sin and shows that it “leaves deeper scars upon the soul than any sin that a man can commit.” Ryle pleads with us to flee occasions of it; talking of it and thoughts of it. He closes with drawing on the importance of us guarding our thought life with, “Guard your thoughts, and there is little fear about your deeds.” Our culture is bent on a never-ending quest for pleasure. Helping our kids to understand the danger of the idol of pleasure will certainly aid them in avoiding a great deal of heartache. It is true that God has given us the ability to enjoy this life and to delight in the pleasures that it affords, however, we can easily fall into sin when, as Ryle says, we become servants of pleasure.The Banner of Truth TrustIntro created and performed by Isaac Johnson

Dr. Josh Buice serves as the pastor of Pray's Mill Baptist Church in Douglasville, Georgia — just west of Atlanta. He is the founding director of the G3 Conference, the author of the theology blog DeliveredByGrace.com. Dr. Buice studied at The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary where he earned his M.Div. and D.Min. in expository preaching.G3 registration and more information (be sure to help provide a scholarship for someone to attend if you are able) can be found hereDelivered By Grace can be found hereIntro created and performed by Isaac Johnson

In this installment of Ryle’s Thoughts for Young Men, he begins Part Two which contains “Special Dangers to Young Men”. The first danger is pride. Ryle says that “pride never reigns anywhere so powerfully as in the heart of a young man.” He gives Old Testament examples of prideful men but also points out some examples from the OT that can be commended for fighting pride in favor of humility. The best example Ryle offers of humility was that of Christ. We must help our kids understand the dangers of pride and the necessity of fixing their eyes on the humility of Christ. Ryle concludes his thoughts on this first danger by saying, “Young men, if you would be wise, if you would be happy, remember the warning I give you, - Beware of pride.”The Banner of Truth TrustIntro created and performed by Isaac Johnson

Brandon Kimber is a Christ follower, husband, father and filmmaker. He serves as Creative Director for Transition Studios and is also director of American Gospel: Christ Alone.You can learn more about the film and rent it or buy it by visiting the websiteIntro created and performed by Isaac Johnson

In this fifth installment of Ryle’s Thoughts for Young Men, he reveals some of the consequences of not beginning to serve God in one’s youth. In 1.5, Ryle explains, “young men need exhorting, because of the sorrow it will save them, to begin serving God now.”Ryle points out three pitfalls associated with not beginning to follow God from an early age. The first is loss of health; the second is the consequences of idleness; the third is grievous mistakes in judgement.Helping our kids understand the benefits of serving serving God early in life will save them much grief and sorrow as they age. No regenerate adult will look back on their life and not regret the sinful acts they committed. If we can impart this to our children, surely we will be loving them in the best way we can. I often hear believers who came to know Christ at an early age and, as a result, did not fall into the “spectacular sins”, lament that they have a boring testimony. This couldn’t be further from the truth. These “boring testimonies” are no less a miracle of God than the testimonies of those who have been saved out of the “spectacular sins”. May all of our children have “boring testimonies”!The Banner of Truth TrustIntro created and performed by Isaac Johnson

Jeremy Vuolo serves as senior pastor of Grace Community Church in Laredo, TX. He is married to Jinger and they have one daughter. Before pastoring, Jeremy played professional soccer in Finland and in the MLS for the New York Red Bulls. Jeremy and Jinger also appear on TLC’s Counting On which airs on Mondays at 9/8C. More about the show can be found hereLearn more about Grace Community Church hereIntro created and performed by Isaac Johnson

In this fourth installment of Ryle’s Thoughts for Young Men, he addresses the devil’s tactics. In 1.4, Ryle explains, “the devil uses special diligence to destroy the souls of young men, and they seem not to know it.”Ryle draws attention to the devil’s use of deception by saying, “He will tell you at the beginning of your lives, it is too soon to serve God, - he will tell you at the end, it is too late.” Ryle goes on to show how our enemy, the devil, is mighty, restless and cunning.We should be careful to help our children understand we are responsible for our actions and that we shouldn’t make a habit of blaming our sin on the devil. However, we have a very real and motivated enemy who seeks to destroy us and we should not fail to remind our children of him.The Banner of Truth TrustIntro created and performed by Isaac Johnson

Aaron Menikoff (PhD, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary) is senior pastor of Mt. Vernon Baptist Church in Atlanta, Georgia, and author of Politics and Piety (Pickwick, 2014). He is also the founder of the Feed My Sheep Conference which meets annually at Mt. Vernon Baptist Church.Feed My Sheep archives can be found hereDeepak Reju’s book, On Guard: Preventing and Responding to Child Abuse at Church can be found hereIntro created and performed by Isaac Johnson

In this third installment of Ryle’s Thoughts for Young Men, he addresses the importance of holy habits. In 1.3, Ryle explains, “what young men will be, in all probability depends on what they are now,”Ryle is speaking in generalities, however, these were his observations and we must agree that generally, someone who is chasing after hell usually finds what they are looking for. We know God can save someone who we’ve written off as being a lost cause but a testimony of God saving someone early in life who was spared from heartache and misery is just as miraculous.It is so important that we help our children cultivate holy habits so that they will love God and the things of God now. The Gospel is a glorious thing to be cherished by children so share it with them early and often.Intro created and performed by Isaac Johnson