Words and Works: Response

Fellow rats,

I just finished preaching through Judges, so here is my two cents. In Judges God works in the overtly miraculous (Gideon), and through providentially orchestrating the events of human history (Abimelech – 9:56). Even in Barak’s case the “stars fought from heaven”.

On the whole “words and works” issue. I would highly recommend anything by Sam Storms (http://www.enjoyinggodministries.com , but particularly “Convergence: Spiritual Journey of a Charismatic Calvinist”. He along with Grudem and Piper would be right in line with “R.A.T.S.” theology. I would love to see him speak at counsel some time. Maybe Louisville?

Personally I am re-reading Gordon Fee’s “Paul, the Spirit, and the People of God” (which is kind of a cliff notes version of his tome “God’s Empowering Presence” – also well worth reading). I do want to see and sense more of the power of the Holy Spirit in my life and ministry.

Interestingly, I just finished reading J.P. Moreland’s “Kingdom Triangle”. His manifesto means to “recover the Christian mind, renovate the soul, and restore the Spirit’s power”. It’s an interesting call to study, contemplation and spiritual formation, as well as “signs and wonders”!

Under the mercy,

Tom Welch
Southwest Church

p.s. On the previous question: Thomas Watson, the puritan author, in his book “A body of Practical Divinity” lists 17 ways we can glorify God. Number 14 is – “We glorify God by laboring to draw others to God; by seeking to convert others, and so make them instruments of glorifying God”. So the Glory of God is the chief end of the church, but being “missional” is a means to that end!