Blog Entries
The Marks of Regeneration for Church Membership
February 27, 2023
One of the most important responsibilities of the elders of a church is to examine all who come forward for membership. At the Metropolitan Tabernacle, they implemented an interview process where both lay elders and the pastor would have a chance to meet with every candidate coming forward, culminating with a congregational vote. Given the …
Spurgeon the Evangelist
February 16, 2023
We typically think of Spurgeon as a bold, fearless preacher who regularly proclaimed the gospel to thousands throughout his 40-year ministry. But when it came to personal evangelism, Spurgeon confessed his timidity, I often envy those of my brethren who can go up to individuals and talk to them with freedom about their souls. I do …
Spurgeon, Darwin, and the Question of Evolution
January 24, 2023
This is part three of a series on Spurgeon's teaching on animals. See Part 1 here, and Part 2 here. In contrast to Spurgeon’s wonder at the Creator whose glory shines in all that He has made, Charles Darwin popularized a new theory in the 19th century that argued for the evolution of simpler life forms …
Pastoral Evangelism: What It Is
January 17, 2023
As the one who is called to occupy the pulpit week after week, pastors have a particular opportunity to evangelize the lost and model to the congregation what it looks like to preach the gospel faithfully. While the task of evangelism cannot be limited to the pastor alone, a church’s evangelism does often begin with …
Pastoral Evangelism: What It Isn’t
January 10, 2023
Spurgeon often attributed the tremendous growth of his church not to his personal evangelistic efforts, but to his congregation’s.[1] At the same time, he understood that pastors, including himself, also have a duty to share the gospel. Certainly, as those called to preach and lead, pastors will have particular opportunities for evangelism in their work. …
Four Ways of Serving God During Christmas
December 8, 2022
The Christmas season is a time of rest and celebration. But it is also a time of great opportunity. The workplace is filled with Christmas carols and decorations. Family gatherings bring Christians together with their unsaved loved ones. Neighbors exchange gifts and host neighborhood parties. Opportunities to serve the poor and needy abound. In all …
Six Reasons the Savior Was Born in a Stable
December 1, 2022
Every detail surrounding the incarnation is significant. The virgin birth, the parents from Galilee, the journey to Bethlehem, the line of David, the shepherd, the angels, and many others are all strands woven into the tapestry of God's work of redemption from the creation of the world. Therefore, every detail is worth meditating on, even …
“A Symbol of the Invisible”: Spurgeon’s Teaching on Animals
November 15, 2022
This is part two of a series on Spurgeon's teaching on animals. See Part 1 here. Perhaps the primary feature of Spurgeon’s thinking on animals is in using the animal world to illustrate spiritual truths. This can be seen particularly in his sermons. During a lecture to his students on preaching, Spurgeon once provided this basis …
Spurgeon: A Fighter and a Lover
November 2, 2022
Charles Spurgeon should not be interpreted as a theological sadist, deriving pleasure from pummeling his doctrinal opponents. That he was a notable defender of the faith, is without question. He fought against baptismal regeneration and the undermining of essential evangelical doctrines, which he saw as threats to the gospel. He was outspoken and took strong …
Spurgeon’s Associationalism after the Downgrade Controversy
October 25, 2022
Throughout his ministry, Spurgeon was a champion of Baptist associationalism. While he believed in the congregational autonomy of each local church, Spurgeon gladly partnered with other Baptist churches for the cause of missions, evangelism, and church planting. So he reinvigorated the London Baptist Association, often hosting and chairing meetings. He became active in the Baptist …