tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13529332358645315822011-11-29T15:37:14.772-05:00John Brackenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146857336336605721noreply@blogger.comBlogger1881100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1352933235864531582.post-43568525207761279242011-11-29T15:22:00.004-05:002011-11-29T15:37:14.781-05:00

Here is a beautiful way to tell the greatest story ever told!Advent: God With Us from The Village Church on Vimeo.

John Brackenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146857336336605721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1352933235864531582.post-3655802828729760972011-05-03T15:48:00.006-04:002011-05-03T16:25:16.274-04:00

How does Biblical teaching (doctrine) inform and equip us to respond to trust God and His purposes? What is the Biblical perspective concerning how we should feel about the death of Osama bin Laden? In answering these questions, you may find the following links helpful.1.) Tornadoes and the Trustworthiness of God2.) How Should We Respond to Osama bin Laden's Death?

John Brackenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146857336336605721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1352933235864531582.post-72111614338317780442011-04-06T13:54:00.010-04:002011-04-06T14:08:19.510-04:00

The following links provide wise and thoughtful guidance for music and worship. The Three R's: Why Christians Sing Isaac Watts: The Reformer You Know By Heart But Not By Name

John Brackenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146857336336605721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1352933235864531582.post-38923887981281839542011-04-04T17:35:00.014-04:002011-04-06T14:23:18.709-04:00

If you want a fresh revealing perspective on your need for grace, click on the link below. http://paultrippministries.blogspot.com/2007/03/psalm-51-big-grace.html

John Brackenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146857336336605721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1352933235864531582.post-90554390418290017632011-03-31T16:52:00.017-04:002011-04-06T13:51:38.625-04:00

For those who have read or have heard about Heaven Is For Real, please look at the following review by Tim Challies linked below. Here is some of the review: If I wanted to disprove Colton’s experience on grounds of logic or consistency I might point in a couple of different directions. In the first place, Colton is a toddler who speaks like an adult. His verbatim quotes sound nothing like a 4-

John Brackenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146857336336605721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1352933235864531582.post-20877577712921345152011-03-25T00:13:00.001-04:002011-03-25T00:14:23.043-04:00

John Brackenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146857336336605721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1352933235864531582.post-29532660095930657682011-03-24T19:37:00.006-04:002011-03-24T20:01:08.860-04:00

David Platt weighs in on Rob Bell controversy - click hereWhy is hell an important Christian teaching? - click hereA Letter To Anne Rice And The Imporance of Church And Christian Fellowship - Click here

John Brackenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146857336336605721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1352933235864531582.post-33447121481801429212011-03-24T18:48:00.001-04:002011-03-24T18:49:46.138-04:00

Do We Really Believe What We're Saying? from The Church at Brook Hills on Vimeo.

John Brackenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146857336336605721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1352933235864531582.post-77113527922523221092011-03-24T18:45:00.000-04:002011-03-24T18:45:10.188-04:00

John Brackenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146857336336605721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1352933235864531582.post-24120594946891846292011-03-24T16:40:00.009-04:002011-03-24T18:07:28.303-04:00

Why is hell an important Christian teaching? Timothy Keller answers that question in four parts. Below is answer number 4 and the most compelling. Click here to read the complete post.4. The doctrine of hell is important because it is the only way to know how much Jesus loved us and how much he did for us. In Matthew 10:28 Jesus says that no physical destruction can be compared with the spiritual

John Brackenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146857336336605721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1352933235864531582.post-38493666247585377612011-03-16T15:25:00.004-04:002011-03-16T16:01:38.570-04:00

There is still room for those who may want to join the Radical book study group. Call Brother John (229-300-3205) and he will get a book to you. The first 3 chapters are to be read by this Sunday.Here are some links of interest for the book Radical and Read The Bible For LifeRadical: http://www.radicalthebook.com/resources.html Read the Bible for Life:http://soundcloud.com/bhpublishinggroup/sets/

John Brackenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146857336336605721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1352933235864531582.post-43218377288583700772010-12-15T18:30:00.001-05:002010-12-15T18:30:00.614-05:00

John Brackenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146857336336605721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1352933235864531582.post-74475513214472312692010-12-13T18:30:00.001-05:002010-12-13T18:30:01.198-05:00

John Brackenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146857336336605721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1352933235864531582.post-2844092809011262572010-12-09T18:30:00.001-05:002010-12-09T18:30:00.697-05:00

John Brackenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146857336336605721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1352933235864531582.post-87005857827103920172010-12-08T06:30:00.003-05:002010-12-08T13:13:37.659-05:00

John Brackenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146857336336605721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1352933235864531582.post-36433902660331618592010-12-07T11:05:00.004-05:002010-12-08T13:14:07.119-05:00

I am praying that God would open the door for us at First Baptist to facilitate this weekend marriage ministry for our Church and community to strengthen marriages and prepare single adults for marriage. Click below to view the video. I will be posting other videos related to the conference over the coming days.

John Brackenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146857336336605721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1352933235864531582.post-88375830599114143062010-09-21T16:33:00.002-04:002010-09-21T16:38:56.076-04:00

John Brackenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146857336336605721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1352933235864531582.post-66113631944724644822010-09-20T16:47:00.002-04:002010-09-20T16:52:42.422-04:00

Yesterday, in the morning worship service, we looked at Paul's statement concerning those who preach "another gospel". The following video is a response from Dr. John Piper's concerning the "prosperity gospel".

John Brackenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146857336336605721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1352933235864531582.post-58604035954031589082010-09-13T14:06:00.002-04:002010-09-13T14:10:34.285-04:00

John Brackenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146857336336605721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1352933235864531582.post-46341257556452760662010-09-08T13:35:00.002-04:002010-09-08T13:38:11.384-04:00

John Brackenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146857336336605721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1352933235864531582.post-43977557816054826842010-07-31T22:35:00.001-04:002010-07-31T22:39:22.338-04:00

John Brackenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146857336336605721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1352933235864531582.post-8353155199658322072010-07-23T18:18:00.005-04:002010-07-23T18:28:58.792-04:00

Wise words for those who have lost their love for the Church that Christ loves and gave His life for (Ephesians 5:25). You will need to turn your volume up to hear this.To those who have given up on church from Randy Alcorn on Vimeo.

John Brackenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146857336336605721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1352933235864531582.post-37162341305787777612010-07-09T22:30:00.001-04:002010-07-09T22:36:42.844-04:00

What is the Gospel? from Southern Seminary on Vimeo.

John Brackenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146857336336605721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1352933235864531582.post-44194680069298573792010-06-28T18:45:00.001-04:002010-06-28T18:48:32.611-04:00

Matt Chandler - 20/20 2010 Session 1 from Southeastern Seminary on Vimeo.

John Brackenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146857336336605721noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1352933235864531582.post-14088897235449591172010-06-23T08:31:00.002-04:002010-06-23T08:37:48.188-04:00

We will be showing the movie Amazing Grace this Sunday evening at 6 pm. It is the story of the life of William Wilberforce, the leader of the abolitionist movement in England during the latter 1700's and early 1800's.

John Brackenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146857336336605721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1352933235864531582.post-14991321160490146472010-06-10T12:21:00.000-04:002010-06-10T12:21:00.089-04:00

The following article is reprinted with permission. The link below is to the original posting. I want to thank the Gospel Coalition for granting permission to post this article on my blog. http://thegospelcoalition.org/resources/a/the_transforming_power_of_the_gospelLet’s face it, no one reads a blog like this unless he (or she!) is deeply interested in and committed to growing in their own

John Brackenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146857336336605721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1352933235864531582.post-74998793548271348702010-06-10T12:03:00.002-04:002010-06-10T12:17:57.048-04:00

Here is an awesome quote from an excellent Gospel message by Tullian TchividjianThe story of Jonah shows us that the gospel—the good news that God relentlessly pursues sinners in order to rescue them—is just as much for Christians as it is for non-Christians. Jonah’s life proves this, because Jonah, who knows God, obviously needs divine deliverance as much as anyone else in the story. In fact,

John Brackenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146857336336605721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1352933235864531582.post-10809764032482875322010-06-10T12:02:00.002-04:002010-06-10T12:20:43.984-04:00

Found at the following web site:http://thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/tullian/2010/05/31/what-the-bible-is-not-2/Contrary to what many Christians have concluded, the Bible does not tell two stories: the story of Israel in the OT and the story of the church in the NT. No, the Bible tells one story and points to one figure: it tells the story of how God rescues a broken world and points to Christ who

John Brackenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146857336336605721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1352933235864531582.post-87322415073957758462010-06-10T12:01:00.000-04:002010-06-10T12:01:00.652-04:00

This is from Pastor Wyman, First Baptist Dawson from April 29, 2007. It was an introductory sermon for the "Lies Parents Tell Themselves" series.Sermon: "The Role of the Bible" (Acts 17:1-5)

John Brackenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146857336336605721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1352933235864531582.post-72198676229209778022010-06-08T10:57:00.004-04:002010-06-10T12:06:19.076-04:00

View and remember Jesus is the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world!

John Brackenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146857336336605721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1352933235864531582.post-67716198337163197512010-06-08T10:49:00.005-04:002010-06-10T12:01:20.048-04:00

Watch to find out...

John Brackenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146857336336605721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1352933235864531582.post-78270239955719164982010-05-31T13:41:00.007-04:002010-06-19T19:26:19.844-04:00

The following is from Pastor Wyman Richardson, First Baptist Church, Dawson, Georgia. An Open Letter to Christian Parents Concerning Athletics, the Church, and Your ChildrenBy Wyman Richardson"These people relate to the church probably just as positively as they do to sports...only less actively." Dietrich Bonhoeffer, 1928Dear Christian Parents,This letter is not intended to (1) create guilt, (2)

John Brackenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146857336336605721noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1352933235864531582.post-27238972526428055182010-05-29T01:29:00.001-04:002010-05-29T01:32:14.022-04:00

This is hilarious, one of the best commercial all year!

John Brackenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146857336336605721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1352933235864531582.post-53519843291996468912010-05-25T12:48:00.003-04:002010-05-25T13:12:00.969-04:00

Beginning Sunday, June 6th, our Young Adult Bible Study Class will begin going through the video series What Did You Expect?: Redeeming the Realities of Marriage. Below is the authors thoughts on why this video series and the book by the same name is different from other marriage helps. The class begins at 9:45 a.m.Paul Tripp- What makes "What Did You Expect?" different than other marriage books

John Brackenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146857336336605721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1352933235864531582.post-34519065362340335362010-05-19T17:19:00.010-04:002010-06-10T12:42:53.632-04:00

Here is some great help for Blended Families and especially those who are considering making the leap.1. Overview2. Is Remarriage a Step in the Right Direction?3. Patchwork Families 4. The Way We Always Do It 5. Loving the Stepmomster 6. Next Steps / Related Information

John Brackenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146857336336605721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1352933235864531582.post-89002799224323765222010-04-09T13:37:00.014-04:002010-04-09T14:09:49.101-04:00

The following article is by Denny Burk, Associate Professor of New Testament and Dean of Boyce College, the undergraduate arm of the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary in Louisville, Kentucky. April 6, 2010 Last week, National Review Online published an anonymous article titled “Getting Serious about Pornography.” The testimonial of the author is heart-rending. She writes: “By his own

John Brackenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146857336336605721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1352933235864531582.post-11356095631562550262010-04-05T10:06:00.002-04:002010-04-05T10:10:48.830-04:00

But when the chief priests and the teachers of the law saw the wonderful things he did and the children shouting in the temple area, "Hosanna to the Son of David," they were indignant. {16} "Do you hear what these children are saying?" they asked him. "Yes," replied Jesus, "have you never read, "'From the lips of children and infants you have ordained praise'?" (Mat 21:15-16 NIV)

John Brackenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146857336336605721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1352933235864531582.post-21450475776939081262010-03-16T09:45:00.011-04:002010-03-16T13:33:51.075-04:00

How has the Gospel of grace made a difference in your life today or right now? (Yesterday's insight)“Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one." (Deut. 6:4).The Gospel of Mark is written to Gentiles. The above verse is included in Mark because most Gentiles would not be as familiar with the two Great Commandments and its' context. Matthew (Matt. 22:34-40) does not include Deuteronomy 6:4

John Brackenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146857336336605721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1352933235864531582.post-2556586048636679652010-03-15T17:41:00.017-04:002010-03-15T18:44:01.066-04:00

Excellent post and critique by Dr. Al Mohler concerning Glenn Beck's comments about "social justice".Click on microphone on the left to go to article.Here is a small excerpt of what Beck said that has stirred the pot among many. During his March 2, 2010 radio broadcast, Beck said this:I beg you, look for the words "social justice" or "economic justice" on your church Web site. If you find it, run

John Brackenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146857336336605721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1352933235864531582.post-64513633720522184542010-03-12T12:15:00.007-05:002010-03-12T12:25:37.810-05:00

This blog article is an excellent example of the Gospel orientation and wisdom of many of our Seminary professors - "How Much Do I Need to Know About My Potential Spouse’s Sexual Past? My Response". Notice how Dr. Moore takes the general discussion of a person's in-purity and brings it home to all of us in the last sentence below. You are not “owed” a virgin because you are. Your sexual purity

John Brackenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146857336336605721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1352933235864531582.post-83249619297296603102010-03-10T15:58:00.008-05:002010-03-10T16:12:22.255-05:00

Nov 8, 2006It is important to point out that Calvinists and Arminians share a considerable amount of common theological ground, even when it comes to the issue of salvation. Perhaps the most important issue on which they agree is anthropology, or the doctrine of man or human nature. Both camps acknowledge that fallen human beings are born with a corrupt and depraved nature, in bondage to sin,

John Brackenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146857336336605721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1352933235864531582.post-34769439635409705682010-03-10T15:36:00.001-05:002010-03-10T16:15:09.715-05:00

As the name suggests, prevenient grace is grace that “comes before” something. It is normally defined as a work that God does for everybody. He gives all people enough grace to respond to Jesus. That is, it is enough grace to make it possible for people to choose Christ. Those who cooperate with and assent to this grace are “elect.” Those who refuse to cooperate with this grace are lost. The

John Brackenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146857336336605721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1352933235864531582.post-82087402547544996782010-03-10T11:17:00.006-05:002010-03-10T11:40:51.545-05:00

From Horatius Bonar, a nineteenth-century Scottish pastor and author wrote (in The Gospel For Real Life - Jerry Bridges, pp.163-4):The secret of a believer's holy walk is his continual recurrence to the blood of the Surety, and his daily (communion) with a crucified and risen Lord. All divine life, and all precious fruits of it, pardon, peace, and holiness, spring from the cross. All fancied

John Brackenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146857336336605721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1352933235864531582.post-39680297975531457282010-03-06T06:00:00.003-05:002010-03-06T06:00:01.016-05:00

I have read about common grace, and heard that it is a term invented by John Calvin, and not found in Scripture, and that he used it to slice up the concept of grace, and who God offers grace and who he doesn't. What does "common grace" mean, and is it something I should believe?Answered by Randy AlcornI do not see common grace as an invention of John Calvin or any other man. Rather, I see it as

John Brackenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146857336336605721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1352933235864531582.post-19561317719091301382010-02-28T20:07:00.004-05:002010-03-01T20:52:19.604-05:00

I want to express gratitude to our church family, First Baptist Lakeland. You have been so faithful to pray for my Mother, Peggy Bracken, over the past years. My mother was so blessed to receive cards from our Sunday School classes and from many in our Church. I have been so humbled by your calls, and notes and your stopping me to ask how my Mother was doing and offering your support, prayers and

John Brackenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146857336336605721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1352933235864531582.post-14136229240180767962010-02-28T15:48:00.011-05:002010-02-28T16:21:09.608-05:00

Some may not have known that my Mother has been suffering from two forms of Lung Cancer for well over 2 years. This morning at 8:58 am (Central Time) an awesome and wonderful thing happened, my Mother found herself directly in the presence of the Lord Jesus Christ.My Mother was a wonderful Christian lady. I could spend hours talking about all the good things that she has done. One of the greatest

John Brackenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146857336336605721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1352933235864531582.post-87469012786991660892010-02-27T18:35:00.003-05:002010-02-27T18:35:00.688-05:00

Before I spoke at a conference, a soloist sang one of my favorite songs, "Amazing Grace."It was beautiful. Until she got to the tenth word."Amazing grace, how sweet the sound, that saved a soul like me."My heart sank. The word "wretch" had been edited out! I thought about John Newton, the song-writer. This former slave-trader, guilty of the vilest sins, knew he was a wretch. And that's what made

John Brackenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146857336336605721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1352933235864531582.post-53869414181425652392010-02-26T23:53:00.000-05:002010-02-26T23:54:00.234-05:00

John Brackenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146857336336605721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1352933235864531582.post-91396378864705250742010-02-24T13:33:00.001-05:002010-02-24T13:37:04.047-05:00

This provides an excellent contrast between religion and/or "do goodism" & the Gospel...

John Brackenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146857336336605721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1352933235864531582.post-83172892512374074732010-02-23T13:04:00.002-05:002010-02-23T13:07:33.748-05:00

“Have you realized that most of your unhappiness in life is due to the fact that you are listening to yourself instead of talking to yourself? Take those thoughts that come to you the moment you wake up in the morning. You have not originated them, but they start talking to you, they bring back the problems of yesterday, etc.Somebody is talking. Who is talking? Your self is talking to you. Now

John Brackenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146857336336605721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1352933235864531582.post-48509660666890557702010-02-20T18:28:00.002-05:002010-02-20T18:28:00.448-05:00

Hounded by the Pharisees, betrayed by a friend, forsaken by His disciples, brutalized by police, beaten by His inquisitors, led in disgrace to a rigged trial.Arrogant men sitting in judgment over Him, crowning Him with thorns, mocking and disdaining. Beating Him without mercy, nailing Him to the cross, the worst of tortures, stretched out between thieves.Miserably thirsty, utterly forsaken by His

John Brackenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146857336336605721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1352933235864531582.post-19980835491804396892010-02-19T12:16:00.003-05:002010-02-19T12:31:52.953-05:00

Matt Chandler, pastor of The Village Church, Dallas, TX Metro Area (multi-site) will be speaking at this year's Southern Baptist Convention's Pastors Conference. He recently was diagnosed with a form of aggressive brain cancer, underwent surgery and has been undergoing chemo and radiation treatments. Below is one of his many excellent messages that he has preached over the past years. To see

John Brackenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146857336336605721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1352933235864531582.post-18613992198309161252010-02-18T18:19:00.001-05:002010-02-18T18:20:35.150-05:00

John Brackenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146857336336605721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1352933235864531582.post-13031190328119070852010-02-13T18:22:00.002-05:002010-02-13T18:22:00.329-05:00

We spent an unforgettable day in England with Phil and Margaret Holder. Margaret had been born in China to missionary parents with China Inland Mission. In 1939, when Japan took control of Eastern China, thirteen-year-old Margaret was imprisoned in a Japanese internment camp. There she remained, separated from her parents, for six years.Margaret told us stories about a godly man called "Uncle

John Brackenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146857336336605721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1352933235864531582.post-69341690463343714432010-02-06T18:12:00.001-05:002010-02-06T18:12:00.491-05:00

The apparent conflict between grace and truth isn't because they're incompatible, but because we lack perspective to resolve their paradox. The two are interdependent. We should never approach truth except in a spirit of grace, or grace except in a spirit of truth. Jesus wasn't 50% grace, 50% truth, but 100% grace, 100% truth.Truth-oriented Christians love studying Scripture and theology. But

John Brackenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146857336336605721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1352933235864531582.post-66665543641216381432010-01-31T19:06:00.001-05:002010-01-31T19:05:46.629-05:00

Pastor JR VassarI write this today because I need to. I need to tell myself these things. I just read the pathology report from the Village Church on Matt Chandler (http://ow.ly/MM81). I have known Matt for many years and love and respect him deeply. I am praying for him and for his sweet wife Lauren, and their kiddos, and the Village. And, I am praying with this in mind: there is a difference

John Brackenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146857336336605721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1352933235864531582.post-76699056966794045912010-01-31T18:15:00.002-05:002010-01-31T22:35:05.491-05:00

That first century Jewish culture understood truth far better than grace. Grace comes first in John 1:14 because it was more surprising.When Jesus stepped onto the world's stage, people could not only hear the demands of truth but see Truth Himself. No longer fleeting glimmers of grace, but Grace Himself. "Behold the Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world" (John 1:29).When God passed in

John Brackenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146857336336605721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1352933235864531582.post-53372988670860439662010-01-25T14:26:00.001-05:002010-01-25T14:26:45.531-05:00

John Brackenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146857336336605721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1352933235864531582.post-52657894538401318382010-01-19T15:52:00.005-05:002010-01-19T16:03:58.291-05:00

I'd so love to be able to attend the Together for the Gospel Conference (http://www.t4g.org/). Below is an interview with one of the main speakers, C.J. Mahaney, one of my favorite Bible teachers and authors. He gets around to talking about one of the great benefits of the conference - the singing together, as men the praises of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.C. J. Mahaney - Study Video from

John Brackenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146857336336605721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1352933235864531582.post-42660044602389078852010-01-19T15:05:00.003-05:002010-01-19T15:12:13.499-05:00

The following article is by Dr. Al Mohler, President of Southern Baptist Theological Seminary and is timely, in light of the disaster but also those who would say for whatever reason, that what has happened is in response to God's judgment. You can link directly to this article at: http://www.albertmohler.com/2010/01/14/does-god-hate-haiti/Posted: Thursday, January 14, 2010 at 5:19 pm ETThe

John Brackenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146857336336605721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1352933235864531582.post-52360286649800046682010-01-18T22:06:00.004-05:002010-01-19T16:47:27.628-05:00

John Piper gives his repsonse to the why's of disasters in the following article in an article titled, "Whence and Why the Earthquakes In Turkey".--------------------------------------------------------------------------------By John Piper August 18, 1999--------------------------------------------------------------------------------"Weep with those who weep" (Romans 12:15). When love has wept

John Brackenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146857336336605721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1352933235864531582.post-48340412293991036472010-01-18T21:38:00.006-05:002010-01-19T15:18:42.244-05:00

Some time back Josh Harris posted the following concerning a hauntingly realistic song about how lightly we take God except when we face devastation. Here is what he had to say along with the video and lyrics below. ( http://www.joshharris.com/2009/07/regina_spektor_no_one_laughs_a.php#more )I listened to Regina Spektor's haunting song "Laughing With" several times today. I don't know Regina's

John Brackenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146857336336605721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1352933235864531582.post-53861335000889106602010-01-11T13:07:00.002-05:002010-01-11T13:22:58.085-05:00

Finding grace in unexpected ways is sometimes very evident, but sometimes we have to take more time to look for it. In the case of Patrick Henry Hughes (see video below), with the passing of time the grace is very evident. But for many, that grace wasn't so evident the day he was born.In a related article, Dr. Al Mohler comments on the eventual possibility of "designer babies" at the following

John Brackenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146857336336605721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1352933235864531582.post-83554092336439660922010-01-08T09:41:00.009-05:002010-01-08T14:45:47.203-05:00

When I first saw Brit Hume's comments on Tiger Woods need for the Gospel on a YouTube post, I had a mixture of feelings, ranging from excitement, to empathy, and to concern. Excitement - because the Gospel was being declared in a major public venue as something needed and not only needed but supremely needed. Empathy - because having made statements that are not politically correct, I knew in a

John Brackenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146857336336605721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1352933235864531582.post-25127502654815903212009-12-13T19:37:00.007-05:002009-12-13T19:51:58.977-05:00

The following article below is a continuation of a series of post on "Salvation: Past, Present And Future".The following link is another articles related to the subject "Salvation: Past, Present And Future".http://iij-jesus.blogspot.com/2009/12/salvation-past-present-and-future-part.htmlWhat role does sanctification play in salvation?By Donald WhitneySince 2005, Don Whitney has been Associate

John Brackenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146857336336605721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1352933235864531582.post-34322523500718935582009-12-11T09:05:00.002-05:002009-12-11T10:28:54.059-05:00

Last Friday, the 4th of December, Matt Chandler had surgery to remove a growth on the frontal loab of his brain. He is currently recovering in the hospital receiving physical therapy. The following is a link to Matt's video message to the congregation he pastors, The Village Church, Flower Mound, TX.Address: http://fm.thevillagechurch.net/blog/pastors/?p=363

John Brackenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146857336336605721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1352933235864531582.post-15989150694925130292009-12-11T08:38:00.004-05:002009-12-11T09:03:40.521-05:00

Tiger Woods' transgressions, should be a signpost to us concerning our own need to deal with our own sins which are so destructive and deceptive. The following is an excellent article from Anthony Carter on how sin has made fools of us all and our need for God's grace to restrain us from sinful foolishness.Sin Makes Us Fools When I was playing football (seems like a lifetime ago), we would often

John Brackenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146857336336605721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1352933235864531582.post-17291683616455804062009-12-11T06:00:00.007-05:002009-12-11T06:00:07.294-05:00

This is a contiuation of the post from yesterday concerning Salvation: Past, Present And Future. Phil. 2:12-13. Work Out Your Salvation? Phil. 2:12-13 is difficult only when we do not hear it within the context of everything else Paul says about God's work of redemption and our involvement in that work. Certainly since the Reformation, when the essence of Paul's gospel was captured in the joyful

John Brackenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146857336336605721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1352933235864531582.post-49372845016332526022009-12-10T10:07:00.007-05:002009-12-10T10:33:50.040-05:00

Last night at the Wednesday evening service, several asked me about my usage of the termonology of "being saved" and "our need to be saved". We often think of salvation as being something that "has happened". The New Testament teaches it in terms of "Salvation: Past, Present & Future". The following is from Hard Sayings of the Bible concerning the issue of salvation, past, present and future.1

John Brackenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146857336336605721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1352933235864531582.post-66809176633862496332009-12-09T15:39:00.003-05:002009-12-09T15:45:22.162-05:00

From Ed Stetzer, Lifeway Research...Wednesday December 9, 2009A new study done by Patrick F. Fagan examines the effects of pornography on individuals, marriage, family and community. Fagan is Senior Fellow and Director of the Center for Research on Marriage and Religion at the Family Research Council. He specializes in examining the relationships among family, marriage, religion, community, and

John Brackenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146857336336605721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1352933235864531582.post-53050652628037051442009-12-09T12:48:00.006-05:002009-12-09T13:07:29.352-05:00

The key to this article by C.J. Mahaney, is found in the last 2 paragraphs - keep reading, it's worth the read.Hunting Tiger Woodsby C.J. Mahaney 12/3/2009 3:10:00 PMTiger Woods wants his privacy back.He wants the media entourage to disappear from his life.He wants to be left alone so he can manage his personal problems in private.Not a chance.The story began unfolding in the early hours of last

John Brackenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146857336336605721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1352933235864531582.post-49147290027665016192009-12-04T11:42:00.005-05:002009-12-04T12:24:55.712-05:00

The article below is from Matt Chandler's blog entry today. Matt is one of America's most influential pastors who is committed to calling the Church to refocus on the centrality of God and the Gospel. As of this posting, Matt is in the early stages of surgery to remove a good portion of his right frontal lobe. Please pray for him and for God's glory to be manifested through this trial.My Heart is

John Brackenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146857336336605721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1352933235864531582.post-74662703020543519102009-11-09T20:13:00.002-05:002009-11-09T20:21:07.532-05:00

Please take time to read this prayer. You will be thankful for doing so.Other prayers and articles can be found at:http://www.christcommunitylive.org/AboutUs/ChurchLeadership/Pastors/PastorScottySmith/ScottysBlog/tabid/175/Default.aspxNov 8Written by: Scotty Smith11/8/2009 6:03 AMA Prayer About Heart GuardingDear children, keep yourselves from idols. 1 John 5:21 Heavenly Father, how I long for

John Brackenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146857336336605721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1352933235864531582.post-60191435480397107942009-10-20T14:42:00.001-04:002009-10-20T14:44:41.205-04:00

God's wonderful mercy and grace is awesome. Every life is a miraculous gift from God - even your life is an awesome gift!

John Brackenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146857336336605721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1352933235864531582.post-64634023154145678482009-10-18T23:22:00.003-04:002009-10-18T23:28:44.142-04:00

Wow! What a great prayer Scotty Smith prays. The kind of prayer I need every day!Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which WE must be saved.” Acts 4:12 Dear Lord Jesus, as a young Christian, I remember many late nights of debating this Scripture, and its strong affirmation that salvation can only be found in you. While I still believe you are

John Brackenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146857336336605721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1352933235864531582.post-27990590094291856892009-10-14T14:21:00.001-04:002009-10-14T14:22:13.357-04:00

John Brackenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146857336336605721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1352933235864531582.post-20946049078907201022009-10-14T14:16:00.002-04:002009-10-14T14:19:23.388-04:00

I was tremendously moved by the words of Billy Graham in this video on the Dedication of the Billy Graham Library.

John Brackenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146857336336605721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1352933235864531582.post-82149800965909990982009-10-06T12:18:00.003-04:002009-10-06T12:27:43.191-04:00

Ed Stetzer, President of LifeWay Research posted the following link concerning idolatry. It is a brief segment from NightLine that aired last night (10-05-09). Here is the link.http://is.gd/40rn2

John Brackenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146857336336605721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1352933235864531582.post-11739859713206578302009-10-03T18:31:00.003-04:002009-10-03T18:37:13.793-04:00

John Piper provides some thoughtful words of guidance concerning this question...By John Piper April 17, 2002How should Bible-believing Christians align themselves in the Jewish-Palestinian conflict? There are Biblical reasons for treating both sides with compassionate public justice in the same way that disputes should be settled between nations generally. In other words, the Bible does not

John Brackenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146857336336605721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1352933235864531582.post-35796003952743624372009-09-18T21:55:00.007-04:002009-09-18T22:03:28.543-04:00

The following is a great illustration of how Christians can have differing convictions concering the meaning of Scripture, but yet find humility and fellowship as fellow sinners. March 19, 2009by Mark DeverIn my article in the new 9Marks e-journal, I wrote, "I have many dear paedo-baptists friends from whom I have learned much. Yet I see their practice as a sinful (though sincere) error from

John Brackenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146857336336605721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1352933235864531582.post-4059735897941226102009-09-09T13:32:00.003-04:002009-09-09T13:35:41.823-04:00

It looks as if "Spirit" the Bald Eagle flew outside of the stadium. I wonder if that is a scary moment for the handlers of "Spirit".

John Brackenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146857336336605721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1352933235864531582.post-12844844168476162742009-09-04T12:27:00.003-04:002009-09-04T15:36:44.928-04:00

John Brackenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146857336336605721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1352933235864531582.post-89636978831106808062009-08-18T21:31:00.000-04:002009-08-18T21:57:12.969-04:00

John Brackenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146857336336605721noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1352933235864531582.post-51283092898296923442009-08-10T17:11:00.004-04:002009-08-12T20:49:02.237-04:00

The denial of sin has as much to do with the denial of the Person of God. As noted at the end of Dr. Mohler's excellent article, a small God equals small sins. Not only has the American Evangelical Christian's perception of sin changed, but our perception of God has changed.by R. Albert Mohler, Jr.http://www.albertmohler.com/blog_print.php?id=1120Posted: Tuesday, March 25, 2008 at 3:53 am ETCathy

John Brackenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146857336336605721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1352933235864531582.post-2426352848727470342009-08-04T11:54:00.008-04:002009-08-04T18:19:09.500-04:00

The article below is Dr. Al Mohler's comments concerning the concept of Moralistic Therapeutic Deism, described in the National Study of Youth and Religion at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. The basic tenets of this belief are:1. A god exists who created and ordered the world and watches over humanlife on earth.2. God wants people to be good, nice, and fair to each other, as

John Brackenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146857336336605721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1352933235864531582.post-26202708431051166472009-08-03T11:50:00.006-04:002009-08-03T12:20:05.648-04:00

Jay Smith, the one featured on these videos, is a prominent Christian Apologist who speaks weekly at the Speakers Corner, Hyde Park, London, England. His primary audience often is Muslims. This past Spring I was blessed to join a team of Christians who witnessed along side him in the park.

John Brackenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146857336336605721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1352933235864531582.post-41768419052014050362009-07-31T19:14:00.003-04:002009-07-31T19:19:43.581-04:00

What Is Good and Acceptable and PerfectThoughts on Romans 12:2--------------------------------------------------------------------------------By John Piper September 29, 2004--------------------------------------------------------------------------------http://www.desiringgod.org/ResourceLibrary/TasteAndSee/ByDate/2004/1269_What_Is_Good_and_Acceptable_and_Perfect When we were focusing attention

John Brackenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146857336336605721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1352933235864531582.post-45323551395911202642009-07-20T12:47:00.005-04:002009-07-21T16:55:52.069-04:00

The following link is to a specific program of Dr. Al Mohler's daily radio broadcast. These men are examples of pastors that have led their Churches in renewal toward being more God centered and mission conscious.A Conversation with Three PastorsShared via AddThis

John Brackenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146857336336605721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1352933235864531582.post-55903075594084464652009-07-20T12:31:00.002-04:002009-07-20T12:42:09.899-04:00

From my friend Vic DoveBy Vic Dove “For I am not ashamed of the Gospel of Christ; for it is the power of God unto Salvation to everyone that beliveth.” Romans 1:16 The morning of April 20th 1999 was pretty much like any other in Littleton, Colorado. This was just another day it seemed for Rachel Scott as she got out of bed, did her devotional, took a shower and began thinking about what in the

John Brackenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146857336336605721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1352933235864531582.post-9243753285361530892009-07-20T11:33:00.010-04:002009-07-20T12:04:39.946-04:00

Sunday, July 19, 2009 AM Sermon OutlineText: Mark 8:27-38Peter and disciples thought that they comprehended the Gospel, but they didn’t… Mark 8:27-33· The disciples perverted the Gospel from being God centered and made it man centered [But turning and seeing his disciples, he rebuked Peter and said, “Get behind me, Satan! For you are not setting your mind on the things of God, but on the things

John Brackenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146857336336605721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1352933235864531582.post-34530162239067734082009-07-12T14:22:00.003-04:002009-07-12T14:27:24.849-04:00

(from http://blogs.lifeway.com/blog/edstetzer/2009/07/a-tale-of-two-funerals.html) Wednesday July 8, 2009While 31 million people were watching Michael Jackson's memorial service at the Staples Center in Los Angeles on July 7th, I joined a few hundred people at Life Point Church in Smyrna, TN for the funeral of 17-year-old Gabe Brewer, the son of Chris Brewer, my friend of many years. Chris and

John Brackenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146857336336605721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1352933235864531582.post-29834716695810168372009-07-11T00:10:00.003-04:002009-07-11T00:16:20.580-04:00

The following quotes speak to the realities of the longings and desires of our hearts.“Through the grace of God, I have been fortunate to have achieved many of my artistic and professional aspirations realized early in my lifetime. But these, friends are accomplishments, and accomplishments alone are not synonymous with who I am. Indeed, the cheery five-year-old who belted out Rockin’ Robin and

John Brackenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146857336336605721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1352933235864531582.post-34568836638749253122009-07-10T16:59:00.004-04:002009-07-10T17:19:42.342-04:00

Click on the link below to read a wonderful testimony of God's redemption and salvation."God seemed like a big scorekeeper in the sky" Source: blog.marshillchurch.org

John Brackenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146857336336605721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1352933235864531582.post-66672972177168047582009-07-01T10:50:00.003-04:002009-07-01T10:54:24.097-04:00

John Brackenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146857336336605721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1352933235864531582.post-50198472400304430402009-06-30T11:30:00.002-04:002009-06-30T11:36:45.593-04:00

Originally from Josh Harris' web site (joshharris.com)After four and a half years of vigilantly fighting breast cancer, Rachel Barkey, a 37-year-old wife and mother of two was diagnosed with terminal cancer.Rachel's story is not unlike what thousands of women around the world have experienced. A diagnosis that changes a woman's life and inevitably takes from her what we consider to be most

John Brackenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146857336336605721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1352933235864531582.post-55634089668560942042009-06-29T22:06:00.002-04:002009-06-29T22:08:11.065-04:00

John Brackenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146857336336605721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1352933235864531582.post-61899591364765197702009-06-29T12:25:00.003-04:002009-06-29T12:29:57.106-04:00

A Comedy about the inappropriate use of prayer requests. Kate Flannery ("The Office"), Victoria Jackson ("Saturday Night Live"), and Beth Grant ("No Country for Old Men") star in this comedy about women in a prayer group who tear down their fellow church members through gossip. From eight20eight.

John Brackenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146857336336605721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1352933235864531582.post-89240129811087240962009-04-29T08:44:00.005-04:002009-04-29T08:53:20.567-04:00

Don't Wanna Waste My Life[Verse 1: LeCrae]I know a lot of people out there scared they gone diecouple of em thinking they'll be livin in the skybut while Im here livin man I gotta ask whywhat am here fo I gotta figure outwaste my life/ no I gotta make it countif Christ is real then what am I gone do aboutall of the things in Luke 12:15 down to 21 you really oughta go and check it outPaul said if

John Brackenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146857336336605721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1352933235864531582.post-2289402532781094392009-04-28T20:57:00.008-04:002009-04-28T21:09:55.341-04:00

Most have asked, "What does God look like?" Read these verses below and watch the video...If you really knew me, you would know my Father as well. From now on, you do know him and have seen him." {8} Philip said, "Lord, show us the Father and that will be enough for us." {9} Jesus answered: "Don't you know me, Philip, even after I have been among you such a long time? Anyone who has seen me has

John Brackenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146857336336605721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1352933235864531582.post-5797343649999726592009-04-21T13:24:00.005-04:002009-04-21T13:34:01.398-04:00

In March, I received the following invitation from Al Jackson, pastor of Lakeview Baptist Church, Auburn, Alabama. This request for my participation was submitted and affirmed by our deacons earlier this month.March 24, 2009 Dear John,I’m writing to invite you to join a Lakeview Baptist Church mission team to London May 12-22, 2009. We will be engaged in direct evangelism on the streets of London

John Brackenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15146857336336605721noreply@blogger.com0