Concluding my trip to Korea 2009

[I'm not angry, I've just never done this self-photo-taking before!]

I'm at the Incheon International Airport. This trip has been beneficial and I would even say, successful, by God's grace. For those around me, I will be sharing more about the trip in a personal conversational setting.

The goal of the Christian life

The goal of the Christian life is not external conformity or mindless action, but a passionate love for God informed by the mind and embraced by the will. ... Do not seek to empty your cup as a way to avoid sin, but rather seek to fill it up with the Spirit of life, so there is no longer room for sin.
- Kelly M. Kapic, p. 28 "Introduction" for "Overcoming Sin and Temptation by John Owen" (edited by Kelly M. Kapic and Justin Taylor)

This sounds awfully similar to what I was gathering from Jonathan Edwards or John Piper and the likes. But then, why should this be a surprise?

Bohemi... huh? Bethlehemian Rhapsody?

Wow. I don't know how they find people to make this kind of things, but thank you.


(HT: Reformation Theology)

Today's sermon from Deut 30

Igudesman and Joo

I wish these guys would come to Sydney sometime soon.


(HT: Cliomedia)

Last week's sermon from Deut 13-29

Why does the book of Malachi conclude with a reference to Elijah?

That was my essay question. Handed it in this morning. I ended up staying up whole night. I'm very tired. I hope I pass.
Here's my essay wordled.


Click on the image to see it bigger with an animation.

The Resolutions of Jonathan Edwards: #36, #37, #38

36. Resolved, never to speak evil of any, except I have some particular good call for it. Dec. 19, 1722.

This sounds familiar. See #16. Apparently, I didn't understand what 'speak evil of' meant. I now think it simply means to speak something bad about someone. To be sure, that "bad" thing about someone would not be unfounded in truth. It's probably referring to some kind of flaws, or even sins that person has. Edwards is resolved not to speak of such flaws and sins of others unless it is necessary in order to bring some good out of it.

37. Resolved, to inquire every night, as I am going to bed, wherein I have been negligent, what sin I have committed, and wherein I have denied myself: also at the end of every week, month and year. Dec.22 and 26, 1722.

Not because I am working to gain or sustain my salvation, but to work out my salvation with fear and trembling for it is God who works in me, both to will and to work for God's pleasure. (see Phil 2:12-13)

38. Resolved, never to speak anything that is ridiculous, sportive, or matter of laughter on the Lord's day. Sabbath evening, Dec. 23, 1722.

Okay, I'm a serious guy, but not as serious as Mr. Edwards. Is this really necessary?

(Source: A Puritan's Mind)

God: Almighty but malicious? or Good but impotent?

(HT: Bob Mendelsohn)

The Resolutions of Jonathan Edwards: #34, #35

34. Resolved, in narration's never to speak anything but the pure and simple verity.

Mmm. I'll be honest. I don't quite get this one.

35. Resolved, whenever I so much question whether I have done my duty, as that my quiet and calm is thereby disturbed, to set it down, and also how the question was resolved. Dec. 18, 1722.

Remembering or journaling your spiritual walk can be helpful. Phil 2:12-13 comes to my mind, where it says:

"... work out your own salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure."

[edit: Oh... verity is a synonym for truth! The resolution #34 is making sense now. -3rd Sep. 2009]

(Source: A Puritan's Mind)