Healthy relationships have two essential character qualities. First is the humility of approachability. When both people step out from behind protective walls and open up to the perspectives and help of others, each individual— and their relationship— will be given an opportunity to grow and change. The second quality is equally important. In fact, these two qualities cannot live without one another. The second is the courage of loving honesty. Not only do we defend ourselves from the opinion of others, but we avoid uncomfortable moments by failing to say what needs to be said. In the fear of disagreement, tension , and rejection, we choose to be silent about things that, if addressed in love, could be used to bring new insight to one another and a fresh start to the relationship. (Paul Tripp, What Did You Expect?: Redeeming the Realities of Marriage)

by Cesar Vigil-Ruiz

Feliz Friday! A new year means a new week of links for the blessing of the church. Without further ado, here are this week’s links!

• Are you a glory junkie? Paul Tripp argues we all are, to some degree. Find out what his diagnosis of a glory junkie is, and give thanks to God for the clarity of seeing yourself as you really are.
• An upcoming documentary about the archaeological evidence for the Exodus is being shown in selected theaters throughout the U.S. that was made by a Christian, yet gives ample time for both sides to make their case that it either happened or didn’t happen. Joe Carter and Andy Naselli give their thoughts on the film. Creation Ministries International reviewed it as well.
• How do you approach friendship? Is it based on common interests, common experiences, stage of life, etc.? Is there a biblical aspect of friendship that may be neglected in your life? Nicole Whitacre over at GirlTalk writes about a biblical approach to friendships that focus on bringing glory to God. This is good stuff, even for us guys to consider.
• Do you love the idea of a healthy church more than you love your own church? Pastor Jonathan Leeman has some kind words of admonishment for you.
• If you have read The Trellis and the Vine, you have learned about the mind shift that takes place when the focus in ministry is people, not programs. How that shift plays out in day-to-day ministry is a common question the authors received. In response, they have since published a workbook that focuses on what Scripture says we are, and where we’re going. Tim Challies highlighted it on his blog this week, and it looks to be a helpful resource.
• Al Mohler regularly stays informed of news events in the US and even abroad with insightful analysis from a Christian worldview. You would be much the wiser upon reading his articles on the firing of Atlanta fire chief Kelvin Cochran and the terrorist attack in France of the satirical newspaper Charlie Hebdo.
• Right before Christmas, a Newsweek article came out attacking the Bible and Bible-believing Christians in an attempt to argue the ‘error-filled’ history of the Bible to circumvent its authority. Many responses have come from the pen of Michael Kruger, James White, and Albert Mohler, but I want to draw your attention to Darrell Bock’s and  Robert Gagnon’s response. Bock thoroughly refutes the article, noting the irony of the author in misrepresenting Scripture when condemning believers who ‘misrepresent Scripture.’ Gagnon lays out the issues clearly and focuses on the issue of homosexuality.

That’s all for this week! Looking forward to celebrating the joy of Christ as our mediator as we sing to Him together this Sunday!

Soli Deo Gloria