“God’s very existence is witnessed in the creation, and His immutable truth is clearly proclaimed for all to observe. Even science itself— we might even say, especially science— verifies the hand of a Creator in our universe. The Bible, unique and beautiful in its account of human history from the beginning, becomes the foundational textbook in which we begin our search for truth.” (Henry Morris III, Exploring the Evidence for Creation: Reasons to Believe the Biblical Account)

by Cesar Vigil-Ruiz

Feliz Friday! It definitely can be challenging to limit how many links to include for the Weekly Links, so all the more reason to thank God that many believers seek to bless the church with insights and biblical thinking to many of the current challenges from the culture today. With that said, I hope these links will bring a deeper devotion to our Lord and Savior!

• At the recent Urbana 2015 conference, led by InterVarsity, Michelle Higgins chided pro-life advocates for spending their time and energy focusing only on the unborn, and not on other issues related to those out of the womb. There have been a number of responses, but I have found Rich Poupard’s post clear-headed and simply gracious. Also, as this Sunday is recognized by many churches as Sanctity of Life Sunday, here are some pro-life resources that will equip you to be a bold witness for Christ and life.
• Have anyone tried stumping you with an objection that the Bible promotes slavery? How would you answer the skeptic? Denny Burk gives a very helpful answer.
• Justin Taylor was given permission to post an assignment from David Powlison’s Dynamics of Biblical Change course at CCEF, which is a study in Philippians as it relates to how God seeks to change you and how you can be an agent of change in the lives of others. It looks like it’s worth your time.
• With his usual clarity and simple explanations of complex subjects, R.C. Sproul explains the difference between spirituality and righteousness, their relationship, and how to pursue both biblically.
• How does the gospel apply to adopted teens? Ellen Castillo provides some sound wisdom that will be of use if you are considering adoption or know of those who have.
• We’re aware that Barnabas was known as an encourager; his name is translated “son of encouragement.” Yet, how can we become and raise others to be encouragers? Pastor James Ferris helps us along the way.
• In an ongoing series on having gospel conversations with one another, biblical counselor and trainer Robert Kellemen uncovers the method that God uses in getting His Word into our lives, and it involves His people. Then, he lays out two (out of five) portraits of a loving biblical counselor. If you desire to be used by God, you will be helped in that area with what Kellemen writes.
• Over at the Glory Books website, a new podcast geared towards ladies premiered, called Women’s Hope. This first episode deals with the temptation for ladies to have meaningless chatter, and the pursuit of having godly conversations with one another. This looks like something to bookmark for future listening.
• Church historian Stephen Nichols provides a meaty overview of the church and why every Christian should be involved in a local church. If you’re curious as to the trajectory of what God has said concerning the church, this would be a great place to start.

That’s all for this week! Please be in prayer for Lumos and College Life today, and don’t forget to pray for those considering membership, as membership class begins tomorrow. See you all on Sunday!

Soli Deo Gloria