“When an essential truth of the gospel is condemned, the gospel itself is condemned with it, and without the gospel an institution is not a Christian church. This is simply another way of saying that the gospel is an essential, if not the essential, of biblical Christianity, and that it is the first mark of the church.” (R.C. Sproul, Getting the Gospel Right: The Tie That Binds Evangelicals Together)

by Cesar Vigil-Ruiz

Feliz Friday! Praise God for another week, by His grace. May these links draw you ever closer to the love of our Savior.

• It’s been 25 years since the cult group, the Branch Davidians, led by David Koresh, was sieged by authorities, leading to a gruesome group suicide. Here’s nine things you may have never known about them.
• Parents, have you thought about putting your kids into a youth athletics program? If so, do you know the risks and benefits of doing so? Mary Kassian, known for her many writings for women and being a co-founder of the True Woman Movement, has lived among athletes in her family for many years, and has much wisdom for you to consider. Click and ponder her thoughts.
• Every wonder why you should study theology, since it seems so impractical? Pastor Scott Slayton gives three practical reasons to learn theology, and you may just never ask that question again.
• John Piper writes a brief snapshot of the life of David Brainerd and his worldwide impact on missions, 300 years after his birth. May his life continue to impact our lives today to be faithful, no matter the cost.
• Abortion advocates typically object to those who argue for the life of the unborn because they promote a religious worldview, which is not considered acceptable in the public square. While many Christians argue for a pro-life position in light of Scripture, sometimes we may not be able to make a case from Scripture for the personhood of the unborn. Pastor and apologist James White wrote an article many years ago on how Exodus 21 highlights the personhood of the unborn within Old Testament law. May we all be ready to give an answer with gentleness and respect.
• Together for the Gospel hosted their biennial conference last week, but there was also a pre-conference hosted by The Council on Biblical Manhood and Womanhood. The focus was on the Nashville Statement, which released last year. Four sessions were presented by Ligon Duncan, Al Mohler, Denny Burk, and Sam Allberry. Make sure you give some time for this.
• On the topic of counseling, IBCD recently released an interview with biblical counselor Jim Newheiser on how to offer counsel to those with medical or mental issues. Julie Lowe speaks on how to protect those who are vulnerable in the church.
• RTS President and professor Michael Kruger begins his series on the 10 commandments of progressive Christianity by dealing with the first: “Jesus is a model for living more than an object of worship.”
• 9Marks published their most recent journal this week, focused on the priority of the church over politics, and its implications. With the constant barrage of politics in the media, there is much to glean here. Let us be salt and light in this dark and hopeless world.
• Lastly, Tim Challies vlogs on the vital issue of Christians, mentors, and mentoring.

That’s all for this week! Please be in prayer for the Salt & Light retreat this weekend, as LBCSD, LBCOC, and LBCLA will be meeting out of town. Also, pray for the collegians and youth, who will be meeting tonight at church for Bible study. See you all on Sunday!

Soli Deo Gloria