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Rape of Solomon’s Song…

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John MacArthur just finished a series of posts on modern interpretation of the Song of Solomon.

Here’s the posts:
Part 1
Part 2
Part 3
Part 4/Conclusion

I think overall, there is some helpful things for all of us as pastors who have to speak in public week in and week out.

Challies also has some insight. And Abraham Piper answers a question he asks.

My only critique in reading all of this was that I wish I could know Driscoll’s thoughts. MacArthur says he’s tried to contact him, but that Driscoll has ignored his counsel. Just would like to know the other side. Especially in light of this recent apology Driscoll made about things he’s said. But overall, what I take from it is a renewed passion for holiness in my speech.

Shoddy Journalism?

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I was reading Baptist Press (who allegedly pride themselves on being “news with a Christian perspective) this morning and came across this story about Mark Driscoll. Needless to say, after reading my first thought was, I wonder if they tried to talk to Driscoll. Timmy Brister weighs in, as does the seminary where Driscoll spoke this week.

I simply think we need to be more Christian in our actions towards (or in this case our words about) others. Driscoll’s not perfect (and that doesn’t excuse his sin) but I’ve also heard him be very transparent about sins and weaknesses. I just think allowing him to weigh in on criticism would show how “sinister” he really is. After all, Jesus said, did He not in Matthew 7:12, in the context of judgment, that we should treat others as we would like for them to treat us. I wonder if this is really demonstrating a love for a neighbor?

Then again, I wonder if my life demonstrates a love for others when I proudly act self-righteous compared to those with whom I associate. Lots to think about in this regard.

Read Death by Love!

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I really enjoyed Mark Driscoll’s latest book Death by Love. In this book, Driscoll writes a series of letters to encourage people in his church who are facing various questions about whether or not the Gospel can give them hope. In the midst of these letters, what emerges is a love and passion for the Gospel — specifically Jesus’ work on the cross and how that can enable someone to face life head on and have hope in the midst of what would otherwise be hopeless scenarios. I was drawn into each chapter and there, like a jewel shining on the floor of the ocean, were great Gospel truths to dive deep into. I would encourage you to read these, for it will help you make Gospel connections to life.