Before "we" were believing Christians, there was only one voice to hear so to speak, and now there is the old creature and the new. Not a very comfortable mix at times, if we are honest.
Trained minds can understand Charnock's focusing on the correct order of things, so that he has faith and trust in what the Lord God, Son both have done for Charnock, and will do for the Christian; which is a good thing for us also, when we are plagued with doubts - and have a definite acknowledgement of our failures. Which as James M says, the devil will use against us.
Perhaps, as relational (ours) matters are such a prevalent topic with pastoring, perhaps "pastoring" with the flock, to affirm their relationship with God, would be of a benefit? For example, I could read Romans 4 v 24-25 (is that right?) but may not understand the ramifications of what I am hearing or reading - about the Resurrection - but will gain comfort from the words as from God.
Very interesting what Charnock "focused" on, really matters. (smiley emoji)
Before "we" were believing Christians, there was only one voice to hear so to speak, and now there is the old creature and the new. Not a very comfortable mix at times, if we are honest.
Trained minds can understand Charnock's focusing on the correct order of things, so that he has faith and trust in what the Lord God, Son both have done for Charnock, and will do for the Christian; which is a good thing for us also, when we are plagued with doubts - and have a definite acknowledgement of our failures. Which as James M says, the devil will use against us.
Perhaps, as relational (ours) matters are such a prevalent topic with pastoring, perhaps "pastoring" with the flock, to affirm their relationship with God, would be of a benefit? For example, I could read Romans 4 v 24-25 (is that right?) but may not understand the ramifications of what I am hearing or reading - about the Resurrection - but will gain comfort from the words as from God.
Very interesting what Charnock "focused" on, really matters. (smiley emoji)
Keep on sharing James M.
Thank you for the encouragement Pat!