Here’s something I’ve discovered: faithful proclamation of the message requires an unwavering commitment to unoriginality. In his book Pastoral Theology, Thomas Oden writes this at the outset: “I hope this work will be as unoriginal as possible. This is the first time I have attempted to write an entire text with an absolutely clear commitment to unoriginality.” Pastors, every sermon we preach must reflect the same thing: an absolutely clear commitment to unoriginality. You see, if you don’t resolve to…
Remain Faithful to the Message
Paul’s first charge is this: “Preach the word” (2 Timothy 4:2). As pastors, we are called to be faithful to preach—and not to preach just anything; the content of our preaching is “the word.” Timothy would recognize this as yet another reference to Scripture in general (3:16–17) and the gospel in particular (1 Timothy 1:15; 2 Timothy 2:8). Paul does not need to further specify or clarify for Timothy. The “deposit,” “sound teaching,” “the truth,” or “the faith”—these are all…
An Interview with Jerry Bridges
On November 18, 2008, I had the great joy of spending some time with one of my heroes in the faith, Jerry Bridges. I recorded an interview with my friend, and our conversation ranged widely. I hope this excerpt of our conversation is as encouraging to you as it is to me. C.J. Mahaney: Well, I have the privilege to spend a few moments with one of my heroes in the faith. Jerry Bridges, thank you for spending a few…
Remembering Jerry Bridges
It was an unlikely friendship. We are brothers in Christ, and both bald, but beyond that, our backgrounds couldn’t have been more different. I am loud; Jerry was soft-spoken. I am a former pothead; Jerry served in the military. I come from a Charismatic background; Jerry’s work was with the Navigators. So when I first invited Jerry Bridges to come and speak at a Sovereign Grace event, I didn’t expect him to accept my invitation. Actually, I don’t think I…
Pastoral Ministry Defined
I want to interrupt our tendency to unfavorable comparison, unattainable aspirations, and the resulting discouragement of soul. I want to ask a question: Why are we discouraged? Often we are vulnerable to discouragement because we have forgotten what pastoral ministry truly is. We measure ourselves against unattainable standards, and inevitably we do not measure up. So if you find yourself discouraged, you’re not alone. I’m familiar with this state of soul. And the most effective way I can encourage you…