Resources by Topic: Christian Life

It is quite amazing how often the term “legalism” comes up when there is a serious discussion about obedience or its result, holiness. 

I think the key may be that there are different kinds of seeking spoken of in Scripture.

I can certainly identify with many of your doubts and questions regarding God’s sovereignty, our free will, etc. Although I was raised in a strong Christian family, I went through a couple of years of intense skepticism and cynicism when I was younger.

I highly recommend David Augsburger’s The Freedom of Forgiveness. Also, Philip Yancy’s What’s So Amazing about Grace?, which shows us how God’s forgiveness of us should result in our forgiveness of others. 

My heart goes out to you. One reason is because I can identify with some of what you’re going through. Earlier in my life I struggled with being overwhelmed by feelings.

Question from a reader: I’ve heard negative things about Rick Warren and Saddleback Church, as well as Willow Creek Church and other seeker churches. What’s your opinion on this issue? Answer from Randy Alcorn: Attacking fellow Bible-believing Christians is becoming commonplace. Spreading inaccurate information is epidemic.

You sound like a great mom who really desires to lead and train her children in the ways of the Lord. My heart goes out to you as you have to bear this responsibility without your husband’s help and support.

Spiritual incompatibility ends up in tragedy and usually divorce.

The greatest sorrow is not being able to forgive yourself. You say you feel worse now than ever. That is because you are carrying a load you were never intended to carry.

Randy would encourage you to move out and not to marry your boyfriend until he becomes a committed follower of Christ. You cannot violate the scriptures and expect God to bless the union.

This passage demonstrates what is often true—if we misunderstand one biblical doctrine, we will inevitably misunderstand others. 

This is not a complete answer about tongues, but some quick thoughts.

I am disappointed with God because I sincerely want Him to work in my life to bring about the fruit of the Spirit, but I don’t see Him doing that. I want to experience His power in my life and let the Holy Spirit control me.

So money has potential to be used for either good or evil.