Some people think that if they will do certain things, they will somehow earn the favor of God, but this misses the whole point of Christianity and ironically devolves into a me-centered approach.

While the goal of the American dream is to make much of us, the goal of the gospel is to make much of God.

Surely the gospel evokes unconditional surrender of all that we are and all that we have to all that He is.

Consider what it takes for successful businessmen and businesswomen, effective entrepreneurs and hardworking associates, shrewd retirees and idealistic students to combine forces with a creative pastor to grow a "successful church" today. Clearly, it doesn't require the power of God to draw a crowd in our culture. A few key elements that we can manufacture will suffice.

The sovereignty of God is the only foundation for worship in the midst of tragedy.

To everyone wanting a safe, untroubled, comfortable life free from danger, stay away from Jesus. The danger in our lives will always increase in proportion to the depth of our relationship with Christ.

It's important to realize that we adopt not because we are rescuers. No. We adopt because we are rescued.