Taking Sovereignty Seriously

Mark Thompson recommends John Woodhouse’s article in the issue of Southern Cross to be distributed in churches from this Sunday … He quotes John as writing —

“I am astonished at how glibly we sometimes speak of gospel work — as though leadership skills, ministry strategies or entrepreneurial flair is what is needed to make the gospel effective. Leadership is not what makes the blind see. Strategies do not make the deaf hear. Entrepreneurs do not make the dead walk!

It is God who calls out his elect, chosen by him before the foundation of the world. They could not have saved themselves and nor could we have saved them no matter how clever we are. And he hardens the heart of others in their chosen state of lostness.”

Find the article on pages 18 and 19 (‘Serving a Sovereign God’) of the February 2010 Southern Cross.

Resources from around Australia

It’s exciting to see helpful new resources being produced for Anglicans around Australia. Here are some you may wish to check out –

1.) For kids – from the Diocese of Canberra & Goulburn

Lessons for Children during Lent by Jane Robinson.

“a series of six very simple lessons for children during Lent…”

2.) For adults – from the Diocese of Tasmania

Lectionary-based study outlines – Growing Disciples of Jesus.

“designed for use in home or church-based study groups, and to be a helpful resource for preachers as well.”

3.) For adults – from the Diocese of North West Australia.

World-Changing Sermons – from the Book of Acts. Lenten studies by Bishop David Mulready, available from Anglican Youthworks Sydney.

“For each of the six weeks leading up to Easter … explores a world-changing sermon from the book of Acts.”

(Check out the song ‘The Mission of God’ at the above link.)

Christianity Explored

Kevin DeYoung at the Gospel Coalition is enthusiastic about Christianity Explored.