Some of us are familiar with the story of Agnes Beaumont, the Puritan woman who struggled with her father’s opposition to her beliefs and had to face frightening accusations after his death.[1] Less known but equally affecting is the…
In the midst of suffering it’s easy to turn to all the wrong people, places, things, and ideas for answers. Oftentimes, in our desperation we cling to whatever sounds most satisfying or significant in the moment, or what makes us…
“IN REMEMBRANCE OF ME” Walk into a typical Protestant church building in the English-speaking world, and it is not unlikely that you will find a table engraved with these words of our Savior taken from Luke 22:19 (and quoted by the Apostle…
I recently preached a series on the fruit of the Spirit from Galatians chapter five and found it to be, well, fruitful. This vital section of Scripture draws a sharp contrast between the works of the flesh (vv. 19-21) and…
In Matthew 26:26-28 Jesus spoke a few simple words that have been the cause of a great many differences between Christians. The differences, or disagreements, are centered upon what Jesus meant when the Bible tells us that: Now as they…
Hannah Allen – Rescued from Serious Mental Struggles One of the most moving, honest, and encouraging stories of a battle with mental disturbances comes from a 17th-century English Puritan, Hannah Allen, born around 1638 to pious parents. Her father,…
If someone were to ask you what passions, pleasures, or desires you have, what would you say? Upon further reflection, how would you respond if they asked how these passions, pleasures, and desires cause fights with those who stand in…
You and I spend a lot of time interacting with others. In conversations and meetings, texts and emails, and social media posts, we communicate a lot of words and ideas. And in our actions we communicate a lot too, especially…
This world teaches us live in light of the moment. Whatever brings temporary pleasure, satisfies our desires, and fulfills our dreams takes priority, even at the cost of hurting others. We’re not taught to count the cost, or think about…
On March 7, 1557, a French ship landed into Guanabara Bay, near modern-day Rio de Janeiro, carrying fourteen French Protestant men ready to bring the gospel to this new continent. One of them, 23-year-old Jean de Léry, kept a detailed…
