Bible, theology, culture, etc.
The following is an unedited sermon manuscript; for an explanation of my sermon manuscripts, click here. *Originally preached in May, 2022* Sermon Audio: The God of Peace (Phil 4:2-9) Do you ever feel like your life is spent responding to what happens rather than exercising control over what happens? Like the difference between a raft floating on the ocean, … Continue reading The God of Peace (Phil 4:2-9)
In the book of Revelation, aside from worship, the Church has two main functions in the world:- Testify to the truth of the Gospel- Be killed (Usually the first is what leads to the second) We can see this in a number of places (Rev 2:10, 13; 6:11; 11:4-13; 12:11; 13:7, 15). In the instance of … Continue reading Tempted to Despair? Don’t Be a Denethor
The Music of the Ainur There was Eru, the One, who in Arda is called Ilúvatar; and he made first the Ainur, the Holy Ones, that were the offspring of his thought, and they were with him before aught else was made. And he spoke to them, propounding to them themes of music; and they sang … Continue reading Tolkien’s Middle-Earth Creation Story
"Where are you going, Master?" cried Sam, though at last he understood what was happening. "To the Havens, Sam," said Frodo. "And I can't come." "No, Sam. Not yet anyway, not further than the Havens...Your time may come. Do not be too sad, Sam. You have so much to enjoy and to be, and to … Continue reading Tolkien’s View On Death: The Grey Havens
"There, peeping among the cloud-wrack above a dark tor high up in the mountains, Sam saw a white star twinkle for a while. The beauty of it smote his heart, as he looked up out of the forsaken land, and hope returned to him. For like a shaft, clear and cold, the thought pierced him … Continue reading The Shadow is Only a Passing Thing
Marc Sims 