tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-303527412011-07-28T16:59:00.891-05:00"Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that in the Lord your labor is not in vain." I Corinthians 15:58Mike Grossnoreply@blogger.comBlogger1121100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30352741.post-47504825263613928752011-06-02T22:45:00.000-05:002011-06-02T22:45:52.544-05:00

I recently purchased a Kindle using money I received as a Christmas gift. While I still prefer a paper book, I like the Kindle much more than I would have imagined. In fact, not counting required reading for seminary I have read more books for pleasure in the past three months using my Kindle than paper books in the past 5 years. What are your thoughts on e-readers?

Mike Grossnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30352741.post-52728067478492430542010-08-10T17:21:00.000-05:002010-08-10T17:21:43.690-05:00

What is Jesus worth to you?  This is a question you'll have to wrestle with constantly as you read this book by David Platt.  Apart from the Bible itself, this book is on my short list of books you have to read.  No doubt, your Americanized thinking and the western church culture to which you're accustomed will cause you to be uncomfortable at times. But, if you are serious about treasuring

Mike Grossnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30352741.post-28197271405831353892008-12-31T12:28:00.003-05:002008-12-31T12:56:17.633-05:00

Sorry that it has been far too long since my last post.  Michelle and I returned home from an extended Christmas visit back to our hometown.  During the trip I had a discussion with one of Michelle's uncles who, upon learning that I am a vocational minister, asked "Are you doing it to make a living or because God called you?"At first I was a little taken aback.  He went on to explain that he

Mike Grossnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30352741.post-57743558709195768932008-10-18T21:42:00.002-05:002008-10-18T21:47:38.260-05:00

I had indicated a positive identification had been made of my cousin and his friends but it turns out that we are still awaiting "official" verfication by the state medical examiner.  However, the three skeletal remains were found in the missing van registered to my cousin, so we do not expect good news.Thanks to those of you who have offered their prayers and encouragement.  I'll share more as

Mike Grossnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30352741.post-52889742697787886052008-10-06T12:18:00.002-05:002008-10-06T12:44:37.769-05:00

About 10 years ago my second cousin, Bill V. Gross,  and two other guys disappeared.  They were on their way from  their home in western KY to visit family in eastern KY, but never arrived.The case went cold and it seemed as if it would never be solved.  However, within the past few days the van they were in, along with the remains of all three, were found submerged in a lake/pond near Owensboro,

Mike Grossnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30352741.post-12261915361444461652008-10-03T06:23:00.004-05:002008-10-03T06:52:47.407-05:00

It has officially been too long since I last posted.  I have been a busy beaver with reading, homework, and church responsibilities. However, Michelle and I got away for a Friday night and Saturday for my birthday recently, and that was a wonderfully restful time.  When she asked me what I wanted for my birthday I told her that I wanted to go away somewhere, but it had to be a day trip.  I

Mike Grossnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30352741.post-43335001623716090322008-09-05T19:25:00.001-05:002008-09-05T19:27:28.580-05:00

HT: Christ is Deeper Still by Ray Ortlund

Mike Grossnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30352741.post-91204927490730427832008-08-28T07:14:00.003-05:002008-08-28T07:21:16.806-05:00

My wife, Michelle, will be taking part in the 2008 Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF) Walk to Cure Diabetes on September 13th. This is very important because Michelle recently lost a cousin from complications caused by her diabetes. In addition, Michelle's mom is diabetic... as is my father, brother, and several other family members.This is where each of you comes in. Would you be

Mike Grossnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30352741.post-21441782640173935462008-08-18T21:18:00.002-05:002008-08-18T21:22:52.487-05:00

Westminster Bookstore is having a great deal on Christianity and Liberalism by J. Gresham Machen. Half off until September 15th!

Mike Grossnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30352741.post-1056703782844279482008-08-15T22:00:00.002-05:002008-08-15T22:11:27.387-05:00

C. Michael Patton over at Parchment & Pen responds to an email concerning the eternal destiny of a man who claimed to be a Christian, yet committed suicide. You can read his well-reasoned and biblical response HERE.Patton's sister committed suicide in the recent past so he speaks from firsthand experience of having to deal with this issue. Many people know that my mother died when I ten.

Mike Grossnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30352741.post-15880818800096553472008-08-12T18:52:00.002-05:002008-08-12T18:58:42.305-05:00

Read the interview and see video of Mosab Hassan Yousef discussing what led him to renounce Islam and embrace Christianity.

Mike Grossnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30352741.post-79078964398407447872008-08-12T12:40:00.004-05:002008-08-12T13:30:03.347-05:00

I just finished reading a review of Serve God, Save the Planet by Tim Challies and it got me thinking. Not so much about the book, but rather my personal thoughts on stewardship of the environment; particularly the effects of coal mining on the forests and wildlife of Appalachia.The popular debate about the environment these days seems to be centered primarily on global warming. However, take a

Mike Grossnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30352741.post-91562479150475758242008-08-11T14:08:00.004-05:002008-08-11T14:23:13.475-05:00

The release of the much anticipated ESV Study Bible is just around the corner (October 15th). I'm not one to get caught up in the hype of new products. However, from the previews I've looked at I can honestly say I'm pretty excited!Check it out for yourself:WTS bookstore will be selling it at 37% below list price ($31.49)Excerpt of Introduction to LukeIntroduction to RevelationComplete Book of

Mike Grossnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30352741.post-52936570828908133402008-08-05T12:50:00.007-05:002008-08-05T19:19:55.548-05:00

The Christian Counseling & Education Foundation (CCEF) offers some wonderful little booklets from the Resources For Changing Lives (RCL) series.They are ideal for providing to those whom you may be counseling. The best part is that they are around $3 each (even cheaper if you buy in packs of five).Examples include:Facing Death with Hope - PowlisonLiving With an Angry Spouse: Help for Victims of

Mike Grossnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30352741.post-30920717929641844022008-07-03T11:03:00.004-05:002008-07-18T19:59:00.297-05:00

On July 4, 1776, the Second Continental Congress unanimously adopted the Declaration of Independence, announcing the colonies' separation from Great Britain. Read the Declaration of IndependenceWe will be celebrating and honoring the birth of our nation tomorrow. I feel, however, that the real reason for this day is lost on many people. Even though my citizenship is in heaven I cannot help

Mike Grossnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30352741.post-29969850114512811972008-06-05T11:59:00.002-05:002008-06-05T12:13:22.516-05:00

A mother in England chose to have an abortion at 8 weeks because her son could be born with a birth defect. However, the baby survived the procedure and is now a healthy 6 month old baby boy. He suffered some kidney damage but is expected to live a normal life.Read the story HERESee original Daily Mail story and picture of the precious 6 month old Finley HERE.The mother says it best, 'I still

Mike Grossnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30352741.post-81221635866084729942008-05-15T14:07:00.002-05:002008-05-15T14:58:26.286-05:00

Hopefully everyone has been reading the Sovereign Grace Blog in recent days. C.J. Mahaney has been sharing his chapter ("God, My Heart, and Clothes") from the upcoming Crossway book entitled Worldliness: Resisting the Seduction of a Fallen World. By the way, the Sovereign Grace blog has information of how you can receive 35% off the cost of this book.I've only read parts of these posts so far

Mike Grossnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30352741.post-38306774469146806972008-05-01T23:39:00.002-05:002008-05-01T23:56:48.055-05:00

I am officially the Minister of Children & Families at Parkland Hills. There is no more voting that needs to be done by anyone (see previous posts).It is exciting but also scary. I just need to remember to stay focused on the gospel and not get caught up in being a professional minister. In fact, I probably should re-read "Brothers, We Are Not Professionals."I appreciate everyone's support and

Mike Grossnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30352741.post-63241188108347991562008-04-23T21:32:00.005-05:002008-04-26T13:04:23.295-05:00

Upon final approval by our sponsoring church I will be officially called as Minister of Children & Families at Parkland Hills Baptist Church next week.Our pastor first approached me close to two months ago so it has been difficult to keep it to myself. He first had to discuss it at a Mission Development Council meeting and await their approval. After what seemed like an eternity, it was

Mike Grossnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30352741.post-54224044448833222402008-04-21T23:46:00.003-05:002008-04-21T23:50:51.601-05:00

I saw this several months ago but found it again this evening. It is a humorous reminder of the pervasiveness of pragmatic & egocentric churches. The sad part is that it probably isn't too far from reality in many cases.HT: Route 5:9 (Peacemaking Ministries blog)

Mike Grossnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30352741.post-2031787408081295502008-04-18T11:25:00.002-05:002008-04-18T11:32:32.422-05:00

I woke up this morning and learned that the Louisville area felt the tremors from a magnitude 5.4 earthquake centered in southern Illinois [See local coverage here]. It must have shaken me out of my blogging drought.I have been unable to blog due to being in New Orleans, LA for 8 days on a mission trip (more on that later), and then attending the Together for the Gospel conference this week. I

Mike Grossnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30352741.post-67823445979522337422008-04-02T06:12:00.002-05:002008-04-02T06:35:28.291-05:00

You're probably wondering how writing about Starbucks has anything to do with...well, anything. I just happen to know that many of my fellow seminary students spend a great deal of time at their local Starbucks, so consider this a public service announcement.We can all have our voices heard in the ongoing company-wide improvement process by visiting the website My Starbucks Idea. The site says:"

Mike Grossnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30352741.post-4573380121114047352008-03-19T22:48:00.003-05:002008-03-19T23:08:19.080-05:00

Michelle and I celebrated our 3rd anniversary today and I continue to be amazed by her. I am gazing at her hand-made card as I type this and realize the same hands that made it are the ones I held three years ago today while we pledged our lives to one another.They are also the hands that I have held during many happy moments, and a few sad ones. They are the same hands that held the hand of my

Mike Grossnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30352741.post-28541405638016336492008-03-10T16:59:00.003-05:002008-03-10T22:35:21.925-05:00

Brought to you by Rhett & Link

Mike Grossnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30352741.post-60778761831167036322008-02-24T21:07:00.003-05:002008-02-24T21:37:01.583-05:00

The Sunday Telegraph reports the sad death of British artist Emma Beck who committed suicide after aborting her twins when she was eight weeks pregnant. The note she left read,"I should never have had an abortion... I see now I would have been a good mum." She then wrote, "I told everyone I didn't want to do it, even at the hospital. I was frightened, now it is to late. I died when my babies died

Mike Grossnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30352741.post-77108610817623328062008-02-23T10:00:00.002-05:002008-02-23T10:40:02.685-05:00

I was unable to attend the first Together for the Gospel conference but I have been given the opportunity this time. Needless to say I am very excited! However, I want to be careful to be excited for the correct reasons.I'm sure I will be encouraged and challenged by the speakers. But, I need to keep in mind that this is "Together for the Gospel" and not an occasion to stand in awe of (worship)

Mike Grossnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30352741.post-90743749591369266552008-02-16T00:18:00.004-05:002008-02-16T00:35:25.501-05:00

Below is a sermon by George Whitefield entitled "A Penitent Heart, the Best New Year's Gift." If only we all could preach with such passion:"O let the love of Jesus be in your thoughts continually. It was his dying that brought you life; it was his crucifixion that paid the satisfaction for your sins; his death, burial, and resurrection that completed the work; and he is now in heaven,

Mike Grossnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30352741.post-3125974345502302682008-02-04T18:40:00.000-05:002008-02-04T18:44:41.195-05:00

Why this man is thematic, he’s charismatic, he’s systematic,Why he’s Wayne Grudem! (Wayne Grudem)He did not author Scripture but provides a clearer picture - Oh Yeah!(Keep reading whoa keep reading)Wayne may not be Jesus but he writes mean exegesis- Oh Yeah!(I’ll buy a copy, I’ll kill to buy a copy)You put it on the flo-or and it props open your door,Or if you need to sit- you can climb on top

Mike Grossnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30352741.post-56585750628299074682008-01-24T08:20:00.000-05:002008-01-24T08:24:49.367-05:00

A children’s story based on the tale of the Three Little Pigs, entitled The Three Little Cowboy Builders, was rejected for an award after judges worried it would offend Muslims. It was also criticized for its potential to offend builders. The judges’ remarks included this question: Is it true that all builders are cowboys, builders get their work blown down, and builders are like pigs?Click here

Mike Grossnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30352741.post-61311017431339427442008-01-24T07:43:00.000-05:002008-01-24T08:09:42.836-05:00

The issue of Calvinism within the SBC continues to frustrate me. Not because of the issue itself, but because of the number of Southern Baptist leaders simply lying about the facts. I want to believe it is out of ignorance but surely they know better.I'm hoping and praying they will begin showing some integrity on the issue. Although, no doubt there are those on both sides of this issue that need

Mike Grossnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30352741.post-67322005607860148182008-01-23T13:20:00.000-05:002008-01-23T13:31:21.340-05:00

Watch John Piper respond to "The Common Word Between Us and You", written by an Islamic Amman, and the response to it from 300 Christian scholars. These call for Muslims and Christians to come together to acknowledge their supposed similarities. Unfortunately, as you'll see when you see the names on the response, many respected Christian leaders have given their support.HT: Justin Taylor

Mike Grossnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30352741.post-8557099865945809992008-01-21T23:54:00.000-05:002008-01-22T00:38:22.826-05:00

Over at Parchment & Pen Michael Patton has posted a couple very personal posts within recent days about the suicide of his sister Angie and the toll it has taken on members of his family. I would recommend reading them as well as previous ones that provide more of the history.Why do I recommend them? It is something I don't talk about much but my mother committed suicide when I was 10 years old (

Mike Grossnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30352741.post-8650735996019625572008-01-13T00:58:00.000-05:002008-01-13T01:21:29.462-05:00

Several folks have written good posts in recent days concerning the SBC and Calvinism. On the heels of my previous post I thought it would be good to share those links with you:Provocations & Pantings (Timmy Brister) - "Evangelism, Calvinism, and the SBC"Founders Ministries Blog (Tom Ascol) - "Southern Baptist Evangelists Lament the Recovery of Calvinism"Baptist Press - "Evangelists Lament

Mike Grossnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30352741.post-73432276608675843692008-01-11T01:49:00.000-05:002008-01-11T02:12:32.749-05:00

It is now old news that Dr. Al Mohler, President of The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, will be nominated for president of the SBC at the 2008 Southern Baptist Convention in Indianapolis, IN. He is the third announced candidate behind Wiley Drake and Bill Wagner.I predicted when the news first broke that Dr. Mohler's position on Calvinism will become an important issue leading up to to the

Mike Grossnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30352741.post-61960868292425546212008-01-03T00:44:00.000-05:002008-01-03T01:10:59.342-05:00

It seems that the proper thing for bloggers to do during these early days of 2008 is to create a 'top 10' list of some kind. For seminary students or professors it seems to be mostly their favorite books.I just want to thank God for a wonderful year in 2007. He was there with me and Michelle through some trying times as well as times of great ease & comfort. We praise Him for abundant grace in

Mike Grossnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30352741.post-77973717957324979662007-12-18T07:01:00.001-05:002007-12-18T15:49:20.801-05:00

Thanks to all who prayed for my health situation mentioned in the previous post. My cold/flu is much better now. I still have a little head congestion, raspy voice, and an occasional cough but the chest congestion, body aches, fever, and overall 'blah' feeling are gone for the most part.My back is also doing much better but it is probably going to take a while to completely heal. I still can't

Mike Grossnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30352741.post-52865105920428683632007-12-15T01:55:00.000-05:002007-12-15T02:17:25.754-05:00

It is nearly 2:00am and I am finally able to sit for a few minutes after dealing with nagging back/hip pain most of the day. I have the flu or a bad cold and cannot sleep because it is nearly impossible to breathe when laying down (or sitting up for that matter). So, it is kind of a double whammy going on at the moment.The pain started over two weeks ago and had me laid up in bed for two whole

Mike Grossnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30352741.post-83037663521096576272007-12-08T14:10:00.000-05:002007-12-08T15:19:31.177-05:00

If you were to ask 100 Christians what criteria should be used in casting your ballot in the 2008 presidential elections you would probably get 100 different replies. Most would agree on the need to support the sanctity of human life, but it becomes less clear after that... at least from what I've been reading in the world of Christian blogs.What do you think? is it wrong to vote for someone who

Mike Grossnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30352741.post-59197038237078586422007-12-04T19:33:00.000-05:002007-12-04T19:41:21.300-05:00

I posted recently about a Kentucky Baptist Convention association that removed a church for calling a pastor who came from an independent Baptist background. In an effort to get full and accurate information, I contacted the Director of Missions (DoM) directly and learned that was in fact the sole reason for their removal. Please pray for this association, its leadership, and this church.

Mike Grossnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30352741.post-25515013824588051672007-11-30T14:18:00.000-05:002007-11-30T14:34:56.827-05:00

Many in the Sudan are calling for the execution of teacher Gillian Gibbons. Her crime? allowing her students to name a teddy bear Muhammad.When I read this I was reminded of a past article by John Piper entitled Being Mocked: The Essence of Christ's Work, Not Muhammad's. Following is an excerpt that speaks volumes of the difference between Christ and Muhammad:"When Muhammad was portrayed in

Mike Grossnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30352741.post-37538700395750573022007-11-30T00:59:00.000-05:002007-11-30T01:04:27.245-05:00

This speaks my language!

Mike Grossnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30352741.post-20628384201820681562007-11-25T15:46:00.000-05:002007-11-25T16:02:40.037-05:00

"Having children is selfish. It's all about maintaining your genetic line at the expense of the planet," 35 year old Toni Vernelli said about the abortion she had ten years ago. Vernelli's action was to ensure that her carbon footprint would be kept to a minimum. Vernelli, an environmental activist, was later sterilized to protect the planet. I suppose it was just her little way of saying she

Mike Grossnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30352741.post-84514214687863215112007-11-24T23:54:00.000-05:002007-11-24T23:58:41.324-05:00

As we look ahead to the upcoming new year, Lord willing, I thought it would be helpful to offer some ideas that could help us grow in our faith. Below are a few things that come to mind: Read the Bible Through - Choose a Bible reading plan to help guide you through a thoughtful & careful reading of Scripture. A good resource is the ESV website which offers several good plans & devotional

Mike Grossnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30352741.post-40227349865685685632007-11-20T07:14:00.000-05:002007-11-20T07:46:26.559-05:00

I just wanted to take a moment to recommend Google Calendar for those of you who are like me and need help remembering things easily. I suggest you do yourself a favor and utilize this wonderfully useful and user-friendly application.You can create multiple calendar categories (i.e. Personal, Church, School, Bills, Birthdays & Anniversaries, etc.). Then, the event for that category is displayed

Mike Grossnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30352741.post-49611788594772645092007-11-17T22:44:00.000-05:002007-11-17T22:46:21.144-05:00

Mike Grossnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30352741.post-49875063049096974202007-11-12T17:39:00.000-05:002007-11-12T18:48:42.413-05:00

According to their recent newsletter, the Upper Cumberland Association of Harlan, KY expelled Sunshine Baptist Church during the the 2007 annual meeting in September. The online newsletter states that they took this action because the church called a pastor with an Independent Baptist Church background. In similar business, they recommended that all member churches cease fellowship with this

Mike Grossnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30352741.post-41473288052637639662007-11-10T23:49:00.001-05:002007-11-10T23:49:55.692-05:00

"Someone asked Will the heathen who have never heard the Gospel be saved? It is more a question with me whether we who have the Gospel and fail to give it to those who have not can be saved." - Charles Spurgeon

Mike Grossnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30352741.post-68158702934637340312007-11-06T23:06:00.000-05:002007-11-06T23:18:09.808-05:00

Steadfast & Immovable MikeI'm sure this isn't very scientific but it's pretty cool! I even scored at a higher level than Dr. Mohler.(I hope I don't have to explain the humor behind the title of this post)

Mike Grossnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30352741.post-67238115816514255052007-10-24T11:11:00.000-05:002007-10-24T11:22:55.042-05:00

Michelle and I were channel surfing last night after we went to bed and found one the craziest things I have ever witnessed.There was a local ministry (something about World Prayer Center) and they were hawking a "Quick Scan" New Testament and other materials for a suggested donation of $40.00. Of course you may ask, "Mike, what is a quick scan NT?" The answer is very sad and troubling.The

Mike Grossnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30352741.post-88132057684151431502007-09-25T22:49:00.000-05:002007-09-25T23:05:25.432-05:00

This post has no particular significance other than to share Scripture with you. I pray it blesses your soul like it did mine when I read it today... enjoy.In the passage from Romans 4 below we find Abraham maintaining hope in God's promise of a child in spite of the fact that by all accounts he should not. He views his own body as well as Sarah's and both are physically unable to conceive a

Mike Grossnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30352741.post-32030081371245094912007-09-21T07:11:00.000-05:002007-09-21T07:23:36.836-05:00

According to news God has responded to the good senator from Nebraska. God's response argues that he is immune from earthly laws and that the court lacks jurisdiction. The response says, "I created man and woman with free will and next to the promise of immortal life, free will is my greatest gift to you." (gives an entirely different meaning to the 'Free Will' defense, huh?) Because of this,

Mike Grossnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30352741.post-77577947221865456492007-09-17T22:47:00.000-05:002007-09-17T23:06:25.748-05:00

Nebraska senator Ernie Chambers (D) has sued God asking for a "permanent injunction ordering Defendant to cease certain harmful activities and the making of terroristic threats." According to Chambers, he doesn't have a problem with God. It is just a political move in his fight against legislation limiting frivolous lawsuits [Read Story Here]I believe he is out of line but I am interested to see

Mike Grossnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30352741.post-46872073823967049172007-09-06T23:46:00.000-05:002007-09-06T23:51:20.791-05:00

From the "Not the sharpest knife in the drawer" file comes the story out of Mississippi where a man was arrested for making meth. The only problem is that the police found the stuff after responding to an accidental 911 call made by Curtis Randall Coleman.The call was originally made to complain about not getting a FEMA trailer (he meant to dial 411 for FEMA). I guess he needed somewhere to live

Mike Grossnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30352741.post-88634995441688910092007-09-04T14:45:00.000-05:002007-09-04T14:57:47.753-05:00

I just wanted to take a minute to ask that you pray for the family of SSGT. Delmar 'Dale' White. He was a member of the KY National Guard killed by a roadside bomb last week in Iraq. He also served in the USMC during Desert Storm back in 1991.I knew him from our days at James A. Cawood High School as well as being practically neighbors back in my hometown of Wallins Creek, KY. His dad passed away

Mike Grossnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30352741.post-91068746313966243502007-08-29T21:45:00.000-05:002007-08-29T22:10:23.583-05:00

I'm writing a position paper for my Systematic Theology III class with Dr. Ware and have settled on the subject of eschatology, especially as it relates to the timing of the 'rapture' and millennial reign of Christ.I picked this subject because I really have never developed an adequate understanding of why I believe what I believe, or if what I believe would even stand up to a critical

Mike Grossnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30352741.post-23170172522965133472007-08-17T06:17:00.000-05:002007-08-17T06:48:32.578-05:00

Anyone involved in SBC life these days has probably heard of the issue concerning missing members. There is a huge discrepancy between membership numbers within the convention as opposed to actual attendance. Christianity Today offers an editorial on the subject entitled Statistical Shell Game [READ HERE].The article mentions, although not by name, a resolution on regenerate church membership

Mike Grossnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30352741.post-2858359031935236992007-08-09T23:08:00.000-05:002007-08-09T23:13:54.132-05:00

This was too good to pass up! I won't make a comment one way or another concerning his alleged steroid use but this is funny... I don't care who ya are!HT: Amazing Grace & Old Chevys

Mike Grossnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30352741.post-26795864724857194692007-08-08T09:35:00.000-05:002007-08-08T09:46:42.557-05:00

In times of suffering it is sometimes difficult to remember God's goodness, even though we would maintain that "God is in control." I commend a recent Baptist Press article to you entitled To Change it Would Make it Worse. It's a personal account by Barry Joslin of his mother's death. He reminds us that God's sovereignty and goodness cannot be separated. I pray you find it as encouraging as I

Mike Grossnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30352741.post-32382072318431779572007-07-25T11:05:00.000-05:002007-07-25T11:17:27.918-05:00

Michelle and I were given a sweet reminder today of Haggai 2:8 that says, "the silver is mine and the gold is mine, declares the LORD almighty."We are coming to the end of the month and things were getting a little tight financially, almost to the point of being in the hole. I was crunching some numbers and double checking our check book and bank account online when I noticed something

Mike Grossnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30352741.post-66417179211208302252007-07-20T23:05:00.000-05:002007-07-20T23:14:48.074-05:00

Wal-Mart Stores, Inc announced this past week that they will begin selling 12" talking Jesus dolls in 425 select stores around the county. This doll will be in additon to 3" figures of Daniel and 13" Solomon dolls.According to their press release the toys will be on Wal-Mart shelves starting in August, mainly in the Midwest and South but also in California and as far northeast as

Mike Grossnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30352741.post-48357251527370614482007-06-28T23:13:00.000-05:002007-06-28T23:32:36.605-05:00

We finally have internet service at our house. After a month of being disconnected it is good to have back, especially since I manage the church website and we both rely on email for work and personal communication. Michelle and I both enjoyed spending the time reading, although I'm ashamed to admit that she redeemed the time better than me.In a single month she has read Girl Talk and Feminine

Mike Grossnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30352741.post-62086218092794415872007-06-02T10:29:00.000-05:002007-06-02T10:35:14.267-05:00

We finally got moved and are getting settled slowly but surely. We've been without internet service so have been relying on access at outside locations. I intend to begin posting again regularly once internet service is established.

Mike Grossnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30352741.post-69301217539364553042007-05-23T23:11:00.000-05:002007-05-23T23:42:43.971-05:00

I believe I must be behind the times. I have just recently become familiar with Tim Keller (other than just his name) and so far I really like what I'm reading. While searching the web I've realized that he has quite a following.If you haven't read it I would commend his article entitled The Centrality of the Gospel to you. It provides very practical advice on how to apply the gospel to every

Mike Grossnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30352741.post-44044377009732050722007-05-15T12:43:00.000-05:002007-05-15T12:47:40.866-05:00

The AP has just reported that the Rev. Jerry Falwell has died after being found unresponsive in his Liberty University office. He was 73. Read story HERE

Mike Grossnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30352741.post-25332411826999805352007-05-02T22:40:00.000-05:002007-05-02T22:55:48.457-05:00

Former NJ governor James E. McGreevey, who was raised Catholic, has been accepted into the Episcopalian Church and its General Theological Seminary in New York. Read story HERE.I suppose we shouldn't be surprised since the Episcopal Church (I use that term very lightly) has represented the far left for some time now. It is sad when anyone claims to represent Christianity when in fact they live

Mike Grossnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30352741.post-70083147253817648252007-04-29T00:02:00.000-05:002007-04-29T00:24:11.397-05:00

Tomorrow's Sunday School lesson is about Jesus' words to his disciples about the coming persecution. I must admit that I really have never experienced persecution for my faith. Inconvenienced maybe, but my safety has never been in danger due to being a follower of Christ.Just today I was reading a letter from a colleague of the Christians brutally killed in Turkey recently. Please follow the link

Mike Grossnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30352741.post-2278249218636845472007-04-20T14:57:00.000-05:002007-04-20T15:19:47.970-05:00

Just a quick post with a couple personal prayer requests:My dad is having surgery in the coming weeks. He is having a complete knee replacement on his left knee. It appears to be a routine procedure, relatively speaking, but obviously can have complications. In particular, he is diabetic a has a little high blood pressure. Neither are very bad but enough to cause concern. His age is also a

Mike Grossnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30352741.post-42337341045550107272007-04-15T23:49:00.000-05:002007-04-15T23:53:32.309-05:00

HT: Alpha & Omega Ministries

Mike Grossnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30352741.post-85124248798208823852007-04-03T20:24:00.000-05:002007-04-03T20:28:44.311-05:00

Ok, time for the answer to the big question from my previous post. Congratulations go to West Virginia on their NIT championship! However, it seems the t-shirt creator performed below championship level.Virginia is spelled incorrectly!

Mike Grossnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30352741.post-8182333909093011512007-03-30T23:11:00.000-05:002007-03-30T23:12:48.265-05:00

Mike Grossnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30352741.post-81361638425547643252007-03-29T20:17:00.000-05:002007-03-30T04:52:32.201-05:00

It is well known that former President Carter isn't the poster boy for conservative Christianity. It seems now that he is espousing outright universalism, although not calling it that, at least if his recent interview with www.Beliefnet.com is any indication.I read about this interview originally at www.AlbertMohler.com and wasn't very surprised. Unfortunately, President Carter still has quite a

Mike Grossnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30352741.post-86878454213800292972007-03-26T14:32:00.000-05:002007-03-26T14:51:33.968-05:00

It is not every day that people are arrested on the campus of The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, but several people involved in a 'gay rights' sit-in near Dr. Mohler's office were taken into custody.Nearly two dozen members began the sit-in with ten leaving peacefully [Read Story]. The remaining folks were arrested by Louisville-Metro Police (photo from Louisville Courier-Journal) and

Mike Grossnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30352741.post-77566121081329877202007-03-19T21:59:00.000-05:002007-03-19T22:33:33.850-05:00

My wife and I celebrated our 2nd wedding anniversary today and I am so proud to be her husband. She is a wonderful gift from God and exhibits a gracious, Christ-like spirit toward me even when I'm not very gracious toward her. I love you Michelle !!!

Mike Grossnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30352741.post-83712684862067187512007-03-17T23:31:00.000-05:002007-03-18T00:54:54.416-05:00

It is clear that the biblical idea of evangelism is the verbal sharing of the gospel message. Problems arise when the term is applied to any activity or ministry of the church. Examples include "servanthood evangelism" or "lifestyle evangelism". The failure to verbally share the gospel would make it clear that the term is incorrectly applied in these cases.Don't get me wrong, serving others and

Mike Grossnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30352741.post-54661957730944385762007-03-14T22:58:00.000-05:002007-03-14T23:16:09.418-05:00

Dr. Plummer recommended in class the other day a children's Bible called The Big Picture Story Bible from CrossWay. It looks to be a great improvement over the usual fare of Bible story books that fail to represent biblical events how they fit into "the big picture". A reviewer at Amazon.com writes: "...Helm (the author) refuses to treat the bible as a collection of disconnected stories whose

Mike Grossnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30352741.post-68479830605336801472007-03-09T14:41:00.000-05:002007-03-09T14:49:49.842-05:00

Don't forget that daylight saving time time begins this weekend, earlier than in the past due to 2005 legislation passed by Congress in hopes to save energy. So, move your clocks forward one hour Saturday night before you go to bed. Also, if a patch hasn't been installed be aware that some computers may not recognize this change since they were programmed to switch the first Sunday in April.

Mike Grossnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30352741.post-61672991270446010612007-03-01T16:55:00.000-05:002007-03-01T18:51:12.041-05:00

No, I'm not talking about some new evangelism tool. The title refers to the non-issue of the the Jesus tomb.There isn't anything beneficial I could add to the copious responses we've all seen within the past week concerning the Jesus Tomb documentary, so I'll follow Justin Taylor's lead over at Between Two Worlds and recommend Dr. Danny Burk's site where he provides an excellent summary,

Mike Grossnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30352741.post-88802108043352712402007-02-24T13:59:00.000-05:002007-02-24T14:25:43.584-05:00

All of us have probably experienced a degree of doubt at some point in our Christian life. I have found an excellent resource that I believe will help anyone struggling with doubts concerning their salvation. It will also be a tremendous resource for a pastor ministering to someone dealing with this issue.It is entitled Assured by God: Living in the Fullness of God's Grace, edited by Burk

Mike Grossnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30352741.post-6767443205052966602007-02-23T12:58:00.000-05:002007-02-23T13:06:29.534-05:00

Time hasn't permitted me to post in a few days, but I thought I'd share a passage of Scripture I was reading this morning. The word of God is living and powerful so maybe this is a word someone needs to hear:Psalm 321Blessed is the one whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered. 2Blessed is the man against whom the LORD counts no iniquity, and in whose spirit there is no deceit.

Mike Grossnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30352741.post-48698111997393175682007-02-15T10:07:00.000-05:002007-02-15T10:18:59.970-05:00

I've witnessed many instances where people get married hastily and end up divorcing because of differences in opinion and conviction on assorted issues. It is so important to talk through ideas and philosophies on issues before getting married so that potential conflict can be reduced or avoided altogether.John Piper offers a great list of Topics for Conversation When a Man & Woman are

Mike Grossnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30352741.post-84296242326422781202007-02-10T15:04:00.000-05:002007-02-10T15:24:23.142-05:00

Just a little something in the way of a personal announcement. Michelle and I were officially approved this week by NAMB trustees to serve as Mission Service Corps missionaries with Parkland Hills Baptist Church in Fisherville, KY as "church strengtheners."We have been members there for several months already and are actively involved in numerous areas. This appointment, however, will provide us

Mike Grossnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30352741.post-3700040788682024742007-02-08T19:30:00.000-05:002007-02-08T19:37:56.186-05:00

Desiring God Ministries is providing John Piper's book "Fifty Reasons Why Jesus Came to Die" for a low price of $1.00 each as an Easter Outreach Special if you agree to give them away. You can purchase a case of 108 books for a suggested donation of $135 (includes S&H).

Mike Grossnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30352741.post-8835225440176726132007-02-06T14:09:00.000-05:002007-02-06T14:15:46.650-05:00

In this day when worship and entertainment seem to be synonymous in many churches, Bob Kauflin provides a good word on the subject in a recent post entitled Should Worship be Fun?He makes a much-needed distinction between finding our "fun" in the true worship of a holy God compared to the usual idea of fun. He writes:"If "fun" is defined as a lighthearted activity with no purpose or meaning,

Mike Grossnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30352741.post-32375628018661759822007-02-02T23:29:00.000-05:002007-02-02T23:40:20.503-05:00

Alistair Begg, pastor of Parkside Church near Cleveland, OH, author, speaker, and leader of Truth for Life Ministries was recently diagnosed with prostate cancer. Please pray for him and his family.Also, if you or someone you know is facing the dreaded disease we know as cancer, I would encourage you to read John Piper's reflections on his prostate cancer written on the eve of surgery. It is

Mike Grossnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30352741.post-63629907407280516572007-01-31T01:08:00.000-05:002007-01-31T01:17:53.702-05:00

The guys over at Manspeak, a blog hosted by several men from Cornerstone Church in Knoxville, TN, have posted a great analysis of cereal entitled Cereal, Glorious Cereal (yes, you read that right). In addition to proclaiming the greatness of cereal, they also provide advice on the advanced art of mixing cereals (kids, please don't try this without adult supervision). Little did I realize that my

Mike Grossnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30352741.post-17317882633184416602007-01-30T16:18:00.000-05:002007-01-30T16:46:46.908-05:00

This title from recent hit country song ties in well with a quote from the Puritan author and pastor Richard Baxter that Dr. Mohler read in chapel today. It goes something like this, "I preached as never sure to preach again, And as a dying man to dying men."In closing today's message, Dr. Mohler reflected on his recent medical problems that almost killed him. He talked about how it made him

Mike Grossnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30352741.post-30857696148374169792007-01-28T00:07:00.000-05:002007-01-28T00:21:16.609-05:00

Ok, I guess choosing a name for my blog probably isn't the most news worthy or life-changing event of my life. However, it has proven to be more of a challenge than I anticipated. It was easy to come up with names, but every time I searched the blogosphere my choice was already taken.So, in the spirit of Titus Two (previous name), and my second choice Communion of Saints (which was taken), I have

Mike Grossnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30352741.post-64308203605092272882007-01-25T15:56:00.000-05:002007-01-25T16:23:49.688-05:00

The Mahaney ladies over at Girl Talk posted information about a modesty survey Alex & Bret Harris have over at their Rebelution website. This survey is for Christian guys and the questions were taken from questions asked by young ladies at their site.Their site and blog, based on rebelling against the common low expectations of youth & 1 Timothy 4:12, are primarily geared toward teens and has a

Mike Grossnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30352741.post-89992823831376853302007-01-24T23:54:00.000-05:002007-01-25T00:07:49.021-05:00

The "Jonathan Edwards is my Homeboy" t-shirt made popular by the Christianity Today magazine cover is now available HERE at the Jonathan Edwards Center at Yale University online store. All proceeds go to support the JE center at Yale, so order yours today!Be sure to check out the Jonathan Edwards Center at Yale University. Also, they have a companion blog that is worth checking out.Finally, and

Mike Grossnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30352741.post-39048768359980634592007-01-23T16:41:00.000-05:002007-01-23T16:58:21.171-05:00

Dr. Al Mohler writes about this in his latest blog commentary [READ HERE]. You can read the entire article for yourself, but I would like to provide a few excerpts if I may.Steven Weinberg, Nobel laureate and Professor of Physics and Astronomy at the University of Texas, had these remarks in response to The God Delusion, a tract for atheism by fellow atheist Richard Dawkins. His comments serve as

Mike Grossnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30352741.post-76161707305664537622007-01-22T22:53:00.000-05:002007-01-22T23:49:02.756-05:00

John Piper, in his sermon entitled When is Abortion Racism? compares the challenges of overcoming the 1973 Supreme Court Roe v. Wade case to the Dred Scott case of 1857 where the court ruled that black slaves were property without rights as free persons.That position is unthinkable today! I encourage you to read, watch, or listen to the message at the link above. Maybe things aren't okay just

Mike Grossnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30352741.post-17441445301847317722007-01-22T12:47:00.000-05:002007-01-22T12:50:38.941-05:00

Dr. Albert Mohler has recently posted a commentary Lessons Learned in the Crisis of Life at his website. It is great to see him back at it, albeit slowly, since his medical crisis.

Mike Grossnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30352741.post-64150253032727722592007-01-19T15:21:00.000-05:002007-01-19T15:27:18.970-05:00

"May the Lord give you courage to address the carnage. I find it appalling that there are pastors and churches that NEVER address this issue." - John PiperA few links I found on John Piper's Desiring God website that will help us have a biblical view of the horrible thing known as abortion. Provides links to some good biblical as well as apologetic material. Here are a couple:S.L.E.D

Mike Grossnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30352741.post-78550896567046803472007-01-18T21:59:00.000-05:002007-01-19T00:14:18.658-05:00

I will be changing the name of this blog because I learned that another blog exists with a similar name; the name of that blog is Titus2Talk. So, out of respect for its creator I will be changing names. Any ideas?As far as blogging goes, it can consume valuable time if attention isn't given to the time spent writing and editing material. Therefore, I always try to be careful about the importance

Mike Grossnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30352741.post-37222014419663695312007-01-18T12:17:00.000-05:002007-01-18T12:35:11.153-05:00

Continuing a theme from previous posts I wanted to express my ongoing concern on the state of the local church in 2007.On a personal note, I am thankful that God led us to a church where all members are actively involved with the ministries of the church. But, most of all, they are involved & interested in the life of their fellow members. Their love to us has been a blessing during the past

Mike Grossnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30352741.post-23717562119784265392007-01-16T15:18:00.000-05:002007-01-16T15:33:58.757-05:00

This book by Joshua Harris has been around for a couple of years and I have always been intrigued by its premise. From my own experiences I have witnessed professing Christians who seem to lack any excitement or dedication to the family to which they claim to belong.Just as in dating, they seem to be more focused on the 'here and now' and what benefits are afforded to them by the relationship to

Mike Grossnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30352741.post-69886026019660888082007-01-15T00:55:00.000-05:002007-01-15T01:40:27.736-05:00

I mentioned that I was going to begin a series of brief posts introducing various theological topics. I thought the best place to begin was with the attributes of God. I believe it will be more beneficial & helpful to view other theological issues to be discussed later in light of a clearer biblical understanding of God. The sovereignty of God simply refers to the fact that all things are under

Mike Grossnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30352741.post-4680188831980195542007-01-13T19:08:00.000-05:002007-01-13T19:45:12.189-05:00

Believer's Baptism from B&H has just been released and looks to be an excellent resource on this important subject. I flipped through it in the campus bookstore yesterday and am excited to pick up a copy when I can.The book is edited by Dr. Thomas Schreiner and Dr. Shawn Wright, both professors here at Southern Seminary. They both also make excellent contributions to the text. (Dr. Schreiner was

Mike Grossnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30352741.post-66268055329252305652007-01-11T10:45:00.000-05:002007-01-11T11:29:55.508-05:00

These infamous words spoken by Rodney King in the wake of the Los Angeles riots several years ago seem to have become the mantra in the popular Christian culture. In particular, many within mainstream Christianity make getting along, regardless of theological position, as a test for genuine love & faith.Personally, I realize that we all won't agree on every little issue. I further realize and

Mike Grossnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30352741.post-49092664309948509132007-01-09T17:57:00.000-05:002007-01-09T18:20:35.540-05:00

Following is one of those quotes that speaks for itself. It is by David Fairchild of Kaleo Church in San Diego (emphases mine):"If we are to preach Christ crucified, we must also preach a Christ that opponents would see as worthy of crucifixion. It is a dangerous thing to speak and teach an unfelt cross. If Christ is to be rejected in our day, let it be for those things He was rejected for in His

Mike Grossnoreply@blogger.com0