Rest of TGC and Chicago

So it turns out some of you actually read my blog and are wondering where the TGC Day 2 and 3 reflections are. Haha, yay! In any case here are some additional reflections from the rest of the trip:

one
Thus far I've approached theology by coming across a new concept like God's "tabernacling" or Christ's high priesthood and following that concept throughout the Word, and being amazed! The "No Other Gospel" message I went over in my last post, as well as the specificity with which the early church fathers nailed down the doctrines of the Trinity and Jesus' incarnation have brought me to consider a different approach.

Because everything of God and His redemptive plan are perfect, if we take a single element out, it is no longer orthodox. Consider then for example, if Jesus Christ did not become fully man, if He had been physically man but not tempted by sin because of retaining a divine mind alone, He would no longer be the perfect sacrifice to take God's wrath in our place. Or as Greg of Naz (circa 329-390AD) put it "If anyone has put his trust in Him as a Man without a human mind, he is really bereft of mind, and quite unworthy of salvation."

two
Every believer is in full time ministry. Well, at the conference I was largely surrounded by folks who are legitimately in full time ministry, but being around so many seminarians and pastors reminded me that we are, as God's children, all living each moment for the glory of God. Sure, I go to an office and sell some software for the majority of the day, but every in effort my goal is God glorified. What does full time ministry mean for your complaining heart? After-work habits? Your Saturdays? Your reading lists and personal goals? 

Better put by Calvin in "On the Christian Life": "This is a marvelous thing--we are consecrated and dedicated to God to the end that we might not think, speak, meditate, or act unless it be to His glory. The sacred [that's us!] can't be put to profane use without injustice to God."

three
It brings me to my last point. Meeting so many people who have benefited so by the writings of believers past, I'm inspired to pursue similar relationships. Kevin DeYoung says Calvin has become a most dear conversation partner. John Piper says he loves the Apostle Paul "very much". Haha. And I've expressed my kinship with women like Frances Havergal, but I've so neglected the pursuit of learning from wonderful mentors and the dedicated works they've blessed us with, as they've gone on to dwell with God. In any case, I'm motivated to read, read, read! And so thankful that God so graciously provides learning and fellowship even in this way.