Author Archives: Jim Mc.

Nothing But The Blood

I have always liked this song, especially the lyrics. It was written by Robert Lowry and first published in 1876. The original music is very upbeat, singable, and written in a major key. So, I decided to take it in a different direction. The verse lyrics are very poignant, so I decided they needed to be in a minor key, switching to major for the choruses. I recently obtained (for free, no less!) a really nice sample of a mountain dulcimer. That seemed like the perfect place to begin. And things grew from there.

Once again, this song was recorded using Studio One 5, of which I never tire. Enjoy this new approach to an old song.

Two New Lessons on Prayer

Owing to various health struggles, I was unable to join the Texas chapter of the Sovereign Grace Bible Conference last week. I hear they had a splendid time. I did, at Elder Wren’s request, record two audio lessons on the subject of prayer.

The following links will connect you with those lessons. The titles of the two lessons are:

“Praying to a Sovereign God”

“The Lord’s Prayer”

And so begins 2021

This morning was a not a typical meeting at GCA. Instead of a Bible study, we spent the morning sharing with one another about God’s goodness and provision through an otherwise difficult, crazy year. Consequently, there is no new audio message for Jan 3, 2021, but I did make some opening comments that include our internet listeners, so I have posted that audio here.

Jan. 3, 2021 – Bless the Lord, Oh My Soul

This is My Father’s World

I am trying to make the most of these shutdown days. One of my favorite hobbies is making music (which I suppose I’ve done all my life). Lately, I’ve finished two songs. The first is just me, playing with my samples, and trying to create an “organic” sound (despite the digital trickery). I chose one of my favorite songs, “This Is My Father’s World.”

By Grace Alone – Telugu translation update

Our friend in India has been hard at work updating the translation of By Grace Alone. He writes, “Greetings in our Lord’s name. I am glad to write to you after so many years. I just wanted to inform you that I had to make many translatory improvisations in the Telugu version of your book “By Grace Alone” and it’s really come out good.

At present, it is available online as a printable html page. We are working on getting a downloadable PDF version. But, you can access the new, updated version of the book here:

https://hithabodha.com/books/salvation/137-grace-alone.html

It’s hard to express how much I appreciate the hard work that has gone into this translation for the people of India.

Politics and Christianity

Through the years, as a public preacher, I have avoided commenting on politics.  Still, I am asked occasionally about my stance on our current political machinations.  It would be easy to buy into the daily soap opera that is world politics. But, world politics are the antithesis of Christian doctrine.  For instance — 

Our King is not up for election.  It’s just the opposite. He elects us.  

Christianity is not a democracy.  The mob doesn’t rule.  Instead, the Sovereign rules the mob.

Christianity does not determine truth based on popular opinion.  The only opinion that matters is God’s. Our job is to align ourselves with His revelation of Himself. 

Every tyrant and every benevolent leader who ever wielded power in human history died.  Our King ever lives to make intercession for us. 

I was talking to one of the young girls who play piano for us and in our five minute conversation she used the terms “intersectionality,” “genderism,” and “critical race theory.”  Those terms didn’t exist a couple years ago.  That’s how quickly political speech changes.  Theories of governance change. Leaders change.

Our Lord is the same yesterday, today, and forever.

I take the long view of history and Christianity.  Christianity began when Rome dominated most of the known world. Despite Rome’s persecution and attempts to stamp it out, Christianity prevailed.  Despite two thousand years of authoritarianism, dictators, despots, tyrants, oppressive governments, Communism, and atheism, Christianity prevails.  

So it has, so it will.  Since the faith of Christianity does not emanate from this world, this world cannot prevent it nor stop it. Christians are in this world, but not of this world. Our hope is in the future. 

Our current political environment is a passing situation.  A blip in time. I have lived through enough presidents to know that, whatever the current situation, God will protect His own. 

So, should Christians engage in politics?  Sure.  But, that’s not the primary reason we are here.  Should we vote?  Should we be good citizens?  Sure.  As emissaries of Christ in the world, we are to be examples and advocates for Godly wisdom and behavior.  And, to whatever degree we can sway political outcomes toward more Godly outcomes, we should certainly do it.

But, this world is not our home.  Don’t get tied down to the earth.  It is still “the domain of darkness” and we see demonstrations of that fact every day.  One day, the righteousness of God will cover the earth like the waters of the seas.  That’s not up for a vote.  That’s the promise of the Almighty, who has said it and He will do it.

So, why don’t I engage in politics?  Because it already pervades every area of life.  I am more interested in telling people — all people, from any side of the political spectrum — about the unchanging, dependable, eternal word of God.  

No matter how much political acumen you may accrue in this world, the inevitability of death looms large.  And eternity is a long time. So, concentrate on eternal things because the kingdom to come is right around the corner and that King deserves our attention.

And worship. 

And adoration.  

And thanksgiving.