Morgan, Ryken, and the Crucified Christian

Until a few days ago, my vocabulary didn't include the word "apotheosis."  I'm afraid saying "apotheosis" where I grew up would get you beaten down for the rest of the school year.

Though I can't say apotheosis, I do know a great book when I read one.  For the past two years, we've been working our way through Galatians in Wednesday night Bible study.  And among the trusty resources I've used is Phil Ryken's Galatians from the Reformed Expository Commentary Series.  It's lucid and immensely meaningful/applicable exposition.  I've had the joy of giving some copies to members of the congregation as we've verse-by-verse worked our way through the book.

We're coming to the end of our study tonight, Lord willing.  And I was reading Phil's final sermon when I stopped short on this nugget from G. Campbell Morgan. 

"It is the crucified man that can preach the cross.  Said Thomas 'except I shall see in his hands the print of the nails... I will not believe.' ... what Thomas said of Christ, the world is saying about the church.  And the world is also saying to every preacher: Unless I see in your hands the print of the nails, I will not believe.  It is true.  It is the man... who has died with Christ... that can preach the cross of Christ."

Then Phil adds:

"Boasting in the cross is not jsut for preachers, however, and therefore suffering is not just for preachers either.  Every Christian who has died with Christ must live for his cross."

Good stuff, brother.  A fitting way for us to end our study.  Thank you for helping me disciple the saints at FBC Grand Cayman!

Now if I could just get a study like Lig's or an invitation to a B.B. King concert....  What does a brother have to do... become Presbyterian?