thoughts and ruminations while in exile (1 Pet. 2:11)

This new book has really caught my attention. I'm fascinated that someone would take the time and energy to research the growing number of young folk that are discovering reformed (biblical) theology. While many pastors and church leaders are frustrated by many in their youth groups that are discovering reformed theology, I for one could not be happier. I do not say this with a boastful attitude, but rather out of sheer joy that persons are falling more in love with the majesty and sovereignty of God. Some may be surpised that reformed/calvinistic theology is on the rise--personally I am not. Those who have embraced reformed theology say they have been influenced by the likes of R.C. Sproul, John Piper, John MacArthur, C.J. Mahaney, and Al Mohler. Looking at these names, it is no wonder that people are embracing reformed theology. The in depth preaching and teaching of men like Sproul and MacArthur is what people want. Add in the passion of a man like John Piper (along with his great preaching) and you're in love with the glory of God. While many teachers of the Word think dumbing down their sermons is what people want, they are greatly mistaken.

Another thing that fascinated me about this book was the description written about it. The description of the book has these words:

" While baby boomers have flocked to churches that did not look or sound like church, it seems these churches do not so broadly capture the passions of today’s twenty-something evangelicals. In fact, a desire for transcendence and tradition among young evangelicals has contributed to a Reformed resurgence. "

I love these words because it describes myself and so many others that I know. Pastors, please read my words: Stop feeding your flocks milk! They can handle the meat of the Word. Obviously, for new members you take it slow. But gradually work in some meat. Teach your people systematic theology, church history, and apologetics. Make sure they can give adequate articulations of regeneration, justification, sanctification, and glorification. Explain to them theology proper, soteriology, hamartiology, ecclessiology, etc. They can handle it! You don't need to dumb it down! Also, preach the Word and not your own ideas! I'm not interested in the news. And by the way, I'm not more receptive to your words because you're wearing a hawaiian t-shirt. In fact, I could care less about what you are wearing. Tell me what the Bible says!

Also, stop thinking that the younger generation is opposed to liturgy. I for one am not naive enough to think that just because your prayers are extemporaneous that that makes them more heartfelt. Having read prayers is not unbiblical. Note that Acts 2:42 reads: "And they devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching, the breaking of bread, to fellowship and to the prayers." Yes, it's actually plural. This is because the early Jewish Christians prayed three times a day. Most likely these were set prayers. Many modern day translations leave out the plural, "prayers" because they have an anti-liturgical bent. The modern day resistance to liturgical worship is because many protestants associate it with Roman Catholicism. This is not necessary.

This was not meant to be a tangent, so I'm sorry if that's what this seems like. I just wanted you to know about this book. You should check it out. I have not read it yet, but hope to some day.