Tangled Up in Web Pages » Mind

Things Temporal, Things Eternal

Greg Steward — Tue, 16 Jun 2009 17:27:30 +0000

“Teach me the happy art of attending to things temporal with a mind intent on things eternal.”

From “Valley of the Vision,” page 136.

Dan Brown’s Angels and Demons

Greg Steward — Wed, 20 May 2009 17:19:48 +0000

Westminster Theological Seminary has put up a website on the subject of Dan Brown’s book “Angels and Demons,” This website addresses some of the claims made in the book. It may be a novel, but Dan Brown has been explicit that he is using the novel format to help the medicine he is providing (would that be hemlock?) go down smoother.)

The following is from the “about” page.

Westminster Theological Seminary’s web site, TheTruthAboutAngelsAndDemons.com joins Westminster’s already well recognized web site TheTruthAboutDaVinci.com. Both seek to present a balanced assessment of Dan Brown’s narratives, the historical data, and the philosophy set forth in his best-selling novels and movies. These are not “boycott” sites, which tell people to avoid the movies or books, or “rebuttal” sites whose only purpose is to oppose fact with fact. Our aim is to follow the injunction of the apostle Peter, who instructed the church to be prepared to “make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you… yet with gentleness and respect” (1 Peter 3:15-16).

While appreciating Brown’s engaging narratives, and recognizing any author’s right to present a good yarn, we are concerned because the mix of fact and fiction in his books and films are leading many readers to question the Bible’s message and its impact on history. Using the best resources we can find, both human and written, we want to set the record straight and commend the historic Christian faith to the sincere inquirer.

Curiosity

Greg Steward — Sun, 08 Mar 2009 12:56:50 +0000

“Nothing can satisfy the curiosity of vain men, nor ought we wish to satisfy it.” John Calvin, Institutes of the Christian Religion, 1.17.12

Providence

Greg Steward — Sun, 08 Mar 2009 12:51:30 +0000

“Ignorance of providence is the ultimate of all miseries; the highest blessedness lies in the knowledge of it.” – John Calvin, Institutes of the Christian Religion, 1.17.11

One Month Free Access to ESV Online Study Bible

Greg Steward — Tue, 03 Mar 2009 08:40:21 +0000

From March 2 to 31, get a free look at the online version of a great study bible – The ESV Study Bible

How to Read a Book

Greg Steward — Wed, 28 Jan 2009 01:00:46 +0000

Daniel Fuller said the two most important books on his bookshelf were “The Bible” and “How to Read a Book” by Mortimer Adler. Here are some links to another blogger’s notes on “How to Read a Book.”

Reading the Bible, the Whole Bible!

Greg Steward — Thu, 01 Jan 2009 04:21:05 +0000

On the topic of New Year’s resolutions, perhaps reading through the Bible is another resolution you might want to make. Perhaps you have made it before, but then failed (as it seems is the outcome of many New Year’s resolutions).

One suggestion is to keep in mind the saying, “If you aim at nothing, you will hit it.” Here are some options to aim at.

Best Commentaries on the Bible

Greg Steward — Thu, 01 Jan 2009 01:26:06 +0000

Best Commentaries reviews commentaries on the Bible. (A commentary is a book that you use to help you understand the Bible.)

Why an atheist thinks Africa needs Christianity

Greg Steward — Tue, 30 Dec 2008 06:34:30 +0000

Matthew Parris, columnist for the UK TimesOnline news web site, has an interesting essay on why “As an atheist, I truly believe Africa needs God.”

Essential Ingredients to the Good Life?

Greg Steward — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 20:09:46 +0000

This came from TimeOnline UK: "Do five simple things a day to stay sane, say scientists."

Connect
Developing relationships with family, friends, colleagues and neighbours will enrich your life and bring you support

Be active
Sports, hobbies such as gardening or dancing, or just a daily stroll will make you feel good and maintain mobility and fitness

Be curious
Noting the beauty of everyday moments as well as the unusual and reflecting on them helps you to appreciate what matters to you

Learn
Fixing a bike, learning an instrument, cooking – the challenge and satisfaction brings fun and confidence

Give
Helping friends and strangers links your happiness to a wider community and is very rewarding

[A curious omission under "connect." Perhaps some connections are more essential than others.]