Tuesday, June 06, 2006

Humbled at the Library, some healthy depreciation gained at Southern

We all want to be famous writers and make a name for ourselves.

Sometimes.

But spending a few hours at the Seminary library often has a deflating effect on my ambitions. Book after book, all sitting in silent testimony to the words of Ecclesiastes.

The words of the wise are like goads, and like nails firmly fixed are the collected sayings; they are given by one Shepherd. My son, beware of anything beyond these. Of making many books there is no end, and much study is a weariness of the flesh. (Ecclesiastes 12:11-12 ESV)

So why do I blog? First, it is an exercise in expression. I will keep writing even if I never get published Why? Because letters, church newsletters, emails, policy manuals, academic papers and sermon manuscripts all require skill at using words. Blogging can help improve this.

Second, it is a way to refine my ideas. I often struggle to think clearly. But when I transmit my thoughts by writing I often improve their clarity. This is an important exercise. My ministry to children requires very clear thinking to communicate on appropriate levels to the kids.

Third, it is my way of exchanging ideas. I am intentional both post my blog but to comment on other blogs. This dialogue can sharpen both parties. Often the overheated disputations of the blogosphere can be instructive – if you will think critically through the arguments of those involved.

So, I am humbled – SBTS library will not own my words anytime soon. But that just means they will never be passed over by seminary students looking for the best books.

Will The Next Generation Treasure Christ? is a dialog on reforming children’s ministry and equipping parents - for the glory of Christ and the joy of our children.

3 comments:

Shawn said...

Tony,

I want to thank you for your work on this topic....It's such a needed topic in the church today....

I haven't had as much time to read blogs and such (also I brought my old one down because of this), but I'm glad to have refound yours again and I love your topic of discussion so I hope to hear from you more soon.

Another good reason is to spur one another on to good works in training up our children

Anonymous said...

Tony - I agree with your reasons for blogging. Much of the time, blogging is in a way an exercise in spiritual discipline. I am not ready to see blogging listed as a spiritual discipline, but the principles behind blogging (i.e., writing or journaling, accountability, reading good books) certainly are disciplines. I enjoy your blog and appreciate your comments.

Bhedr said...

These words of Solomon should hammer in our souls in more ways than one. The Scripture cannot be seized by any system.

Bloggin actually is helping me mature in Christ I think. I have learned quite a bit over the past year both positively as well as some things about myself I couldn't see before, but do now. So I will continue to blog.