Session Eight - John Piper (Is There Christian Eloquence? Clear Words and the Wonder of the Cross)

10.02.2008

(I Corinthians 1:17, 2:1)
(Colossians 3:17)

There is a way of speaking that takes away from the power of the Gospel.

Everybody can have an "eloquence problem," its not a matter of education or not.

Paul isn't rejecting eloquence, but the use of eloquence to exalt oneself above the power and glory of the cross.

Two-pronged criteria:
- All about being clever
- Failing to use language for Christ's glory?

How am I using my words?
- To make me look good, smart, or clever?
- Or to exalt Christ?

Reasons to use eloquence:

1. May keep people focused - help their weaknesses
2. May bring an adversary into agreement/respect
3. May stimulate emotional/physical sensitivity
4. May increase impact by memory
5. Can increase the power of words

Yes, there is Christian eloquence. Faith comes by hearing the Word. The Word is eloquent.

God will glorify Himself either through or despite my eloquence. He is sovereign. In my worst moments He can save a sinner.

Session Six - Kauflin, Piper, Taylor, Tripp (Panel Discussion - Piper, Tripp, Kauflin, and Taylor

Self-forgetfulness
- Forget myself, don't look for others praise. I can crucify my want for praise when it comes up - I must not gratify it.

Session Two - Driscoll, Ferguson, Piper (Speaker Panel)

9.30.2008

Points on session one:
   - Teachers will be judged more strictly than those they teach.
   - The first step must be asking God for wisdom.

Communication is:
   - Instant
   - Constant
   -Global
   - Permanent
Be careful what you say, you have to live with it forever!

Micah 7 - God will execute judgment for me, even in His displeasure with me.

Moralistic Therapeutic Deism
   - Oprah, many others
   - Feel-good religion