Hero Tales

HERO TALES Hero Tales is one of the best books on American history ever written and has been in and out of print for most of the last century.  But no more.  This rip-roaring collection of tales—reminding us of the ordinary folks who lived extraordinary...
Childermas

Childermas

Often called Childermas, this day on the Christian calendar has traditionally been celebrated as the Feast of the Holy Innocents.  It is a day that solemnizes the slaughter of the children of Judea by Herod the Great following the birth of Christ. It has always been...
Word Play: Happy Holidays

Word Play: Happy Holidays

Happy Holidays! Don’t worry. I’m not using that phrase because it is now the politically-correct thing to do these days. I know only too well that the banning of carols, crèches, and Christ from a season that only has a whit of significance precisely because of...
Word Play: Humbug

Word Play: Humbug

Humbug is an old word of indeterminate etymology meaning “spectacle” or “hoax” or “jest,” often referring to some unjustified reputation or publicity. Of course, the word is most often associated with Ebenezer Scrooge, a character created by Charles Dickens in The...
Word Play: Merry

Word Play: Merry

“Merry Christmas.” It is likely that we will both say and hear that phrase more than a few times between now and Christmas. For us as believers, it serves as far more than a simple alternative to “Seasons Greetings” or “Happy Holidays.” We know only too well that true...
Christmas, the Gospel, and (Pro) Life

Christmas, the Gospel, and (Pro) Life

The Scriptures command a reverence for life. Embedded in every book and interwoven into every doctrine is the unwavering standard of justice and mercy for all: the weak and the strong, the great and the small, the rich and the poor, the lame and the whole, the young...
Socialism or Social Responsibility?

Socialism or Social Responsibility?

Tis the season to… sponsor an angel child, send a shoe box of gifts, volunteer at a soup kitchen, gift blankets and jackets and hats… That is, it’s the season for charity. Christmas is a time when we typically thing about people in need. We fill up the red kettles as...
Word Play: Thanksgiving

Word Play: Thanksgiving

G.K. Chesterton once wrote, “I would maintain that thanks are the highest form of thought, and that gratitude is happiness doubled by wonder.” Chesterton was always imminently quotable. His quips and epigrams, axioms and jibes, maxims and platitudes, adages and...
How to Handle Critics

How to Handle Critics

There are numerous ways we can receive criticism. And, guaranteed, all criticism shouldn’t be weighed equally.  Here are what several wise leaders have said about criticism and how to handle it. +++++ 1. “Remember, it is not the critic who counts: not the man who...
The Genius of the Electoral College

The Genius of the Electoral College

“Every word of the Constitution ultimately decides a question between power and liberty.”  James Madison The Founding Fathers would more than likely be surprised by the current controversy over the Electoral College provisions of the Constitution.  Indeed, it was one...
The 95 Theses and the Unintended Revolution

The 95 Theses and the Unintended Revolution

This week, back in 1517, German theologian Martin Luther carefully recopied the scroll of his soon to be revealed Disputation on the Power and Efficacy of Indulgences—a document that would be popularly called the Ninety-Five Theses. The next day he would post the...
Un-Erasing Christopher Columbus

Un-Erasing Christopher Columbus

In this episode of the Standfast-cast, George talks with Andy and Ernie, showing them how so much information that we know “believe” and “share” about Christopher Columbus is totally…. get this… wrong. In fact, most people...
Gaining our Liberty– and Losing it Again

Gaining our Liberty– and Losing it Again

On June 9, 1776, the Continental Congress accepted a resolution of Virginia delegate Richard Henry Lee to appoint a committee to draft a declaration of secession from the dominions of the English King and Parliament. On June 29, the committee—composed of Thomas...
An Engine of Freedom

An Engine of Freedom

In 1787 a constitutional convention convened in Philadelphia with representatives from seven states.  Though the meeting was not authorized by Congress, they were among the most eminent men in the young American republic—and several were actually members of Congress. ...
The 2020 Election & the Media

The 2020 Election & the Media

One of the obstacles voters face as they head to the polls in 2020 is the paucity of good and practical information about the issues and the candidates. Of course, with 24-hour cable news, a myriad of social media platforms, internet news sites, magazines, and...
Essential Political Maxims

Essential Political Maxims

Over the past few months, it’s politics have come to the forefront of our daily lives. It only makes sense that it would do so, for the root Greek word, polis, means “people.” We see the word appear in common terms–  Metropolis = a large place...
Get Covid Right

Get Covid Right

We’re in a season unlike any other. And, regardless of where you stand politically, there are a few things we can do to make sure we “get Covid right.” That is, regardless of what we think about the politics, the efficacy of masks (or the need for them), the test...
The Magdeburg Confession of 1550

The Magdeburg Confession of 1550

By the 16th century virtually no one disagreed on the fact that the West needed to be reformed. What they disagreed on was what that reform should entail and how it was to be effected. In frustrated tension, dozens of competing factions, sects, schisms, rifts,...
Stirling Bridge

Stirling Bridge

Many of us would love to read the great books. But it’s hard to when…   You don’t feel like you have the time   You don’t know where to even start   You don’t have a trusted voice to lead you towards those great books + help you take a...
Active Waiting (James 5)

Active Waiting (James 5)

The final chapter of James encourages us with the admonition to “be patient.” That is, “wait.” He refers us to several Old Testament heroes— including Job and Elijah— who were examples of actively enduring while patiently waiting. And he offers us this hope: we...
Planned Parenthood = Intentional Black Genocide

Planned Parenthood = Intentional Black Genocide

That’s a picture of Margaret Sanger, the Founder of Planned Parenthood– and here’s some info no one is talking about… In 1939, Margaret Sanger, the founder of Planned Parenthood announced the organization’s new “Negro Project” in response to...
It Comes From Within (James 4)

It Comes From Within (James 4)

  Whereas we tend to think that trouble comes from “out there,” James tells us to do something shocking: take a look in the mirror. In chapter 4, he outlines what worldliness look like, as well as what Godliness looks like. And, as James tends to be, he’s pretty “cut...
Margaret Sanger– in her own words

Margaret Sanger– in her own words

Sometimes, it’s helpful to here what the opposition is saying– to let them speak for themselves, without trying to “spin” what you think they’re trying to say… to just let them speak… Margaret Sanger, the founder of Planned...
Visible Wisdom (James 3)

Visible Wisdom (James 3)

In chapter 3, James takes us from “invisible faith” (James 2) to “visible wisdom.” Turns out, wisdom is seen by her fruits… … and the “chief fruit” of wisdom is the words we say (and, of course, the ones we don’t say that we mutter under our breathe). Furthermore,...
Invisible Faith (James 2)

Invisible Faith (James 2)

In James 2 we discuss one of the most controversial passages in the New Testament: “Faith without works is dead” (2:26). What does James mean by this? We discover that true Biblical faith moves beyond objective facts to experiential reality. And, it turns out that...
It’s All Joy (James 1)

It’s All Joy (James 1)

This talk kicks off a 5-part series on the book of James. Join us as we walk through this 5-chapter powerhouse of a book, using the Keystones approach as our guide. In James 1, we learn about trials, trouble, and tribulation… … and we discover that James says we...
Another C.S. Lewis Eleventary

Another C.S. Lewis Eleventary

Clive Staples Lewis was a British writer and theologian. He held academic positions in English literature at Oxford and Cambridge and is known for his Chronicles of Narnia and other writings. “‘Safe?’ said Mr. Beaver; ‘don’t you hear what Mrs. Beaver tells...
Umberto Eco & Why You Should Read Deep & Wide

Umberto Eco & Why You Should Read Deep & Wide

George reads a lot. And a lot of what he reads is very different from what most people read. Among his most enduring influences is the great Italian academic semioticist Umberto Eco (1932-2016). On this episode of the StandfastCast podcast, Karen asks George about why...
An Umberto Eco Eleventary

An Umberto Eco Eleventary

Umberto Eco was an Italian novelist, literary critic, philosopher, and professor. 1. “I love the smell of book ink in the morning.” 2. “There is nothing more wonderful than a list, that instrument of wondrous hypotyposis.” 3. “A democratic civilization will save...
The Expulsive Power of a New Affection

The Expulsive Power of a New Affection

In 1819, when he was at the height of his influence and effectiveness, Thomas Chalmers preached a sermon on growing in Christ and resistance to temptation and sin.  It has been heralded as a classic ever since. The sermon has been particularly influential in George’s...
An Ambrose Bierce Eleventary

An Ambrose Bierce Eleventary

Bierce was an American short story writer, journalist, poet, and Civil War veteran who was known for his social commentary. 1. Politics is the strife of interests masquerading as a contest of principles; the conduct of public affairs for private advantage. 2. The...
Things Worth Doing (Throwback #6)

Things Worth Doing (Throwback #6)

Brent Hebert introduces this talk… He says he had the pleasure of meeting George Grant 2 or 3 years ago at the For God & Truth Conference in Trinity, Alabama. Brent adds, “It has been said that if you want to know the heart and love of a pastor, take a glimpse at...
A Thomas Sowell Eleventary

A Thomas Sowell Eleventary

Thomas Sowell dropped out of Stuyvesant High School and served in the United States Marine Corps during the Korean War. He later became an economist and social theorist who is currently a senior fellow at the Hoover Institution at Stanford University. 1. People who...
The Begats of Geneaology  (Throwback #5)

The Begats of Geneaology (Throwback #5)

Tim Yarbrough introduces this “throwback” talk in which George discusses how God uses covenantal succession through people… even the unexpected people. Turns out, the Lord only has imperfect people to use. That means, we’re all— by His grace— qualified. (This talk...
A Bum Eleventary

A Bum Eleventary

“Bum” Phillips was an American football coach at the high school, college and professional levels. He served as head coach for the Houston Oilers from 1975 to 1980 and the New Orleans Saints from 1981 to 1985. 1. “Winning is only half of it. Having fun is...
Classical Education and Nation Building (Throwback #4)

Classical Education and Nation Building (Throwback #4)

Perry Coghlan introduces another talk by George in this “throwback” lecture. (Perry also introduced the first talk in the series, SF73.) He offers a warning on this one, though… He says you might NOT want to listen to it. He offers four reasons why— #1- if you don’t...
A Dr. King Eleventary

A Dr. King Eleventary

Martin Luther King Jr. was an American Christian minister and activist. In 1954, King became pastor of the Dexter Avenue Baptist Church in Montgomery, Alabama. Shortly thereafter, he became the most visible spokesperson and leader in the Civil Rights Movement from...
Theology of Wonder (Throwback #3)

Theology of Wonder (Throwback #3)

Ernie Yarbrough introduces talk #3 in our throwback series… In Dr. George Grant’s lecture entitled “Theology of Wonder – Integrating the Humanities,” our modern view of a fragmented education that serves primarily utilitarian purposes is confronted with a...
A Gipper Eleventary

A Gipper Eleventary

George Gipp, nicknamed “The Gipper”, was a college football player at the University of Notre Dame. Gipp was selected as Notre Dame’s first All-American, and played several positions,— particularly halfback, quarterback, and punter. The phrase...
Why We (Still) Need the Electoral College

Why We (Still) Need the Electoral College

Every presidential election is important, but the 2020 election may well define the trajectory of American politics and culture for a generation or more. And, chief among the issues that will dominate the campaigns of both major political parties as well as the...
A Solzhenitsyn Eleventary

A Solzhenitsyn Eleventary

Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn was a Russian novelist, philosopher, historian, short story writer and political prisoner. An outspoken critic of the Soviet Union and Communism, he helped to raise global awareness of the Gulag labor camp system. 1. “Bless you prison, bless you...
Dumb & Dumber (Throwback #2)

Dumb & Dumber (Throwback #2)

Jacob Frank introduces this talk by Dr. Grant from over TWENTY YEARS AGO! Jacob meant George just a few years ago (and was in school when this talk was first delivered). Further, in Jacob’s words, “I was in awe not just by what he was teaching, but by his passion!” In...
A Jerry Bridges Eleventary

A Jerry Bridges Eleventary

Jerry Bridges was an evangelical Christian author, speaker and staff member of The Navigators. He was the author of more than a dozen books, including The Pursuit of Holiness, which has sold more than one million copies. I’ve been reading Jerry Bridges...
A Martin Luther Eleventary

A Martin Luther Eleventary

Martin Luther was a German professor of theology and Augustinian monk. Luther was ordained to the priesthood in 1507 and launched the Protestant Reformation just 10 years later when he nailed his 95 Thesis to the Castle Church in Wittenburg. 1. “Hier stehe ich; Here I...
In Times of Despair

In Times of Despair

Quick on the heels of the Coronavirus pandemic that shuttered much of our nation this spring, America’s fractious racial divide spilled onto city streets following the murder of George Floyd in Minneapolis. For weeks protests, looting, violence erupted across the land...
A C.S. Lewis Eleventary

A C.S. Lewis Eleventary

Clive Staples Lewis was a British writer and theologian. He held academic positions in English literature at Oxford and Cambridge and is known for his Chronicles of Narnia and other writings. 1. “Of all tyrannies, a tyranny sincerely exercised for the good of its...
45 Years of Marriage

45 Years of Marriage

On this edition of the StandfastCast George and Karen discuss marriage. They recorded the day before they celebrated their 45th anniversary—which afforded them the opportunity to look back and recall some of the most important lessons about marriage that they’ve...
A Will Rogers Eleventary

A Will Rogers Eleventary

Will Rogers was an American stage and film actor, vaudeville performer, cowboy, and columnist. He’s known for the social commentary he infused into each of his media platforms. 1. “The short memories of the American voters is what keeps our politicians in office.” 2....
Gardening (Garden Graces)

Gardening (Garden Graces)

From the very beginning (Genesis 2:8), mankind has been at home in a garden. In all the intervening years, many of us have found solace from the wearying effects of this poor fallen world among the flowers and herbs, trees and vines, vegetables and fruits— despite the...
A Justice Scalia Eleventary

A Justice Scalia Eleventary

Antonin Scalia served as an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States from 1986 until his death in 2016. 1. “Day by day, case by case, the Supreme Court is busy designing a Constitution for a country I do not recognize.” 2. “The Supreme Court...
Lessons from the Coronavirus

Lessons from the Coronavirus

The Covid 19 novel coronavirus pandemic, though by no means unprecedented in human history, has nevertheless dramatically and unexpectedly changed our culture, our economy, our politics, and our lives in a host of different ways: with social distancing, quarantining,...
A John Calvin Eleventary

A John Calvin Eleventary

Known for his multi-volume theological treatise, The Institutes, John Calvin was first and foremost a practitioner. As pastor and reformer in Geneva during the Protestant Reformation, he shared the following— which make their way to this edition of Eleventary. 1. “We...
How to get the Word “in you” + Colossians 3

How to get the Word “in you” + Colossians 3

As lesson 3 begins, we reflect on when Scripture— and memorizing it— became important… For some of us… An activity (such as exercise, walking, or another time in which we could “stack” this on top of that) led us to do it. Our childhood- we were encouraged to do so...
Reading the Bible “in all directions” + Colossians 2

America’s First Constitution = purely faith-based

The first American constitution was ratified by the colony of New Haven in 1639. The entire community assembled in a newly erected barn where the eminent Puritan pastor John Davenport (1597-1670) preached and prayed earnestly—and then proposed fundamental articles for...
Reading the Bible “in all directions” + Colossians 2

A doable plan to study the Scriptures + Colossians 1

This January and February, Dr. Grant set aside 4 weeks to teach the Keystones at his church, Parish Presbyterian, during the “Sunday school” hour. Rather than just talking about the Keystones, however, he chose to lead them through the 4 chapters of Colossians to...
Reading the Bible “in all directions” + Colossians 2

Reformation (George & Karen)

Reformation is a concept woven into the whole fabric of Gospel living. It was not merely a singular event in Church history, instead it is the Biblical pattern of discipleship, growth, and maturity. On this episode of the StandfastCast George and Karen look back and...
Reading the Bible “in all directions” + Colossians 2

Counseling (George & Karen)

The practice of lifetime learning is at the heart of Karen and George’s ministry and message.  On this episode of the StandfastCast they discuss their commitment to hone the essential tools of pastoral care in their own lives as well as some of the...
Reading the Bible “in all directions” + Colossians 2

Karen discusses the Keystones (George & Karen)

While George has been working through the Keystones for several years, Karen has only begun to use the method since Standfast published the journals earlier this year. On this episode of the StandfastCast she talks with George about how using the Keystones has shaped...
Reading the Bible “in all directions” + Colossians 2

Slightly Foxed (George & Karen)

On this episode of the StandfastCast George and Karen discuss one of their favorite new literary discoveries. Slightly Foxed is a small British press, a conversational podcaster, and a delightful reader’s quarterly publisher. We love them. We think you will...
Reading the Bible “in all directions” + Colossians 2

Couple Time (George & Karen)

Good marriages don’t just happen. They require diligent care and unstinting attention. On this episode of the StandfastCast George and Karen talk about some of the  lessons they’ve learned and some of the habits they’ve nurtured in their 45...
George & Karen Talk Book Stores

George & Karen Talk Book Stores

In this special two-part series, George ditches the usual crew of guys and switches (read: upgrade) to Karen, who comes back on the Standfast-cast and talks about books… and finding great books on the shelves of actual book stores. Amazon and the online...
Why We Need the Electoral College

Why We Need the Electoral College

In this stand-alone talk, George talks about the electoral college— and why we need it. Daniel Noor, a friend who is helping edit an updated edition of George’s book about the voting process in America joins this one, bringing his unique perspective as...
Righteous Ruts (Habits of Holiness #1 of 4)

Righteous Ruts (Habits of Holiness #1 of 4)

As we launch into the new year, we talk about one of the trends that always happens anytime we flip the number in the calendar… Namely, people begin showing up at the gym. What can we learn from them? Well, first, showing up is important. But, second, if you...
SF 51- Memoria = Memorize (Lectio Divina #6 of 6)

SF 51- Memoria = Memorize (Lectio Divina #6 of 6)

The final step of Divine Reading (Lectio Divina) is to memorize the key verse of the chapter we’re studying. We hide it in our heart, recognizing that memorized Scripture was the exclusive means people throughout history have had to carry the Word with them. As...
SF 50- Evangelii = Gospel (Lectio Divina #5 of 6)

SF 50- Evangelii = Gospel (Lectio Divina #5 of 6)

As we apply the Scriptures, we need to be able to see the Gospel in the text (Evangelii). Where is the pattern of redemption shown, the glory of grace extended, the promise of forgiveness established, and the merit of Jesus laid upon us? And, there’s this,...
SF 47- Oratio = Pray (Lectio Divina #3 of 6)

SF 47- Oratio = Pray (Lectio Divina #3 of 6)

After reading and discovering what the passage says, we move to prayer…  In fact, we take time to stop to pray through the whole passage (Oratio). We might begin in several places…  What is there to be thankful for here? How does this prompt us...
SF 46- Meditatio = Think (Lectio Divina #2 of 6)

SF 46- Meditatio = Think (Lectio Divina #2 of 6)

After reading the passage (Lectio), the second step in Divine Reading (Lectio Divina) is to think through what the chapter is teaching (Meditatio). What does it mean? How should it be understood? How should the passage be interpreted? Is it primarily indicative...
SF 45- Lectio = Read (Lectio Divina #1 of 6)

SF 45- Lectio = Read (Lectio Divina #1 of 6)

When you open the Keystones book, you’ll notice that there’s a two-page spread for each chapter of the Bible. The left side contains three Reflection steps; the right side contains three Respond steps. Over the next few talks, we’ll discuss each of...
SF 44- Experience (George & Karen)

SF 44- Experience (George & Karen)

George and Karen look back at one of their favorite projected from two decades ago. They share what lessons they’ve learned in the intervening years–and how they might approach those books if they were to write them today. 
Why memorize Scripture?

Why memorize Scripture?

Standfast The final step of Divine Reading (Lectio Divina) is to memorize the key verse of the chapter we’re studying. We hide it in our heart, recognizing that memorized Scripture was the exclusive means people throughout history have had to carry the Word with...
SF 43- Travel (George & Karen)

SF 43- Travel (George & Karen)

Two decades ago George and Karen wrote a series of worldview books. One of them was a book about books and another was a book about travel. With the perspective of distant hindsight, they revisit those books and the lessons they still have to teach us.
06 Memoria = Memorize

06 Memoria = Memorize

Standfast The final step of Divine Reading (Lectio Divina) is to memorize the key verse of the chapter we’re studying. We hide it in our heart, recognizing that memorized Scripture was the exclusive means people throughout history have had to carry the Word with...
05 Evangelii = Gospel

05 Evangelii = Gospel

Standfast As we apply the Scriptures, we need to be able to see the Gospel in the text (Evangelii). Where is the pattern of redemption shown, the glory of grace extended, the promise of forgiveness established, and the merit of Jesus laid upon us? And, there’s...
04 Contemplatio = Action

04 Contemplatio = Action

Standfast Once you’ve reflected on the chapter AND spent time praying through it, it is now time to respond to it. (The Respond page of the Keystones includes Contemplatio, Evangelii, and Memoria.) We begin those three with Contemplatio, that is, apply. The...
03 Oratio = Prayer

03 Oratio = Prayer

Standfast After reading and discovering what the passage says, we move to prayer… In fact, we take time to stop to pray through the whole passage (Oratio). We might begin in several places… What is there to be thankful for here? How does this prompt us...
02 Meditatio = Meditation

02 Meditatio = Meditation

Standfast After reading the passage (Lectio), the second step in Divine Reading (Lectio Divina) is to think through what the chapter is teaching (Meditatio). What does it mean?. How should it be understood?. How should the passage be interpreted?. Is it primarily...
01 Lectio = Read

01 Lectio = Read

Standfast When you open the Keystones book, you’ll notice that there’s a two-page spread for each chapter of the Bible. The left side contains three Reflection steps; the right side contains three Respond steps. Over the next few posts, we’ll discuss...
SF 37- Conversion (George’s Story, part 1)

SF 37- Conversion (George’s Story, part 1)

Revelation 12 tells us that we overcome the enemy by two things: the blood of Jesus and the word of our testimony (12:10). So, we decided to pull back the curtain for a few weeks and talk to George about his story. Turns out, George grew up in a highly moral home- one...
An introduction to the Keystones

An introduction to the Keystones

Standfast In the Scottish Reformed tradition, a modified version of the Medieval devotional practice of Lectio Divina, had long been practiced. This was originally a four-step approach to studying the Scriptures…—> first, Lectio or reading.—>...
SF 36- Why discipleship matters

SF 36- Why discipleship matters

Ultimately, discipleship always points people to something beyond themselves AND even beyond the person doing the discipling. Throughout the New Testament, Paul repeatedly said, “Follow me, as I follow Christ.” That is, “Look at me, yes. I’ll...
Word Play: Verbing

Word Play: Verbing

Verbification, or verbing is the common practice of transforming nouns into verbs. This is often a very natural and useful linguistic development. Verbing has long been a feature of everyday English—think of mail, strike, salt, switch, sleep, ship, train, stop,...
SF 35- How discipleship works

SF 35- How discipleship works

  Discipleship works best when it’s imparted through relationships and not mere words. That is, it involves a transfer of heart and soul mores than just facts and data. In this talk we discuss one of the fundamental nuances of HOW we were created. Namely,...
Thomas Chalmers and the Recovery of the Parish

Thomas Chalmers and the Recovery of the Parish

The great Scottish pastor, social reformer, educator, author, and scientist Thomas Chalmers was born on March 17, 1780 at Anstruther on the Fife coast. His father was a prosperous businessman in the town and Thomas grew up as the sixth in a large family of fourteen...
SF 34- What discipleship is

SF 34- What discipleship is

In episode 34 of the Standfast-Cast we begin a new series about discipleship- what it is, how it works, and why we do it. In this talk, we discuss the WHAT. Discipleship is a word that’s tossed around church circles- a lot. People are for it. They think we need...
Urgency and Patience- Wilberforce

Urgency and Patience- Wilberforce

Again and again the Scriptures underline the importance of each moment that passes.  It is an ethical imperative to act and act quickly when lives are at stake, when justice is perverted, when truth is in jeopardy, when mercy is at risk, when souls are...
SF 33- What We’re Reading

SF 33- What We’re Reading

Karen and George always have a stack of books they are working through. On this episode of the Standfast podcast they discuss some of the books they are reading right now–and how those books are shaping their thinking and their day-to-day work.
Churchill and Chartwell

Churchill and Chartwell

Chartwell was a  refuge and a sanctuary for Winston Churchill.  The odd conglomeration of structures and additions on the Kentish weald, southeast of London was, for him, an earthly paradise.  In fact, he often asserted that “A day away from...
Chalmers on the Discipline of Time

Chalmers on the Discipline of Time

“O God, may I number my days so as to apply my heart to wisdom. Grant me the guidance of Thy Spirit and the joys of salvation.” “Time is short; and as the years revolve over me, may I learn to prize as the truest of all wisdom, the wisdom of the...
SF 32- George talks to Cam Clausing, part 2

SF 32- George talks to Cam Clausing, part 2

Cam Clausing has spent three years studying the theological method of Herman Bavinck. The fruit of those labors is a doctoral dissertation–but while he was writing that tome he was simultaneously working on a new translation of “Sacrifice of Praise,”...
Chalmers & the Primacy of Prayer

Chalmers & the Primacy of Prayer

Thomas Chalmers (1780-1847), the great Scottish pastor, professor, author, and statesman, was undeniably a man of action. He was the quintessential reformer: he founded more than two dozen mission organizations, Bible societies, neighborhood schools, and community...
SF 31- George talks to Cam Clausing, part 1

SF 31- George talks to Cam Clausing, part 1

For the past three years Cam Clausing has been working on his PhD at the University of Edinburgh. The focus of his study and his dissertation has been the theological method of Herman Bavinck. In this conversation with George, Cam reveals the important lessons Bavinck...
George’s Home Office (video tour)

George’s Home Office (video tour)

Standfast When you’re ready to dive deep and dig in, sometimes it’s best to have a quiet place, a refuge. In this short video, George shows you his home office. Whereas the library (www.GeorgeGrant.net/blog/Library) is busy and colorful, the office...
George’s Library (video tour)

George’s Library (video tour)

Standfast They say we’re the result of the people we interact with and the books we read. If you’ve ever wondered what George keeps around the house on his shelves, or if you’ve ever wondered WHAT they’re talking about when the StandFast cast...
Shelf Life: The Hardy Boys’ Dad

Shelf Life: The Hardy Boys’ Dad

Edward Stratemeyer was arguably among the most prolific and influential American authors.  Indeed, he wrote more and sold more than almost any other writer who has ever lived anywhere at any time—some 1,300 novels selling in excess of 500 million...
The Church and Modern Prometheanism

The Church and Modern Prometheanism

Like modern art, or an avant garde poem, or the latest haute fashions, secularism has always been hard to define.  Though often pronounced with algebraic lucidity, its topsy-turvy logic is often as unintelligible as the dog-Latin of monkish hexameters.  In...
Shelf Life: A Short Practicum on Poetry

Shelf Life: A Short Practicum on Poetry

When we think of reading poetry, one classification frequently overlooked is that of the wonderful hymns of the ages. There are hymns for meditation upon every state of the heart.  Hymns divide the seasons of the year, and they speak eloquently for us when we...
SF 26- What we’re reading

SF 26- What we’re reading

George and Karen Grant discuss the books they are currently reading. Karen is reading: “A Year with Peter Drucker” (Harper), “Coming Clean” by Kimberly Rae Miller (Houghton Mifflin), “Learning Evangelism from Jesus” by Jerram Barrs...
Shelf Life: Pilgrim’s Progress

Shelf Life: Pilgrim’s Progress

The great Victorian preacher, Charles Spurgeon, read it more than a hundred times.  E.M. Bounds kept a copy by his bedside and read from it every night before retiring.  Stonewall Jackson kept a copy in his knapsack throughout his Southern campaigns. ...
The Work of the Pastor

The Work of the Pastor

If Charles Haddon Spurgeon is justly known as the “Prince of Preachers,” then with equal justice Richard Baxter ought to be considered the “Prince of Pastors.”  According to J.I. Packer, Baxter was “incomparable” in his zeal...
Word Play: Nostalgia

Word Play: Nostalgia

Do you remember when going out to dinner meant spreading a red and white checked tablecloth over a picnic table in the backyard? Remember when playing some music meant gathering the whole family on the front porch with mismatched instruments, everyone singing...
SF 23- How to have morning devotions

SF 23- How to have morning devotions

On this episode, George and Karen Grant discuss the patterns habits they’ve developed for morning devotions. In particular, they discuss the way the Psalms can provide just exactly the right instruction, inspiration, and insight needed for almost any situation...
In the World, But Not of It

In the World, But Not of It

Bethel is the symbol of communion with God; Ai is the symbol of the world. Abraham pitched his tent between the two.” My Utmost, January 6 It was nearly half a century ago that I began to make my way through the classic, My Utmost for His Highest. It was the...
SF 22- Yes, Christians get distressed and dismayed

SF 22- Yes, Christians get distressed and dismayed

George’s conversation with Caleb and Rebecca Faires focuses on their new publication, The Book of Comforts, published by Zondervan. A coffee table book filled with stories, Scripture, illustrations, photographs, and inspirations, the book navigates all the ways...
The New Monasticism

The New Monasticism

By the thirteenth century, the West’s idealistic wars against a fearsome Islamic threat had failed ignobly; its stagnating economy had cast a pall of depression across the once prosperous and thriving land; its national and political leaders reveled in pomp,...
SF 21-  Come & See, Go & Tell (Mark series #5)

SF 21- Come & See, Go & Tell (Mark series #5)

 In talk #5 in the Mark series, we go to chapter 5, to the region of the Gadarenes. The Decapolis (area of ten cities), as it was common called, was known for being an area of “trouble” in the ancient world. It was known for its problems. Aside from...
The Ichabod Church and Basil

The Ichabod Church and Basil

“And thus was he called Ichabod, for the glory of the Lord had departed.”  1 Samuel 4:21 The rising tide of heresy in the latter half of the fourth century very nearly engulfed the entire church.  Most of the Nicean fathers had either passed into...
The Church Plant that Eats Together Stays Together

The Church Plant that Eats Together Stays Together

There is nothing quite as effective in ministry as fellowship around the table. In the hustle and bustle of everyday life, nurturing genuine covenant community is no easy task.  Missional and relational rootedness requires deliberateness and intentionality. ...
Endurance: From Beginning to End

Endurance: From Beginning to End

The race really does go to the tortoise and not the hare.  It is perseverance that ultimately will win the prize, not knowledge, not talent, and not connections.  It is that undying tenacity that sets itself on the end, that finishes the race, that completes...
Word Play: Doxology

Word Play: Doxology

A doxology is a short chorus of praise to the Lord, often sung as a stand-alone piece or as a coda at the conclusion of psalms, hymns, or canticles. The word comes from the Greek doxa, meaning, “appearance” or “glory,” and logia, meaning,...
Doing Right

Doing Right

According to James Longstreet, “Error lives but a day.  Truth is eternal.”  The truth will prevail.  Right will endure.  Integrity will triumph in the end.  Justice and virtue are able to withstand every charge.  Such things...
Elders and Deacons, Word and Deed

Elders and Deacons, Word and Deed

The heroine of My Fair Lady, Eliza Doolittle, captured the sentiment of most of us when she complained: “Words, words, words—I am so sick of words.  I get words all day through, first from him, now from you.  Is that all you blighters can...
Nouveau Pelagianism

Nouveau Pelagianism

In his Confessions, Augustine (354-430) describes mankind’s universal sinful bent as “concupiscence.” The Greek word epithumia (ἐπιθυμία) occurs 38 times in the New Testament. It describes the utter enfeebling of...
Word Play: Cliché

Word Play: Cliché

Clichés are by definition stock phrases or expressions that have become hackneyed, trite, or banal by overuse. They are worn-out platitudes, maxims, or truisms. They are tired and predictable declarations of self-evident truths. Clichés are, to use a...
SF 11- The Gospel Story (App)

SF 11- The Gospel Story (App)

We’re back with Ernie & Andy WITHOUT Dr. Grant for one more episode. In this talk we discuss this past summer’s trip to Scotland, which was part of the Gospel Story project. This was a trip that Ernie headed, Dr. Grant helped host, and about 20 others...
Taking Every Thought Captive

Taking Every Thought Captive

“We ought to bring our minds free, unbiased, and teachable, to learn our religion from the Word of God.” Isaac Watts One of the basic demands of Christian discipleship, of following Jesus Christ, is to change our way of thinking.  We are to...
SF 10- Ernie Talks About George

SF 10- Ernie Talks About George

In this episode of the StandFast cast Ernie Yarbrough- who’s interviewed Dr. Grant before on the show- talks with Andy about his own journey into the wonderful world of Dr. Grant… You’ll learn about the power of relationships, how most our highs and...
Heed the Call

Heed the Call

He didn’t really tell me anything I didn’t already know.  Nevertheless, his counsel proved to be invaluable.  He somehow was able to wrench my indecision and uncertainty out of the realm of the individual and the subjective and into the much...
SF 09- Six Things Your Church Can Do to End Poverty

SF 09- Six Things Your Church Can Do to End Poverty

In this episode we outline six things your church can do to end poverty. 1. Develop a robust deacons ministry Elders work with words, deacons work with their hands. We need to keep the two unconfused, and make sure we do both. Notably, this ministry should begin on a...
Shelf Life: Bad Books

Shelf Life: Bad Books

From time to time I am asked why I only do positive book reviews.  Why don’t I do genuine criticism?  Why don’t I lambaste all the piffle, drivel, and swill that seems to subsume the publishing industry these days?  There are two simple...
Doing Christian History

Doing Christian History

“Every day that passes should be lived in light of the past, in light of the future, and in light of eternity.” Thomas Chalmers (1780-1847) History is so rich and so resplendent that there is not a single date that does not offer great lessons in heroism...
SF 06- How the Bible Handles Immigration

SF 06- How the Bible Handles Immigration

In this talk we go back to George’s book, In the Shadow of Plenty, to discuss more about how to serve the poor in a land that has so much bounty. To do that, we go back to ancient Israel and discuss their basic societal structure. There, we find that the nation...
SF 04- Two kinds of poor

SF 04- Two kinds of poor

There are two kinds of poor… First, there are people who are poor by choice. That is, they have a chance- and even the means- to move forward in life… they simply refuse to take it. Proverbs calls these poor “sluggards.” They’re lazy....
SF 03- The right order of compassion

SF 03- The right order of compassion

The Bible outlines a radical plan for compassion and justice… In fact, the Scripture gives us an “upside down” plan for just about everything. It begins with personal responsibility. Then it moves to the family. Then it grows to the Church. And,...
SF 02- Compassion vs. Charity

SF 02- Compassion vs. Charity

Tis the season to… sponsor an angel child, send a shoe box of gifts, volunteer at a soup kitchen, gift blankets and jackets and hats… That is, it’s the season for charity. Christmas is a time when we typically thing about people in need. We fill up...
Neologisms

Neologisms

Every year new words and phrases find their way into our vocabulary.  Sometimes these neologisms are the result of political turns of events, like Brexit, alt-right, or newsjacking. Sometimes it is technology and digital media that introduce new words like...
Religion Externalized

Religion Externalized

Culture is simply a worldview made evident. It is basic beliefs worked out into habits of life. It is theology translated into sociology. Culture is a very practical expression of the common faith of a community or a people or a nation. Culture is, as Henry Van Til...
Just Preach It

Just Preach It

When I was in seminary, the “Church Growth Movement” was just getting its sea legs.  So, of course, it was all the rage in the hallowed halls of academia—if not amongst the profs, most assuredly amongst their charges.  Filled with...
The God Who Answereth By Orphanages

The God Who Answereth By Orphanages

In 1821, Dr. John Rippon, pastor of the New Park Street Chapel in Southwark, London, began a ministry to the homeless poor. A complex of almshouses was erected on a property adjacent to the church and the monumental task of rehabilitation was begun. Rippon wrote,...
Comenius

Comenius

We are all citizens of one world, we are all of one blood. To hate people because they were born in another country, because they speak a different language, or because they take a different view on this subject or that, is a great folly. Desist, I implore you, for we...
Inevitable Controversy

Inevitable Controversy

All leaders are controversial.  They invariably risk the ire of others.  Because they stand for certain things, they necessarily stand against certain things.  This causes them to stand out.  It makes them more than a little peculiar in this plain...
Education & Hope

Education & Hope

Haarlem is a beautiful little Dutch town on the River Spaarne, 15-minutes by train from Amsterdam. Founded sometime in the 10th century, in 1245 it was granted city status or stadsrechten and was made the capital of the province of North Holland. By the 14th century,...
Education & Culture

Education & Culture

“A nation at risk.”  That is how the United States Department of Education once described our country’s educational crisis.  It was true then.  It still is. The vast educational monolith in this country is a dismal failure: Teacher...
Faster

Faster

We are so tragically, malignantly impatient.  Everything is moving faster and faster in our lives.  We have instant access to the  internet right on the phones in our pockets.  We do business “at the speed of light.”  Speed and...
Immediately

Immediately

Poet, literary critic, and novelist, Arthur Quiller-Couch, was best known for his incomparable anthology, The Oxford Book of English Verse. As a lecturer at Oxford beginning in 1886 and a professor at Cambridge from 1912-1944, he taught an entire generation of English...
Lost Words

Lost Words

In his classic book, The Holiness of God, R.C. Sproul bemoans the absence from our vocabulary of certain, once-familiar, King James Version words. It wasn’t so much the loss of antiquated verb forms like walketh and talketh, or sayest and mayest that bothered...
The Magdeburg Confession

The Magdeburg Confession

By the 16th century virtually no one disagreed on the fact that the West needed to be reformed.  What they disagreed on was what that reform should entail and how it was to be effected.  In frustrated tension, dozens of competing factions, sects, schisms,...
Meaning It, Believing It, and Living It

Meaning It, Believing It, and Living It

It is one of the great ironies of our day that Christians can pray, “Thy will be done on earth as it is in Heaven,” and not actually mean anything by it. Indeed, it is a stunning paradox that we can live as if such a prayer could not be answered. Even...
Resounding Nehemiads

Resounding Nehemiads

Jeremiad. Definition: “an elaborate and prolonged lamentation; a cry of woe; and expression of righteous indignation.” Nehemiad. Definition: “an elaborate and prolonged humiliation; a cry of grief; an expression of righteous repentance.” Well...
Self-Examination As a Check Against Idolatry

Self-Examination As a Check Against Idolatry

The years leading up to the Scottish Disruption and those immediately afterward produced some of the most remarkable servants of God in the history of the church.  Andrew Alexander Bonar (1810-1892) was a member of that galaxy of brilliant, Reformed Scots...
The Trouble with Trouble

The Trouble with Trouble

No one in his or her right mind actually wishes for adversity.  No one ever really goes looking for trouble.  No one wants conflict or pain or struggle or loss or scandal or anguish or confrontation or sickness.  Difficulty is never desirable. ...
Thinking and Thanking

Thinking and Thanking

G.K. Chesterton once wrote, “I would maintain that thanks are the highest form of thought, and that gratitude is happiness doubled by wonder.” Chesterton was always imminently quotable.  His quips and epigrams, axioms and jibes, maxims and platitudes,...
Yokefellows in Hardship

Yokefellows in Hardship

The horrific ruthlessness of ISIS, the brazen cruelty of Boko Haram, the obsessive repression of the North Korean Juche, the vicious terrorism of Al-Qaeda: I confess that when faced with the gleeful persecution of my Christian brothers and sisters around the world in...