I’m sure many of you won’t be checking in tomorrow, so let me say it today: Merry Christmas!
Today’s Kindle deals include a few different books that are worth thinking about. There are some general market options as well. (There will be some deals on Christmas Day as well, so do check back.)
Brain Implants, Yes or No?
It may sound far-fetched now, but brain implants are a growing issue and Christians would do well to think about them in advance. “In early 2023, the FDA approved Neuralink’s first brain-computer interface for human use, subsequently allowing a paralyzed patient, Noland Arbaugh, to control a computer cursor with his thoughts alone. This technology represents a genuine medical breakthrough for spinal-cord injuries.”
Recovering Christ at Christmastime
Sinclair Ferguson explains the importance of recovering Christ at Christmastime—or anytime, really. (Also on the subject of Christmas, see Holiness Not in Holidays: Why Calvin Preferred the Lord’s Day to Christmas.)
Earth’s Epic Start
This entertaining and engaging study of Genesis 1-3 helps middle-grade readers gain a greater understanding and appreciation for God’s amazing creation. (Sponsored)
How to Create a Body-Integrated Sabbath
Nicholas McDonald explains how he has been very deliberate in ensuring he is enjoying some kind of weekly sabbath.
Things I Didn’t Know About Marriage
As Darryl comes to his thirty-fifth anniversary, he describes some of the things he didn’t know about marriage.
What Constitutes a True Baptism?
In certain circumstances, “determining whether a baptism was true, even if irregular, can be complicated.” Sam Emadi says that “in my own ministry, I’ve used the following four questions as a grid for determining true baptisms. If you can answer each of the following four questions affirmatively then I think you’re looking at a true baptism.”
The Forgotten Value of Sacrifice
“When we speak of sacrifice as a value in a family culture, we mean giving up something valuable to bless someone else. Teaching children to sacrifice is a powerful way to highlight the gospel through Christ’s example and to reveal the selfishness that still lingers in our hearts. As children learn to appreciate sacrifice, they also become more aware of the pull of worldly comforts and pleasures.”
Flashback: Never Forget Where You Came From
In celebrating Christmas we remember—we mark, we recall, we memorialize—the miracle of God becoming man.
No one is really neutral about whether Christmas is true. If the Son of God was really born in a manger, then we have lost the right to be in charge of our lives. Who can be objective about a claim that, if it is true, means you’ve lost control of your life? You can’t be.
—Tim Keller
