Dr Paul Allen

One of the most significant Old Testament examples of a man who purged and protected himself and his kingdom from idols is King Josiah (2 Chronicles 34). When Josiah realized that seeking the Lord was incompatible with the idolatry around him, he purged Judah and Jerusalem of idols with fantastic zeal. Josiah’s men tore down Baal’s altars in his presence, and he personally travelled to destroy idols. Destroying idols requires us to take a stand and pursue things that protect us from future attacks. There are three things Christians must pursue if we would, like Josiah, purge and protect the kingdom of our hearts from idolatry. First, we must pursue Christ-centered relationships. The people we choose to share our lives with dramatically impact us. The scriptures show this effect. The Apostle Paul warned that spending time with wicked people would corrupt us. Making friends with those who do not pursue holiness and godliness will always shape our lives away from godly pursuits as our sta...

It is astonishing to hear Peter say, “Now who is there to harm you if you are zealous for what is good?” (1 Peter3:13). What could he possibly mean? No other book in the Bible addresses the issue of Christian, non-retaliating, unjust suffering more than 1 Peter. For example, This is a gracious thing, when, mindful of God, one endures sorrows while suffering unjustly. (2:19)  When you do good and suffer for it you endure, this is a gracious thing in the sight of God. (2:20)  Do not repay evil for evil or reviling for reviling, but on the contrary, bless, for to this you were called, that you may obtain a blessing. (3:9)  If you should suffer for righteousness’ sake, you will be blessed. (3:14)  It is better to suffer for doing good, if that should be God’s will, than for doing evil. (3:17)  Rejoice insofar as you share Christ’s sufferings, that you may also rejoice and be glad when his glory is revealed. (1 Peter 4:13)  If you are insulted for th...