In the recent past, I have come to have a growing appreciation for the teaching of Pastor Tim Conway. In my opinion, he is able to take seemingly difficult passages (to me anyway) which seem to run contrary to the historic reformed position. Pastor Conway, to my understanding, is indeed reformed in his understanding of the scripture and holds to the doctrines of grace in any and all sermons I have heard from him via Illbehonest.com.
In this particularly long video (1:12:41), Pastor Tim addresses issue such as "shipwrecked faith", "departing from the faith", "swerving from the faith" and "enduring to the end". He focuses the majority of his attention in the book of Hebrews in order to illustrate these concepts. He seems to take a great deal of care to makes distinctions between falling from the faith, falling from grace and whether or not one can lose their salvation.
What he says here in this message goes a long way to reconcile some of the passages that appear (again to me) to be downplayed by some, if not most, reformed teachers which I have had the privilege to hear and learn. Admittedly, I did not grow up in the reformed tradition. I came to the doctrines of grace about three years ago with the help of a very patient friend, who came to these same doctrines two years prior to that. My concern is that I am too dismissive of anything that has even the slightest hint of Arminianism. However, as I strive to avoid the gross errors of my past, I also long to serve my Lord in spirit and in truth.
So, if you have the time to listen to this lengthy message and offer up any opinions on either this message or the ministry itself, I would greatly appreciate it.
In service to Christ Jesus who is my Savior and our Lord,
Mike
May the Lamb that was slain receive the reward of His suffering.
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