Today, Dr. R.C. Sproul passed from this life into the next. Although the news did not come as a shock (Ligonier Ministries had been giving updates regarding his declining condition) I confess I feel some sadness tonight.
I first began listening to Dr. Sproul's teachings - via the Ligonier app - several years ago. I didn't come as a convinced Calvinist. I came as a student eager to learn about the history of the Church, and the notable men and women who have shaped it throughout the last two millennia. I got way more than I bargained for.
I began to learn about Augustine and Athansius, Boethius and Barth, Aquinas, Luther, Calvin, and a host of others. I began to obtain a greater understanding of God's work in and through His covenant people. I learned about the intricacies of the Protestant Reformation, the importance of Scripture, and this great salvation given to us solely on the basis of God's free grace.
But most of all I learned more of who God is. If you've spent any time following Dr. Sproul's ministry, you know that God's holiness was one of his primary areas of focus. Isaiah's vision (Isaiah 6) laid the groundwork for much of what Dr. Sproul did, taught, and lived.
I have learned so much from him over the years. I will be forever grateful for the influence he's had on my life and ministry. And I rejoice with him now as he's left the Church militant and joined the Church triumphant.
So, until my voice joins in that one song around the throne that never ends, I celebrate all those in Christ who have gone before me. And specifically, I remember and honor the legacy and memory of Dr. R.C. Sproul.
To read more about his life and ministry, click here.
Ecclesia reformata et semper reformanda