On July 23, 2023, in the presence of God, I entered into a covenant relationship with グレーストロント日本語教会 (Grace Toronto Japanese Church). I don't have words that can describe the ruthless grace God pours upon me, a hideous wicked sinner; he judged me faithful and has appointed me to his service (1 Tim 1:12). So, when … Continue reading 就任式礼拝 (2023年7月23日)
Paul gave his life for the gospel of Christ
Second Timothy is the last letter Paul penned. He probably wrote it while waiting for his execution. Paul writes, "For I am already being poured out as a drink offering, and the time of my departure has come. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Henceforth … Continue reading Paul gave his life for the gospel of Christ
Paul: Far Too Radical an Apostle
I have long been wondering about the word "Radical" in the label that refers to the group of scholars who do not allow Paul to be read outside Judaism, i.e., the so-called Radical New Perspective on Paul (or the Paul-within-Judaism Perspective). I think that the term "Radical" is a red herring because placing Paul back … Continue reading Paul: Far Too Radical an Apostle
The First Draft of my Dissertation
By God's grace, I finally submitted the first draft (committee copy) of my dissertation on December 1st, 2022. I still remember that surreal feeling that I felt that night when I clicked SEND. It was a long, hard push. I would be lying if I say I never felt like quitting, because I did from … Continue reading The First Draft of my Dissertation
Romans 1:17a
It's impossible to overemphasize the significance of Rom 1:16-17. Porter is absolutely right when he claims that Rom 1:16-17 is the "theme for the entire letter" (Porter, Letter to the Romans, 57). I read and re-read Rom 1:17a this morning to realize that this is one of the most complete and satisfying descriptions (or even … Continue reading Romans 1:17a