discussion: A Place for Weakness
“Regardless of the diversity our trials take, one thing is certain: we will all suffer.”
– Michael Horton
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Suffering is not the easiest or most pleasant topic to talk about, but if we believe the author’s words, we can trust this book to be a worthwhile read — and perhaps a little more than necessary given the times in which we live and the great uncertainty that lies ahead:
For there is a time and a way for everything, although man’s trouble lies heavy on him.
For he does not know what is to be, for who can tell him how it will be?
– Ecclesiastes 8:6-7
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You’re invited to join in a six-week online group discussion of Michael Horton’s book
A Place for Weakness: Preparing Yourself for Suffering
Beginning on Wednesday, May 4 and each Wednesday thereafter, we’ll read in tandem one or two chapters and “meet up” the following week to compare notes. Please feel free to leave a comment, share insights, ask questions, or cite a direct quote. If you’d rather simply listen, that’s fine, too. My hope is for every reader to not only come away strengthened and comforted, but also better informed and prepared theologically for encountering life’s vast and varied sufferings.
To purchase the book online:
Amazon, Zondervan, Westminster Book Store
The format:
The book has 10 chapters (194 pages) and is divided into two parts, God of the Cross and God of the Empty Tomb, so we’ll cover one or two chapters a week, depending. In the back of the book, provided are helpful questions to stir discussion, but we won’t be bound to them. Based upon each week’s reading, I’ll post a few thoughts, but please know that your comments, insights and perspectives are invaluable to the group. The only ftm site guideline is to stay on topic, the only goal is to edify one another. And may we glorify God through our time together.
Part 1 — God of the Cross
Chapter One: When Tragedy Strikes
Chapter Two: Good News for Losers
Chapter Three: Suffering on Purpose
Chapter Four: Is Your God Big Enough?
Chapter Five: Is Anybody Up There?
Chapter Six: If We Just Knew Why God Let It Happen
Part 2 — God of the Empty Tomb
Chapter Seven: Out of the Whirlwind
Chapter Eight: A New Creation
Chapter Nine: The True Nature of Spiritual Warfare
Chapter Ten: When God Goes to A Funeral
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I’m in! I honestly don’t think there is a more timely theme to be studying at “such a time as this”. Thank you for taking the time and effort to host this discussion. I am sure Michael Horton will have much wisdom to share – I’ve read Christless Christianity and the Gospel Driven Life, both excellent books. I likewise am sure you will have much godly wisdom to share, and I look forward very much to being able to join in the conversation – if that doesn’t make me sound too much like an emergent 😉
This book looks absolutely wonderful, Elizabeth! Can I “audit” the class? I would love to read everyone’s posts – I would so love to participate in reading the book with you all, but I have to focus on studying for teaching – (plus try to keep up with my blog) and I’m just not very good at multi-tasking.
Looking forward to a vicarious participation. 🙂
Diane,
Absolutely. I well understand, as you’ve got enough on your plate. The best part about hosting a discussion online is the freedom it gives people to “come whenever they want” or just eavesdrop:)
Love you,
-E
So far, there are about 15 or so people planning to participate in the upcoming book discussion. Hopefully, most of you have ordered and received your book by now. Has anyone started reading yet?
-E
Yes, I’m reading it.
I would love to join the discussion…. I hope I don’t forget. I have the book and I have been reading it. It is a great read! There is much to be gain by our suffering, when we see God’s hand in it.
I am so looking forward to this! Thanks for hosting it, my dear friend!
I got “smart” and copied the “instructions” to place in my book!
Elizabeth,
Yes, thank you for hosting this! Starting to read! Can’t wait to discuss this with all of you ladies! 🙂
May everyone’s reading be richly blessed and help you to grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ!
Warmly,
Elizabeth
So happy you’re joining us, Elizabeth!
I’m eager to get started, only one more week to go (May 4)!
-E
Elizabeth,
Thank you so much for the invite! I will get my book and join your discussion.
-Christina
Hi Christina,
It’s wonderful that you’re joining us! I think the book will give us much good food for thought:)
-E
Theoretically….Wednesdays are my day off from working for my husband’s professional practice….so I am in since we will do it on Wednesday. Sounds wonderful…love Michael Horton and listen to Whitehorse Inn regularly. Thank you for hosting this. Are we to read chapters one and two? Can we get this on Kindle? I would assume we could…just wondering. Thank you again!!!!
Hi Barbara,
Great! Glad you can join us! For the start date of May 4, readers are only expected to read chapter 1. Later we will ramp up, chewing two chapters at a time:) It is available on Kindle, too! All reading info will be detailed in the blog posts as we go.
-E
Elizabeth…I would also love to connect on Twitter so I know when something new is being posted. You can connect with me at BarbaraThayer1 on Twitter. Blessings!
I received the book this week and am starting Chapter 1. This will be edifying to all. Blessings
I just ordered my book on my Kindle so I’m ready to read. We’re still without electricity/internet from the tornadoes in Alabama; several days left before we’ll receive power. But if I’m back up on Wednesday or have wi-fi available somewhere, I’ll be here! Thanks for hosting. I’m looking forward to it.
That’s wonderful to hear, Lisa! I remember “meeting” you on Challies, when we were discussing R.C. Sproul’s book, Holiness of God. I’ve always appreciated your sensitive words and I look forward to what you’ll bring to this discussion. I hope and pray the power comes back on soon for y’all. God bless.
-E
I’m in! Reading along on my Kindle.
Glad you’re in, Melissa, Kindle-style! Perfect timing…discussion starts tomorrow!
-E
Hello Elizabeth!
I just found you on May 3rd and had the book sent “overnight” so I could get to chapter one! I am excited about reading this as this is my first Michael Horton book. Thank you so much for hosting and I look forward to the Wednesdays ahead. < Kelly
That’s wonderful, Kelly! This is my first online discussion, actually, and it’s proving to be very worthwhile. Just curious, I’d love to know how you found me–was it through another blog or a random search? I don’t think you’ll be disappointed with the book. Michael Horton offers a lot of food for thought.
Best,
-E
Hi E~
I found you through “Lisa Notes.” I’ve become a big fan of her blog and i never told her that, so Lisa if you see this, I love your blog too! Kelly