A Dynamic Duo

A Dynamic Duo
One of the greatest friendships I have witnessed in my lifetime was between John MacArthur and R.C. Sproul. Here are, in my opinion, two of the greatest Bible teachers of this moment in history who are the dearest of friends. What is inspiring about these two is their unity in the gospel. Indeed, these two men were in two very different theological circles. MacArthur is a dispensational Baptist while Sproul is a Covenantal Presbyterian. Yet, while they had their disagreements on many things, they remained united in Christ and modeled godliness for the world in their friendship.

This is seen in the Bible as well. One of the grandest examples is David and Jonathan in 1&2 Samuel. Jonathan, the son of King Saul, loved David as he loved his own soul (1 Sam. 18:1-5). They were knit together in a dear and tender friendship. It was a friendship that only death could separate. 

Another example would be Paul and Timothy. Like Jonathan and David, Paul and Timothy are very close. However, their relationship is more like a father and a son. Paul even refers to Timothy as his “true child in the faith” (1 Tim. 1:2). When Paul sends Timothy to the Philippians he tells them that he has no one like him (Phil. 2:20). There is a sweetness to their friendship that is seen throughout all their time together.

As the days go marching forward, there is a great need for godly friends. To have an intimate friend that is striving for holiness and pointing us always to Jesus Christ. Every Paul needs a Timothy. Every David needs a Jonathan. Every Sproul needs a MacArthur. Every Christian needs this, especially young men. A young man needs a friend who loves their soul and points them over and over to Christ.

Sproul and MacArthur did a public debate over baptism (which is worthy of your time). While MacArthur and Sproul disagreed on this issue, they also showcased their great respect and love for one another during this debate. They showed that unity in the gospel, while disagreement on other issues is not only possible but beautiful. Neither of them had an issue with saying the other was wrong. And still, their love for one another was grounded upon Jesus Christ. May God give us the grace of a dear Christian friendship such as this.

Grace be with you,
C.R. Hamilton