Attending a Christian concert last week, I was struck with how much some of the artists used the words “I” and “me.” I know there are many songs over the centuries that have used these personal pronouns, but it seems that more than ever, the Church is incorporating the philosophies of Carl Rodgers and Dr. Spock (The Physician not the Vulcan) into its theology. Continue reading “It’s All About Me”
Shaking Off the Restraints
On my way into the office this morning I was listening to a couple of radio hosts talking about Saint Patrick’s Day. My initial thoughts went to a previous year’s blog that shared the phenomenal story of the real Saint Patrick and how he fought hard against the snakes (demons) of Ireland as he took the Gospel of Christ to his former slave masters and overall evil people of the land.
The male host then noted that for many years, alcohol was prohibited on St. Patrick ’s Day. It was a day to attend church and reflect on the pious life of God’s humble servant. The host went on to say that eventually “we casted off those shackles.” Continue reading “Shaking Off the Restraints”
I’m God’s Gift to the World
Say it with me, “I’m God’s gift to the world.” One more time, “I’m God’s gift to the world.” Does it feel a little prideful? Probably so – it does to me – but it is still true. Let’s break it down.
If you believe the Bible, I’m sure you agree with me that Jesus is God’s gift to the world. One of the most memorable scriptures is John 3:16, “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” Continue reading “I’m God’s Gift to the World”
Pastor Mails Body Parts
It sounds like the story line from an episode of CSI or Criminal Minds, but this case is real. A well-revered pastor cut the body of a woman into twelve parts and sent them to leaders of twelve different nations. When all was said and done, the clergyman was identified, but never arrested. In fact, he eventually became a hero of sorts – a world-wide legend.
Our story begins when the preacher in question solicited a woman for ongoing sexual companionship. Though they never got married, in the traditional sense, he developed a deep fondness for her. Continue reading “Pastor Mails Body Parts”
STOP! You’re Hurting the People You Love
Is it true? Are you really hurting the people who love you? Are you negatively affecting the very lives that have always been there for you – the ones who have loved you through thick and thin?
In an increasingly self-centered world, people often say, “Stay out of my business,” “What’s it to you?” or perhaps “I’m only hurting myself.” This is a radical departure from the social and cultural understanding of just a generation or two ago. Sure, there have always been those who were just out for themselves with the whole, “What’s in it for me?” mentality, but there was a time when that mentality was more the exception than the rule. For the most part, selfish individuals were ostracized by a society who understood the inextricable link we all share. Continue reading “STOP! You’re Hurting the People You Love”
Somebody’s Going to Die
The specious debates underway in the United States today over the much publicized visit by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, are mere window dressing for a deep and abiding evil that has existed for millennia. The last time this evil was so evident, it ultimately led to the deaths of an estimated eleven million people. This time may be even worse. Continue reading “Somebody’s Going to Die”
The Smell of Burnt Flesh
What does Old Testament animal sacrifice have to do with us today? Did God really demand it? Why?
In today’s high-tech culture and high-tech churches, the world of our spiritual ancestors often appears barbaric and uninformed. If we are not careful it is easy to judge them through the lens of our modern world-view. When we do, we completely miss the significance of their worship. Continue reading “The Smell of Burnt Flesh”
The Most Important Tool in Every Christian’s Toolbox
There is a single tool that is exceedingly more important than any other in the life of the fruitful Christian. Those who have studied and learned how to use it effectively have been wildly successful in their lives while those who did not adequately appreciate it, often failed miserably. The significance of this often underappreciated and undervalued item cannot be overstated. History reveals that even individuals who were exceptionally skilled with this life altering implement often lost everything when they neglected it. Continue reading “The Most Important Tool in Every Christian’s Toolbox”
Prophetic or Pathetic? Rob Bell and the Spirit of the Age.
Many are trying to pick up the prophetic mantle and speak for God today. Just recently, well-known Pastor / Author, and Oprah Winfrey protégé’, Rob Bell, announced that if the church did not conform to modern cultural views and beliefs, it would be increasingly irrelevant. When did Rob Bell become the protestant Pope? Who ordained him to speak on behalf of God about the precepts and dictates of Heaven?
Since the early days of Judaism – and later Christianity – people of faith have contended between the voice of God and the voice of the world. For millennia there has been a struggle to determine right from wrong. Modern culture tells us that the Bible is full of fairy tales to scare children into obedience. Worse, many well-known seminaries and Bible colleges have been infiltrated by teachers who see the role of scripture as a mere suggestion. Many have relegated God to a force of energy rather than a person who is interested in all that concerns us. They drill well-orchestrated demonic doctrines into the minds of future preachers, who then, all-too-often, carry those lies into their pulpits. These views are a far cry from what the Bible tells us about itself. Continue reading “Prophetic or Pathetic? Rob Bell and the Spirit of the Age.”
Do You Need Favor?
Wouldn’t you love to meet someone who has the power and influence to radically change your life for the better? Have you ever hoped to be discovered and move toward the life of your dreams? The Bible lays out some principles you need to follow before that is likely to happen.
One of the most noted men in the Bible, and indeed in history, left his homeland and headed to a place he had never been. Although things weren’t always easy, he worked hard and trusted God. Eventually Abraham was wealthy, and was given children – in his old age – who could enjoy the fruit of his labor. His son Isaac was designated to carry the family name and the greatest blessings of God, but there was a problem. Continue reading “Do You Need Favor?”