We've been reading it in the headlines for decades, "The church is in crisis," or "The crisis facing the church today," or "Christianity in decline." These are simple and general headlines, but just search the phrase in any search engine and you will receive an immense number of results confirming the statement. You will read … Continue reading The World, not the Christian Church, is in Crisis
Christian, Go to Church
It was just another day at the office. We were conducting business as usual, and a staff member was discussing religion with me. Normally this is a topic we are asked to avoid, but ever since the staff learned that I was studying pastoral ministry, the questions and thoughts constantly came rolling in. One of … Continue reading Christian, Go to Church
What Makes Christian Music… Christian?
With access to all forms of music on an unprecedented scale, it’s no surprise that Christians have sought to use music not only as an aid in worship (as is present in Scripture), but also as an evangelistic channel. Most people, regardless of age, can appreciate a song that has well-crafted musicality and lyrics that … Continue reading What Makes Christian Music… Christian?
Is Belief in the Resurrection Necessary for Salvation?
As we approach Easter, the celebration of the resurrection of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, the topic inevitably arises: did Christ rise from the dead and later physically ascend to Heaven? Does it matter? I want to open with a quote by Augustine of Hippo, "If you believe what you like in the gospels, and … Continue reading Is Belief in the Resurrection Necessary for Salvation?
Being Conformed To His Image, Not Yours
If you are constantly critiquing the ways in which fellow believers practice their faith in regards to non-sin issues because it is different from you, congratulations, you've entered into Pharisaic legalism and you're an idolater.
“To Each Their Own” – And Other Lies We Christians Tell Ourselves
“To each their own.” This four-word phrase is mentioned every time differences of opinion arise to avoid confrontation or as a sign of surrender so that each person can move on with their lives. We use it with strangers, friends, and family. And honestly, that’s completely fine. The problem arises when we use it when … Continue reading “To Each Their Own” – And Other Lies We Christians Tell Ourselves
The Church of Laodicea and the Lukewarm Believer
What is a lukewarm believer? How can we distinguish between genuine, saving faith, and heartless day-to-day practicum of religious tradition or cultural conditioning? It is the normative experience for most Christians in the US to know a great many nominal believers; that is, people who call themselves Christians but do not follow Christ. Their lives … Continue reading The Church of Laodicea and the Lukewarm Believer
Biblical Characteristics of Love
God is Not Limited like Us We often think that two characteristics or attributes opposite of each other cannot co-exist in the same being. This may or may not be true of our finite selves, but God, on the other hand, is infinite. He can have qualities that seem to oppose each other that serve to … Continue reading Biblical Characteristics of Love
A Man and His Bible
A Man and his Bible. Could there be a more beautiful relationship? The Bible isn't just the complete and perfect Word of God, inspired by the Holy Spirit, and the final authority for all we believe and practice (Matt 5:18; 2 Tim 3:16-17). It is a man's lens through which he views the world, it … Continue reading A Man and His Bible
Biblical Theology on Tap 