I sat in a seminar once led by sociologist/author, Tony Campolo. One of the things he said really struck me, making me think deeply about what he said: “America is not necessarily a Christian nation. But - it is a deeply spiritual nation.” - Tony Campolo, Ph.D. One proof of this is the success of … Continue reading America & the Supernatural
STYX – Show Me the Way
What a classic. And what a timeless example of mankind's thirst for meaning in life. Check out the lyrics: [Verse 1] Every night I say a prayer In the hopes that there's a Heaven; And everyday I'm more confused As the saints turn into sinners. [Pre-Chorus] All the heroes and legends I knew as a … Continue reading STYX – Show Me the Way
Bad News Argues for the Good News
Did you know that bad news is a strong argument for the biblical worldview? “We live in a fallen world and we are constantly faced with the evidence of our fallen condition. “Indeed one of the most profound arguments for the truth of the Christian story is that we have an explanation of why the … Continue reading Bad News Argues for the Good News
Worshiptainment
“Worship is no longer worship when it reflects the culture around us *more* than the Christ within us.” – A.W. Tozer I am a proponent of the ideal, “We have a never-changing message communicated via ever-changing methods.” Tozer’s quote here should not be interpreted in opposition to this ideal. Paul wrote, “Faith comes from hearing, … Continue reading Worshiptainment
The Breath of a Buffalo in the Wintertime
While touring the Ancient Ozarks Natural History Museum just south of Branson, MO, I happened up a Native American quote that affected me so deeply I snapped a photo of it. This quote struck me and reminded me of truth written in ancient times: [Life] is like a breath; [our] days are like a passing … Continue reading The Breath of a Buffalo in the Wintertime
With Friends Like You, Who Needs Enemies?
"What miserable comforters you are!" We'll get back to the above quote in a minute. The Old Testament character, Job, (rhymes with robe) was the subject of what one author describes as a 'cosmic wager' between God and Satan. Job, whom God himself had described as "blameless, a man of integrity", was offered to Satan … Continue reading With Friends Like You, Who Needs Enemies?
It’s Still the Cross
To paraphrase a line from our national anthem: “despite the hatred, pandemic and violence – the Cross is still there!” In their letters to believers, both Paul and Peter used the phrase, "In way of reminder..." Translation: It's easy to get distracted and forget what is true. So, let me remind you of what … Continue reading It’s Still the Cross
Jesus Was No Socialist
Mankind has never changed. The pharisees tried to make Jesus fit their agenda. The zealots tried to make Jesus fit their agenda. The Jews tried the same thing. And so on, and so on, and so on. So it is no surprise that socialists are trying to form-fit Jesus to their image. To do so … Continue reading Jesus Was No Socialist
Jesus Was Neither White nor European
Rioters are wanting to tear down statues of Jesus because he is “white and European." Now, I understand some of the reasoning: some churches have made Jesus white, republican and American. This, sadly, is true. But, it's the rare exception and certainly not the norm. Rioters, of course, themselves serving as judge and jury, have … Continue reading Jesus Was Neither White nor European
Has God Surrendered His Throne? (not even close)
We serve a God who’s not surrendered his throne - regardless of how out of control our world may appear. My friends, if I weren’t a pastor I would be a coach. Exhorting, teaching and encouraging people is what I love to do. It’s who I am. At its heart, a pastor’s objective is, to … Continue reading Has God Surrendered His Throne? (not even close)