The Council of Nicea, convened in AD 325 by Emperor Constantine, was not just a historical meet-up; it was a theological turning point that addressed and unified the Christian doctrine amidst growing disputes, most notably the Arian controversy regarding the nature of Christ and his relationship to God the Father. At the heart of Nicea’s…
Author: James
A Failed Life | “Redefining Failure: Embracing Life’s Unplanned Journeys”
Failure was never an option on career day. In the vividly remembered career days of our youth, the concept of failure was conspicuously absent. We were presented with ideals and aspirations, but not once did we encounter a narrative that embraced the inevitable missteps of life. My life, steeped in the fields of epistemology, theology,…
Today is the Best Day that You Will (N)Ever Have
A republishing of a substack post from Oct 2023Good memories are like tiny little movies in my brain. These celluloid flashes offer a glimpse into the feel-good moments of my past. I often replay them, albeit unintentionally, and they grant me a sense of settledness, a quiet assurance that all is well in my world. …
No Inflation in the Economy of Love
In the quiet moments of reflection, a question often lingers in my mind: “How much is life worth? How much are we worth? How much are they worth?” The currency of this existential market is not gold or silver; it is time and attention. It’s a currency that will always feel scarce, yet even a…
Intimacy Requires Validation
Validating another person’s feelings is an emotional, relational, and, intriguingly, a biblical act that plays a critical role in fostering genuine connections, intimacy, and understanding. Emotionally, validation is a profound acknowledgment of another’s inner experience. It’s about saying, “Your feelings are real and they matter.” This simple act can be incredibly healing, offering comfort to…
Now I’ve Got To Cut You… but why?
Embracing Grace and Unity: A Biblical Response to Doctrinal Rigidity and Exclusion In contemporary Christian discourse, particularly within some sovereign grace movements, a concerning trend has emerged. This trend involves ostracizing or questioning the faith of individuals due to differing doctrinal beliefs or misunderstandings. As a pastor and theologian deeply committed to the principles of…
Why the Spirit Sanctifies the Elect
In exploring the profound question of why the Spirit sanctifies the elect, a journey through Scripture, particularly the teachings of Peter, offers enlightening insights. The heart of this theological exploration lies in understanding the sanctification of the elect as “for obedience to Jesus Christ and sprinkling by his blood,” a statement deeply rooted in Christian…
Restoration of the Spiritual. Are You Spirit-led?
In Galatians 6:1, we find a profound instruction that not only encapsulates the essence of Christian community but also reflects the very heart of the gospel itself. As someone deeply immersed in theological studies and pastoral care, I see this verse as a cornerstone for how we, as believers, are called to interact with those…
Swearing an Oath and Paul’s Swearing by God
In this exploration, we delve into the nuanced interpretations of two significant biblical verses, Matthew 5:34 and Galatians 1:20, each addressing the concept of oaths and truthfulness in distinct contexts. We aim to understand the deeper meanings and intentions behind these verses, considering the historical and cultural backgrounds, as well as the broader theological implications….
Teach Instead of Argue
In the midst of diverse and often conflicting interpretations within the Christian community, it’s vital to focus on fostering unity and understanding through positive doctrine. Instead of engaging in divisive debates, we can choose to highlight the foundational truths of the faith that bring us together. Emphasizing key biblical teachings and promoting a culture of…