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…
Fear and Freedom. Be Yourself in Both.
In this world fear often dictates our thoughts and actions, yet the Gospel presents a radically different narrative – one of freedom, authenticity, and joy. This message is not just a theological concept but a practical pathway to living a life unshackled by the fear and constraints imposed by societal norms and personal insecurities. Fear…
A Few Principles of the New Testament Church: Exploring Community, Leadership, and Equality
In the tapestry of New Testament teachings, the church is often depicted as a familial unit, a metaphor that speaks volumes about the nature of Christian community. This concept, vividly portrayed in Ephesians 2:19 — “So then you are no longer strangers and aliens, but you are fellow citizens with the saints and members of…
Was Jesus Really God and Man?
Recent Question: Did Jesus stop being God when He became a man? Some thoughts: We’re delving into the nuanced question of Jesus’ nature as both divine and human. Scripture offers rich insights into this mystery. Starting with His divinity, Hebrews 13:8 reminds us of Jesus’ consistent nature across time, affirming His eternal divinity. Colossians 2:9…
Simple Hope, Simple Mind, Simple Peace
The foundational truth of Christian faith is the rest provided by Jesus Christ’s redemptive work. Hebrews 4:10 states, “for anyone who enters God’s rest also rests from their works, just as God did from his.” This verse calls believers to a profound rest, one that comes from understanding and accepting that the work of salvation…
Unveiling the Veil: A Scriptural Path to Healing Imbalanced Relationships
Within the intricate web of human connections, there exists a subtle yet significant thread – that of imbalance in relationships. This dynamic, often unnoticed, manifests when one partner assumes a passive role while the other dominates in some area or areas. Rooted deeply in our psychological, cultural, and societal frameworks, understanding and addressing this imbalance…
If You’re Hungry, Find a Trash Can
Humor often serves as a veil, thinly disguising the more profound truths of our existence. A casual remark I made to my eldest daughter during a family vacation—”There’s always free food in the trash cans”—was such an instance. It was a playful nod to a recurring joke from the sitcom “Arrested Development,” where a father…
Navigating Emotional Landscapes: The Complexity and Compassion in Understanding ‘Triggers’
In the rich tapestry of human emotions, the term ‘triggered’ emerges as a multifaceted concept, often tossed around in contemporary discourse. Its usage spans a broad spectrum, from casual references in daily conversations to profound implications in psychological contexts. At its core, being ‘triggered’ encapsulates an intense emotional reaction, typically negative, to a particular stimulus….
Bull Headed vs. Graceful Correction: Lessons from Apollos and the Way of God
Don’t be “bullheaded”… my grandmother used to always say. A bull is a stubborn beast who gets its way in the world, has to be caged, and is feared to destroy the China shops of souls. When it comes to disagreement, especially around theological things, we must always be much less than bullish. We must…
More Undignified Than This: Dress Down, Not Up for Worship
Essay | The Evolution of Church Attire: A Historical and Theological Exploration The practice of dressing up for church, deeply rooted in history and culture, stands in stark contrast to the Biblical teachings emphasizing humility and modesty. This essay delves into the historical evolution of church attire and its theological implications, exploring how societal norms…