What's in a date change? Beyond some business and personal fiscal year change (particularly tax year) stuff - the change from one year to the next is little more than the turn of a page on a calendar (or the putting up of a new calendar). Yet we have made the year change into something … Continue reading 2018—>2019?
Bible
The Problem…
As I sit on my scheduled "day off", soaking in the after effects of our Palm Sunday services while also ruminating on all that I see in the news of the day, I can't help but reflect on all the insane finger-pointing. The United States is a nation in decline. Yes, our economic state is … Continue reading The Problem…
Gunshots, Death, Schools, and God…
I have intentionally held off this afternoon and evening commenting formally on the horrific shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida. One reason is that I needed to have time to pray about it and to give authorities time to make sure things were clear and victims being taken care of. Also, … Continue reading Gunshots, Death, Schools, and God…
Who Is Jesus? (Deity of Christ) Part 5: Who Can Forgive but God?
Luke 5:20-21 And when he saw their faith, he said, “Man, your sins are forgiven you.” And the scribes and the Pharisees began to question, saying, “Who is this who speaks blasphemies? Who can forgive sins but God alone?” Jesus clearly made many claims of His own Deity - see the previous installments of this series … Continue reading Who Is Jesus? (Deity of Christ) Part 5: Who Can Forgive but God?
California, Gender Identity, and Rebellion
Not surprisingly, California has again jumped into the headlines over gender issues in recent months. First with legislation passed what began as Senate Bill 219 - a measure to legislate the use of gender pronouns (specifically geared to nursing and care facilities), but with far-reaching fallout possible. The legislation actually codifies as a crime punishable … Continue reading California, Gender Identity, and Rebellion
IGNITE!
I am truly excited! Tonight is the launch of FBC Cave Spring's IGNITE Ministry. What is IGNITE? IGNITE is First Baptist Church's approach to Wednesday/mid-week ministry. Year-round, we have Wednesday evening classes available for all ages, but during the school year, we have a special emphasis on children and youth. Each Wednesday evening begins with a fellowship meal … Continue reading IGNITE!
Identity Politics, Race, and the Church
What part of Jesus Christ's ministry, teaching, or preaching played race-identity politics? What, then was the message, both of Jesus' own words and the rest of Scripture? It's summed up in Christ's response to those trying to corner him: The greatest command is to love God with all - your heart, body, mind, … Continue reading Identity Politics, Race, and the Church
Loving, Christian Parents
A news story crossed my feed this evening, a story that literally broke my heart. Here is a link: 13-year-old girl who was supported by her Christian parents in living as a transgender boy commits suicide The title pretty much says it all. Two parents, who apparently profess to be "Christians" chose to not only allow, … Continue reading Loving, Christian Parents
Church Membership? (why should I join?)
There are many misconceptions today about many areas of Christianity. There is even a movement among some Christian groups away from a “formal” church membership. The New Testament never mentions the term (in any translation I am familiar with) “church member”, but the attitude with which Paul writes to the various churches and to Timothy … Continue reading Church Membership? (why should I join?)
Discernment
Sadly, I see an ever-growing plague afflicting Christians - and the disease is "Discernment Deficiency". What do I mean? Well - the most obvious is the lack of discernment regarding who they spend their time listening to. I see many churches hosting speakers and simulcasts of celebrity preachers and teachers, who might offer up some "good stuff" on a regular basis, yet at the same time hold to heretical position, which they generally weave in with the "good stuff" they put out.
Contending For Christ 