Originally published on the author's old blog. Among the great theological debates that rage regarding Jesus and who He is, the greatest is whether or not Jesus IS God. There are some who would profess Jesus to be something less than fully God. They claim faith, yet in “who” are they believing? This short piece … Continue reading Who Is Jesus (The Deity of Christ) Part 1
Gospel
Destruction of a Nation and the Christian’s Responsibility
This post originally appeared on the author's old blog. A friend of mine posted his astonishment that America could be on the cusp of electing a bonafide "Socialist" to the office of President, from either primary party. I began to formulate a response then realized that my reply would be far more suited to a full-on … Continue reading Destruction of a Nation and the Christian’s Responsibility
Redefine or Rediscover Church Membership
I have watched with great interest (and concern) at the evolution of "church membership" over the years. This obviously is seasoned with my own personal experiences, from an early background attending (and technically a "member" of) the Episcopal Church while growing up, to various excursions into differing faith groups - and ultimately being redeemed, baptized, … Continue reading Redefine or Rediscover Church Membership
Ukraine, Arkansas Master’Singers, and God’s Plan
In 2014, the Arkansas Master'Singers (a ministry made up mostly of worship pastors and musicians serving primarily in Arkansas Baptist State Convention churches) traveled to Ukraine with Evangelist Michael Gott to share the gospel through music and preaching. Approximately 10,000 people attended the series of concerts and heard a clear presentation of the Gospel, with … Continue reading Ukraine, Arkansas Master’Singers, and God’s Plan
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
Hope in a Hopeless World
I received some truly heart-rending news last night from our old stomping grounds of Carlisle, Arkansas, where I spent 13 years of my teaching career. News of another student taking his own life. This was the second such sad news in a month. Of course, immediately rumors were flying that this was yet another case … Continue reading Hope in a Hopeless World
Hypocrisy and Current Events
hypocrisy: 1. a feigning to be what one is not or to believe what one does not; especially : the false assumption of an appearance of virtue or religion 2. an act or instance of hypocrisyThe simple definition of the term would be in application - to claim to believe or hold a belief or view, but your … Continue reading Hypocrisy and Current Events
Does "RISEN" Rise to Greatness? A Review
My wife and I were able to have an all-too-rare "date night" last night, and as part of that night out, we chose to see "RISEN", the latest "Christian" film release from Sony Pictures/Columbia/Affirm Films.Before I begin, I want to admit that I tend to watch films that are labeled as "Christian" with a very … Continue reading Does "RISEN" Rise to Greatness? A Review
What IS The Gospel?
We hear a lot in this nation the term "Gospel". Those of us in ministry focus a great deal on the term - yet so many have such a limited understanding of what the Gospel REALLY is.The Apostle Paul wrote in Romans 1:16 "it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, … Continue reading What IS The Gospel?
Contending For Christ 