Originally published on James and Dave's Bible Page "The Lord is good, a strong hold in the day of trouble; and he knoweth them that trust in him." Nahum 1:7"God whispers in our pleasures, speaks in our conscience, but shouts in our pain. It is His megaphone to rouse a deaf world"- C.S. Lewis "If … Continue reading Overcoming Life’s Trials: A Survival Guide
Ministry: A Call Without Compromise
Originally published on James and Dave's Bible Page The saying is true and irrefutable: If any man [eagerly] seeks the office of bishop (superintendent, overseer), he desires an excellent task (work).-1 Timothy 3:1, Amplified Bible We desire so thoroughly to know, and so heartily to love the truth, as to declare the whole counsel of … Continue reading Ministry: A Call Without Compromise
Jesus: Conservative or Liberal? Part 2-Jesus, Money and the Poor
Originally published on James and Dave's Bible Page "Whose side would Jesus be on, the wealthy businessman's, or the poor farmer's?" In the many discourses about Christianity and politics, questions like this one often come up in order to make the case that God cannot be tied to popular right-wing political ideologies (a point which, … Continue reading Jesus: Conservative or Liberal? Part 2-Jesus, Money and the Poor
Jesus: Conservative or Liberal? Part 3: Biblical Stewardship, Charity and Welfare
Originally published on James and Dave's Bible Page As we conclude our series on applying Jesus' teachings to the modern political arena, I would like to share an illustration from a rather unlikely source: baby sitting. I was once helping to watch two young children, a boy and a girl, for some friends. While we … Continue reading Jesus: Conservative or Liberal? Part 3: Biblical Stewardship, Charity and Welfare
Jesus and the Scriptures
There is a well known quote from CS Lewis that says "It is Christ Himself, not the Bible, who is the true word of God." Yes and no. Lewis was right to point out that Jesus is the Logos, the incarnate Word of God. But he was also very wrong to downplay the fact that … Continue reading Jesus and the Scriptures
Is Reincarnation Biblical?
Is reincarnation biblical?No, reincarnation cannot be reconciled with the Bible or the Christian faith in any way. Rather, it is a concept which comes from ancient Hindu texts such as the Upishads. At its core is the law of karma, which teaches that we are rewarded or punished in future lives for the good or bad … Continue reading Is Reincarnation Biblical?
“Happy Holidays,” Tolerance and Common Sense
The holidays are here, and not a moment too soon. Although the season has vastly different meanings to different people, it provides us with an opportunity to end the year on a much needed "up" note that appeals to our highest ideals. However, as usual, there is also the usual saber rattling about the proper greetings … Continue reading “Happy Holidays,” Tolerance and Common Sense
The Darwinian Paradox
Another school paper, this one from a Western Civ class around 2003 A number of years ago, I had the privilege of touring the historic Rhea County Courthouse in Dayton, Tennessee. Eighty years ago, this stately, yet unpretentious building was the site of the infamous Scopes "Monkey Trial." History came alive as I stepped into … Continue reading The Darwinian Paradox
“Cussing Christians” and “Swearing Saints”
A certain well-known minister once shocked his audience by stating that "...millions of people are starving to death, and most of you don't give a ----!" He went on to rebuke them by saying that "The sad thing is, most of you are more upset at my using that word than you are about people … Continue reading “Cussing Christians” and “Swearing Saints”
The Cross: Violent Grace
Originally published on James and Dave's Bible Page A number of years ago, I saw a sign on a church marquee which read "Salvation is free, because God paid so dearly for it." This central truth, although believed by all Christians, is one which we all too often take for granted. When you think of … Continue reading The Cross: Violent Grace