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
Confessions of a Political Independent
On occasions where my writing veers into the political arena, it is easy for some to assume that I am a Republican. The truth , however, is that I have not actively identified with any political party in well over twenty years. That decision was very deliberate and I have never, ever regretted it. At … Continue reading Confessions of a Political Independent
The Church and You 2: Frequently Asked Questions
Originally published on James and Dave's Bible Page In our most recent article, we examined the vital role that the local church plays in a Christian's life. The importance of the local church is something I learned very early in my Christian walk, and it has become one of the real passions in my life. … Continue reading The Church and You 2: Frequently Asked Questions
Christians No Foes To Progress
Published in The Daily Beacon, Monday, February 19, 2007 Adolf Hitler once remarked that "Once the enemy has been identified, all proof becomes automatic." When society looks for scapegoats, religious groups have always been an easy target. In today’s world, one of the more common pariahs has been the so-called "Christian Right." However, as we … Continue reading Christians No Foes To Progress
Christians Must Denounce Anti-Semitism
Published on The Tennessee Journalist on June 8, 2009 “His blood be on us, and on our children.” These chilling words are well known from the account of Jesus’ trial recorded in Matthew 27:25. Throughout history, they have been used (completely out of context) to justify horrendous persecution of Jews all around the world. In … Continue reading Christians Must Denounce Anti-Semitism
Christian “Dress Codes”
It is true that the Bible tells us to dress modestly and that our true beauty comes from within, not from outward ornamentation (1 Timothy 2:9). But these verses are not saying that nice clothes, jewelry etc. are sinful in themselves. Keep in mind that Jesus wore a seamless robe, which was a very costly … Continue reading Christian “Dress Codes”
The Case For School Choice
NOTE: This post was originally a paper I wrote for a political science class back in 2003. Nonetheless, the issues it addresses are as relevant as ever. In June of 2002, the push for educational reform by means of private school vouchers scored a major victory as the U.S. Supreme Court handed down a 5-4 ruling … Continue reading The Case For School Choice
Christ the Charismatic
I realize that the title of this post is a provocative one, and it is meant to be. However, there is no greater example of a Spirit filled person than the Savior Himself. He is the greatest example of charismatic spirituality that ever lived. Follow along: Matthew 1:18 tells us how Jesus was born of … Continue reading Christ the Charismatic
Why the New Birth Is Necessary
Originally published on James and Dave's Bible Page A wealthy business man died.At his funeral, many people came to his widow and the rest of his family to express their sympathies. Suddenly, a young man approached the widow with an unusual request. He said "Ma'am, I know you don't know me, but I was wondering … Continue reading Why the New Birth Is Necessary