Issues of same-sex attraction, the Christian identity, and sexual orientation have once more made it to the fore, and a growing contingent of believers are wondering if the whole thing is a matter of semantics. Terms like “gay” and “orientation” used in the context of professing Christians have drawn much ire from various discernment voices. … Continue reading Against Concupiscence
The Futility of Thanksgiving
There’s a running gag in our family that occurs every time we dine together as an extended family. My father, a creature of habit, always blesses the meal and thanks God “for the hands that prepared it”—covering all the bases, as it were. After the “amen,” my wife and mother frequently chime in that it … Continue reading The Futility of Thanksgiving
How Covenant Theology Clarifies Justice Issues
Whether we owe it to the spirit of the age or to the quirks of our own subculture, we evangelicals generally disdain labels. We prefer to be “Christ-followers,” not Christians; “gospel-centered,” not Baptist, Protestant, or Reformed. This isn’t always a bad thing. Labels carry baggage. And besides that, our primary commitment is to Scripture, not … Continue reading How Covenant Theology Clarifies Justice Issues
What Should We Do With ‘Persons of Peace’?
“Everyone we meet is on a spiritual journey.” I recently came across this statement printed on a brochure for an evangelistic Bible study. When I see language like this used in church and ministry contexts, my response is twofold. On one hand, it is true that we must start with the unbeliever on his own … Continue reading What Should We Do With ‘Persons of Peace’?
7 Tips for Aspiring Christian Writers
Blogging gets a bad rap. For some, it’s a hobby at best. For others, it’s an art, or even a divine calling. How should Christians approach this craft? My friend Benjamin Vrbicek, a far more gifted writer than me, is tackling some of these very questions in a forthcoming book for Christian writers. Benjamin’s most … Continue reading 7 Tips for Aspiring Christian Writers
The Source of Biblical Boldness
Right now, conservative evangelicals are at an impasse on the issue of boldness. A few months ago, I observed that today there is greater stigma attached to speaking the truth in a tone that seems slightly unnerved or terse than speaking dangerous falsehoods sweetly, politely, and deferentially. A number of controversies over the last few … Continue reading The Source of Biblical Boldness
Hill Gods and Culture Wars du Jour
If you ever want to see what a room full of tired men looks like, go to the closest pastors’ conference. Of course, in any room full of pastors, you’re bound to find a mix, from fresh graduates to veterans, fauxhawks to receding hairlines—each gray head a crown for a lifetime of leadership and love. … Continue reading Hill Gods and Culture Wars du Jour
Christian Politicking and Innocence By Association
Ever since our exile from Eden, mankind has been in a mad dash after fig leaves like they’re going out of style. We trade divine approval for human head nods to relieve our inner shame. And in our evangelical empires, this often takes the form of avoiding “guilt by association” at all costs—lest the real … Continue reading Christian Politicking and Innocence By Association
The War Against Victimhood Starts in Our Own Hearts
Postmodernity has seen the replacement of truth and hierarchy with lived experience and group identity. And, as any ethical or religious system necessarily demands the recognition of justified and unjustified classes, the West has embraced victimhood as its standard of righteousness. One’s victim status is not only the top new currency; it’s also the robe … Continue reading The War Against Victimhood Starts in Our Own Hearts
5 Principles of Biblical Restitution
Increasingly, biblically-aware Christians are consulting their Old Testaments to help them navigate modern issues of social justice and biblical. Unsurprisingly, as conversations over racial reconciliation escalate within the church, the notion of reparations has come to the fore, and many are inquiring as to what extent it may overlap with the biblical concept of restitution. … Continue reading 5 Principles of Biblical Restitution
