Since we looked at Matthew 7:1-6 to kick off our "weHarmony" series looking at conflict, I thought it could be helpful to re-post some comments on Matthew 7:1 that I made as part of a series on "Bible Verses in their Context" on this blog in 2017. A friend of mine told me that the best-known...
Since Monday was Earth Day, it seems like a fitting time to consider the topic of Christianity and the environment. In light of contemporary interest in ecological issues and the so-called “Green Movement” this topic would seem a relevant and important one for Christians to consider...
As we reflect on what Jesus experienced as he went to and hung from the cross, we may wonder why he had to suffer such a horrific form of death. We probably understand why Jesus had to be both God and man and had to die -- only a fellow human could take our place for the punishment we...
Faith Church has been studying the 4 Gs (Gather, Grow, Give, and Go), four characteristics of those who follow Jesus. This past weekend we focused on “Give.” In keeping with that theme, I decided to write this week’s blog on spiritual gifts, as it is part of what we give (our...
I have probably half of a shelf of books in my office devoted to reading and interpreting the Bible, and another half of a shelf of books on preaching and how to move from studying a text to proclaiming it to a congregation. I also have numerous books that touch on these topics -- and many...
I recently started reading Life Together by Dietrich Bonhoeffer, a book that I have read many times before and have recommended to many others. This book is known as a classic when it comes to describing and talking about Christian community. Part of what makes a book a classic is that you can...
Due to the increased awareness of depression and anxiety among Americans (especially youth), some churches are now directly addressing these topics, recognizing that past approaches (or silence on the subject) have not always been helpful. Resources such as those by David Murray and ministries...
