Guest Blogger

Until the Reagan presidency, Evangelicals often shied away from activism. Activism is defined as “a doctrine or practice that emphasizes direct vigorous action, especially in support of or opposition to one side of a controversial issue.” It can help bring about justice as well as social, economic, and political change, yet the word itself evokes mixed emotions and reactions within the evangelical community, perhaps because it was often associated with more liberal causes and connoted unbiblical rebellion or images of hippies protesting American military involvement in the Vietnam … [Read more...] about Christians and Activism (by Sonja Dosti)

As awareness of Ravi Zacharias’ sins and abuse spreads on the internet, there have been a number of reactions. There has been a great deal of disgust and anger (and properly so). Some have offered opinions (“I never liked him anyway” or “I’m throwing his books away.”) Others have shared guidelines like the Billy Graham Rule (never be alone with a woman who isn’t your wife (Another version of this rule adds the clause, “without your wife present,” perhaps to give more latitude for ministry). There have been helpful, harmful, and ignorant comments. One thing has struck me: Pastors need to do … [Read more...] about Pastor, be ready to believe (Keith Myer)

Over the last few days, both houses of Virginia’s legislature have passed bills that would end the practice of capital punishment in the Commonwealth. Sen. Scott Surovell (D) of Fairfax as well as Sen. Bill Stanley (R) of Franklin sponsored this bipartisan bill. For me, this is a sign of hope on many levels. There is a love/hate relationship with the death penalty in the United States, and it falls largely upon red and blue party lines. However, I think it would surprise many people to know that there are those who vote blue that strongly believe in capital punishment while there are those … [Read more...] about A Right to Kill? A Pastor’s Perspective on the Death Penalty (Joseph Giles)

To all that this may concern, Normally I would begin a letter such as this with a greeting that clearly explains my hope and prayer that the reader is doing well, encouraged, and in good spirits. In such an instance I would further go on to explain my purpose of the letter to the reader so that not only are my words read but also so that my heart is heard. Unfortunately, I understand that the content of this letter, if read at all, may be misconstrued, misinterpreted, and misunderstood. Nevertheless, I have something to say. Far too many Evangelicals and Fundamentalists have a problem. … [Read more...] about I Have Something to Say: An Open Letter from Deryk Hayes

I stared at the test, willing the pink lines not to appear. I couldn’t do it. I couldn’t be pregnant again. It was too hard. I couldn’t bear the thought of another miscarriage, and I was terrified of what another birth would do to my already broken body. As the results became clear, and relief washed over me, one thought burned in my brain- “so this is what this feels like.” I knew that if the test had been positive I would have dealt with it. I would have been cautiously happy and hopeful that this time would be different (and by God’s grace less than a year later we did have a second baby, … [Read more...] about The complicated feelings of being both pro-life & pro-Kamala as VP (Emily Snook)

In my view, Critical Race Theory is neither primary nor necessary for followers of Christ to formulate a comprehensive, effective ministry that addresses the evils of white supremacy and racism in American society. God’s Word is the true lamp to our feet and light to our path. Nevertheless, we have a Christian and moral responsibility to do everything we can to eradicate racism from every area of the church and within each community where our churches are located. Holy Scripture is our first and highest authority to be consulted in overcoming any sin in the church and the world. Our SBC … [Read more...] about Response to SBC Presidents on Critical Race Theory (Rick Armstrong)