All I ever needed to know in life I learned on the treadmill with my earphones on. Not really. But . . . I have learned some things in the afternoon cross-connection between Glenn Beck and Oprah Winfrey, switching between them when commercials come on, their wisdom delivered directly through my earphones in the midst of an adrenaline rush while I try to burn off about 400 calories before the programs end. I'm a captive audience, taking in the technology and the glitz . . . and the messages of the hosts and guests, all carefully edited and sharpened to a point. Got me. What I've … [Read more...] about Drop the Cymbal Before the World Goes Deaf
A Great Commission Suggestion: Pink Slip the ERLC
NOTE: Dishonest and unscrupulous bloggers, such as those at Pulpit and Pen, continue to use this post without integrity and possibly illegally. As I said in this post, I was willing to be convinced. I was. The ERLC serves the Body of Christ well, despite the lies of the lying liars who lie, such as the author of the post that twisted and deceptively used this post. Since unscrupulous bloggers like JD and those at Pulpit and Pen refuse to repent of their sin or remove their post, I thought I might warn anyone who is deceived by them. They lie. They lack integrity. It isn't personal, … [Read more...] about A Great Commission Suggestion: Pink Slip the ERLC
Barack Clinton or Barack Bush?
I'm tired of fighting about national politics and looking forward to returning to fighting about Baptist politics. Before that happens, I'd like to make one observation. Right now, the President is giving his post-election speech. In this speech and in the days that lie ahead, President Obama will show us whether he is more like President Clinton or President Bush. President Clinton suffered a similar mid-term massacre in 1994. He saw that the American people did not like his politics and he changed with the times. He moved to the right. When the new Republican congress reformed … [Read more...] about Barack Clinton or Barack Bush?
A Political Playground
I may not be a genius, but I'm not stupid either. I know we have trouble keeping our discussions focused. So, I'm going to open a Political Playground here, as I did with the Sports playground and the CR Playground. If you want to talk Politics today or tomorrow, have at it. No profanity. No sexually explicit references. But other than that, this is a PLAYGROUND - almost free speech. In that spirit, let me say that I heard something sad today. I hear that the government may have to place the DONKEY on the endangered species list! … [Read more...] about A Political Playground
I’m Voting Tomorrow, But I Preached the Bible Yesterday
There is a growing divergence of opinion about how churches should handle politics. I find myself in agreement with both sides to a certain extent. On the One Hand... The church should never be distracted from its main work; making the gospel of Christ known in this world. Some churches have become, essentially, local branches of the Republican or Democrat parties. They talk politics from the pulpit and organize politically in the pews. They assume that their political positions are theological imperatives. To vary from political orthodoxy is seen as an indication of theological … [Read more...] about I’m Voting Tomorrow, But I Preached the Bible Yesterday
Who Really Needs to Come Out of the Closet?
I stumbled, fell and cried out but my brother shied away And I found myself alone in silence, wishing he would stay. He quickly turned the corner, as if he hadn't realized, I'd turned and looked to him in pain, with pleading tear-filled eyes. I saw my brother stumble so I quickly looked away. I'll ask him how he's doing on perhaps a better day. I heard my brother crying but I quickly realized He'd not be wanting me to see the tears that filled his eyes. So we're just keeping distance till again it all seems right And saying a little prayer or two before turning in at night. No reason … [Read more...] about Who Really Needs to Come Out of the Closet?
Men, Women, Marriage and Ministry: What Does the Bible Say?
There has been a seismic shift of opinion in the SBC regarding gender issues. In my childhood, the vast majority of Southern Baptists believed that the husband was designed by God to be the head of his home, and that the roles of pastor and deacon (you had a hard time in the 60’s finding a Baptist church with elders) were strictly reserved for men. Now, times have changed. Many Southern Baptists who affirm inerrancy also believe that the traditional teachings on gender roles are contrary to the scriptural teaching and are unhappy with the changes that were made in the 2000 Baptist Faith … [Read more...] about Men, Women, Marriage and Ministry: What Does the Bible Say?
Is the Internet Good for Christianity?
Undoubtedly, the Internet is a dangerous place for Christians, or anyone else for that matter. With the unlimited access to pornography, gossip media, etc., there are a plethora of dark avenues that can be traveled while surfing the web. Beyond that, the Internet provides a way to present yourself as something that you’re not, replaces face-to-face relationships, and brings about laziness over hard work. The negatives can go on and on, but the question before us is this: Is the Internet good for Christianity? The easy answer is to say “no.” It would be easier and less tempting to … [Read more...] about Is the Internet Good for Christianity?
If I Was a Twitterer, These Would Be Tweets
You should probably have healthcare professionals standing by when you check your 2011 rates for Guidestone Health Insurance. In blogging, sometimes its best to just have your say and walk away. Yesterday, I had the worst headache I've had in months. What a blessing! I could watch last night's Yankee game under heavy narcotics. I get frustrated with the SBC, but I also know there's no place else I'd rather be. Why is it that, in life, the most important things are also the easiest to procrastinate? I have a "stewardship committee" meeting tonight. I'd rather have an … [Read more...] about If I Was a Twitterer, These Would Be Tweets
Who Can Worship at Your Church?
Containing minor revisions, this post was originally published at FromLaw2Grace Who can worship at your church? Sounds like a silly question, doesn't it? The church should be a place where anyone can come and feel at home. Churches should be open to all, for indeed we are all sinners in need of God's grace! But, we all know churches where certain individuals or groups would not be welcome. Can anyone say Westboro "Baptist Church?" What about your church? Is anyone and everyone truly welcome to attend your church's public worship services, be it on Saturday night, Sunday morning, … [Read more...] about Who Can Worship at Your Church?