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?
Responding to Peter Lumpkins re Alcohol and SEBTS
(NOTE: Danny Akin has graciously responded to this post. His comment is #113.) (Editor's Note: I have closed comments on his topic. We've all said our piece. There is no value to mud-slinging and I doubt much productive will come from continuing this discussion. If we have done nothing else, we have established that contrary to what was insinuated, there is no significant drinking problem at SEBTS. ) I just posted on why I love blogging, and soon after posting, I was directed by a friend to Peter Lumpkins' latest post, "Here Come Those Boozin' [young, cool, and hip] Baptists: A … [Read more...] about Responding to Peter Lumpkins re Alcohol and SEBTS
Why I Love Blogging
It is fashionable to disrespect blogging. State conventions have passed resolutions focused on the evils of our pursuit. The new NAMB president showed utter disdain for those of us who write online, saying that we all wear housecoats and live with our mothers. Several prominent bloggers have for various reasons either left blogging behind or cut back dramatically. I have no doubts that blogging sometimes takes more of my time than I should probably give it. And there are certainly times when blogs get out of hand. Wild and unsubstantiated rumors sometimes fly, and people can dig their … [Read more...] about Why I Love Blogging
Christians and Sex: This is No Time for Silence
Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is -- His good, pleasing and perfect will. -- Romans 12:2 I always wanted to sing, but never had any confidence in my voice, nor did I ever learn to read music. Still, that didn't discourage me from joining the First Baptist Church youth choir. The summer trips were great; the youth musicals inspiring, the snack suppers worth the effort. The choir sounded great too, but I can take no credit for that. I did not want to be heard, … [Read more...] about Christians and Sex: This is No Time for Silence
Whither Discernment?: A TV Show that Gives Me Little “Glee”
Many of you will think this post is strange, but I am the paterfamilias of a show choir family. Family History My first two sons sang in the youth musicals at church, but never caught the show choir bug. It all started in my third son's freshman year. I had coached him in both basketball and soccer in middle school and he was headed to high school with his father's high hopes for a good athletic career. His world, and mine, changed when a friend invited him to show choir tryouts. Show Choirs always need guys so Ben went and auditioned. They made him dance captain that day (thats … [Read more...] about Whither Discernment?: A TV Show that Gives Me Little “Glee”