Aaron Renn’s essay, “The Three Worlds of Evangelicalism,” stirred diverse reactions for categorizing evangelical history into periods. His book, “Life in the Negative World,” expands on strategies for evangelical survival in a culture suspicious of their beliefs. Despite some criticisms, Renn’s approach and insights provide a timely and valuable resource for American evangelicals facing a changing cultural environment.
Category Archives: Community
Names, Names, Names
“Good morning, brother.” “That’s right, sister.” You hear some odd things at church, and calling each other brother and sister is one of those things. Don’t get me wrong—it’s theologically spot-on. We who are in Christ share the same Spirit that cries out “Abba, Father!” Yet, I bet a lot of Christians end up usingContinue reading “Names, Names, Names”
Rebuke and Revelation
“God is not mad at you, he’s mad about you.” “Oh, yeah? What about the rebukes of Revelation? How does that fit your lovey-dovey grace theology?” Tell people that God loves them just as they are and someone will invariably point to those scary seven letters to the churches at the back of your Bible.Continue reading “Rebuke and Revelation”
When You’re Just Making Noise
Eric Guzman discusses his past tendencies to engage in unloving and judgmental behavior, particularly in religious debates. He emphasizes the importance of love in expressing one’s faith, citing the need for genuine love as the foundation of Christian actions and interactions with others, rather than hypocritical or harmful behavior.
A Good Neighbor
The slogan “Like a good neighbor” is about being there for others. The Christian principle of loving your neighbor as yourself translates to protecting their life, marriage, prosperity, reputation, and being content. Despite resistance to the Ten Commandments, everyone desires a neighbor who embodies these principles. As Christians, being good neighbors means serving and keeping the commandments diligently.
The Mother You Want
The passage from Proverbs 31:11-15 emphasizes embracing trust in God’s sovereignty and faithfulness during life’s challenges. It encourages believers to cultivate diligence, integrity, and care for others in personal, professional, and spiritual aspects of life. The Holy Spirit empowers believers to live out these teachings, offering guidance, strength, and virtues. This timeless wisdom resonates with modern challenges of balancing responsibilities, maintaining trust and integrity, and serving others with love and excellence. The passage invites personal reflection and practical application, urging believers to embody its teachings for spiritual growth and positive impact in their communities.
Choose Your Jurors Well
The majority of criminal and civil cases are decided at jury selection, where the right jurors are crucial. As a Christian case maker, I seek people passionate, open-minded, and humble about the faith. Choosing the right audience is crucial for impacting others. “Christianity is a statement…of infinite importance.” – J. Warner Wallace
Left and Right Hands
During half-time, 4 groups of people were brought out to highlight some accolade or accomplishment and, I think, to receive some kind of award (if the award wasn’t simply the recognition itself). One was a marching band member who gave bone marrow to someone, another was the home football team (Go Gophers!) because they servedContinue reading “Left and Right Hands”
Timeless Truths in a Modern World
The passage of Matthew 10:9-15 highlights themes of trust in divine provision and hospitality, echoing throughout scriptures and contemporary faith. It challenges believers to embody compassion and generosity in a culture of individualism and division. It also prompts reflection on the ethical balance of faith and practical wisdom. Commentary and insights enrich its significance, urging believers to live out radical dependence on God’s provision through prayer, community, and reliance on the Holy Spirit. Finally, it invites the church to prioritize the proclamation of the Gospel and extend hospitality to all, embodying the love and compassion of Christ.
We Need Sheep Dogs
Jesus often likened his followers to “sheep” and expressed compassion for them. Just as law enforcement officials categorize people as “sheep” or “wolves,” Jesus recognized the distinction. As sheepdogs protect sheep from predators, Christian case makers similarly defend believers from straying. Encouraging others to become “sheepdogs” can eliminate the threat.
Intentional Faith 