In our everyday life, we tend to move forward without much pause. We make decisions and act on those decisions. We decide on a restaurant and eat at that restaurant. We decide on an activity, and we pursue that activity. These choices are simple and straightforward. But occasionally, we encounter bigger decisions that make us nervous. In those moments, we fear a misstep. We fear picking the wrong college or choosing the wrong career or marrying the wrong person. How do we know what to … [Read more...] about The Open Door
1 Corinthians
A Brief Theology of Fun
Fun. Nothing seems more antithetical to the Christian life than fun. Or at least that's the stereotype. Many bible verses come to mind... Solomon commends entering the house of sorrow over the house of mirth.Paul talks about his many travails.Jesus tells his disciples that following him means bearing a cross daily. Obviously, I have no interest in contradicting these people. We would do well to heed their words. Indeed, their words are truth. But where does that leave fun? Is … [Read more...] about A Brief Theology of Fun
Three Lies About Your Past That Keep You From Church
I sometimes hear people say, "I haven't been back to church since __ (insert embarrassing incident with self or family member)." The reason they haven't attended church since then is because they have come to believe one of the lies listed below. And when you believe one of these lies, church becomes a scary place you want to avoid. Let's correct each of these lies. Everyone knows. No they don't. Not everyone. Maybe some people know, but everyone? I mean EVERY-one? I don't think so. … [Read more...] about Three Lies About Your Past That Keep You From Church
How Jesus Navigates Controversy and Culture
We live in a pluralistic society where ideas and cultures collide. As Christians, how should we navigate these collisions? Watching the ministry of Jesus gives us a clue. To any controversy Jesus brought grace and truth. Grace Jesus did not avoid controversy. He allowed all kinds of sketchy types and rejects to join him (Matthew 9:10). He talked with sinners and saints, conservatives and liberals, the religious and irreligious, Jewish zealots and Gentile heretics. And to all of these … [Read more...] about How Jesus Navigates Controversy and Culture