Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Philippians 4:8 There’s so much ugliness in the world, it helps me to spend time thinking on the lovely things. If I don’t make sure …
The Necessity of Authenticity
Does it bother you that when they think about Christians a lot of people see us as angry, judgmental, right-wing finger-pointers with political agendas? You might not think this is a fair characterization; but it’s a reputation that, by association, is ours. Maybe it’s true that for every individual who earned the world’s mistrust there …
Re-earning Trust
Once upon a time most people trusted Christians, preachers, and churches. That time has pretty much passed as their trust has evaporated under the scorching heat of our hypocrisy. We live in an age of distrust and suspicion, especially when it comes to the Church and its spokespersons and it’s mostly our fault. “They …
The Essence of Good News Bearing
Irrespective of color, status, or lifestyle everyone deserves to be treated with civility. And there’s nothing more equalizing than the gospel and no one like the Maker of humans to humanize the dehumanized. Rahabs of all sorts need friends––sincere, non-judgmental friends––a rare possession of the dehumanized, to be sure. “Othering” people and befriending them are …
Pondering Things Pure
Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Philippians 4:8 “Don’t become so well-adjusted to your culture that you fit into it without even thinking.” Romans 12:2 (The Message) Paul prescribes a number …
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