With this essay, we step into the most enduring debate in Christian theology. It’s all about a single word, “election.” The term means to choose, as in electing a candidate. You “elected” to buy this book, and to read this chapter. In theological use, the word relates to the idea that God chooses (or has chosen) a people or individuals to belong to him in a unique way. (more…)
Someone asked a wise older pastor his view of the “end times.” He smiled and said, “The Lord put me on the preparation committee, not the planning committee.” He spoke for us all. We cannot control how the Lord chooses to end history. Our theories about the future are just that. The word of God is too practical to focus extensively on an issue which possesses no pragmatic value for our lives. If I could prove a particular theory of the end times to you, would such knowledge change your life today? (more…)
I am not gay, have no family members who are, and have no experience with this lifestyle. So who am I to judge? Why don’t we just let consenting adults do what they wish, so long as no one else is hurt? Many in our society take this approach to the subject, whatever their own sexual preferences might be. To do otherwise seems to be intolerant and judgmental, two words our relativistic society cannot tolerate. (more…)
“Visitors to Hampton Court in London are amazed by the maze they find there. Bushes form solid walls, head high. In the center sits a guide high on a platform. When pilgrims get lost wandering through the hedges, they look up to this guide, who points them to the next turn on their way.”
“God gave us his word to guide us in his will. But as with any guide, we must follow its directions correctly. If our guide points south but we turn north, we will soon be lost, no matter how accurate our guide’s suggestions. How do we follow his direction? By learning how to study the Bible. ” (more…)
Some questions come from people who are skeptical about the Christian faith. Some come from believers who have skeptical friends. And some come from believers who are struggling with the issue themselves. Our first question is found in the hearts of all three. (more…)
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