The Blessing
We all have that person in our lives; the one we can never please or do enough for, the one who always finds fault and invariably withholds a word of blessing.
Clearing Our Landmines
As we ponder the story of Jesus' baptism, experts in Israel work to remove thousands of landmines from the area near the River Jordan and the traditional baptism site of Jesus. That’s right: One of the holiest sites remains surrounded by deadly landmines designed to
The Hope of ‘Moderate’ Baptists
Baptists have used the past century to divide ourselves. Had we done this with grace and love and the intentional purpose of expanding the kingdom, we might not be experiencing the pain we have today.
Christmas & Families
There is something about the Christmas season that is sure to light up most any face (except for the most die-hard Scrooge), especially as we get closer to the big day. And it seems that the Christ of Christmas shows himself to us in several
Clash of Kingdoms
Built around the same time as the birth of Jesus, the magnificent Tropaeum Alpium celebrated the victory of Caesar Augustus over the tribes in the Alpine region a decade earlier. Near the same time Augustus built the monument celebrating his military, political and religious might, the
Hands & Feet
While the 21st Century church has more increased competition for members’ time than ever before, men and women who volunteer still make up the majority of those serving the Kingdom of Christ. In other words, even though our multimedia world gives us more options for
Killing Our Better Angels
As the midterm campaigns end, I suspect that no matter who wins, many people will sigh with relief. The breaks in our television shows — for those who still watch live TV — will return to just airing cheesy local car commercials. But I worry
Cautionary Tales About Church-State Romance
For 21 years, I’ve pastored a church within three blocks of our state Capitol. I’ve seen Republicans and Democrats come and go. I’ve prayed with and argued with governors and legislators from both parties. Have I handled every situation correctly? Not a chance.
Death of Baptist Cooperation?
If a tombstone exists for broader Baptist cooperation among Southern Baptists, the year after the dash might read “2018.”
Drawing Straws to Determine God’s Will?
Let’s see a show of hands. How many of us grew up hearing testimonies and sermons at Vacation Bible School, church camps and revivals, implying