Word&Way Voices

Contributing writer Christopher Dixon offers his perspective on the recent SBC abuse report. Those who are power-hungry suggest that any self-examination or reform is “liberal” or “ungodly” but that’s a smoke-and-mirrors tactic to disguise the most painful truth: some of the worst sinners have been our church leaders who have been wolves in sheep’s clothing.

Contributing writer Greg Mamula reflects on the recent shooting at an elementary school in Uvalde, Texas, that left nineteen children and two teachers dead. If we are truly offering our thoughts and prayers to the tragedy that is the epic endemic of gun violence in America, we will have our hearts changed to want what God wants on this issue. If we pray and nothing changes, then we have not truly prayed.

David P. Gushee reflects on the recent report outlining twenty years of Southern Baptist leaders mishandling sexual abuse allegations in SBC churches. He argues that a denomination that does not want to face the reality of systemic evil in society must now face the reality of its own systemic evil.

Christina Ray Stanton explores the life of Broadway music director, conductor of world-class orchestras, and award-winning composer and arranger Laura Bergquist. Through it all, Laura has never lost sight of what motivates her: a desire to create beautiful music that tells wonderful stories, a profound love for her family, and a deep devotion to God.

Contributing writer Greg Mamula offers the latest entry in a six-part series on the future of the church. In this second article, he focuses on how we should learn to listen and respond well to our communities.

Darron LaMonte Edwards laments that he hasn't heard anything from potential white allies regarding the racially-motivated shooting targeting Black people in Buffalo, New York. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr reminds us that we will long forget the words of our enemies, but we will always remember the silence of our friends.

Contributing writer Rodney Kennedy uses the metaphor of fast food to better understand our current political moment. The allure of junk food matches the allure of our politics – simple, cheap, fast, superficial, but somewhat tasty.

Darron LaMonte Edwards makes the case that abortion did not begin to be a difficult issue with Roe v. Wade. Before Roe, during Roe, and after Roe abortion has been and will be a reality – and any good faith conversation should reflect that.

Lauren Graeber uses a chocolate chip cookie recipe to explore theology and the traditions we pass down to our children. Because we are creatures who hunger, we will be fumbling in real and metaphorical kitchens all of our lives.

Kristel Clayville reframes the student loan forgiveness conversation around reconciliation. Except she thinks that the proverbial tables should be flipped: the government should be asking essential workers for forgiveness.