Taking Native American land and life to secure European refugees the ability to worship God freely is deeply enshrined in the Christian Nationalism view of American history. But that seems to run counter to the nature and actions of God described throughout the Bible.
Further Up and Further In
Perhaps the biggest surprise for me in this season of my life is that faith itself is not static. We’re being called to go “further up and further in” – as God reveals more to us, our understanding of faith and doctrine must be free to expand and grow.
Things I Have Learned This Year
I am finding that many things I was taught were dangerously one-sided and served to uncritically reinforce the views I was given. But when I add additional history to my understanding, I am forced to pull back from many conclusions and doctrines and political understandings.
All-Inclusive
I highly recommend this video from Pastor Zach Lambert at Restore Austin church, discussing being an all-inclusive church.
On a Donkey, Not a War Horse
Do we think like the Jews of Jesus’ day, hoping that our King would ride into Jerusalem on a war horse instead of a humble donkey? Consider the story of Jesus’ celebrated entry into Jerusalem. 11 And as they approached Jerusalem, at Bethphage and Bethany, near the Mount of Olives, He […]
The Women of Passover
You probably know that in the Old Testament, God established a practice of anointing a new king by pouring oil on them. Did you know that Jesus was anointed not by men, but twice by women, and each time in the week before a Passover? Each time the Lord selected women to anoint Jesus as king.
Military-Speak
We’re so accustomed to living at DEFCON-1 in the spirit realm, constantly being on a wartime footing against demonic forces and a culture that’s falling apart, against unbelievers and misguided fellow believers, that we fail to see the bad effects that it’s having on our culture and our unity and our peace. But Christ already won the victory – so why are we demonizing each other in the name of making America a great Christian nation?
Billions and Billions Served
It has occurred to me that most American Christians are just as much in love with a certain style of Christianity as they are with fast food, and for very similar reasons. It’s fast, it’s easy, it’s cheap, and it requires no real personal involvement to get fed. But is it the right model?
Protect the Brand
When Christians respond to critiques with “brand protection”, they block the possibility of repentance, and risk speaking against correction brought by the Holy Spirit.
Exposed by Change
Perhaps the truest test of a relationship is what happens when one of the people changes. It’s also the best chance to learn and grow.