3 Jesus Quotes that Throw a Massive Wrench in the “Traditional Marriage” Stance of Non-Affirming Churches

Many from my evangelical camp have taken a non-affirming posture towards the gay community, claiming that the Bible tells us to. Some have said “no” to this, citing errant interpretations of the “hot” passages commonly referenced in this debate.

In almost every case, in my opinion, these pastors and leaders are trying their best to honor our belief that the Bible is the very word of God, and that it should have a high place of authority, even when it leads us to take whatever unpopular stand.

Let’s be honest: if God were to pen a document with his own hand, it would be loaded with propositions that would seem upside down, maybe even unjust. By definition, it’s impossible for us to understand the universe as He does. If the Bible reflects the heart, mind, desires, etc. of the almighty, who are we to argue when it doesn’t make sense, or calls us to do stuff we don’t want to do?

The Bible doesn’t condone slavery, or the crusades, or people who make “God Hates F#gs” signs. Rightly interpreted and applied, it calls us into the deepest expressions of compassion, forgiveness, intimacy, unity, humility, and a host of other powerful expressions that aren’t highly valued in today’s culture.

There are, however, passages in scripture that don’t seem too friendly Continue reading 3 Jesus Quotes that Throw a Massive Wrench in the “Traditional Marriage” Stance of Non-Affirming Churches

When is it OK to Call My Political Adversary an Enemy of the State?

As the 2020 election approaches, people seem to be wondering what Trump’s supporters will do if he’s not reelected.  I wonder what’s going to happen if he is reelected. Either way, there’s going to be a lot of mad people.

Lately, I’ve seen some posts from my conservative friends talking about war. “Liberal politics are ruining this country” the argument goes, “When’s the revolution?”

It’s a good question, I can’t remember a time in my life when our country has seemed so divided, so angry with one another, so threatened by another’s beliefs, so unwilling to let people think and vote the way they want to.

The media isn’t helping, Continue reading When is it OK to Call My Political Adversary an Enemy of the State?

What is a “Real” Man?

Below you’ll find a link to one of the best sermons I’ve heard on “manhood.” It’s delivered by Jay Pathak, lead pastor of the Mile High Vineyard – one of the best communicators in Denver, in my opinion.

I’ll warn you though – the sermon gets into some of the differences between men and women. I’m personally sensitive to the conversation we’re having in our culture about gender. But, because of the legion of physical/biological differences we share, we’re in dire need of thinking a bit deeper here.

Also, as some of my readers aren’t people of faith, a quick disclaimer – this is Christian sermon, but Jay’s a guy that’s mastered the fine art of not beating people over the head with his beliefs, and communicating them in a way that anyone can sink their teeth into, believer or not.

I can promise you that you won’t regret listening.

Without further adieu, here’s the sermon, followed by some exerpts (my paraphrases) if you’d like to read a bit first:

 

Continue reading What is a “Real” Man?