Sexuality and Identity: A Pastoral Statement from the College of Bishops
In this pastoral statement, we seek to address the need we perceive for greater clarity regarding pastoral ministry to those who self-identify as Christians and who are same-sex attracted.
We also recognize that neither of the identifying phrases is ideal, and we know that the language of same-sex attraction carries potential grief for some. Nevertheless, the theological and pastoral misgivings we share with regard to the terms “gay Christian” and “same-sex attraction” are significant. This language skews how scripture identifies Christians in the direction... Continue Reading
The Greatest Christians and the Most Visible Gifts
The captain of a great steamship may have called for “full speed ahead,” but he himself was powerless to actually make it happen.
Might it not be that the effectiveness of sermons depends as much upon the prayers of the unseen saints as the preparation and delivery of even the greatest preachers? Might it not be that true power comes not from the one standing on the stage but the one kneeling behind it? Might it not be... Continue Reading
John Gerstner’s Sad Conclusion (1981)
The United Presbyterian Church in The United States of America became apostate, officially on January 26, 1981 turning away from adherence to the Lord Jesus Christ
This paper concentrates on the 1981 decision of The Permanent Judicial Commission of The General Assembly which finally, officially, produced the legal and constitutional apostasy of The United Presbyterian Church denomination. First, after brief statement of the evidence and argument that Mr. Kaseman did indeed deny or refuse to affirm indispensable Christian doctrine, we present... Continue Reading
Should A Confessional Presbyterian Denomination Use Images of Jesus for Promotional Purposes?
Can any picture accurately and creditably portray Jesus, about whom we have so little visual information from our only source of knowledge about Him, the Bible?
The mystery of Christ’s incarnation, the wonder of the hypostatic union of the divine and human natures in the person God-Man are high and holy things, the depths of which theologians and faithful pastors have spent lifetimes sounding. The truth (as the Second Helvetic Confession says) that “Christ assumed human nature” was not “in order... Continue Reading
Evangelicalism: Biblical Fidelity or Political Expediency
It would be easy to point out how wrong Du Mez’s characterization is, but the harder thing is to ask ourselves if aspects of it are correct.
I read Jesus and John Wayne, but I do not recommend it. It is well-written, but it is misleading and is a mischaracterization of evangelicalism. But, my fear is that if we aren’t careful, this book could become a work of prophecy instead of an attempt at history. Without careful course correction, evangelicals could become so... Continue Reading
We Believe The Story of the Apostles’ Creed
The precise origin of the Apostles’ Creed is shrouded in mystery.
Subscribing to and systematically teaching the Apostles’ Creed is rooted in historical precedent and has timeless spiritual benefit for Christians of all eras. The Creed has been and continues to be a helpful aid for worship and discipleship in providing Christians with the summations of the essential doctrines of the faith. The Creed has been... Continue Reading
Ministry With, Not Merely To
The church ministers with, not merely to, people with developmental disabilities.
As a pastor, I’m blessed to minister with a number of friends with developmental disabilities. I’m grateful for parents and family members who help us understand how best to minister together. The Lord has raised up wonderful men and women who organize and oversee our congregation’s Friendship Bible Study each Tuesday evening which is uniquely... Continue Reading
Pauline Fathme, Christian Rufo and the Early Missions to the Oromo
The news of Fathme’s baptism traveled fast, because she was the first known Oromo convert.
The missionaries Friedrich Spittler, Johann Ludwig Krapf, and Martin Flad were particularly interested in her story. Krapf and Flad had in fact traveled to Ethiopia and Splitter was at that time planning to send missionaries there. In his brief contacts with the Oromos, Kraft had become impressed by their intelligence and was convinced they would... Continue Reading
Americans Are Going Home. Maybe It Is Time To Think About About Planting Churches There Too?
There are early indications that Americans are leaving urban centers.
It seems obvious that, to plant churches in the Plains, that vast stretch of land from Canada to Mexico and between the Rockies and the Mississippi River, will take more time and proportionally more investment. The return on investment will be lower. It will not be sexy nor will there be thrilling reports. The church... Continue Reading
When Tragedy Strikes On Saturday
Some thoughts on current events influencing content, worship, and planned prayer.
In all of these times, and in all of these seasons, in all of these tragedies, God is at work. In the absence of tragedy, in the presence of tragedy, God is at work. In your planning, God is at work. In your preparation, God is at work. In your work, God is at work.... Continue Reading
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