Secularization alone is not to blame for this change in American religiosity. Even half of those Americans who claim no religious affiliation profess belief in God or claim some sort of spiritual orientation. Other faiths, like Islam, perhaps the country’s fastest-growing religion, have had no problem attracting and maintaining worshippers. No, evangelicalism’s dilemma stems more... Continue Reading

Part of the culture clash between Birdsall and the board may have come because ABS, largely by design, is not evangelical per se, but broadly ecumenical. Since Birdsall’s firing, board chair Dearolf has had to step aside because of health concerns, and the acting board chair, Nick Athens, is Roman Catholic. “We have Catholics, mainline... Continue Reading

“A government that can coerce the conscience is a government that had overstepped its God-appointed bounds,” Moore said. “We are thankful for Guidestone and the gospel grit of President O.S. Hawkins. We’re still early in this fight but this is good news.”   Federal District Judge Timothy DeGiusti issued a preliminary injunction Dec. 20 against... Continue Reading

The language of inclusion explains part of the popularity of Peronism. It recognized the existence of large segments of the population which were, or could be, convinced that they were being excluded from their society. Peron flirted with class struggle and blamed the exclusion on oligarchs and capitalism. He created a space for these large... Continue Reading

And so this section of the Westminster Confession provides important guidance and balance to these discussions.  To the “rest” side, it reminds us that the Christian life involves effort – God empowered effort, but effort nonetheless.  And effort that at times even trembles at the threatenings of God’s Word.  To the “effort” side, it reminds... Continue Reading

Church facilities have grown in proportion to expenses of churches over the past four decades. Church leaders are looking for more funds for ministry, and they will find those funds by reducing facility costs. The big worship center will not be built in many congregations, so they will have more funds to reach and minister... Continue Reading

Perhaps Bible bashing is not the problem for the evangelical church today.  Maybe the challenge is Bible blushing, where believers shy away from asserting the truth of God’s Word.  Regardless, when we do speak it must be in humble reliance on the Holy Spirit, firmly gripping the hilt of His sword with patience, instruction, gentleness... Continue Reading

No church is perfect but a prepared church will respond better when these difficult problems come. Though many will volunteer to help out in an immediate crisis, it is the long term needs that strain the resources of the church and reveal its weaknesses. To keep love constant is a challenge but Christ calls us to... Continue Reading

ON The Challenges: “There’s been a shift in the cultural environment, particularly related to gender issues and sexuality. In response to this, we have an opportunity to maintain an open-door policy and share the Gospel graciously, but also to be clear that the Gospel takes a different stance on these issues than the rest of... Continue Reading

For better or worse, many students will pass through the classrooms of Christian schools around the world.  I’m so proud of many of the students who have been in one of my classes or schools in the past as they have become leaders of influence as adults.  I doubt that many thought Paul Walker would... Continue Reading