“The problem here is not that evangelicals empathize with Muslims or wear scarves on their heads. I myself have been known to wear a shemagh as an alternative to the standard pieces of colored cloth that men in the West tie around their necks. The problem is — once again — doing this in the... Continue Reading

“As the book’s title implies, the idea of faithful presence in particular undergoes serious critique. The authors here largely accept Hunter’s framework for how cultural change actually occurs, but most of them strongly dispute the adequacy of “faithful presence” (Hunter’s definition of it, at least) as a response to the cultural moment in which we... Continue Reading

The most reliable of Adam’s descendants will fail—fail others, fail himself, and fail God. That is, all except One.   Mercy triumphs over judgment (James 2:13); the clear and present manger supersedes the clear and present danger. The One born in Bethlehem, Almighty God in human flesh, has come to bring peace, forgiveness, and salvation.... Continue Reading

See the Godhead veiled in flesh! See Jesus, our Immanuel, our “God-with-us.” Don’t let these lofty thoughts and considerations of God’s Word be solely an academic exercise that stimulates your intellect. The inseparable connection between God’s dwelling place and His glory is screaming at us that the point of the incarnation—the point of the birth of... Continue Reading

There are plenty of decorations to buy and parties to attend during this season…but how should we really celebrate Christmas? The question is important because of the significance of the day and because so many obviously do not know how to celebrate it.   I know, of course, that Jesus was probably not born on... Continue Reading

In the final analysis, the modern system of Santa Claus resembles modern semi-Pelagian evangelicalism. We do what is good “so that we shall get stuff” – toys, heaven, etc. We do not do what is bad “so that we shall not be punished” – lump of coal, hell, etc. These are both self-indulgent and overtly... Continue Reading

This much we know: All those who find salvation will be saved by the atoning work of Jesus the Christ, the virgin-born Savior. Anything less than this is just not Christianity, whatever it may call itself. A Christian will not deny the virgin birth.   With December 25 fast approaching, the secular media are sure... Continue Reading

There is more to Jesus than a man rising from the dead, because He always has been.  And even during His incarnation He was in fellowship and communion and in a relationship with His human body, the God-Man, and you’ve come to know Him who was from the beginning.  That’s what I want for Christmas.     Now... Continue Reading

Roosevelt’s speech and Churchill’s speech appealed to the faith of the people as a recognition of the best values that would not only hold together the faithful, but also reach out to all men everywhere. Indeed, the President and Prime Minister sought to recognize the theological implications of Christmas Day as the foundation of uniting... Continue Reading

Quit complaining. Something will go wrong this Christmas. Someone will hurt your feelings. Your parent’s house will be too hot. Your brothers house will be too cold. A meal will be barely edible. Your obnoxious friends will be extra obnoxious. Still, God is more pleased with gratitude than with grumbling. If we learn to overlook... Continue Reading