Reflections of an Undeconstructed Pentecostal
If the church is to succeed in reaching this generation then the church’s message and methodology must be relevant. After all, “the Word became flesh and dwelt among us” (John 1:14). The Apostle Paul defined “incarnational ministry” when he said, “I have become all things to all people that by all means I might save some” (1 Corinthians 9:22).
Continue reading “A Relevant Gospel”
We often sing, “You dance over me, while I am unaware; You sing all around, but I never hear the sound…” without understanding the beautiful theology contained within the lyrics of the song. While I am uncertain about the author’s source of inspiration, the lyrics reflect the words of the prophet Zephaniah:
“The Lord your God is in your midst, A victorious warrior. He will exult over you with joy, He will be quiet in His love, He will rejoice over you with shouts of joy” (3:17).
Continue reading “The Dancing Warrior”
Richard Bauckham, Jesus and the Eyewitnesses: The Gospels as Eyewitness Testimony (Grand Rapids: William B. Eerdmans Publishing Company, 2006). 538 pp.
As a young believer in Sunday school I was taught rather straightforwardly that the gospels were written by real, historical persons with a direct relationship with Jesus of Nazareth. Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John told their story just as it was lived. The Gospels (and all of Scripture) were divinely inspired and as such were inerrant and authoritative.
Continue reading “JESUS AND THE EYEWITNESSES: A Review”
Once, I was watching a prominent Charismatic evangelist on a Christian network preach a message on salvation and healing. As he preached, I listened attentively. I thought, “He’s really doing a good job presenting the gospel.” Then, he gave the altar call. He said, “If you’re ready to receive from God, come now and sow your $1000 seed faith gift into our ministry.” I wish I could say that I was surprised, but I was not. This is all too common in contemporary Pentecostal and Charismatic churches. And frankly, it is appalling. Salvation and healing are the free gifts of God. Jesus paid it all!
Continue reading “The Gift of God”
