Reflections of an Undeconstructed Pentecostal
This is probably the most significant leadership book I have read. Peter Steinke presents pastoral leadership in terms of promoting healing in the congregation. The primary dis-ease of congregations is anxiety. Most pastors treat only the symptoms.
During the presidential primaries of 2016, I often suggested that Evangelical Christians who were supporting Donald Trump were dancing with a whore. Since the election, many voices on the right and left have lamented the continuing and uncritical support of President Trump’s agenda. I write this as a life-long Republican voter and I support some of the president’s agenda. Even so, I don’t want to be viewed as a defender of the President. My mind has not changed – he is a toxic leader. But this blog is not about Trump. I want to address his supporters and opponents in the church.
Continue reading “Dancing with the Great Whore”
I often joke with my wife, Sharon, about planning my funeral. Although it is done in jest, I think it is good to be reminded of our mortality. Since the premature death of my brother, Randy, who died of a heart attack at 49, I find myself more grateful for each day. With the birth of my grandsons I have much to live for. I want to get to know them as they grow older, I want them to love me, and hope to pass our glorious faith in Jesus Christ to them. I am hopeful to live long and die strong. By that I mean that I leave a legacy that my children, grandchildren, nieces and nephews can celebrate.
Continue reading “Embracing my Mortality, Celebrating Life”
What is a conservative? I tend to be conservative politically and theologically. But even as I make that statement I am aware that the term conservative has different levels of meaning. So, allow me to explain what I mean by conservative.
Continue reading “My Theological Conservatism”
Martin Luther declared that Christians are simul justus et peccator – simultaneously righteous and sinner. Another popular way of saying this is that Christians are “saved sinners.” Just what did Luther mean? Is it appropriate for Christians to see themselves as sinful saints?
Continue reading “Are Christians Sinful Saints?”
At the risk of stirring controversy, I suggest that pastors should refrain from using “study Bibles.” At its best a study Bible is a devotional tool, not meant for serious study of the Scriptures. At their worst study Bibles are the dubious reflections of popular preachers that propagate sectarian or questionable doctrines. Also, too many readers of study Bibles fail to make the distinction between the inspired text and the notes contained on the same page. Instead of a study Bible, I suggest investing in just a few books that, with constant use, will make the pastor/teacher a competent interpreter of Holy Scripture.
Continue reading “The Pastor Needs More Than a Good Study Bible”
As a child in Pentecostal church I often heard sermons warning against the dangers of worldliness. The words of John were seared into my Christian psyche:
Do not love the world nor the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh and the lust of the eyes and the boastful pride of life, is not from the Father, but is from the world. The world is passing away, and also its lusts; but the one who does the will of God lives forever (1 John 2:15-17).
Continue reading “Is the Church Embracing Secularism?”