Recently, Nina Shea, was interviewed by Kathryn Jean Lopez of National Review. Nina is the director of the Center for Religious Freedom at the Hudson Institute. She is also co-author of a helpful book detailing the present state of persecution around the world: Persecuted: The Global Assault on Christians. In the interview, Nina... Continue Reading →
A Lamb and His Shepherd
A great man of God and a real hero for Christians in China, Pastor Samuel Lamb has departed this earth life to be with the Good Shepherd Himself. Pastor Lamb is now absent in the body, but present with the Lord. His life is an example to Christians of how to remain steadfast and faithful... Continue Reading →
Can Christians Persecute Christians?
One of the most enjoyable aspects of earning a Ph.D. is sitting through courses known as “colloquium.” Basically, a colloquium is a gathering of Ph.D.’s (and Ph.D. wanna-be’s) for the purpose of debating ideas and pushing one another to think more thoroughly on a given subject, whether the subject is a theological perspective on art... Continue Reading →
From Conversation to Revelation
Several years ago, when I was first contemplating a Ph.D., I did what most judicious students would do. I visited different seminaries and universities and thought through all my options. On one of my visits, I ran across an older, seasoned sage of academic endeavors. Our conversation turned out to be most refreshing. ... Continue Reading →
Focus and Faithfulness
God has orchestrated many unexpected and painful changes in my life this past year. As a result, I have felt what St. Thomas Aquinas learned long ago—that “all that I have written is straw.” As Job learned through his time of suffering to shut his mouth and sit patiently, I have learned this year to... Continue Reading →
Persecution and the Power of Christ’s Presence
You might remember the old western show Rawhide. Featuring the stalwart character of trail boss Gil Favor, this classic TV series launched the career of Clint Eastwood, who starred in the series as the upstart cowhand Rowdy Yates. In one episode, “Incident with an Executioner,” the crew is bedeviled by the presence of a black... Continue Reading →
RT @heritage: Margaret Thatcher’s Life
RT @heritage: Margaret Thatcher's Life in Pictures: http://t.co/rcuSF4VTEn
Christians Should Be Politically Active
In the wake of the Kermit Gosnell "Slaughter-gate" trial (and the appalling disinterest of many), there is a need for Christians to be reminded of our function as a pillar and support of the truth--a reminder of our calling to be salt and light in an otherwise dead and listless world. The post below... Continue Reading →
The Most Mistreated Minority in the World Is …
Back in November, I wrote a blog post about German Chancellor Angela Merkel, in which it was noted that Merkel was taking a great deal of heat for claiming that Christians are the most persecuted group in the world. That is not a headline that sells in America, as many folks still love to decry... Continue Reading →
Abortion and the Death Penalty: Is There Any Consistency to a Pro-Life Position?
The charge is often leveled that Pro-life Christians are inconsistent in their position on protecting the sanctity of human life. On the one hand, Pro-lifers are quick to pronounce a "fetus" a human life worthy of protection, while, on the other hand, they will pronounce a murderer worthy of death and say that the... Continue Reading →
Whose Story Is Adoption?
Most of the time when I read a theological article with which I disagree, I assume that I am in error and need to be corrected. After further reflection, I often realize the author was more nuanced than I had originally suspected. So, I end up rethinking my own position in light of Scripture and... Continue Reading →
An Easter Perspective
Beyond the hollow bunnies and plastic grass, Easter is a celebration of victorious life in the resurrected Christ. Today is a holy day in the life of the Christian. This Friday which we too casually call “Good” is a day of remembering the atoning work of Christ on behalf of our sinful souls. It is... Continue Reading →
Why Would I Ever Leave the Pastorate?
There is only one reason I would leave the pastorate at Cedar Grove. I would have to be thoroughly convinced that God Himself is moving me to another field of service that benefits the local church. I am convinced that the Lord is moving me to California Baptist University in Riverside, CA. My feeling toward... Continue Reading →
God’s Smuggler Speaks
The Christian Post has a fascinating interview with Brother Andrew, the famous "Bible Smuggler." I encourage you to read the entire article, some of which is quite entertaining. Brother Andrew is now in his 80's, and his work for the persecuted church is immense, primarily accomplished through Open Doors, a ministry he founded in 1955.... Continue Reading →
Go Cards!
No, this post is not about the once #1 (but now #12) Louisville Cardinals basketball team. Though the Cards are the local favorites, they are led by a coach I don’t particularly support. So, chances are, I won’t ever have much to say about those Cards. This post is about Cardinals, but not the ones... Continue Reading →