Due to their independent inclinations, congregational churches can often find themselves cut off from the larger trends, the history, and the idiom of the universal church—whether by design or happenstance. In light of that danger, this paper will argue that the theological foundations of congregationalism align with and support the use of ecumenical creeds in … Read more
What has traditionally been labeled “the Lord’s Prayer” was taught by Jesus as a sample of how to pray (Matthew 6:5-15; Luke 11:2-4). It includes the petition, in English translation, “lead us not into temptation,” which some have interpreted to mean that God otherwise tempts humans to do what he condemns. This has prompted a … Read more
As Charles Taylor points out, Western Culture is steeped in expressive individualism marked by a disembedded existence and excarnation. These realities are further complicated by the relational conflict that often marks both culture in general and the church in particular. The church has responded to this reality in many ways. Theologians such as Al Mohler … Read more
This paper is about how to read a theology book skillfully. Theology readers often get stuck here, so I plan to explain seven guidelines on how to read a theology book skillfully: 1. Read carefully. (I’ll unpack the goal, reason, means, method, and need for careful Reading.) 2. Read at different levels. (I’ll unpack three … Read more
The emergence of Boko Haram and its stated ideology triggers various perspectives by Christians and non-Christians in the Nigerian context. The political and socioeconomic arguments appear reasonable to some scholars because of the dominant narratives of contextual challenges: poverty, lawlessness, unemployment, corruption, sectionalism, social upheavals, and bad governance. Political and socioeconomic arguments see Boko Haram … Read more
ETS Proposal Abstract Drew RANDLE, PhD, Professor of Christian Ministry, Bryan College The Use of Gary Smalley and John Trent’s Book The Blessing as a Framework for Academic Pastoral Care Pastoral care is the deep care that a pastor, as well as the flock in a local body, have for each other daily as deep … Read more
Protestants have wrestled with how to interpret the epistle of James in a distinctly Christian way since Martin Luther famously described it as “an epistle of straw.” Luther struggled to detect the gospel in the letter, concluding, “It has nothing of the nature of the gospel about it.” A survey of contemporary evangelical commentaries reveals … Read more
During the COVID-19 pandemic, many churches struggled to take the Lord’s Supper together, especially when members were viewing the service via live stream video. Christian leaders debated whether a “virtual” Lord’s Supper was possible, and, if so, how it should be administered. The situation resulted in some Christians not partaking in this important ordinance for … Read more
As an expositor of the scriptures, I have been studying and preaching on the life of David for over two years. One of the most intriguing aspects of David’s life is the apparent lack of support from his own brothers. Others, such as Jonathan, recognized the faith, dedication, and loyalty of David. But the sons … Read more
One of the great challenges facing the United States is the massive entrance of undocumented Hispanic immigrants across the southern border of the country (see: S.L Colby & J.M. Ortman). This group of people has progressively integrated into the resident Hispanic community, which has grown to become the largest ethnic minority in the country. Both … Read more