The Plain Meaning
Just when the theater-of-the-absurd that is American politics seems it cannot get any more bizarre, California Governor Gavin Newsome decides to add theologian-in-chief to his job responsibilities. He has placed billboards in multiple states—with a special message for Bible Belt states of Oklahoma and Mississippi. In those states the billboards ask and answer, “Need an […]
Being Young: A Biblical Theology of Youth – An Excerpt
The hometown of Jeremiah was on the edge of the wilderness in a small town called Anathoth about three miles northeast of Jerusalem. Jeremiah grew up in a time of great upheaval in the ancient Near East. The Assyrians dominated this part of the world; however, rebellions from various vassal states required significant resources from […]
Step back from the edge
Another prominent ministry leader was recently disciplined and has taken a leave of absence for inappropriate behavior. While I have not consulted personally on this situation, the reported incidents are very similar to other situations I have been involved in helping resolve. One of the commonalities in these situations is most ministry leaders do not […]
An Outside Perspective
My summer travels included teaching a seminar as part of our international Doctor of Ministry program, meeting this time in Turkey. One of the most interesting aspects of the trip was a robust conversation with a secular, Muslim, Turkish cab driver—who was more versed on what is happening in the United States than many Americans. […]
Who Gives the Money
Shadow Christians are people who work in dimly lit margins, in the shadows created by the spotlight shining on others. They are believers who serve quietly, often anonymously, doing the work that keeps churches, organizations, families, and communities functioning. Shadow Christians make an impact even when no one knows their names. Who provides ministry money? […]
Protective Services
Shadow Christians are people who work in dimly lit margins, in the shadows created by the spotlight shining on others. They are believers who serve quietly, often anonymously, doing the work that keeps churches, organizations, families, and communities functioning. Shadow Christians make an impact even when no one knows their names. Sadly, one of the […]
Bringing people to Jesus
Shadow Christians are people who work in dimly lit margins, in the shadows created by the spotlight shining on others. They are believers who serve quietly, often anonymously, doing the work that keeps churches, organizations, families, and communities functioning. Shadow Christians make an impact even when no one knows their names. In the Bible, there […]
A Guide to Food in Southern California
Food and culture are inextricably linked. You can learn much about another’s culture by partaking and enjoying its unique delicacies – a simple bite of an unknown dish can transport you into a world that is not your own. Southern California and its urban centers represent a global population set in pockets of unique cultural […]
A Measured Response
The final report from the SBC Sexual Abuse Task Force was released this past Sunday. The body of the report and two appendices total almost 400 pages. It took me 7 hours to read through the material the first time. This week, I am reading it again as part of forming a measured response. My […]
Illustrating Well – An Excerpt
My new book, Illustrating Well, coming out this week is written to serve as a guide for preachers to learn and investigate the various common types of sermon illustrations used today. I particularly identify eight types, I analyze each to answer the question, “what makes an effective sermon illustration?” Below is an excerpt from my […]