When I Recognized Race

Several years ago my wife and I went through a painful and traumatizing experience in our ministry, and it took me a long time to begin to bounce back. For years afterwards I struggled with...

On Lapsarian Theodicy

John R. Schneider’s Animal Suffering and the Darwinian Problem of Evil is an important contribution to an important topic—namely, the theological challenge of animal suffering. Theodicy has traditionally been more focused on human suffering, but...

Should Pastors Get PhDs? — Questions to Ask First

I believe that every pastor should strive to become the best theologian they can possibly be. For some, this will involve formal education all the way to the level of a PhD. That has been...

7 Ways Augustine Can Enrich Our Understanding of Creation

Should Churches in California Defy Government Restrictions? A Response to John MacArthur

Last weekend John MacArthur released a video update to his church family. As is well-known, Grace Community Church has chosen to defy the state order issued by Governor Newsome banning indoor worship services. At 10:35-10:50...

3 Ways to Keep Social Media From Stealing Your Joy

Social media often seems to reflect the opposite values of God’s kingdom. Jesus said, “Blessed are the peacemakers.” Social media often seems to bless the outraged. Jesus said, “Blessed are the meek.” Social media often...

An Open Letter to Those Who Divide over Doctrine

Dear Church, We live in polarized times. Outrage and rancor seem to be simmering all around us, and it’s making it harder to talk across ideological lines. As the church, we have an opportunity to...

5 Myths About the Reformation

Should We Be Celebrating? This time of year many Protestants celebrate the Reformation. For some, however, it feels odd to “celebrate” an event that divided the church. Didn’t Jesus pray for the church’s unity? Others...

Humility is Not Hating Yourself: The Joy of Self-Forgetfulness