Category Archives: Gospel

The Sermon on the Mount 4

From that time Jesus began to preach, saying, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” — Matthew 4.17 Matthew prefaces his record of the Sermon on the Mount with this summary statement of Christ’s prophetic message, a call … Continue reading

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The Sermon on the Mount 3

My third and final presupposition for reading the Sermon on the Mount: Matthew writes in such a way to parallel Jesus with Moses / Israel. It seems that Matthew is interested in communicating a story that parallels the history of … Continue reading

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The Sermon on the Mount 2

I began this series by stating my first presupposition when it comes to the Sermon on the Mount, which is that Jesus actually meant what He said. My second presupposition is somewhat broader in nature as it has to do … Continue reading

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The Sermon on the Mount 1

The Sermon on the Mount has been called the most important sermon ever preached. It’s also been called the most ignored sermon of all time. What if both statements are true? Recently, I’ve been teaching a class at church on … Continue reading

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On Preaching: Information and Inspiration

I think it’s easy to think of preaching as a mere transaction of information from pulpit to congregation. To be fair, one of the aims of preaching should be to present the truths of Scripture in clear and understandable terms. … Continue reading

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Shanon’s House of Compassion

Shanon’s House of Compassion is a tangible expression of the Gospel of Jesus, seeking to provide hospitality for families dealing with the extended hospitalization of a loved one. Continue reading

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American Idol and the Myth of Meritorious Salvation

If you’re a fan of American Idol, you no doubt know by now the “shocking” and “unprecedented” results of last week’s elimination show. For the uninitiated, this year the biggest TV show in the world added a new dramatic wrinkle … Continue reading

Posted in Devotional, Gospel, Jesus, Television | 2 Comments

No Room: The Inn

She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn. – Luke 2:7 It is a scene that has been well rehearsed in our consciousness: Mary and Joseph, weary … Continue reading

Posted in Devotional, Gospel, Jesus, Poverty, Scripture, Social Issues | 2 Comments

The Gift of Language (or Close Enough is Good Enough)

(This post is a continuation of the thoughts I posted here.) We have to acknowledge that our language is incapable of encompassing the totality of God. Asking our finite minds to apprehend the infinite God is like asking a ladybug … Continue reading

Posted in Devotional, God, Gospel, Imago Dei, Kids, Theology | 2 Comments

The Big Story, Part 2

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