I’ll never forget the moment when a dear church attender struggled to grasp that morality alone does not bring glory to God. She couldn’t seem to fathom that good works don’t grant some measure of godliness. In her defense, evangelical churches have often missed the heart of the Gospel by teaching that morality equals godliness and a right standing before God. In an attempt to simplify the Gospel and make it easier to understand, holiness has been reduced to little more than moralism and … [Read more...]
‘Run in such a way that you may win’
ST. JOHN – For most Americans, the act of running is a necessary evil. We run to keep up with our children, to maintain health, to not be embarrassed in a swimsuit, or to justify our Thanksgiving feasting. Very few of us look forward to the grueling effort of training and perseverance necessary to be successful in a race. And yet as any serious runner will passionately explain, success comes only when motivated and driven by a clear purpose. Recently in the 2019 Boston Marathon, a former … [Read more...]
Is God’s Word enough?
Forty years ago, a war raged for the very soul of Southern Baptists. This war was not fought for riches or fame, but instead for the truth once delivered for all the saints – the iner-rancy and sufficiency of Scripture. This doctrinal war is best remembered as the Conservative Resurgence, which resulted in Southern Baptist churches and institutions returning to and treasuring biblical truth. And yet, while many Southern Baptists believe the Bible is without error (inerrancy), many … [Read more...]
Words have meaning
Few things in life are as frustrating as having a conversation and realizing that key words are defined differently. For instance, I recently had a conversation where “God’s calling” meant one thing to me and another to a friend. I quickly came to the realization that until we agreed upon the meaning of the phrase we would never reach any unified conclusion. Far too often we forget the significance that words have and how important it is to bring clarity to definitions, especially when it … [Read more...]
Why does God allow suffering?
Once again, we’ve entered into the most festive season of the year. Christmas lights are carefully being hung, carols and Christmas songs are being sung, and throughout churches Christmas hand bells are being rung. To many, this is the happiest time of the year filled with laughter, anticipation, and endless delights. But for others, the Christmas season is difficult. Painful memories from childhood, anniversaries of devastation, or recent personal loss are all common reasons for Christmas … [Read more...]
When a Christian sins
As any Christian can testify, following Christ is a wonderful privilege accompanied by many undeserved blessings. The fact alone that Jesus Christ pardoned sin in exchange for his life warrants rejoicing for such an unmerited blessing. But not only this, Christ’s sacrificial death has ensured eternity in full fellowship with God for the believer. Any Christian would affirm that God has given them far more than they deserve. And yet, an honest Christian would equally affirm the cold reality … [Read more...]
‘Freedom, if you can keep it’: Metaxas talks faith, culture in exclusive Pathway interview
CHESTERFIELD – Being able to wrestle with intellectual issues and yet have the ability to aptly relate such issues to the common man is a rare and desirable trait. Eric Metaxas, New York Times bestselling author of Bonhoeffer: Pastor, Martyr, Prophet, Spy and recent speaker at the American Renewal Project conference here, perfectly possesses this trait. Both charming and charismatic, Metaxas bridges the gap between the intellectual and the simple. Seeking to help Americans contemplate the … [Read more...]
Pulpits and politics: Second American Renewal Project event to be held March 22-23
KANSAS CITY – “What role should pastors have in the political spectrum?” This question formed the basis for the Missouri Renewal Project Conference held in Kansas City on December 7-8. The event included special guest speakers such as Missouri Attorney General (AG) Josh Hawley, social critic Os Guinness, and numerous other pastors, political pundits, and historians. Training was also offered for Christian leaders considering running for public office. The conference was geared to encourage … [Read more...]
‘Nothing new under the sun’: Unborn life, biblical sexuality addressed by the Reformers
JEFFERSON CITY – The author of Ecclesiastes once wisely wrote, “there is nothing new under the sun”. This truism is perhaps best exhibited in society’s current moral failings. For many Christians, it seems as though issues such as abortion, same-sex marriage, and gender dysphoria are new problems facing the church. However, a closer examination of church history shows that Christians have argued against these very same moral issues throughout previous generations. As we celebrate the … [Read more...]
Evangelical leaders’ affirmation of biblical sexuality necessary
NASHVILLE – The Council on Biblical Manhood and Womanhood (CBMW) released, on Aug. 29, the Nashville Statement, a 14 Article affirmation of biblical sexuality. The statement addressed issues such as the definition of marriage, gender distinctions, various sexual sins, and God’s all-sufficient saving grace. It was initially signed by more than 150 evangelical leaders across denominational lines, and is currently available for both reading and signing on the CBMW’s website. Perhaps the most … [Read more...]
Did an eclipse darken the land on Good Friday?
JEFFERSON CITY – As August quickly approaches, many people throughout the Midwest are gearing up for perhaps the most hyped up event of the year, dubbed solely as the “Great American Eclipse.” As hotel rooms are booked, vacation days are requested, and travel plans are made, some Christians may have wondered if the Bible contains any examples of a similar phenomenon. When thinking of midday darkness, one biblical event specifically comes to mind – Christ’s crucifixion. Just before Christ … [Read more...]
Theology shapes view of culture, God
There was a time when the term “theology” related solely to issues within the church. Theology was viewed only as a tool to differentiate between denominations or to resolve internal church struggles. However, limiting theology merely to the realm of church-related or scholarly concerns demonstrates forgetfulness regarding the numerous areas of life affected by biblical theology. Since sound theology helps Christians rightly understand the Word of God, theology should practically … [Read more...]