Theology Stories

Review: ‘God of Liberty’ considers Christianity’s critical role in American Revolution

Though it was published 14 years ago, it’s hard to imagine a more timely read as we celebrate the 250th anniversary of the United States. Thomas Kidd’s book, "God of Liberty: A Religious History of the American Revolution," cuts through rhetoric and digs far beyond his own denominational identity to deliver exactly what the title promises: a history.

Gen Z churchgoers attend more but often lag in application, according to Lifeway Research’s State of Discipleship

The faith of Generation Z frequently draws them to church on Sunday but often fails to shape their lives during the week.

Did God abandon Jesus on the cross?

Jesus’s fourth statement from the cross (Matt 27:46; Mark 15:34) is often thought to be His only negative statement of His seven sayings. Frequently called Jesus’s “cry of dereliction,” it is often described as God the Father turning His back on His Son—abandoning the sin bearer. Yet is that what happened? Did the Father literally abandon the Son?

Half of U.S. churches to honor America’s 250th anniversary

As Americans celebrate the 250th anniversary of the nation’s founding, half of pastors say their churches will join in the festivities.

Reclaiming True Love

Our culture demands that every form and expression of love is equally valid and thus deserving of full acceptance. But does love require us to celebrate unfettered expressions of so-called love?

Truth and Unity Amendment receives initial two-thirds approval

An amendment specifying the role of pastor and the act of preaching as limited to men, brought by Southern Baptist Theological Seminary President Albert Mohler, received the first of two required two-thirds votes by messengers on June 10 to become part of the SBC Constitution. Among 8,074 votes cast, reported registration secretary Don Currence, 6,028 (76.66 percent) were in favor of the amendment. There were 2,026 (25.9 percent) votes against. Twenty votes were disallowed. 

Will the world be annihilated?

Before Jesus introduces us to new heavens and a new earth, he must first deal with the sinful corruption of the universe as we know it. This “day of the Lord” comes suddenly and unexpectedly, the way a thief uses the element of surprise to plunder the goods of unsuspecting victims. But, once that day comes, the Lord introduces it with great fanfare. Jesus declares, “Heaven and earth will pass away” (Matt. 24:35).

Doctrinal concerns drive Nicene Creed discussion

A desire to protect Southern Baptist theology is motivating at least one Southern Baptist theologian in Texas and a North Carolina pastor-historian to look to the Nicene Creed to shore up some importance stances, but opinions differ on the best way for Southern Baptists to affirm the ancient creed.

‘To die is gain’

MBC Executive Director Wes Fowler: “In Christ we gain true freedom. Imagine the beauty of experiencing complete freedom from suffering, pain, difficulty, and even death. ... In glory, we’ll gain freedom from all that has been stained and marred by sin.”

Let America read the Bible with vibrant faith in Christ

We should pray that, within our churches and communities, people would read God’s Word and meditate on it day and night—not merely for information or cultural impact, but to find a life-transforming relationship with Jesus Christ.

The renewal of all things

Jesus helps us grasp the promise of our eternal home, referring to his future work of redemption as “the renewal of all things.” In Matthew 19:28, he tells the disciples, “Truly I tell you, in the renewal of all things, when the Son of Man sits on his glorious throne, you who have followed me will also sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel.”

Cultivating wisdom in a post-Christian culture

As American Christians in the 21st century, we have already fought many battles over political and cultural issues in the first quarter of this century. These battles have borne real fruit for the cause of Christ and the common good—whether the overturning of Roe v. Wade or the ongoing protection of religious liberty. Contrary to the doom some people have predicted, our nation has seen significant progress. That said, Christians must still engage the public square with confidence and discernment in Christ.

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