Related posts:

1. Kindle My Blog
2. Cheap Kindle eBooks Under $5
3. Good Books from Goodwill

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Post tags: cheap ebooks, Christian, Christianity, ebooks, Kindle

What would you do Wednesday!

The annual Southern Baptist Convention (SBC) meeting is two months away¹ so a situation that could take place during this meeting may provide an interesting discussion.

In order to help those who are not Southern Baptists better participate in this topic, a few citations expressing Southern Baptist positions are provided below.

Southern Baptists have prepared a statement of generally held convictions called The Baptist Faith and Message. It serves as a guide to understanding who they are.²

There is nothing in the Baptist Faith and Message that excludes Calvinists nor is the aim to do so. The SBC actually answers the question of Calvinism on the website.

7. What is the SBC’s official view of the doctrine commonly known as “Calvinism?”

The Southern Baptist Convention has not taken an official stance on either Calvinism or Arminianism. If you surveyed Southern Baptists across the nation you would likely find adherents at both ends of the spectrum with plenty at each point in between.³

SBC resolutions may be presented at the annual meeting for the messengers present to vote on. Resolutions pass and fail each year.

Two position statements regard SBC resolutions follow.

A resolution has traditionally been defined as an expression of opinion or concern, as compared to a motion, which calls for action. A resolution is not used to direct an entity of the Southern Baptist Convention to specific action other than to communicate the opinion or concern expressed.⁴

And.

21. How do I find out the official SBC stance on various issues?

The Southern Baptist Convention makes official statements regarding specific issues by means of resolutions passed at our annual gatherings each June.  Southern Baptist polity views these resolutions as expressions of opinions or concern which are representative of the messengers attending the meeting, but are not binding upon any individual church or successive Convention.  Generally speaking, resolutions are snapshots of views widely held among Southern Baptists at the time and in the social contest in which they are passed, but they are not deemed to be doctrinal or creedal (tests of fellowship).⁵

Now the situation!

A vote for an anti-Calvinist resolution comes to the SBC messengers. The last two lines of the resolution states (bear with me as this is easier than writing a whole resolution):

RESOLVED, That we urge Southern Baptists to be actively involved in educating students and adults concerning the destructive nature of Calvinism and Reformed theology; and be it finally

RESOLVED, That we urge that no one be elected to serve as a trustee or member of any entity or committee of the Southern Baptist Convention that is a Calvinist or supports/promotes Calvinism.

How would you vote and why?

Be nice!

Related posts:

1. Southern Baptist Convention: on tips and alcohol
2. Southern Baptists & the Alcohol Resolution: How?
3. Georgia Baptist Blogging Resolution

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Post tags: ethics, WWYDW

1. Subjectivity in Modern Preaching
2. A Six-Word Memoir of the Christian Life
3. Reformation Day 2011: Luther on the Power of God’s Word

Pastor Fred Luter, who will probably be the first black president of the Southern Baptist Convention, spoke to PBS recently on race relations in America. Below is an excerpt of the interview.

Watch Rev. Fred Luter on Race in America on PBS. See more from Religion & Ethics NewsWeekly.

I have not heard the whole interview, but will offer some thoughts on the above excerpt.

I agree with brother Luter that America still has a long way to go in race relations. However, he has couched his insight into the need for racial reconciliation based on the way President Obama is treated by some. I disagree with Luter’s blanket premise as presented in this excerpt.

I do not doubt that there are those who do not respect Obama because he is (considered) black. Yet, the examples Luter gives are not necessarily racially motivated. It is not clear that someone shouted during Obama’s speech that he is a liar because he is black. It is not clear that some idiot put up a ridiculous picture of Obama with a hole in his head because he is black. It is not clear that the ridiculous comment to imagine Obama as one of the shooting targets was made because he is black.

Everything is not about race.

As difficult as it can be for some conservatives, the office of President of the United States does deserve respect. Those whom I know personally that oppose Obama do so based on ideological, rather than racial, reasons.

There is certainly a racial divide in America, but blaming what seems to be every disagreement or disrespectful attitude toward President Obama on race does little to mend the racial divide.

What do you think?

Related posts:

1. Southern Baptists: Racial Relations and Spiritual Worth
2. Obamanians: Thought I’d Seen It All
3. Is Your Church White?

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Post tags: black, Fred Luter, race relations, racism, white

What would you do Wednesday!

The characters: You are one of twenty board members of a local Christian school. You have a friend who writes an online column for a local newspaper.

The situation: Your friend has recently written critically in his online column about some of the recent decisions of the Christian school. You have mostly agreed with your friend about his concerns and have worked within your capacity as a board member to correct these recent decisions.

A recent board meeting discussed some of the details about one of the school’s recent decisions. You shared those confidential details with your friend. You did not explicitly state that those details were to remain private so your friend decided to publish an article containing those details in the online newspaper column. Your friend cited an unnamed board member as his source.

The Christian school is well-known and relatively powerful in the community so this confidential information has caused quite a stir in the community. The Chairman of the board has put pressure on the newspaper to get your friend to reveal his source. The Chairman has also asked for the board member that leaked the information to admit to it.

The two potential outcomes: If your friend does not reveal his source the newspaper will take disciplinary action against him. If your identity is revealed, the board will take disciplinary action against you.

What do you do?

• Try to subtly convince the board to drop the issue.
• Let your friend take a fall for you to fight for your cause.
• Admit you are the leak and save your friend from any recourse.
• Start blogging anonymously about the school and all of their internal problems.
• Or…

Related posts:

1. Ethics: High School Football Practice Changed for Ramadan
2. Ethics: Leaving a Gospel Tract for a Tip
3. Ethics: Church Discipline Contract Issued

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Post tags: ethics, WWYDW

I will be hosting Dr. Ed Stetzer’s (President of LifeWay Research) webcast “The Exchange” as part of a test syndication.

Tune in today!

Today on “The Exchange” Pete Wilson, pastor of Cross Point Church in Nashville, discusses his newest book Empty Promises: The Truth about You, Your Desires, and the Lies You’re Believing.

Philip Nation, Director of Ministry Development at LifeWay Christian Resources, will be guest-hosting.

Click the image below to start the webcast at 2pm cst/3 pm est!

Related posts:

1. A La Blog 8/4
2. Worshiping with Ed Stetzer
3. LifeWay Reads With Discernment

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Post tags: Ed Stetzer, Lifeway, missional, The Exchange

Bubba Watson has won the 2012 Masters golf tournament. This is Watson’s first win in a Major golf tournament and only his fourth on the PGA Tour. Watson won in a dramatic play-0ff against South Africa’s Louis Oosthuizen.

Both men hit errant drives at the second play-off hole. However, Watson’s ball landed in a tougher spot to play from than Oosthuizen’s though Watson was around 50-60 yards closer to the hole. Watson preceded to hit in incredible golf shot by hitting the ball out of the woods and curving it to land on the green. The shot was incredible!

It is pretty cool for a Christian to win the Masters golf tournament on Easter Sunday. I am sure it is very encouraging for that Christian to win his first Major golf tournament on any day, but he will probably not forget that he won on Easter Sunday.

More encouraging though are the tweets that Bubba Watson sent out this weekend.

Thanks everyone for the support! 3 reasons tomorrow will be #awesome, 1. Jesus has risen 2. See my new baby boy & my wife 3. Masters Sunday

— bubba watson (@bubbawatson) April 8, 2012

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.

— bubba watson (@bubbawatson) April 8, 2012

Happy Easter everyone! #JesusHasRisen

— bubba watson (@bubbawatson) April 8, 2012

.@bubbawatson Congratulations on your #Masters win! (1 Corinthians 10:31)

— Mark Lamprecht (@hereiblog) April 9, 2012

Related posts:

1. The Church Tomb of George Whitefield in Pictures
2. Friday Photo Sharing by My Wife
3. More Photos of Alabama Tornado Damage

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Post tags: Bubba Watson, golf, The Masters

What would you do Wednesday!

The tragic shooting death of Trayvon Martin by George Zimmerman that happened in Sanford, FL has taken over the internet recently.¹ Passionate replies have been poured out from both Martin and Zimmerman supporters.

Many in the court of public opinion have already tried Zimmerman and found him guilty of murder. Others believe that Martin may have brought the confrontation and shooting upon himself by causing Zimmerman to act in self-defense. Yet, what seems to be a minority of responders have decided to wait until all of the evidence is presented before a judge and jury to make a personal judgement. Due to all of the publicity, Zimmerman is currently in hiding.

In spite of all of the opinions on the Martin-Zimmerman case, I’d like to ask how Christians might respond if George Zimmerman came out of hiding to visit your church Sunday morning. I have seen a range of comments from my fellow Christians on Facebook which echo my observations above about holding personal judgements on the case.

The scenario. You notice a visitor at church on Sunday morning just prior to Sunday School. After Sunday School, right before worship service begins, you get to meet the visitor. He simply introduces himself as George and says he is in the area visiting relatives. He looks somewhat familiar, but you can’t quite figure out why.

Just as the call to worship is given, it hits you – George Zimmerman!

After quickly and quietly asking if he is the George Zimmerman, he affirms and asks that you keep his identity quiet. He explains that he really needed some Christian fellowship and spiritual nourishment so he decided to visit a local church where he most likely would not be recognized.

The worship time begins and the sermon today is providentially about forgiveness.

After worship time, a couple of your fellow church members think they recognize Zimmerman, but aren’t exactly sure. The members saw you talking to Zimmerman, so they come up to you and ask about the visitor. You affirm that it is the George Zimmerman. A few of your friends aren’t sure what to say or do though at least one of them is visibly angry.

How would you treat George Zimmerman?

• Sneak out during the sermon can call the local media.
• Ask him when he is going to turn himself in and admit to murder.
• Greet him as a professing Christian and talk to him about forgiveness.
• Ask him how you can pray for him.
• Or…

Related posts:

1. Ethics: Immodest Dress In Church
2. The Church Tomb of George Whitefield in Pictures
3. Ethics: Excluding A Single Parent from Church Membership

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Post tags: ethics, WWYDW

What would you do Wednesday!

Today’s topic comes at the suggestion of  a Georgia pastor friend. He tweeted an article to me titled Want a Job? Fork Over Your Facebook Password, Employer Says.¹ The suggestion was to substitute ‘search committee’ for ‘employer’.

Great idea!

Sitting before a pastoral search committee during what will most likely be the final interview the committee members believe they have a bit more due diligence to conduct.

On behalf of the whole committee, one member inquires.

Mr. Potential Pastor, you have told us that you have both a Facebook and a twitter account. In this age of social media it is possible that you are active on other social mediums such as blogs and groups like the ones found on Yahoo and Google.

In order to get a fuller picture of who you are, we request that you give us all of your social media user names and passwords.

What would do or how would you advise this pastoral candidate?

• Turn over the user names and passwords as there is nothing to hide.
• Decline this unreasonable request.
• Ask the committee members for the same so you can begin to get to know the new congregation.
• Tell them you need a day to think (so you can create some fake user names).
• Or…

Related posts:

1. Ethics: A Homosexual Asks About Christianity
2. Ethics: Pastoral Candidate Answers Questions on the Trinity
3. Popping Off Is Not Pastoral

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Post tags: ethics, WWYDW

What would you do Wednesday!

It’s March and NCAA March Madness is here! March Madness inspired me to a little blog madness for today’s ethical scenario. Of course, we all know that Christians should not only not play the NCAA brackets, but we should especially not play those brackets with money…

…or should we?

March Madness inspires a little office madness as the bracket sheets circulate just begging for everyone in the office to join in the fun. Bracket Bob, the person organizing the bracket sheets, asks you to participate. You really enjoy March Madness and following your own brackets just for fun.

You ask Bob for the office madness run down. Bob knows you are a Christian and admits that he wasn’t sure if he should ask you or not because he knew there was money involved, but he heard you were following the games so he explains the office games to you.

Look, I know you are a Christian and probably don’t bet, but it’s only 10 bucks per bracket. (Laughing nervously) You probably spend more than that for a lot less entertainment. Seriously, each bracket you fill-out and turn in is $10. The money goes into the pool. If you win the whole thing you get 70% of the entry fees while second place gets 20% and third gets 10%. Right now we’re up to $200 and it may go to $300. What do you say?

What would you do?

• Play, it’s only 10 bucks.
• Ask if you can play without paying and winning money.
• Politely decline while following the brackets on your own.
• Ask him why he thinks a Christian can’t play then share the gospel.
• Decline and tell him he’s going to burn for betting.
• Or…

Related posts:

1. Ethics: Leaving a Gospel Tract for a Tip
2. March Devotion MP3
3. Ethics: A Church Member Wins the Lottery

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Post tags: ethics, WWYDW

I came across an interesting observation in a book I am reading for one of my classes. In the book Shepherd Leader, author Timothy Witmer points out what he calls the “Wal-mart effect” among megachurches.

The truth of the matter is that much of the growth of megachurches is drawn from smaller churches in the region. This is what I call the Wal-Mart effect. What happens when a Wal-Mart moves to town? Many small “mom and pop” businesses are forced to close because they can’t compete with the prices, variety, and “one-stop shopping” of Wal-Mart. Likewise, small churches are depleted by large churches because the large churches provide “one-stop shopping” with ministries of every variety for everyone in the family. Sometimes the “prices” are cheaper, too. Not in the sense that a “tithe” is any less but that the anonymity of a larger church may not require the same level of commitment that smaller churches must have in order to function effectively. How many new members in your church are joining by profession of faith? How many are coming from other churches? These are important questions to consider.

The sheep shuffle from church to church, otherwise known as “church hopping.” There is no doubt that there is a consumer mentality among many Christians whose primary question about a church is not, “Is this a good place for me to serve and where I can grow as a believer?” but rather, “Will this church meet my needs?” If you are on the receiving end of these new members you rejoice and consider it to be church growth and God’s blessing. If you are on the losing end, you can easily become cynical and accuse other churches of “sheep stealing.”¹

While Witmer’s observations may seem obvious to some extent from outside of the megachurch, the perspective from within may be much more positive. I have friends that have had great experiences attending and serving in megachurches. I may even join one myself some day…who knows. One point about the church hoping phenomenon is that it is not limited to megachurches.

Witmer adds a positive note on the next page.

To be honest, one of the reasons that Wal-Mart continues to grow is that they not only provide good prices but customer service as well. There is someone there to greet you, guide you, and answer your questions.²

What do you think about the Wal-mart effect?

Related posts:

1. Are Megachurches Healthier?
2. Keeping Christ in Christmas so we can sleep in?
3. A Healthy View of Church?

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Post tags: ecclesiology, megachurch, Shephed Leader, Wal-mart, Witmer

In October 2011, atheist Ernest Perce dressed in a Zombie Muhammad costume for a Halloween parade. Perce was attacked by Muslim Talaag Elbayomy for wearing the Muhammad costume. Perce and Elbayomy went to court in Pennsylvania over the situation and a Judge Mark Martin ruled in favor of the Muslim, Elbayomy.

What did the judge say during his ruling?

And Mr. Thomas [Elbayomi's defense lawyer] is correct. In many other Muslim speaking countries – excuse me, in many Arabic speaking countries – call it “Muslim” – something like this is definitely against the law there. In their society, in fact, it could be punishable by death, and it frequently is, in their society. ¹

It is not clear what the penalties in other countries for dressing up in a Zombie Muhammad costume have to do with anything, but among the judge’s comments is one in particular that stands out.

But you have that right, but you’re way outside your bounds on First Amendment rights.²

Outside of First Amendment rights? Really? How? Thankfully, the judge still recognizes he is in the United States given his reference to the First Amendment.

There is more to the case though. The judge had a copy of the Qur’an with him and would not let video evidence of  Elbayomy attacking Perce be shown. Nor was the police officer who was at the scene allowed to testify that Elbayomy admitted attacking Perce. The case was dismissed since all the judge allowed as evidence was the testimonies of Elbayomy and Perce.

The American Thinker site has an interview with Perce posted about the case.³ While Perce is taking a stand for freedom of speech, he believes Islam is a hateful religion and making fun of Muhammad seems to be a regular activity of his. I’m sure he did have all of the death threats he has reported.

While I have no desire to make fun of Muhammad, I do agree that atheist, Perce, has the freedom do so. For all I know, Perce may make fun of Christianity too which he also has freedom to do.

Once again, it seems as though Islam is offered some sort of special protection in the U.S. legal system. There seems to be an unwritten rule that every religion must get special attention to make sure their followers are not offended, Christianity being the acception.

As a Christian, I know that it is the gospel that changes hearts and not U.S. law. Though I’d prefer proper application of the law which seems to be missing from the above case. Yet, I expect to be insulted, offended and rejected by the world for the sake of the gospel. Jesus said as much.

“If the world hates you, know that it has hated me before it hated you. If you were of the world, the world would love you as its own; but because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, therefore the world hates you. Remember the word that I said to you: ‘A servant is not greater than his master.’ If they persecuted me, they will also persecute you. If they kept my word, they will also keep yours. But all these things they will do to you on account of my name, because they do not know him who sent me. (John 15:18-21 ESV)

______________________

Related posts:

1. Religious Freedom: Jesus vs Islam
2. Is Islam special?

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Post tags: Constitution, Islam, Sharia, Zombie Muhammad

What would you do Wednesday!

Today’s scenario involves a Southern Baptist seminary professor who is seen by a student drinking beer at a local restaurant. As always, anyone is free to comment.

You, dear reader, are a seminary student out to dinner with some friends who are visiting for the weekend. While being seated at the restaurant you notice one of your professors. You also notice what looks to be a glass of beer in front of the professor. However, you remember the ethical conduct statement you signed as a student which is similar to the statement signed by seminary staff.

Below are two examples of such ethical conduct statements. One of them states that…

…through its administrative committees, may take disciplinary action, including dismissal, should the standard of personal and ethical conduct becoming to a Southern Baptist minister be violated. Violations of this standard shall include, but is not limited to:

C. Use or possession of beverage alcohol or illegal drugs;¹

Another states…

Alcohol & Drugs
In accordance with the irreproachable standards of moral conduct as well as denominational expectations for all members of the seminary community, the use of alcoholic beverages and illicit/illegal drugs are prohibited. Compliance with abstention from alcoholic beverages and drug abuse does not apply to worship communion, appropriate medications, etc.²

So you doubt that the professor is drinking beer until, that is, the waiter pours the rest of the beer from the bottle into his glass. Catching the professors eyes as you walk to your table, you give a passing wave to each other.

While on campus on the following Monday, you get a chance for some brief small talk with the professor. He tells you about the interesting dinner he had with his atheist neighbor. His neighbor has always thought Baptists were too uptight so he would never give the professor any time for a spiritual conversation.

Finally, the atheist neighbor made him a deal. The neighbor said that he would buy the professor dinner and listen to him explain Christianity if the professor would have just one beer with him.

What would you do?

• Pray for the conversation that took place and say nothing more.
• Pray and ask the professor about the ethics code.
• Mention the ethics code and explain that he will have to be reported.
• Ask if you can go next time to enjoy a beer while sharing the gospel.
• Or…

______________________

Related posts:

1. Ethics: Seminary Student Preaches Someone Else’s Sermons
2. The Gospel in the Liquor Store
3. Ethics: Baptism by Pouring-Joining a Baptist Church

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Post tags: ethics, WWYDW

The pro-abortion, pro-choice crowd argues that abortion is a reproductive right. However, there is a problem with this line of reasoning.

In order to have an abortion, reproduction must have already taken place i.e. a human life must exist in order to abort it. A right to reproduce, or have offspring, is not the same as a right to abort, or terminate the life of said offspring.

In actuality, abortion is a counter-reproductive action since it kills a human being that is already living.

It is possible that babies in the womb would like the same reproductive rights that others have, but in order for that to happen those babies must first have the unequivocal right to life.

Related posts:

1. Obama, Abortion and Pay Grades
2. Gospel Then Morality: Lesson From Abortion Counseling
3. Wisdom of Solomon, Obama and Abortion

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Post tags: abortion

My new timeline – I recently updated the blog Facebook page to the new timeline format since I was going to be forced to anyway. It’s growing on me.

A Baptist defeats gluttony – Amazing story of Baptist professor Mark Rathel’s 180 pound weight loss. I last saw Mark about 1.5 years ago. I didn’t even recognize him.

Baptist theology past/future part 1 & part 2 – James Leo Garrett, Jr. shares some interesting historical insight concerning Southern Baptists. Part 2 has an interesting note on the recency of dispensationalsim. Note: I am not endorsing the other articles on the site.

PAP – James Anderson offers a A Christological Argument Against the Principle of Alternate Possibilities. I.e. “PAP: S is morally responsible for doing A only if S could have done otherwise.”

Trust worthy prophets? – Sharon Lindbloom asks the question of Mormons trusting their past “prophets” concerning issues such as the past view of black people in general and their banning from the Mormon priesthood.

Morality and hate speech – Kirk Cameron responds to the outcry over his comments on homosexuality from his “Piers Morgan Tonight” interview.

Allah provides young boys – Jared Moore shares an old interview of Michael Horton asking Sam Solomon what the Qur’an teaches about homosexuality in paradise.

Allah vs. Yahweh – Joe Carter answers the question on whether or not Christians and Muslims worship the same God. Hint: They don’t.

Cheap Kindle book- This looks like a great book on the Trinity. Our Triune God: Living in the Love of the Three-in-One by Philip Ryken and Michael LeFebvre. (A few other great deals: Baker Bible Handbook, Trevin Wax, James Hamilton)

A free book – William Birch is giving away a copy of Arminius Speaks. Today is the last day to enter for those who want a chance to read what Arminius actually believed. Note: It’s not an easy giveaway as you have to think for your entry.

Free Christian hip-hop – Jin has a couple of free downloads. I just discovered Jin and so far I’m digging his music. Listen to one of the tracks below.

Related posts:

1. Friday Favorites 07/16
2. Friday Favorites 07/23
3. Friday Favorites 08/06 Anniversary Special

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Post tags: blogging, Friday Favorites

What would you do Wednesday!

Today’s situation is inspired by the recent Christian-Muslim relationship controversy surrounding Rick Warren. Warren has attempted to set the record straight concerning the recent reporting of his position on Christian-Muslim interaction.¹ This post is not about Rick Warren although the information used below is from sources affiliated with the Christian-Muslim relationships in which Saddleback Church is involved.

So we begin…

During the Sunday morning announcements your pastors presents a plan to get the congregation to reach and work with their Muslim neighbors. He explains that he is inspired by what Saddleback Church is doing in the Muslim community.

Your pastor shares that this plan is called Kings Way and shares the following vision for the plan.

Kings Way describes a path to end the 1400 years of misunderstanding between Muslims and Christians by consulting the texts we each call sacred in order to form a basis that allows us the privilege to serve the needs in our communities together.²

Further, he explains that a document will be used to help everyone appreciate the similarities of Christianity and Islam. He quotes the following.

The document encouraged that our communities work together towards the common good and to combat bigotry in a 1-2-3 plan. The first step in the plan identifies the belief in one God. The second step acknowledges God’s commandment to love God and your neighbor. Finally, step three is for our communities to commit to three things: making friends, building peace, and serving the world at large together.³

The congregation is then lead to sing Kumbaya! (OK, not really.)

What would you do?

• Go along with this great idea.
• Hesitantly ask questions before accepting the idea.
• Immediately oppose the idea and meet with the pastor.
• Move your home and join Saddleback.
• Or…

_____________________

Related posts:

1. Ethics: Christian Converts to Islam to Marry Muslim
2. Ethics: Pastor Opposes Tim Tebow Preaching
3. Ethics: Prominent Pastor Plagiarizes?

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Post tags: ethics, WWYDW

Breaking News: Southern Baptist College President Offers Calvinist Vision!

Imagine if that were a real headline. Surely, that college president would be universally welcomed by Baptists with open arms and a warm embrace. Call me a skeptic, but I doubt it.

The very presence of Calvinists seemed to set off alarms for Christian Index editor Gerald Harris who penned “The Calvinists are here.”¹ Harris’ article brought much attention and several replies, including my own.²,³ Two weeks after Harris’ article was published a Georgia pastor sent in the following comment which was published by the Christian Index.

‘Heartbroken’ over Calvinism taught in SBC seminaries
Thank you for the article on Calvinism. I am concerned that by focusing the minds of our seminary students on Reformed Theology instead of focusing on the Great Commission, we are doing a great disservice to the Kingdom of God, and to the hearts and passions of our young people.⁴

Notice how Calvinism and Reformed Theology mentioned as if it is in opposition to the Great Commission. I am ‘heartbroken’ over such poor and false reasoning from a Southern Baptist pastor. I am also ‘heartbroken’ that the Index published the comment.

In reply, I sent my own comment into the Index which was not published and, so far, I have not received feedback that it will be published. My comment follows and is the basis for the title of this post.

In 2009, the GA Baptist Convention gave Truett-McConnell College $2.7 million. Dr. Emir Caner, Truett’s president, has put forth “The Anabaptist Vision: My Vision for Truett-McConnell College.”⁵ Would Southern Baptists support a Calvinist Vision for a school? Bottom line: We Southern Baptists are not Anabaptists!

Had Caner, or any Southern Baptist College president, put forth a “Calvinist Vision” it would probably not have gone for too long without much notice. Yet, Caner’s “Anabaptist Vision” seems to have not gotten as much as a head turn. One can appreciate whatever historic influences Anabaptists may have had on Southern Baptist life while not attempting to move Southern Baptists, whose founders were Calvinistic Baptists, toward Anabaptism. In fairness to Truett-McConnell, they did official adopt the 2000 Baptist Faith & Message as their statement of faith.⁶

For a view from the other side, one young SBC pastor wrote the following comment in passing about not being “young, restless and reformed.”

Moreover, I have never wanted to be anything but a Southern Baptist. Being a Presbyterian has never appealed to me like it seems to some leaders in our convention and their protégés.⁷

In the comment section, this brother wrote to me that he would put C.J. Mahaney, a charismatic Baptist, “squarely in the Presbyterian camp.” Ironically, Mahaney is not Presbyterian though he is a Calvinist just as the Southern Baptist Founders were Calvinists. In the same way this pastor does not desire to be Presbyterian, neither do I desire to be Anabaptist. We should be able to be Southern Baptist together without being Anabaptist or Presbyterian.

As I’ve noted before, Southern Baptists should be cooperating in evangelism and respecting each other theologically based on the Baptist Faith and Message 2000.⁸

_____________________

Related posts:

1. Letter to the editor of ‘The Christian Index’ by Marty King
2. Roman Catholic Baptist?
3. The Calvinists: a Reply to Gerald Harris Part I

© Mark for Here I Blog - for the gospel of Jesus Christ., 2012. | Permalink | 11 comments | Add to
Post tags: Christian Index, Emir Caner, Georgia Baptist Convention, Truett-McConnell

In recent years, two Southern Baptist Churches in Georgia have been disfellowshipped due to having a female pastor. While some may question disfellowshipping a church over such an issue, having  a female pastor is in direct violation of the statement of faith around which Southern Baptists cooperate in ministry.

The action is based on a vote by the convention in November 2000 affirming the 2000 Baptist Faith & Message as the state body’s doctrinal statement. The document includes the phrase, “While both men and women are gifted for service in the church, the office of pastor is limited to men as qualified by Scripture.”

“We are keeping faith with the Baptist Faith and Message with regard to women serving as pastor,” Robert White, executive director of the state convention said in a statement. “The GBC has never been opposed to women serving in ministry positions other than pastor.”¹

On the other hand, First Redeemer Church, a Georgia Southern Baptist church, recently had two Roman Catholic Presidential Republican primary candidates speak from the pulpit. Newt Gingrich was the most recent candidate to speak referring to the “secular left” of which The Wall Street Journal reported the following.

The harsh language comes as Rick Santorum has successfully courted many of the party’s social conservatives. That fact was further illustrated Sunday by Mr. Gingrich’s visit here to First Redeemer Church, where Mr. Santorum spoke exactly a week ago. Last Sunday evening, the former Pennsylvania senator drew some 3,000 supporters who also filled an overflow room next door. Mr. Gingrich, who attended a Sunday morning service, spoke to about 2,300 people from the main sanctuary.²

Yet, the Baptist Faith and Message is not silent on the political realm [emphasis added].

XVII. Religious Liberty
God alone is Lord of the conscience, and He has left it free from the doctrines and commandments of men which are contrary to His Word or not contained in it. Church and state should be separate. The state owes to every church protection and full freedom in the pursuit of its spiritual ends. In providing for such freedom no ecclesiastical group or denomination should be favored by the state more than others. Civil government being ordained of God, it is the duty of Christians to render loyal obedience thereto in all things not contrary to the revealed will of God. The church should not resort to the civil power to carry on its work. The gospel of Christ contemplates spiritual means alone for the pursuit of its ends. The state has no right to impose penalties for religious opinions of any kind. The state has no right to impose taxes for the support of any form of religion. A free church in a free state is the Christian ideal, and this implies the right of free and unhindered access to God on the part of all men, and the right to form and propagate opinions in the sphere of religion without interference by the civil power.³

Is having a female pastor more of a violation of the BFM than promoting a particular political party by giving candidates access to the pulpit?

____________

Related posts:

1. Surry Baptist Association-Flat Rock Baptist Timeline
2. Southern Baptist Church Offices, Elders et al. (Update)
3. Southern Baptist Disclosure and Unity

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Post tags: Baptist Faith Message, Georgia Baptist Convention, Newt Gingrich, Rick Santorum

Editorial not worthy of editor or Index

Dear Gerald,

As a former Georgia Baptist, I appreciate you and your service as Index editor. But, your Feb. 10 editorial was not your best. The level of research, organization, and writing are simply not up to what Georgia Baptists have come to expect. Let me share with you three concerns.

1. The editorial seems intent on fear-mongering, and is poorly sourced and organized.

Although you admit in the article that “many great preachers and theologians have embraced Calvinism through the years,” you imply readers should be afraid of Calvinists, as evidenced by the ominous, bold print used for every reference to Calvinism and Reformed theology. Even the title sounds ominous.

There are only vague references to supporting evidence of many of the claims, and others are just wrong. For instance, you say Trevin Wax, the managing editor of our new Bible study The Gospel Project “admits he has been influenced by Reformed pastors and authors” and then you list seven names. Trevin has never said that, however, Trevin did interview someone on his blog once who said that list of people had influenced HIM – not Trevin.

Furthermore, what do Calvinism, a marriage book, and the possible SBC name change have to do with each other? It appears you are simply throwing everything controversial into one article to enflame.

2. LifeWay’s new curriculum called The Gospel Project has no agenda other than responding to a need churches have expressed for a long time – more in-depth Bible studies. Period. Your column repeats as fact baseless charges made by a few anti-Calvinist bloggers. You over-emphasized the role of the initial advisory group which only met one time, a year ago, to talk about general principles of an in-depth curriculum. You didn’t even ask to read the sample lessons for yourself or interview the editor or any of the writers.

Please read the sample lessons at GospelProject.com. You will see there is no agenda other than to help users encounter Christ in the text. LifeWay will not bring any doctrinal system to the text other than the Baptist Faith and Message 2000.

3. I believe the most irresponsible part of the column was your charge that LifeWay president Dr. Thom Rainer “seems to have led the SBC literature-producing agency to become more Reformed.” That is not true, Gerald. You did not cite any LifeWay materials that are teaching Reformed theology, and fail to offer any reason Dr. Rainer would have for doing that since it is well known he is not a Calvinist. Dr. Rainer writes on evangelism and outreach, not Calvinism.

Dr. Rainer has written, “I put my integrity on the line and promise there is no Calvinistic agenda implied or explicit in our curriculum.”

My prayer is that, upon reflection, you will retract these untrue accusations and help instill well-deserved confidence in LifeWay’s resources.

Marty King

Director, LifeWay Communications

———-

P.s. The above letter was provided with permission to republish. I have also responded more fully to Gerald Harris in the following two parts.
1) The Calvinists: a Reply to Gerald Harris Part I
2) The Calvinists: a Reply to Gerald Harris Part II
A pdf. version is also available in one file: The Calvinists: a Reply to Gerald Harris

Related posts:

1. The Calvinists: a Reply to Gerald Harris Part I
2. The Calvinists: a Reply to Gerald Harris Part II
3. Baptist College President Offers Calvinist Vision?

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Post tags: Christian Index, Georgia Baptist Convention, Gerald Harris, Gospel Project, John Calvin, Lifeway, Mark Driscoll, Marty King, Trevin Wax, TULIP

Below is a one minute clip cut from a longer interview (see below) where Franklin Graham is asked whether or not he believes President Obama is a Christian. Check it out.

[Obama] has said he is a Christian so I just have to assume, you know, that he is. But the question is, “What is a Christian?” A Christian is a person that believes that Jesus Christ is God’s Son who died on a cross for our sins, who God raised to life; and that, if we put our faith and trust in him that God will forgive us of our sins. That is the definition of a Christian.

Related posts:

1. Woody Harrelson On Christianity
2. President Obama: Another View of the Election
3. Dear President Obama – No!

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Post tags: Barack Obama, Christianity, Franklin Graham, video

What would you do Wednesday!

I’m sure many Christians have handed out gospel tracts. There are a variety of tracts and some are even made to look like money. There is a million dollar bill tract which, of course, does not look real, but there are a few in lower denominations such at $10 and $20 bills that look like real money at first glance.

Usually, these $10 and $20 gospel tracts look like a bill folded in half with a gospel message on the inside. Today’s scenario will involve a $10 gospel tract being left at a restaurant as a tip. Sometimes people leave real money for a tip (as they should) along with a gospel tract, but when the tract looks like actual money the “tipping” may become questionable.

So what had happened was…

You are out eating with a fellow church member after Sunday morning worship service. This friend has just discovered the $10 gospel tract and thinks it’s the coolest thing in the world. However, you do not yet know about your friends new found excitement for this tract until after you’ve eaten and paid.

The bill comes and the total cost for both of you is about $30 after the meal, drinks and dessert. As you both start to pay your friend says that he will take care of the tip.

“Great!” you say as you thank him.

While walking to your cars your friend excitedly reveals to you the “coolest gospel tract” he’s ever seen. He shows you the fake, folded $10 bill and explains how attention grabbing it would be for sharing the gospel.

You ask if he has ever used one yet. He says, “Yep! I just used one to leave the tip.”

“Did you leave any real money along with the tract?” you ask.

Your friend replies, “Nah, because the Waitress is going to be so surprised when she finds and reads the gospel which is infinitely more valuable than mere a $10 bill.”

What would you do at that moment?

• Tell your friend what a great idea he had.
• Ask why he didn’t leave two tracts so the waitress could share one.
• Go back inside and personally hand the waitress a real tip and apologize.
• Go back inside and give her a $20 gospel tract instead.
• Or…

Related posts:

1. Ethics: A Church Member Wins the Lottery
2. Ethics: Betting On NCAA March Madness Brackets
3. Ethics: Church to Lose Funding Over Homosexual Adoption

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Post tags: ethics, WWYDW

GQ magazine published an interview with actor Woody Harrelson. In the interview, Harrelson is asked about the Gospel and his Christian upbringing.¹ He was raised in church studying the Bible and preached his first sermon at age 17.

GQ: Can you tell me about when you preached the Gospel as a child?
Woody Harrelson: I was very religious growing up. My mom still is. We went to church all the time, went to Bible study; we even did Bible study at my house. I went to a Presbyterian college, you know, I was in….all the way, and so I remember doing my first sermon when I was 17, I was in high school. It wasn’t a full twenty-five minute sermon but for like ten minutes I got up and they let me do that and it was on faith.

When asked about his favorite part of the Bible he mentions that he believes the Gospel of Luke is probably the most accurate.

GQ: Do you have a favorite part of the Bible?
Woody Harrelson: …Luke is probably the purest of what was said, but then in John it goes from saying we are all children of God and we all have the power to perform miracles to… “I am the way the truth and the light and no one cometh unto the Father except by me,” and it becomes much more authoritative and you can just see that… you know, I’m just fascinated by all that.

However, that has all changed and he no longer considers himself a Christian.

GQ: Do you consider yourself to be a Christian?
Woody Harrelson: No. I have a strong spiritual life. I can’t say that I have faith that Jesus is my Savior, but I look at Jesus in the same way that I look at, you know, Mohammed. He was giving everyone the goods. So was Gandhi. And to me I think it’s this thing of everyone wanting to make Jesus the Son of God and Jesus the only way to God that is the thing that no longer makes me want to be a Christian.

Interesting that Harrelson’s rejection of Christianity is based on the exclusive claims of Jesus. However, he says that the problem is “everyone wanting to make Jesus the Son of God.” He seems to base his beliefs on who he says Jesus is. If it were simply other people claiming Jesus as God’s Son, I wonder why Harrelson does not reject that claim and embrace Christ on his own terms?

Maybe Harrelson still some conviction and does trust the Gospel of Luke which makes exclusive claims about Jesus. Luke 9:20 (ESV) states, “Then he said to them, “But who do you say that I am?” And Peter answered, “The Christ of God.” Luke records many teachings from Jesus including the resurrection and ascension in chapter 24.

Harrelson’s rejection of Jesus is interesting. He accepts Luke as the most accurate recording of Jesus’ life, yet rejects Jesus based on exclusive claims about Jesus, some of which may be found in Luke.

There’s still hope.

________________

Related posts:

1. Franklin Graham on President Obama’s Christianity
2. Book Review: Christianity in Crisis The 21st Century
3. Christless Christianity Q and A With Michael Horton

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Post tags: GQ, Woody Harrelson

What would you do Wednesday!

Today I’m going to pick-on set the situation within the realm of Southern Baptists since I are one. It is also more culturally acceptable to use your own as an example, right? (Don’t worry, non-Southern Baptists may also comment.)

The created situation involves a seminary student who preaches someone else’s sermons. The question will be two-fold by considering the person as a student and then as a pastor. Your pastor.

For this scenario, the seminary student (SS) will be using, let’s see, sermons by – eeny, meeny, miny, moe, choose a preacher and let’s go – Adrian Rogers. There are many popular Southern Baptist preachers from which to choose, but we will go with the excellent orator, Dr. Rogers, who is now home with the Lord.

Once upon a time…

While in seminary one of your fellow students, SS, confides in you that he does not feel as though he has enough time to do the school work and successfully carry out his preaching duties. To save time on sermon preparation, SS listens to an Adrian Rogers’ sermon and transcribes it for his own use.

Stunned, you’re not sure what to say at the moment. A few days later you learn that a few other students found out that SS uses Rogers’ sermons. Although they were sort of making light of his actions and writing SS off as somewhat of a joke, they thought that SS ought to be confronted and rebuked.

What would you do?

• Confront and rebuke him?
• High-five him for preaching good sermons?

What if you found out this was your pastor in seminary? Would you say anything at all about this issue?

Related posts:

1. Ethics: Whether or Not To Leave a Church Over the Pastor’s Sermons
2. Ethics: Baptist Professor Drinking Beer in Public
3. Ethics: Army Chaplain Preaches for Memorial Day

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Post tags: ethics, WWYDW

What would you do Wednesday!

Freemasonry is not as active as it was in the past. It was already on the decline when I left the lodge 13 years ago. Although I imagine the Shriners, of whom all are Masons, are still pretty active.

Freemasonry was once a concern in Southern Baptist life. In fact, the North American Mission Board’s apologetics website has a few resources on Freemasonry under “New Religions and Cults.”¹

A 1993 Southern Baptist study on Freemasonry concluded with a list of items showing where Freemasonry and Christianity were not compatible. However, the report also acknowledged:

That many oustanding Christians and Southern Baptists now are, and in the past have been Masons, including such notable past Southern Baptist leaders as B.H. Carroll, George W. Truett, L.R. Scarborough, W.T. Connor, Louie D. Newton, and J.B. Lawrence.²

What if you discovered that the deacons in your church were Freemasons?

Imagine that you have been attending a local church for a year. In the last few months you began to know a few of the deacons a little better. During that time you also began noticing that most of the deacons wore similar lapel pins.

Finally, you get a chance to privately ask one of the deacons about the pins. This deacon is glad you asked. He explains that they are Freemasonry pins and that all of the deacons are Masons. He was hoping that you would ask since Masons are forbidden from actively recruiting.

“Freemasons have always been part of this church,” the deacon explains. “Years ago we dedicated the Family Life Center in the name of our lodge,” he says as he walks you around to the dedicated stone that is etched with date, church name and Masonic symbols. The deacon encouragingly asks if you have anymore questions about Masonry?

What would you do?

• Ask more about Freemasonry including how to join.
• Ask about how Freemasonry lines up with Christianity.
• Say thanks, but no thanks.
• Talk with the pastor about this issue.
• Smash the Masonic stone and tell the deacon to repent.
• Or…

________________________

Related posts:

1. Ethics: Deacons Call for Pastor to Resign
2. Ethics: Potential Deacon Struggling with Pornography
3. Ethics: Female Pastor Presented to Preach Sunday Morning

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Post tags: ethics, WWYDW

What would you do Wednesday!

Today’s situation deals with the uncomfortable issue of church discipline. To make the situation more uncomfortable a church discipline contract will also be involved. The scenario is inspired by real circumstances surrounding a former Mars Hill Church member named Andrew who was issued a church discipline contract to sign.¹

Imagine that you (or a friend if you wish) has just confessed and repented of being sexually involved with a fellow church member who happens to be the child of one of the church elders. The confession took place in the covenant group that you are a part of where it was then taken to one of the pastors/elders.

The pastor then issued a church discipline contract which he expected you to sign and follow. The discipline contract laid out the following steps that would be taken on the road to restoration.

• You will attend a covenant group and meet with its leader on a regular basis.
• You will not be involved in serving in the church.
• You will not pursue or date anyone inside or outside of this church.
• You will write out in detail your sexual and emotional attachment history and share it with covenant group leader.
• You will write out in detail the chronology of events and sexual/emotional sin and share it with the covenant group leader and a pastor.
• You will write out a list of all people you have sinned against during this timeframe, either by sexual/emotional sin, lying or deceiving, share it with the covenant group leader and develop a plan to confess sin and ask for forgiveness.

How would you respond (or advise your friend to respond)?

• Follow the contract no questions asked.
• Possibly follow the contract after some clarification.
• Inquire as to whether or not the elders child was also issued a contract.
• Dispute the contract explaining that you have repented.
• Leave the church.

__________________________________

Related posts:

1. Ethics: Resign Church Membership To Avoid Discipline
2. Ethics: Business Bribes
3. Ethics: Adding Alcohol Abstinence to the Church Covenant

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Post tags: ethics, WWYDW

God is going to do something awesome.
God is going to do something amazing.
God is doing something incredible.
God is doing something awesome.
God is doing something amazing.
God is doing amazing things.
It’s going to be awesome.
Let’s change the world.
God will prosper you.
Fly with the eagles.
Listen to the Spirit.
It’s all about love.
Lives will change.
God is working.
Look to Jesus.
Praise God.
Amen.

Such sensational words are sometimes used in preaching for dramatic emotional effect. Yet, the words themselves must be attached to something or they stir empty praise and emotion.

What has actually been communicated in the above words?

Related posts:

1. Amazing Grace: The History and Theology of Calvinism
2. Amazing Grace: The History & Theology of Calvinism – DVD Giveaway
3. Do Hard Things

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Post tags:

As far as I know, being rebuked is not something to which most Christians look forward, especially, being publicly rebuked. However, Scripture says it is good for rebuke (2 Tim. 3:16). Scripture even includes the well-known example of one Apostle publicly rebuking another Apostle (Gal. 2:11, 14).

Today, there is no shortage of Christians rebuking one another online. Though direct, public rebukes in person is not often carried out. Occasionally, one might hear a public rebuke about  a particular person, but the more popular route is to address poor teaching in general leaving the teacher unnamed. In the past, I have argued whether or not the practice of general criticism aimed at the unnamed is a good biblical practice.¹

Furthermore, public rebuke as carried out by Paul toward Peter in Galatians 2 is almost unheard of today. However, a recent situation come very close. Matt Chandler offered what appears to be a public rebuke in his recent sermon at Steven Furtick’s Code Orange Revival at Elevation Church. It seems Chandler’s message could be easily set against that of the other speakers at Code Orange. Elevation Church was actually accused of censoring Chandler’s sermon.² Chris Rosebrough has further documentation and insights into the reasons why Chandler’s sermon was not replayed during the Code Orange re-broadcast.³

Chandler was certainly the odd man out at this conference. One may even argue biblically that he should have declined the offer to participate. However, his message and attendance were needed. He preached the gospel, did not boast in himself, and challenged those in attendance that God is about His glory. Chandler explained finding joy over happiness in the Christian life.

Chandler’s most direct rebuke is found in the following words.

I think God is for you, and I think God loves you and He delights in and He’s going to shepherd you, He’s going to lead you. But He’s going to do it all to make much of Himself and to point people towards Himself. So just be careful. Because with a little shift here and a little drift there, God’s name is still on it but you know, ‘That Pastor Steven, it was his vision’ and ‘We have the best worship in the world,’ and before long you can weave these things into your culture and into your ethos that are opposed to the things of God. So when I pray for this church and your pastor, I pray God will protect you.⁴

Chandler’s warning was clear, but the exact target subtle. He provided a good example of warning against a potential unbiblical practice in the church. He could have gone further though some may say that would have been in bad taste since he would have been clearly rebuking the church that invited him.

Would a clearer rebuke have been in bad taste?

I would like to use the example of Paul rebuking Peter to answer this question with a “no”. Before preceding, understand that I am not criticizing Matt Chandler by using his sermon as an example. I am thankful Chandler was courageous enough to say what he did. What I am saying is that Chandler could have gone further and it would have been biblically acceptable to do so.

In Galatians 2 beginning in verse 11, Paul writes about publicly rebuking Peter. A few verses earlier, however, Paul acknowledges that Peter was also entrusted with the gospel (v. 7) and viewed as a pillar of the faith (v. 9). Given Peter’s standing in the Christian community it would seem the Paul would be somewhat sensitive in his public correction of Peter. What Paul writes may lead one to think differently.

But when Cephas came to Antioch, I opposed him to his face, because he stood condemned. (Galatians 2:11 ESV)

Paul uses strong, direct words. He continued.

But when I saw that their conduct was not in step with the truth of the gospel, I said to Cephas before them all…(Galatians 2:14 ESV)

It is clear that the gospel is more important than the Apostle Peter. It is also clear that Paul is speaking publicly in his rebuke in which he directly corrects Peter’s errors.

Notice what Paul does not say and do. Paul does not excuse Peter because God used Peter’s gospel preaching at Pentecost to convert 5,000 people. Paul does not excuse Peter because of his Apostleship. Paul does not show signs of being judged as a hater as reason enough to cowardly back down and not publicly rebuke Peter while defending the gospel.

Rather, Paul shows what the two greatest commands given by Jesus look like in action. First, he loves God by defending His gospel. Second, flowing from Paul’s love for God, he expresses his love for others in caring for their souls by defending the gospel making sure God’s grace and Christ’s death are not made void (Gal. 2:21).

Finally, there is good reason, i.e. the sake of the gospel, for Christians to follow Paul’s biblical example of public rebuke just as they follow many of his other examples.

For what it’s worth…

Mark

P.s. I had other points to consider, but did not want to make the post too long. One of those points was about public rebuke being potentially more helpful if the person being rebuke is clearly stated. The reason may be shown in the example of Matt Chandler’s rebuke noted above. The careful listener, and even the person toward whom the rebuke was aimed, may have picked up on the theological issues Chandler was reproving. However, judging by the audience applause, it was not clear that they got it. Therefore, the way Paul pointedly addressed Peter along with Peter’s theological errors provides a further illustration of how a public rebuke may be carried out. If it is not clear which messenger and message is being reproved this may lead the audience to theological confusion or simply leave them embracing theological error.
__________________________

Related posts:

1. Internet fellowship
2. Christless Christianity Q and A With Michael Horton
3. The Albert Mohler Program

© Mark for Here I Blog - for the gospel of Jesus Christ., 2012. | Permalink | 7 comments | Add to
Post tags: Code Orange Revival, Matt Chandler, public rebuke, rebuke, Steven Furtick

What would you do Wednesday!

The question of plagiarized sermons comes up every now and then. Whether or not one should preach someone else’s sermons has been debated in the blogosphere, too. Selling sermons must not be too bad of a business considering the eight sites listed on Sermon Source that continue to sell sermons. There are probably more than just these eight sites selling sermons.

Of course, buying someone else’s sermons does not mean that they will be delivered as original work from the pulpit. However, this does happen to the extent that one pastor recently stepped down over sermon plagiarism.

Today’s scenario is slightly different though it is based on a true situation. The situation is that one relatively prominent pastor  has used sermons of another prominent pastor with no citation of who the work belongs to.

The situation is that someone discovered the same sermon on two different church websites from two different pastors with both listing the source of the sermon as that church’s pastor. One pastor has had the sermon on the website dating eight years earlier than the other. It would seem that the pastor with the later dating copied the work of that of the earlier dating.

Consider the following ethical questions concerning this situation keeping in mind that you are not part of either congregation.

Are you obligated to say anything to anyone? Is it best to keep silent? If you don’t keep silent, what biblical principle should be followed? Is Matthew 18 to be followed? How would you start the process and the follow-up?

Is using someone else’s sermons immoral or unethical? Do the churches have a right to know? Should the churches who pay these pastors have a right to original sermons?

Maybe the second pastor has permission from the first pastor to use his material. Maybe neither man cares if anyone is cited as doing the original sermon, then what?

Would you feel responsible if you reach out to the churches and reveal what has happened and a pastor loses his job? What about his family? Does it matter that the sermons are spiritually healthy and the flock is being fed by them?

What would you do?

What would you do if one of the above were your pastor?

Related posts:

1. Ethics: Seminary Student Preaches Someone Else’s Sermons
2. Ethics: If Your Pastor Says You Suck?
3. Ethics: Pastor Opposes Tim Tebow Preaching

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Post tags: ethics, WWYDW

Last night on Late Night with Jimmy Fallon, Jimmy Fallon did a parody song by combining Tim Tebow to David Bowie and producing the singer Tebowie (Tim Tebow + David Bowie = Tebowie). Fallon sung as if a dialogue were taking place between Tim Tebow and Jesus Christ to the tune of Bowie’s song “Space Oddity” (lyrics below).

Did Jimmy Fallon go too far?

• If you think he went too far: Tweet him that he should apologize.
• If you think it was just right: Tweet him that he was funny.

The Lyrics

Tim Tebow to Jesus Christ. (x2)
Commencing fourth down, hut, hut, hike.
Tim Tebow to Jesus Christ.
Snap the football and may God’s love be with me.

This is Jesus Christ to Tim Tebow,
Please leave me alone.
Don’t you know my day of rest is Sunday?
And I’m sick of watching all these Broncos’ games.

I hear that you play New England next week.
Dude, you’re on your own.
Brady is too good and I’ve got better things to do.

Though I’ve passed 316 yards there’s still two games to go,
If I want to make it to the Super Bowl.
And show everyone on earth how to Tebow.

Tim Tebow to Jesus Christ, the Broncos won, we’re still alive.
Come on, everyone, Tebow.(x4)

What do you think?

Related posts:

1. Is Tim Tebow a Religious Hypocrite?
2. Ethics: Pastor Opposes Tim Tebow Preaching
3. A NASCAR Prayer, Parody or Blasphemy?

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Post tags: David Bowie, Jimmy Fallon, Tebowie, Tim Tebow

What would you do Wednesday!

The New York Times reported that Roman Catholic charities in Illinois must comply with a new requirement to “consider same-sex couples as potential foster-care and adoptive parents if they want to receive state money.”¹ Catholic bishops claim that these requirements infringe on freedom of religion. Catholic charities in other cities have closed their adoption services rather than comply with the new requirements. The article also states that five Catholic Charities in Illinois get 60 – 92% of their revenue from the state.

For today’s scenario, let’s move the above situation to your local church.

Your church has been providing adoptive services for the community and surrounding areas for 20 years. State legislation was just passed requiring your church adoption services to consider homosexual couples as potential adoptive parents or foster parents. If this new requirement to consider homosexual couples is not met, state funding will be cut-off.

State funding makes up 60% of the adoption services revenue while the other 40% comes from donations from various outside sources. You have only been on the board of directors for a year. Yet,  you must consider all of the options on what’s best for serving the community while not compromising your Christian beliefs.

What would you do?

• Comply and take the money because it’s needed and we shouldn’t judge anyway.
• Comply and take the money for now, but slowly ween the charity from state funding.
• Don’t comply and just shut down the charity.
• Don’t comply and trust God to continue providing.
• Don’t comply, stand on your beliefs and fight on the basis of freedom of religion.
• Move the charity underground and offer black market adoptions.

_________________________

Related posts:

1. Ethics: A Church Member Wins the Lottery
2. Ethics: Christian Converts to Islam to Marry Muslim
3. Ethics: Pastor Admits to Homosexual Orientation

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Post tags: ethics, WWYDW