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What Is Biblical Literacy?
We complain about it, write about it, claim it’s important or even critical, design programs to create it, but what is it? I don’t mean that none of us know what we mean when we say “biblically literate” or “biblically illiterate,” but do we all mean the same thing? I don’t think we do, and…
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Fences: Mending or Rending
The following is a sermon I presented at the Unitarian-Universalist Church of Pensacola on September 11,2005 and originally posted here on September 13, 2005. I’m reposting it because when I went to look for it, I found that the original post had somehow been truncated, and also because there is a one word at a…
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Experiencing the (Baptism of the) Holy Spirit
This is a topic where I tend to make just about everyone uncomfortable. Long time readers may recall a previous discussion of speaking in tongues, and my own experience of it. Those who expect me to be intellectually oriented and rational are uncomfortable with mystical experiences, and many who are comfortable with the mystical experiences…
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Psalm 119:2 – The Blessing of Seeking
Continuing with Psalm 119, which I began with Psalm 119:1 yesterday. There are some notes on this series there. Blessed are those who preserve [keep] his testimonies,who wholeheartedly seek him. In the translation I use “testimonies” as in the KJV, though there are a number of other possible translations. I’ll comment on these various words…
It’s Not a Success Story
Prologue I’ve been listening to Robert Alter’s translation of the Hebrew Bible as an audiobook. I’ll doubtless write something about this translation later. But right now I’m listening to Judges, and it’s caused me to think a bit about the broader story of the history of Israel and then of the church. Charismatic Leadership One…
Psalm 119:1 – Living According to God’s Law
Introductory Note I’ve been meditating on Psalm 119 recently after a conversation with an author regarding a forthcoming book reminded me of it. I’m going to write a few short devotionals. I’m not sure how many I’ll write, but reading this Psalm does make me think. For any devotional on Psalm 119, please remember that…
Revelation 12-13 and Divine Passives
I regard as a basic manual for true spiritual warfare. I believe that it is much better to hear the themes of spiritual conflict than it is to try to identify specific referents. Of course, finding referents contemporary to the author can help us understand the themes. So these approaches are not mutually exclusive. Previously,…
Bible Study as a Work
I reflect on my experience memorizing Psalm 119 in a Christian school, highlighting the importance of balancing scholarly and spiritual Bible study. I emphasize that reading the Bible shouldn’t be a duty to earn God’s favor, but a personal connection. I encourage diverse approaches to engaging with Scripture, tailored to individual preferences.
When I Consider Your Heavens
When I consider the heavens the work of your fingers the moon and stars which you established What is a man,that you even think of him? Yet you have crowned him with glory and honor. Psalm 8:3-4 (my translation) (Note: The theme image is generated by AI. I’m interested in how applicable the image is….
Christian Education Should Be Broad and Deep
Christian education programs in churches are often the least well-thought-out elements of church life. Thinking about discipleship provides some answers.
Why Am I Not Involved in Politics?
I clarify my stance on Christian involvement in politics, emphasizing that while individual engagement is important, I prioritize meaningful advocacy over quantity of political posts. I advocate for informed voting and respectful dialogue rather than promoting specific candidates or issues, urging others to participate thoughtfully in the democratic process.
The Moral Influence of Jesus’ Death
In my Sunday School class yesterday we discussed Mark 15. We’re reading this with Allan Bevere’s Keeping Up with Jesus: A Narrative Devotional Commentary on Mark. In the thought questions for chapter 15, Allan asks both why Jesus is silent at his trial as depicted in Mark, and what it means that Jesus died for…
My Interview on Theodicy
As a continuation of my series on Theodicy, Steve Kindle interviewed me using the same set of questions I’ve used with all the other participants. This was recorded a year ago, but I just finished the production and posted it yesterday. For more information on the series: Theodicy Interview Series.
Determinism Anyone?
In a practical sense, I have to agree on this. I’m not sure if that’s the reality behind everything.
On Collective and Individual Responsibility
From the late Jacob Milgrom’s 3 volume Anchor Bible Commentary on Leviticus, specifically on Leviticus 4:1-35, Purification Offering: The Priestly doctrine of collective responsibility yields yet another corollary. The “good” people who perish with the evildoers are not innocent. For allowing the evildoers to flourish, to pollute the sanctuary beyond repair, they share the blame….
Beastly Attributes
Summarizing attributes of the assembly of dragons and beasts in Revelation 12 & 13.
Making an Image to the Beast
Are we making an image to the beast or being the image of Christ?
On Listening to One Another
We need to listen to people with different perspectives in a variety of different ways to improve our own understanding.
The Passion Translation: Content Review
An overview and rating of The Passion Translation (TPT)I don’t use generic labels but assess translations based on functional and formal criteria, including how much they reword the original language. Despite critics, I found TPT to be expectedly missionary in nature, combining a dynamic approach with considerable formal elements. While the translation’s charismatic roots and its translator’s claims generate controversy, I suggest that readers approach TPT like any other translation—by recognizing its biases and comparing it with others for a fuller understanding.
Review of The Passion Translation Part I – The Hype
The evaluation of a Bible translation hinges on various factors including theological perspectives and language familiarity. Controversy often arises over word choice, as seen in Romans 3:25’s varying translations of “propitiation.” Differing translation strategies result in diverse renderings, which can align with or challenge doctrinal positions. I encourage comparing translations and checking translator qualifications. Don’t assume “literal” means “accurate.” Instead, make use of multiple translations for a fuller understanding.
A Problem in Translation: Isaiah 3:12
Translation challenges Bible translators face, focusing on Isaiah 3:12’s varying interpretations. The passage’s meaning shifts depending on what textual choices one makes and whether one translates literally or figuratively, potentially impacting the modern reader’s understanding. Ultimately, translation choices reflect what translators deem most crucial to convey, with any decision risking some loss of the original message.
The Importance of Teaching Sanctification
Teachers and pastors frequently avoid talking about sanctification. Some of the reasons include: A Detour on Christian Perfection When I first joined a United Methodist congregation, I had the idea that Methodists would know a great deal about John Wesley. One Sunday night I discovered how wrong I was. I had been invited to teach…
I Am Not Ashamed
There might be many reasons why someone would be ashamed of the good news about God that is represented in what we call the “gospel.” Historically, the shame was in worshipping a convicted and executed criminal, calling him God and following his teachings. Very few people doubt that Jesus died, and that he was executed…
Ben Witherington III on the Rapture
Comments on some of the texts used to support the idea of the rapture. Ben Witherington is the author of what I consider to be the best commentary on Revelation suitable for use in preparing lessons/sermons (see below).
Look to Jesus (Hebrews 12:2)
The other day I was just waking up and realizing that I faced a challenging day. I decided to do a little scripture reading before even getting up. I chose to read a language I read only very slowly and with difficulty (Syriac), because that usually gives me more time to meditate. I have a…
Why I Still Like the Wesleyan Quadrilateral
Yes, I’ve heard the complaints, and those who say it isn’t actually Wesleyan or has deteriorated through the years, but I met it in the United Methodist Discipline before I first joined a Methodist church (though without the name) and I still like it. For those who may not be aware of the quadrilateral, it…