In our postmodern context, the self-realization of the individual, or autonomous, individual expressivism-viewed as an evolutionary process-has become humanity’s God. Here are several basic ways in which humanity, that is, “the modern self”, has defied God and continues to rebel against the truth of being made in God’s image:
Getting a handle on Mental Health Mental health has been in the news recently, not only due to the large numbers of people who have struggled in during lockdowns and isolation, but also because of several high-profile athletes who have opened up about their struggles with mental illness. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), roughly 20% of the population…
The scripture states in Colossians 2:9-10 that believers in Christ have been given all the fullness they need. In our spiritual relationship with God, individually we have everything we need in Christ and in the Holy Spirit. The companion truth to Christ’s sufficiency for each person is this: we need one another in the church. Jesus did not call his disciples to…
There is a tendency in Christian circles to present the faith in glowing terms- a focus on health, blessing, prosperity, joy, and victory. This tendency comes out of a proper desire to present the goodness of our Savior, but at times it can come across as an argument in utilitarian terms: “Here are all the personal, earthly benefits of following Jesus.” Certainly,…
Rediscovering Church A lot of people today claim to be “done with church”. According to Barna Research there is a rising group of religious “Nones”- those Americans who claim no religious affiliation. Many prominent Christians have denied the faith and have now dubbed themselves “Ex-vangelicals” in recent years. Numerous prominent evangelical pastors and churches have been embroiled in controversy and scandal. Add…
In Acts 1:1-8, Luke tells of his purpose in writing the book of Acts, and then gives us an account of Jesus’ conversation with his disciples after his resurrection: So when they had come together, they asked him, “Lord will you at this time restore the kingdom to Israel?” He said to them, “It is not for you to know the times…
For 2022, here are the scripture passages, prayers, and goals that our church is pursuing. I hope you are encouraged by the scriptures, which are centered on the Power of the Holy Spirit, Courage, and Love. The prayers are based on feedback from our congregation, and the goals are from the elders consideration of all the feedback as well as the needs…
This past Sunday’s worship service was focused on coming before the Lord. We looked back at 2021, and we also looked ahead to 2022. There are many examples in Scripture of people coming “before the Lord”. Hannah, in First Samuel 1, was pouring out her soul in prayer “before the Lord”, asking for a child.…
Here is a sampling of Christmas Hymns on Spotify to help you think about and enjoy the meaning of Christmas- We celebrate that our Savior has come to earth to bring salvation to his people!
I’ve been encouraged for a number of years by Ellie Holcomb’s songwriting and singing. Her husband Drew is a good songwriter and singer as well!