Amid the widening divisions and deepening polarization in every area of life, we can make choices that are intended to bring people together rather than push them farther away.
Out of context: misunderstanding Romans 13
Attorney General Sessions would do well to read the entire letter of Romans – or at least all of chapter 13.
The nation is grappling with mass gun killings. Why is the BGAV focused on human sexuality?
At this moment, why is the Baptist General Association of Virginia Executive Board talking about human sexuality? Yes, the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship recently released their Illumination findings. And the CBF faces criticism from the right and the left for it. Right now, who cares?
Kneel or stand? A consideration of ‘imago Dei’
For the right, the flag is worth honoring and protecting. For the left, racial issues tear at the fabric of what it means to be human. Which one is right?
Redefining evangelism: It’s not ‘us versus them’
Recently, BNG has had several stories about evangelism (here, here, and here). The word evangelical comes from the Greek euangelion, and it means “good news.” Christians have good news to share. But sharing does not mean converting. Why do we…
Measurable data misses the point of a community of faith
Recently, someone asked me about the “measurable data” of my years of ministry. The question bemused me and my sense of calling. The question is clear. It is about numbers: attendance, baptisms, annual giving, and other quantifiable characteristics. But the…
Gender wage gap: A justice issue for the Church
Philadelphia’s mayor Jim Kenney signed a bill on Jan. 23 prohibiting employers from asking applicants about their salary history. Women’s rights activists favor the bill because it will help lower the pay gap between men and women. Employers do not…
Barth, Church and migrants in Calais
Last week, French authorities began clearing an area of Calais called the “Jungle.” After enduring war and poverty, millions of people fled the Middle East, Asia and Africa. About 7,000 men, women, and children built a shanty town near the…
One Christian’s response to the first presidential debate
Two people stepped onto the stage at Hofstra University. Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump. One of them will likely become the next president of the United Stated of America. Division runs deep in the election. Palpable tension seemed to erupt…