It’s ironic that in a movement built on prophetic dreams where God supposedly reveals the secrets of the world, apparently nobody ever receives a dream about the credible allegations of sexual abuse going on in the church. Mike Bickle is…
Fire from Africa: The influence of ‘reverse missions’ today
While in the 19th and 20th centuries, America was seen as an exporter of Christianity to the rest of the world — in particular Africa — the 21st century is bringing a change some have called “reverse missions.” The United…
The charismatic story is part of the Baptist story, historian contends
While never gaining widespread acceptance in Baptist circles, the Holiness, Pentecostal and charismatic traditions have interacted with Baptists “more than we have imagined,” observed Baptist historian Doug Weaver. “Baptists have been involved in both sides of the charismatic story —…
Religion Notes: Pastors oppose sports gambling; Gardner-Webb featured in March Madness broadcast
Most Protestant pastors oppose sports gambling and its legalization, a position placing them at odds with much of society and even with their own congregations. “The large majority of pastors oppose sports betting,” Scott McConnell, executive director of LifeWay Research,…
Virtual reality baptisms and 3-D biblical experiences: the church of the future?
Imagine a church building where the sanctuary morphs into biblical locations, where worshipers confront the burning bush at the same time it’s preached about, and where converts can be baptized without being physically present. That’s not the church of the future. For one pastor, that’s the church of now.
Protestant decline leaves fewer to celebrate Reformation Day
Happy birthday, Protestants. This week marks 500 years since Martin Luther’s actions sparked the Protestant Reformation. But is anyone really celebrating? Church historian Bill Leonard says yes, some are.
Eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit — Who? Me?
La versión en español está disponible aquí. Pentecost Sunday prompted me to reflect again in my personal relationship with the doctrine of the Holy Spirit. One of my first recollections dealing seriously and painfully with this doctrine happened in the…
Where have all the charismatics gone?
In the spirit of Paula Cole, I’ve been asking, “Where have all the charismatics gone?” Its been some twenty years since I found myself at a revival service, praying over a friend who had been “slain in the spirit.” These…