The development of our theological belief is like navigating a long, winding river. At each turn, we discover something new about ourselves, and more importantly, something new about our God. As a theologian, a minister, a church historian, and a pastor, I navigate these waters consistently. There are others present with us in this boatContinue reading “On the Rapids: Exploring Pentecostal Orthodoxy”
Tag Archives: Christian
The First Creed
My thought was to write today’s blog on the topic of why I am a Classical Pentecostal. However, as I studied for this coming Sunday’s message. I ran across an intriguing statement by the commentator William Barclay—his comment ties in so well with my blogs over the past few weeks. If you have not readContinue reading “The First Creed”
Separation and Unity?
This past Sunday, I preached from Philippians 2:1-2. In these verses, Paul emphasizes the need for unity within the Church. Unity is very elusive within the context of Church history. From the Great Schism in 1054 (the division within the Catholic Church that led to the formation of the Roman and Eastern Churches) to theContinue reading “Separation and Unity?”
Understanding Arianism: The Danger of a Created Jesus
In my last blog, I wrote about Sabillianism. That’s a fun word. Say that with me. As a recap, Sabillius believed that the Trinity was not three parts but only Jesus. This gave birth to the “Jesus only” or “Oneness” movement. As I mentioned, I struggle theologically on whether this doctrine will keep someone fromContinue reading “Understanding Arianism: The Danger of a Created Jesus”
Deny the Denial
I know this may surprise some of you, but I do not have a tattoo. I know it’s weird for a modern pastor not to have a man bun, tattoo, and skinny jeans, but I don’t. Well, I do have skinny jeans. If I were ever to get a tattoo, it would be a CelticContinue reading “Deny the Denial”
Where History and Theology Meet
My full-time job is as a pastor, but I moonlight as a professor of history and pastoral theology. Most of my students do not enjoy history; the same could be said for most of those sitting in the pew weekly. I’ve never understood this. A quote often credited to Maya Angelou states, “You can’t knowContinue reading “Where History and Theology Meet”
Dare I Have an Opinion?
The political and theological worlds are so intertwined these days that I am almost scared to have an opinion. For too long, those who disagree have decided it is a basis to hate someone with a differing opinion. How foolish. I find it funny that those who claim to be the most open-minded are oftenContinue reading “Dare I Have an Opinion?”
Redefined
As I prepared to write this blog this morning, I heard a song by Tosha Cobbs that I’d never heard before. It is from her Royalty tour. Written by Travis Greene, the lyrics state, “I am royalty. I am who You called me. I believe I am Yours. Oh, yes, I am.” The United StatesContinue reading “Redefined”
Grace Gifts
Generosity is not a moment. It is a way of life. People often comment that churches only talk about money. That shows a fundamental lack of understanding of Jesus’ teaching. He spoke on two topics more than any other, and they are closely related. Jesus spoke of the Kingdom and finances. Why? Because He recognizesContinue reading “Grace Gifts”
Fairness or Formation
Dear faithful readers, both of you, I want to express my deep gratitude. Over the past few months, life has not allowed me to write very often, though it is something I love to do. Writing relieves stress and allows me to express thoughts I cannot work into future Bible studies or sermons. With thatContinue reading “Fairness or Formation”
Through Time 