In our current political culture, we hear a lot about the idea of Christian Nationalism. Many ascribe this to President Trump and to many in the Christian right who seem to hold him as God’s ordained leader for this time. Let me begin by saying, President Trump is God’s ordained leader for this time, asContinue reading “Manifest Destiny: Historical Roots of Christian Nationalism”
Tag Archives: History
On the Rapids: Exploring Pentecostal Orthodoxy
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”
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”
In AD 341
I believe is more than two words. It is a statement that defines who we are as a people or who we are as an individual. I believe cats are cute but snobbish creatures that seek to kill us in our sleep. I believe celery is among the most disgusting tastes. I believe Ronald ReaganContinue reading “In AD 341”
Donkey Party!
Have you ever been to a donkey party? Most likely, you have, though you may not know it. Donkey Parties were invented in 1887 by Philadelphia resident Charles Zimmerling. The party consisted of a group of guests, a large picture of a donkey, some tails, pins, and a blindfold. LIGHTBULB! Yes, you have been toContinue reading “Donkey Party!”
“Drat and Double-Drat”
I love being a child of the 1980s. Maybe not so much now that I am middle-aged, but it was a wonderful time to grow up. The cartoons were continuous and clean. We rode our bikes with BB guns in tow. We scaled fences, cheered for the Goonies, and rocked to “Don’t Stop Believing.” RonaldContinue reading ““Drat and Double-Drat””
I Hate Discouragement
Life can be extremely discouraging. Discouragement is defined as being in a state of loss of confidence, enthusiasm, or dispiritedness. I would add the loss of hope to that definition. Most often, discouragement comes from situations that are part of being human. It may be a health crisis, challenges in your marriage, worry over kids,Continue reading “I Hate Discouragement”
I’m Back, Baby!
In the words of Frank Costanza, “I’m Back, Baby.” It has been a long time since I have had the opportunity to blog on an ongoing basis. My PhD journey will hopefully close on Jan 11, 2024. My goal next year is to write a weekly blog/devotion based on my sermon series, Lessons from theContinue reading “I’m Back, Baby!”
Through Time 