“Beware of the leaven of the Pharisees…” (Mark 8:15). Jesus is harsh in confronting the Pharisees of his day pointing out that they polluted the Body. It is interesting to consider the role of fermentation in the making of bread. It starts small, but it contaminates the entire loaf. In fact, one of the definitions … Continue reading Holier Than Thou
Comparing the church to a ‘big tent’ has become an interesting conversation piece. Big tent theology teaches that God is calling the church to open her arms wider than ever before. Expanding the tent calls for a diversity of thought, the inclusion of varying stances on nonessential issues, and erasing lines that could potentially divide. … Continue reading Big Tents & Centered Sets
United Methodist Pastor, Rev. Rob Renfroe, wrote an article some time ago called, “Three Requests of My Centrist Friends: An Open Letter.” Rob is the Pastor of Discipleship at The Woodlands United Methodist Church in Texas and a leading voice in the Wesleyan Covenant Association. His article resonated deeply with me, as I believe the … Continue reading Progressive Theology
Whenever God says something for the first time, He sets a precedent. When God sets a precedent, His ways are known forever. Scripture provides numerous examples of God setting a precedent with His people. The joy of discovering more profound revelation through the written Word is realizing that God’s promises toward us have always been … Continue reading Precedent Of Love
“Prepare the way of the Lord, make his paths straight” (Mark 1:3). John the Baptist echoed the words of the Prophet Isaiah as he preached a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. He was announcing the coming of a new way of understanding life in relation to God. It wasn’t that God’s Kingdom … Continue reading Thy Kingdom Come
Spiritual discipline is the chief aim of the Christian life. Walking in step with the Holy Spirit is not optional—it is essential for anyone seeking a deeper relationship with Jesus. Yet in our modern world, we are constantly pulled toward the surface. Superficiality is our greatest distraction. Lack of depth is the curse of Western … Continue reading Spiritual Disciplines
Brian L Powell 