Reflections on the interplay of the Bible and Culture
Too often the church seeks acceptance by becoming like the surrounding culture and ends up making inappropriate compromises. When we do this, we are trading what is of value for that which holds no value. It is like trading a bar of gold for a used Happy Meal toy.
A hip hop lyric illustrates the need for context in relationships. This is as true of our relationship with God as it is in human relationships.
At the end of Matthew chapter 4, we are told that “great multitudes followed [Jesus]—from Galilee, and from Decapolis, Jerusalem, Judea, and beyond the Jordan.” Wherever Jesus went, he drew a crowd. Certainly some of the draw was his ability to heal. I’m sure that others followed out of a desire to see a miracle. … Read more
A friend of mine, @jimworth, invited me to view a panel discussion featuring Ray Kurzweil which was entitled “Transcendent Man.” The subject of the discussion was Mr. Kurzweil’s documentary of the same title. As part of the panel discussion, a clip of comments by Bill Maher was included. In the clip, Mr. Maher made the … Read more
The Banquet Table is Set Luke 14:16-24 records the parable of the Great Banquet. The main point of the story is that the invited guests gave lame excuses as to why they could not attend. In the place of the original invitees, the dregs of society are then persuaded to enter into the feast. Jesus … Read more