We’ve always had versions of Jesus. In the past, we might have labeled those versions of Jesus by denominational tradition. The Jesus sold in many American churches today solely focuses on personal salvation. Faith and participation in the church are consumer products in which you show up to receive the latest platitudes from a megachurch … Continue reading
We know the names Fred Rogers and Bob Ross, two staples of PBS television for many decades. But did you ever catch PBS re-airing the BBC’s Sister Wendy’s Odyssey, Sister Wendy’s Grand Tour, or Sister Wendy’s Story of Painting? I can remember thumbing through the limited number of channels before there were countless TV options … Continue reading
By CBF field personnel Alicia and Jeff Lee “Out of the depths I cry to you, O Lord. Lord, hear my voice!” Psalms 130:1-2 For a few years now, I (Alicia) have been leaning into the spiritual discipline of lament. We often rush past the uncomfortable feelings, desperate for relief and something more pleasant. Rushing … Continue reading
Is there anything more satisfying than telling someone off online and never physically encountering that person? Well, that’s what many people love about online platforms, where unaccountable remote posting doesn’t force us to come to terms with how we talk and interact with others. Some fascinating studies have found that people are likelier to write … Continue reading
You’ve probably heard the phrase “Family-Friendly” in passing from countless Christian radio stations, publications, websites, podcasts, and now streaming platforms. There is a cottage industry dedicated to telling you what is a “family-friendly Christian worldview.” Take a look at the Focus on the Family website, which has an entire team dedicated to rating and reviewing … Continue reading
One of my favorite accounts to follow on Instagram is “PreachersNSneakers.” The unique social media influencer captures the image of megachurch pastors’ attire and then researches how much was spent on shoes, jackets, or jewelry. Recently, the “PreachersNSneakers” found that Steven Furtick of Elevation Church was preaching in a $600 sweatshirt. Just doing the Lord’s … Continue reading
What’s your theology on human life? Most of us clearly understand the value of our own lives. Still, have we ever thought about the lives of others, especially those that do not fit into our socio-economic-political worldview? Most American Christians have spoon-fed one conversation on life, pro-life or pro-choice. Abortion has long been one of … Continue reading
By Dianne and Shane McNary CBF field personnel “Pray, then, in this way: Our Father in heaven, may your name be revered as holy…” Matthew 6:9 In a Slovak Baptist context, anything which hints of Catholicism seems dubious. The fear of the straw man of liturgy, sadly, robs the church of countless historical riches. We … Continue reading
Would you know the subtle signs of abuse if it was right in front of you? Unfortunately, most of us cannot recognize the subtle signs but maybe the more overt ones. There is a good chance that someone is experiencing this kind of trauma in our congregations. But how might we be prepared to see … Continue reading
By Rev. Veronica Martinez-Gallegos, Chaplain and Assistant Director of Spiritual Care & Education at Atrium Health in Charlotte, N.C. “Cast all your anxiety on him, because he cares for you,” 1 Peter 5:7 At a young age, I learned that prayer means having a conversation with God. In my personal experience, prayer has always been … Continue reading
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