Why did God order all those people killed in the Bible? Why does he condemn people to Hell? Why did he let so-and-so die or such-and-such terrible thing happen? Even Christians like myself wrestle with these things. Unfortunately, giving a satisfactory answer (or rather, answers), would take ten books, four articles, and three Youtube videos. … Continue reading Why Does God Do Bad Things?
Bible
R-Rated Christianity
I’ve gotten a bit of attention for calling myself an R-Rated Christian. Usually, those two phrases go together like peanut butter and barbecue sauce. I’m happy to announce that most of the reactions I’ve gotten have been good. I’ve been able to find other Christians who are proud to don their over-eighteen moniker, and if … Continue reading R-Rated Christianity
How I Fell Into God’s Trap
I got tricked, dag nabbit! Okay, here’s what happened. I was having a rough day at work. Nothing terrible, just a common mist that comes over me now and again and darkens the sun. I’m desperate for a writing career, and while I’ve had some successes—a few published stories, a growing following, and good reviews … Continue reading How I Fell Into God’s Trap
S.A.F.E. Christians–E for Everyone
So many aspects of Christianity get forgotten by too many Christians--usually those with a camera on them, unfortunately. I've recently talked about these aspects under the banner of S.A.F.E. Christians. S for Secure--You can come to me without fear of judgment or gossip. A for Affectionate--I will care about you even if I don't agree … Continue reading S.A.F.E. Christians–E for Everyone
S.A.F.E. Christians–F for Fighter
We've talked about the need for Christians to be secure places for the outsiders to go, as well as affectionate people who care about more than their own safety and achievements. But security and affection only go so far. Jesus was about going the extra mile--literally! (Matthew 5:41) To really be S.A.F.E. for the world--and even … Continue reading S.A.F.E. Christians–F for Fighter
S.A.F.E. Christians–S for Secure
Previously, I said I wanted to start being a S.A.F.E. Christian, meaning a Secure, Affectionate, Fighter for Everyone. To see that general overview, click here. Today, however, I want to focus on the first letter: S for Secure. You can come to me without fear of judgment or gossip. Right and Wrong First, we have … Continue reading S.A.F.E. Christians–S for Secure
When Reading Your Bible Is Stupid and Lame
Every Christian has been there. You're reading your Bible--God's inspired word. Divinity sits in your lap. As you peruse the teachings of Jesus, the acts of the disciples, the prophecies, the histories, and the letters, a light shines in your brain and you realize a great truth: "I haven't had Arby's in, like, forever!" Your … Continue reading When Reading Your Bible Is Stupid and Lame
8 Bible Commands You Can Disobey
Come one, come all, to the gold-paved streets of freedom. For too long, you've heard every Bible phrase cited as an absolute because it's convenient for the legalists and religious tyrants who crave control. But it is not so. There are many Bible verses which can be ignored in many circumstances. By what authority do I … Continue reading 8 Bible Commands You Can Disobey
An Example of How Humility Hurts Like Hell (but Feels So Good)
Ow...Ow...Ow...You'll have to excuse my metaphorical limping, but I was just crucified this morning. See, I wrote this article on video games, talking about how choice-based games (where you choose the outcome at various points) are boring and gimmicky if that's all they are. Never, ever, EVER say anything on the internet unless you're willing … Continue reading An Example of How Humility Hurts Like Hell (but Feels So Good)
The Danger in Being Full of God
Once again, I have chosen a title that makes my target audience squeal. After all, being full of God is a good thing, right? Jesus said he was living water (John 4: 13-14) and we should drink deeply of him. And the more you have of God, the better life is, so being full is … Continue reading The Danger in Being Full of God