In recent years we hear of a growing concern about "social justice." What is meant by that phrase, however, varies widely among those who use and promote it. Dr. Voddie Baucham began as a Baptist pastor in Texas and is now serving as Dean of the School of the Divinity at African Christian University in Lusaka, Zambia. This diversity allows him to address the topic of social justice from âwithinâ and from âwithout.â What is too often missing - even in the calls for "social justice" coming … [Read more...] about Social Justice vs Biblical Justice
Judgement
The Philippian Formula
After the Apostle Paul had received aid from the brethren in Philippi, he wrote and thanked them. His expression of love and care for them is instructive to us in our relationship with one another. He used the situation to instruct and encourage them in things pertaining to greater unity amongst themselves. Firstly, he is thoughtful of their needs and presents prayer to God on behalf of the congregation and specific individuals. His prayer style, in regard to the Church in Philippi, is … [Read more...] about The Philippian Formula
The Liberal Mind
From the Romans to the Biden era, the word âliberalâ has taken on many meanings. It is one of those âit all dependsâ words. Yet, it has not always had a negative connotation as it does today in political/social circles. The cradle of its development, which impacts us today, was in 18th and 19th century Europe. It was a response to absolute monarchical rule. Liberal was the idea of individual freedom and liberty, through limiting the powers of government. Government was expected to protect … [Read more...] about The Liberal Mind
Misunderstood Authority?
The subject of authority is a difficult one because of the many negative applications we see around us. Itâs primary association with power, clashes with the natural human desire for autonomy. In our present day, the subject of authority is often confused with authoritarianism and the abuse of power, which creates a negative perception. Authority is a vital ingredient for godly living, and it is therefore important for us to be clear minded about what it is and what it is not. … [Read more...] about Misunderstood Authority?
The True Nature of God’s Governance
As followers of Christ, we need to understand the true nature of God's governance within the God Family and to practice it correctly. We also need to define and develop an understanding of how God intends His 'shepherds' to nurture and feed Christâs flock in accord with the spiritual nature of governance (1 Peter 5:1â4). The Apostle Peter, to whom Jesus said, âtend and feed my sheep,â teaches us to clothe ourselves with humility toward one another (1 Peter 5:5). Peterâs instruction reminds us … [Read more...] about The True Nature of God’s Governance
Taking God Seriously
Ancient Israel experiences in the 40 years of wilderness wanderings can be a good mirror for us. Their example reveals many aspects of our nature: âMoreover, brethren, I do not want you to be unaware that all our fathers were under the cloud, all passed through the sea, all were baptized into Moses in the cloud and in the sea, all ate the same spiritual food, and all drank the same spiritual drink. For they drank of that spiritual Rock that followed them, and that Rock was … [Read more...] about Taking God Seriously
Staying Awake
Are we awake spiritually? Or are we too caught up in our daily tasks? Letâs consider the periods of slumbering and awakening in our lives, and how we can learn to stay awake. Godâs Holy Spirit is active, but our human spirit, the âspirit in manâ (Job 32.8), which makes us each a unique individual, can slumber if we prevent Godâs Spirit from working in us. Just like when we are driving along, mind wandering, and find that weâve lost track of how we got to where we are, so a slumbering spirit … [Read more...] about Staying Awake