"When the Son sets you free you shall be free indeed” (John 8:36). It's one of the central tenets of our faith. Jesus came to set the captives free. But what does it mean to be free? What are we free from, free for? The bible speaks of our freedom in a number of ways. Among … [Read more...] about The Courts of Mercy
When Gospel Growth Makes a Mess
Dying churches are often clean and tidy. Growing churches, flourishing churches, are often characterised by “situations” and “issues” that require attention. Rosters need to be filled, visitations need to occur, kids are everywhere, there's a spill on the kitchen floor, someone … [Read more...] about When Gospel Growth Makes a Mess
Patriarchy
God is our Father. He is the penultimate Father and He rules the Heavens. Patriarchy simply means “father rule,” and so it follows that every biblical Christian holds to patriarchy. The husband is the head of the wife as Christ is the head of the church (Ephesians 5:23). God … [Read more...] about Patriarchy
The Turning
“Rejoice with me; I have found my lost coin. In the same way, I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.” (Luke 15:9-10) I wish my money would repent and come back to me. In the three parables of Luke 15: The Lost Sheep, … [Read more...] about The Turning
The Sabbath Under Our Feet
Sunday is typically a day of rest for the church. We have several rest days, Good Friday, Easter Sunday and Christmas among them. For some these days are glorious opportunities to say no. For others, such days are demanding and we dread them. They hang over our heads like a dark … [Read more...] about The Sabbath Under Our Feet