F - PEOPLE FILES
- Mary Fairchild - Jerry Falwell Jr - Peter Fargo - Gregg Farrington - John Fea - David Feddes - David Felton - Andrew Ferguson - Dave Ferguson - Sinclair Ferguson - John D Ferrer - Pat Ferry - Joshua Feurstein - Don Finto - Bryan Fischer - John Foley - Greg Forster - Dan Foster - Ray Fowler - John Foxworth - Tyler Francke - Jentezen Franklin - Joshua Franklin - Robert Franklin - Landry Franks - Douglas R Frayne - Daniel Frederick - Guy Frerick - Curtis Freeman - Terence Fretheim - Lance Fricke - Aaron Fry - Carlton Funderburke - Timothy R Furnish -
mary fairchild
Mary Fairchild
Mary Fairchild has worked full time in Christian ministry since 1988. While in Bible School, she worked for a major city church as the assistant to the dean of Christian education. Next, Mary served on the foreign mission field in Brazil from 1990-1994. Upon returning to the States, Mary became a pastoral assistant and office manager for a large intercity church.
Mary worked as the general editor on several Christian books and booklets for Calvary Chapel St. Petersburg from 2006 until 2017. Recently, Mary joined the team of writers for GotQuestions.org, where she provides responses to questions related to the nature of God, the Scriptures, salvation, and other spiritual topics.
Mary worked as the general editor on several Christian books and booklets for Calvary Chapel St. Petersburg from 2006 until 2017. Recently, Mary joined the team of writers for GotQuestions.org, where she provides responses to questions related to the nature of God, the Scriptures, salvation, and other spiritual topics.
Mary Fairchild
As a teenager, before I received salvation in Jesus Christ, I woke each morning with a terrible sense of dread. But all that changed when I encountered the love of my Savior. Since then I have discovered one sure thing I can count on: the steadfast love of the Lord. And I am not alone in this discovery.
Just as people live with the certainty that the sun will rise in the morning, believers can trust and know that God's strong love and faithfulness will greet them again each day and his tender mercies will be renewed every morning.
-Mary Fairchild; Learn Religions; His Mercies Are New Every Morning - Lamentations 3:22-24 8.11.21
Just as people live with the certainty that the sun will rise in the morning, believers can trust and know that God's strong love and faithfulness will greet them again each day and his tender mercies will be renewed every morning.
-Mary Fairchild; Learn Religions; His Mercies Are New Every Morning - Lamentations 3:22-24 8.11.21
jerry falwell jr
Jerry Lamon Falwell, Jr (born June 17, 1962) is the president of Liberty University in Lynchburg, Virginia, appointed in 2007 upon his father's death. Falwell attended private schools in the Lynchburg area, attending Lynchburg Christian Academy, where he graduated in 1980, and attended Liberty University, where he obtained his B.A. in Religious Studies in 1984. Falwell then attended the University of Virginia School of Law, where he obtained his J.D. in 1987.
Falwell is licensed by the Commonwealth of Virginia to practice law in Virginia, United States District Courts in both Eastern and Western districts of Virginia, the Fourth Circuit of the United States Court of Appeals, and the Supreme Court of the United States. Since 1987, he has served in private practice, being the General Counsel of his father's entities, serving on the Board of Trustees of Liberty University in 2000, and later serving Vice Chancellor from 2003 until his father's death, and as Chancellor since then.
Falwell is licensed by the Commonwealth of Virginia to practice law in Virginia, United States District Courts in both Eastern and Western districts of Virginia, the Fourth Circuit of the United States Court of Appeals, and the Supreme Court of the United States. Since 1987, he has served in private practice, being the General Counsel of his father's entities, serving on the Board of Trustees of Liberty University in 2000, and later serving Vice Chancellor from 2003 until his father's death, and as Chancellor since then.
May 12, 2023: Baptist News Global: The hidden battle in Christian higher education: A conversation with Scott Okamoto
For example, Liberty University, the world’s largest Baptist school, entered the spotlight in recent years after Jerry Falwell Jr. stepped down due to a sex and financial scandal that included accusations of blackmail involving Michael Cohen, the former attorney to President Trump.
For example, Liberty University, the world’s largest Baptist school, entered the spotlight in recent years after Jerry Falwell Jr. stepped down due to a sex and financial scandal that included accusations of blackmail involving Michael Cohen, the former attorney to President Trump.
March 15,2023: New York Post: Jerry Falwell Jr. sues Liberty University, claims school owes him $8.5M in retirement funds
Former Liberty University President Jerry Falwell Jr. is suing the Lynchburg, Virginia, college over $8.5 million in retirement benefits that he says the school owes him.
Falwell Jr. left Liberty in August 2020 after Giancarlo Granda, a young Miami pool boy who later became the Falwell family’s business partner, said he had a years-long sexual relationship with Falwell Jr.’s wife, Becki Falwell, and that the former school president would participate as a voyeur, scandalizing the private evangelical Christian college community that Falwell once served.
Former Liberty University President Jerry Falwell Jr. is suing the Lynchburg, Virginia, college over $8.5 million in retirement benefits that he says the school owes him.
Falwell Jr. left Liberty in August 2020 after Giancarlo Granda, a young Miami pool boy who later became the Falwell family’s business partner, said he had a years-long sexual relationship with Falwell Jr.’s wife, Becki Falwell, and that the former school president would participate as a voyeur, scandalizing the private evangelical Christian college community that Falwell once served.
January 10, 2023: Religion & Politics: Bad Preachers’ Wives
On a hot pandemic day in 2020, Jerry Falwell Jr., president of the fundamentalist Christian Liberty University, was caught with his pants down. To be fair, Falwell voluntarily posed for the compromising photograph, which he then posted to his 25,000 Instagram followers. In the photo, the evangelical leader stands with his pants unzipped to reveal the top of his underwear. His shirt is tied at the waist, exposing his abdomen. His arm is around his wife’s similarly attired assistant (though the assistant, Falwell would later explain, could not zip up her pants because she was pregnant). In a half-hearted apology, Falwell said the photo was intended as a joke and promised to “be a good boy from here on out.”
On a hot pandemic day in 2020, Jerry Falwell Jr., president of the fundamentalist Christian Liberty University, was caught with his pants down. To be fair, Falwell voluntarily posed for the compromising photograph, which he then posted to his 25,000 Instagram followers. In the photo, the evangelical leader stands with his pants unzipped to reveal the top of his underwear. His shirt is tied at the waist, exposing his abdomen. His arm is around his wife’s similarly attired assistant (though the assistant, Falwell would later explain, could not zip up her pants because she was pregnant). In a half-hearted apology, Falwell said the photo was intended as a joke and promised to “be a good boy from here on out.”
Aug 22, 2021: ESPN: 'I can't believe he just did that': The rise of Liberty's Malik Willis
Jerry Falwell Jr., then the university president, sent a racist tweet that showed one person in blackface and another in a Ku Klux Klan hood and robe. A day later, Asia Todd, a freshman on Liberty's women's basketball team, announced she was transferring "due to the racial insensitivities shown within the leadership and culture" at the school.
Jerry Falwell Jr., then the university president, sent a racist tweet that showed one person in blackface and another in a Ku Klux Klan hood and robe. A day later, Asia Todd, a freshman on Liberty's women's basketball team, announced she was transferring "due to the racial insensitivities shown within the leadership and culture" at the school.
8.25.20
👉Jerry Falwell Jr. has submitted his resignation as head of Liberty University, school officials said Tuesday – less than 24 hours after Falwell denied he was leaving the evangelical institution. Falwell was among the earliest Christian conservatives to endorse Trump’s 2016. Birds of a feather? See "Stormy Daniels" for an answer to that.
👉Jerry Falwell Jr. has submitted his resignation as head of Liberty University, school officials said Tuesday – less than 24 hours after Falwell denied he was leaving the evangelical institution. Falwell was among the earliest Christian conservatives to endorse Trump’s 2016. Birds of a feather? See "Stormy Daniels" for an answer to that.
Jan 9, 2017: Huffington Post: Right-Wing Radio Host Bryan Fischer Says Anyone Opposed To Christianity Is A ‘Traitor’
Conservative radio host Bryan Fischer said last week that anyone who opposes Christianity is a “traitor” to America.
Conservative radio host Bryan Fischer said last week that anyone who opposes Christianity is a “traitor” to America.
Nov 28, 2016: Christianity Today: Jerry Falwell Jr Says He Turned Down Job As Donald Trump's Education Secretary
Jerry Falwell Jr, the leading evangelical who is president of Liberty University, has admitted he turned down the President-Elect's offer of a job to serve as his education secretary.
Jerry Falwell Jr, the leading evangelical who is president of Liberty University, has admitted he turned down the President-Elect's offer of a job to serve as his education secretary.
Oct 7, 2016: Religion News Service: Questions for Falwell, Perkins, Franklin Graham et al.
Can you live with yourself as an apologist for this man?
Jan 26, 2016: World: Liberty alumni trash Trump endorsement
Scores of Liberty University alumni expressed surprise, dismay, and even embarrassment Tuesday after Jerry Falwell Jr. endorsed Donald Trump for president of the United States.
Aug 7, 2015: Washington Post: Why Liberty University is requiring its students to attend a Bernie Sanders speech
By that point, the student body had grown to nearly 10,000, but the school was also $30 million in debt. Falwell’s son and successor as chancellor, Jerry Falwell Jr., had a revised vision: transforming Liberty from a relatively niche religious school into a mega-university. In less than 10 years, Falwell Jr. has made the school the largest private nonprofit university in the country, with $1.2 billion in reserves that rivals the endowments of many much older institutions.
Can you live with yourself as an apologist for this man?
Jan 26, 2016: World: Liberty alumni trash Trump endorsement
Scores of Liberty University alumni expressed surprise, dismay, and even embarrassment Tuesday after Jerry Falwell Jr. endorsed Donald Trump for president of the United States.
Aug 7, 2015: Washington Post: Why Liberty University is requiring its students to attend a Bernie Sanders speech
By that point, the student body had grown to nearly 10,000, but the school was also $30 million in debt. Falwell’s son and successor as chancellor, Jerry Falwell Jr., had a revised vision: transforming Liberty from a relatively niche religious school into a mega-university. In less than 10 years, Falwell Jr. has made the school the largest private nonprofit university in the country, with $1.2 billion in reserves that rivals the endowments of many much older institutions.
May 15, 2015: Right Wing Watch: Fischer: 'I Believe We Are Going To Have Violence' If SCOTUS Legalizes Gay Marriage - On his radio program today, Bryan Fischer called upon state legislatures to pass resolutions declaring that they will not abide by any Supreme Court ruling that legalizes gay marriage, warning that failure to do so would result in chaos, civil unrest, and violence. -
Mar 30, 2015: Americans United For Separation of Church & State: Falwell Follies: Liberty University President Denies Political Intent After Hosting Cruz Rally
Jerry Falwell Jr. and other Liberty University officials insist that the school has done nothing wrong. In an interview with Alicia Petska of the Lynchburg News & Advance, David Corry, the university’s attorney, said, “The event was a speech. It wasn’t an announcement of candidacy for the Republican nomination of president….We were clear with the folks from the campaign in advance that this would not be an announcement.”
Jerry Falwell Jr. and other Liberty University officials insist that the school has done nothing wrong. In an interview with Alicia Petska of the Lynchburg News & Advance, David Corry, the university’s attorney, said, “The event was a speech. It wasn’t an announcement of candidacy for the Republican nomination of president….We were clear with the folks from the campaign in advance that this would not be an announcement.”
peter fargo
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Feb 25, 2023: Oregon Public Broadcasting: The Christian case for fighting climate change is being tested in Eastern Oregon
Like many Christian stories, the origin of Climate Vigil began with an awakening. Peter Fargo, who founded the group, traces the idea back to the birth of his son in 2019. “There was something about that moment with our newborn son that I needed to get my attention,” he said. “That was when I said yes to that calling in my heart and soul.” |
Science and religion are often depicted as opposing forces in the debate over climate change, but Fargo isn’t afraid to make an explicitly Christian argument for environmentalism that he believes can capture hearts and minds. In conservative Eastern Oregon, which has been battered by wildfires, floods and decades of drought, he’s counting on his message being especially relevant. And researchers are watching Oregon, and rural America at-large, to see if these types of arguments will break through in communities where these issues can sometimes carry political baggage. 2.25.23 |
GREGG FARRINGTON
Sept 14, 2022: ABC10: Destiny Christian Church offers support to wildfire survivors
Pastor Greg Farrington says the church community wants those who are experiencing a difficult time to feel welcomed and cared for.
“We want to give people a chance to feel like, 'Hey, there’s a place that cares about me,'” Farrington said.
Pastor Greg Farrington says the church community wants those who are experiencing a difficult time to feel welcomed and cared for.
“We want to give people a chance to feel like, 'Hey, there’s a place that cares about me,'” Farrington said.
Although opposition to COVID vaccines has been tracked more as a political issue than a religious belief, national polling consistently has shown that conservative evangelical Christians tend to be overly represented among the vaccine hesitant and the vaccine refusers.
With the arrival of vaccine mandates, anti-vaxxers are turning to their religious beliefs as a new justification for refusing vaccination.
Destiny Christian Church in Rocklin, Calif., now offers “religious exemptions” to anyone who asks for them, according to CBS Channel 13 in Sacramento. Pastor Gregg Farrington said his church is pro-freedom, not anti-vaccine, yet he’s been approached by “hundreds of people who feel morally compromised by mandatory vaccination requirements.” -Mark Wingfield;Baptist News Global
With the arrival of vaccine mandates, anti-vaxxers are turning to their religious beliefs as a new justification for refusing vaccination.
Destiny Christian Church in Rocklin, Calif., now offers “religious exemptions” to anyone who asks for them, according to CBS Channel 13 in Sacramento. Pastor Gregg Farrington said his church is pro-freedom, not anti-vaccine, yet he’s been approached by “hundreds of people who feel morally compromised by mandatory vaccination requirements.” -Mark Wingfield;Baptist News Global
john fea
May 27, 2017: New York Post: Ravi Zacharias, Preacher Who Used Reason to Defend Faith, Dies at 74
“Ravi was a kind of philosopher for the church,” said John Fea, a professor of history at Messiah College, a private Christian school in Mechanicsburg, Pa. “His primary audience was conservative evangelicals with college degrees who wanted to give some kind of rational, empirical defense of their faith in the workplace, at the water cooler, with the people they sat next to on the plane.”
“Ravi was a kind of philosopher for the church,” said John Fea, a professor of history at Messiah College, a private Christian school in Mechanicsburg, Pa. “His primary audience was conservative evangelicals with college degrees who wanted to give some kind of rational, empirical defense of their faith in the workplace, at the water cooler, with the people they sat next to on the plane.”
david feddes
David Feddes
Watchman Nee, a Chinese Christian leader from an earlier generation, told of a man in deep water who wasn’t able to swim. However, there was an expert swimmer nearby. As Nee watched, he expected this man to rescue the other one immediately. But he did nothing. “Don’t you see he’s drowning?” shouted Nee. But still the good swimmer did nothing. Meanwhile, the drowning man grew weaker and fainter. Nee thought to himself, “How awful that this great swimmer won’t rescue a drowning brother.” But just as the drowning man ran out of energy and stopped thrashing around, the swimmer sped to him in a few swift strokes, took hold of him, and brought him safely to shore. Nee scolded the swimmer for waiting so long, but the man replied, “Any earlier, and he would have pulled me under with him. A drowning man cannot be rescued until he is utterly exhausted and stops trying to save himself.” So too, when you and I are drowning in sin, the Lord may let us thrash around for awhile, trying desperately to save ourselves and change our ways. Of course God is not worried that we could pull him under, but he knows that before we are rescued, we must first give up any hope of earning the right to heaven or making ourselves holy on our own. God’s holy law leaves us exhausted and helpless before the face of God. If our only hope of holiness and heaven were our ability to do the good things commanded in God’s law, we would be ruined. But just when we give up and cry, “Who will deliver me?” we may find ourselves saying, “Thanks be to God—through Jesus Christ our Lord! Therefore there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit of life set me free from the law of sin and death” (Romans 8:1-2). --David Feddes; Fighting the Flesh
David Feddes
Spiritual adulterers would rather fit in and be approved by the world than please God. Spiritual adulterers find their greatest pleasure in the world’s entertainment, the world’s success, and the world’s enjoyments. They live by the world’s standards. The underlying reason is that their love and desire is focused on the world rather than on God.
To all such people, the Bible says in James 4:4, “You adulterous people, don’t you know that friendship with the world is hatred toward God? Anyone who chooses to be a friend of the world becomes an enemy of God.” Those are strong words. God doesn’t just mildly suggest that worldliness might be a bit of a weakness in the way you relate to God. He says worldliness makes you an adulterer and a prostitute! The Lord doesn’t say that if you’re worldly, you don’t love God quite as much as you should; he says you hate God and are his enemy. Getting cozy with the world is a fatal friendship. It’s fatal to the way you relate to God, and it’s fatal for your eternal soul.
--David Feddes; Seduced By The World
To all such people, the Bible says in James 4:4, “You adulterous people, don’t you know that friendship with the world is hatred toward God? Anyone who chooses to be a friend of the world becomes an enemy of God.” Those are strong words. God doesn’t just mildly suggest that worldliness might be a bit of a weakness in the way you relate to God. He says worldliness makes you an adulterer and a prostitute! The Lord doesn’t say that if you’re worldly, you don’t love God quite as much as you should; he says you hate God and are his enemy. Getting cozy with the world is a fatal friendship. It’s fatal to the way you relate to God, and it’s fatal for your eternal soul.
--David Feddes; Seduced By The World
David Feddes
If you think you may ask God for help only if you’ve earned the right, think again. God doesn’t help people who think they deserve it; he helps those who know they don’t deserve it. God is pleased and honored when we throw ourselves on his kindness and ask him for a lot more than we have any right to expect. Real prayer counts on God’s generosity and promises, not our qualifications.
Jacob confessed his unworthiness and begged God to save him and his family from destruction. All the while, Jacob kept reminding God of his promises to protect and bless him. Like a little child saying to his father, “You promised! You promised!” Jacob appealed to God’s promises again and again (32:9-12). -Dr David Feddes; David Feddes. Originally broadcasted on the Back to God Hour and published in The Radio Pulpit
Jacob confessed his unworthiness and begged God to save him and his family from destruction. All the while, Jacob kept reminding God of his promises to protect and bless him. Like a little child saying to his father, “You promised! You promised!” Jacob appealed to God’s promises again and again (32:9-12). -Dr David Feddes; David Feddes. Originally broadcasted on the Back to God Hour and published in The Radio Pulpit
david felton
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Feb 7, 2022: LGBTQ Nation: Arizona state government is secretly funding an anti-LGBTQ hate group
“What do people not understand about the inappropriateness of this kind of fundamentalist inspired, state-sanctioned discrimination?” says David Felten, a pastor at Fountain Hill United Methodist Church, told the local media. “This is not just an abstract violation of church-state separation. It’s a very real rejection of Arizona’s LGBTQ people by the very government that is supposed to impartially support and protect all of its citizens.” May 18, 2015: Christianity Today: Theology Feud Pits Half of Town's Protestant Churches Against Another
At issue: the topic of “Progressive Christianity,” taught at The Fountains, a United Methodist church. That church’s pastor, David Felten, is known for supporting LGBT rights and progressive theology. May 18, 2015: Christianity Today: Theology Feud Pits Half of Town's Protestant Churches Against Another At issue: the topic of “Progressive Christianity,” taught at The Fountains, a United Methodist church. That church’s pastor, David Felten, is known for supporting LGBT rights and progressive theology. |
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andrew ferguson
Feb 6, 2023: Gospel Coalition: America’s Not-So-Great Awakening
Comparing identity politics to a religion is nothing new or unusual. Voices ranging from Andrew Ferguson to Voddie Baucham have done so. The very language of being “woke” has religious overtones (cf. Rom. 13:11).
Comparing identity politics to a religion is nothing new or unusual. Voices ranging from Andrew Ferguson to Voddie Baucham have done so. The very language of being “woke” has religious overtones (cf. Rom. 13:11).
dave ferguson
July 14, 2023: NPR: Megachurches are getting even bigger as churches close across the country
"The kind of person that starts a church that ends up being a megachurch is probably ... more of an entrepreneur," says Dave Ferguson, lead pastor at Community Christian, a multisite megachurch based in Chicago. "They probably look around the landscape of what's happening in a lot of denominational churches [and] are like, 'You know, I love these people. I love what they're doing. But you know what? I think I got a better idea.'"
"The kind of person that starts a church that ends up being a megachurch is probably ... more of an entrepreneur," says Dave Ferguson, lead pastor at Community Christian, a multisite megachurch based in Chicago. "They probably look around the landscape of what's happening in a lot of denominational churches [and] are like, 'You know, I love these people. I love what they're doing. But you know what? I think I got a better idea.'"
Dave Ferguson
The reason we need to pay so much attention to our language is that we are responsible for telling the most important story in human history: the gospel. This is the story of a redeeming God who came to live among us in the human form of Jesus before dying for our sins, coming back from the dead, and leaving his Holy Spirit with us to empower us to share this story widely and well. We are all responsible for telling this story in a way that makes clear the fact that all human stories lead back to Jesus’ story. We see Jesus articulate this in one simple statement in Luke 19:10: “For the son of man came to seek and save the lost.” That was Jesus’ mission. And that should be our mission, too. And, therefore it certainly should be the mission of his church. If that was his mission, we should ask ourselves: how did Jesus live out his mission in the story of his life? -Dave Ferguson
sinclair ferguson
Adam was to "garden" the whole earth for the glory of His Father. But he failed. Created to make the dust fruitful, he himself became part of the dust. The Garden of Eden became the wilderness of this world. But do you also remember how John's Gospel records what happened on the morning of Jesus' resurrection? He was "the beginning [of the new creation], the firstborn from the dead." But Mary Magdalene did not recognize Him; instead, she spoke to him, "supposing him to be the gardener." Well, who else would he be, at that time in the morning? The Gardner? Yes, indeed. He is the Gardener. He is the second Man, the last Adam, who is now beginning to restore the Garden. Later that day Jesus showed his disciples where the nails and the spear had drawn blood from his hands and side. The Serpent had indeed crushed his heal. But he had crushed the Serpent's head! Now he was planning to turn the wilderness back into a garden. Soon he would send his disciples into the world with the good news of his victory. All authority on earth--lost by Adam--was now regained. The world must now be reclaimed by Jesus the conquerer. In the closing scenes of the book of Revelation, John saw the new earth coming down from heaven. What did it look like? A garden in which the tree of life stands! --Sinclair Ferguson
May 1, 2023: Gospel Coalition: Westminster Confession of Faith: Faithful, Pastoral, Global, and Enduring
As Sinclair Ferguson writes, “To an extraordinary degree [the Westminster Divines] studied in depth the same issues which trouble and challenge the church today, and their work continues to serve as an invaluable guide.” It’s well worth our time to acquaint ourselves with the Confession and its history, content, and influence.
As Sinclair Ferguson writes, “To an extraordinary degree [the Westminster Divines] studied in depth the same issues which trouble and challenge the church today, and their work continues to serve as an invaluable guide.” It’s well worth our time to acquaint ourselves with the Confession and its history, content, and influence.
May 1, 2023: Book Reviews from an Avid Reader: Worthy by Sinclair B Ferguson Book Review
This is not a how to book. It is rather a meditation on living a life reflecting the gospel and Christ. Ferguson helps us see how God works in our lives to bring this about, by His providence and by His Word. Our model is Jesus. An essential element is humility. We are given the example of Paul and his focus to know Christ and be like Him. (Phil. 3:8,10) Everything else is loss.
Sinclair Ferguson
I can still recall the conversation although it took place more than three decades ago. A shocked friend asked, “Have you heard that Sarah is no longer a Christian?” What was so alarming to my friend was that Sarah had been one of the most influential, and apparently fruitful, members of her Inter-Varsity group. What would those who had been influenced by her witness to Christ say, or do? Would they be shaken to the core and now doubt their own Christian faith? After all, the person who had pointed them to Christ no longer trusted Him.
On occasion we wonder if an individual really has been converted. And sometimes we have an inexplicable, ill-defined sense that something is missing. But we cannot read the heart. Even so, we hear of friends — whose faith we never doubted — turning away from Christ. Apostasy is the old, vigorous word to describe this abandonment of Christ. The New Testament church was familiar with it. It was a major concern of the author of Hebrews. That is why he wrote the often-discussed words of Hebrews 6:4–6: Those once enlightened, who have tasted the heavenly gift, become partakers of the Holy Spirit, tasted the good Word of God and the powers of the coming age — if they fall away cannot be renewed again to repentance.
Some in the early church thought that the phrase “cannot be renewed” meant that those who stumbled could not be received back into fellowship. But our author does not have the penitent in mind. Rather, he is thinking of those whose hardness of heart blocks the way to the Cross and proves irreversible.
It has been said that there is no more powerful or detailed description of the true Christian in the New Testament than in the words of Hebrews 6:4–6. That is surely a breathtaking statement in the light of what is said about the first readers a few verses later. The author is confident of something “better” in them — the very things that accompany salvation (6:9). The implication is that, however powerful the experiences described in 6:4–6 may be, these are not the definitive marks of a Christian. They may be present when genuine faith is absent. In fact, Hebrews is telling us that which is possible to experience without actually being a Christian.
Something must be missing therefore from this list of influences and experiences. What Hebrews has already said about an earlier generation brings it to light: “the gospel was preached … to them; but the word which they heard did not profit them, not being mixed with faith” (Heb. 4:2 NKJV). There was no real trust in Christ, the crucified, risen, and reigning Savior.
The truth and the power of the Gospel were experienced. But “experience” in itself is not regeneration unless gospel grace penetrates into the heart. Hebrews 6:4–6 makes no mention of the crucified One being trusted and sin being rejected. Rather, despite rich spiritual experiences, heart unbelief and rejection of Christ, crucifying Him ourselves, are grimly possible.
The solemn fact is that none of us can tell the difference between the beginning of backsliding and the beginning of apostasy. Both look the same. So what are the tell-tale signs of this sickness unto death? Are there early symptoms that might alert us to our spiritual danger?
Hebrews 6:8–12 suggests three things we should look out for. First, we should look for the presence of “thorns and briars” (v. 8). Here Hebrews echoes the words of our Lord in the Parable of the Soils. In some soils (hearts) the good seed of the Word is planted and seems to take root. But in fact the soil is infested with weeds that strangle the fruit of the good seed. “The cares of this world, the deceitfulness of riches, and the desires for other things entering in choke the word, and it becomes unfruitful” (Mark 4:19 NKJV).
Second, we should look for the absence of “things that [always] accompany salvation” (v. 9). What are these “things”? They are, surely, the fruit of the Spirit (Gal. 5:22–24). Paul interestingly contrasts verbally the fruit of the Spirit with the works of the flesh. These marks of grace are the natural outcome of regeneration. Furthermore, the Cross has a central place in such a life, for “those who are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with its passions” (Gal. 5:24 NKJV).
The third thing is perhaps the most alarming: The failure to show “diligence” and a tendency to become “sluggish” (vv. 11–12). Earlier the writer had warned how easy it is just to “drift away” (Heb. 2:1). But this drifting happens slowly, and it often goes unnoticed. Yes, apostasy happens. Sometimes the catalyst is flagrant sin. The pain of conviction and repentance is refused, and the only alternative to it is wholesale rejection of Christ. But sometimes the catalyst is a thorn growing quietly in the heart, an indifference to the way of the Cross, a drifting that is not reversed by the knowledge of biblical warnings.
So perhaps a personal health check is in order. And today would be the wisest time to do it.
---Sinclair Ferguson; Ligonier
On occasion we wonder if an individual really has been converted. And sometimes we have an inexplicable, ill-defined sense that something is missing. But we cannot read the heart. Even so, we hear of friends — whose faith we never doubted — turning away from Christ. Apostasy is the old, vigorous word to describe this abandonment of Christ. The New Testament church was familiar with it. It was a major concern of the author of Hebrews. That is why he wrote the often-discussed words of Hebrews 6:4–6: Those once enlightened, who have tasted the heavenly gift, become partakers of the Holy Spirit, tasted the good Word of God and the powers of the coming age — if they fall away cannot be renewed again to repentance.
Some in the early church thought that the phrase “cannot be renewed” meant that those who stumbled could not be received back into fellowship. But our author does not have the penitent in mind. Rather, he is thinking of those whose hardness of heart blocks the way to the Cross and proves irreversible.
It has been said that there is no more powerful or detailed description of the true Christian in the New Testament than in the words of Hebrews 6:4–6. That is surely a breathtaking statement in the light of what is said about the first readers a few verses later. The author is confident of something “better” in them — the very things that accompany salvation (6:9). The implication is that, however powerful the experiences described in 6:4–6 may be, these are not the definitive marks of a Christian. They may be present when genuine faith is absent. In fact, Hebrews is telling us that which is possible to experience without actually being a Christian.
Something must be missing therefore from this list of influences and experiences. What Hebrews has already said about an earlier generation brings it to light: “the gospel was preached … to them; but the word which they heard did not profit them, not being mixed with faith” (Heb. 4:2 NKJV). There was no real trust in Christ, the crucified, risen, and reigning Savior.
The truth and the power of the Gospel were experienced. But “experience” in itself is not regeneration unless gospel grace penetrates into the heart. Hebrews 6:4–6 makes no mention of the crucified One being trusted and sin being rejected. Rather, despite rich spiritual experiences, heart unbelief and rejection of Christ, crucifying Him ourselves, are grimly possible.
The solemn fact is that none of us can tell the difference between the beginning of backsliding and the beginning of apostasy. Both look the same. So what are the tell-tale signs of this sickness unto death? Are there early symptoms that might alert us to our spiritual danger?
Hebrews 6:8–12 suggests three things we should look out for. First, we should look for the presence of “thorns and briars” (v. 8). Here Hebrews echoes the words of our Lord in the Parable of the Soils. In some soils (hearts) the good seed of the Word is planted and seems to take root. But in fact the soil is infested with weeds that strangle the fruit of the good seed. “The cares of this world, the deceitfulness of riches, and the desires for other things entering in choke the word, and it becomes unfruitful” (Mark 4:19 NKJV).
Second, we should look for the absence of “things that [always] accompany salvation” (v. 9). What are these “things”? They are, surely, the fruit of the Spirit (Gal. 5:22–24). Paul interestingly contrasts verbally the fruit of the Spirit with the works of the flesh. These marks of grace are the natural outcome of regeneration. Furthermore, the Cross has a central place in such a life, for “those who are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with its passions” (Gal. 5:24 NKJV).
The third thing is perhaps the most alarming: The failure to show “diligence” and a tendency to become “sluggish” (vv. 11–12). Earlier the writer had warned how easy it is just to “drift away” (Heb. 2:1). But this drifting happens slowly, and it often goes unnoticed. Yes, apostasy happens. Sometimes the catalyst is flagrant sin. The pain of conviction and repentance is refused, and the only alternative to it is wholesale rejection of Christ. But sometimes the catalyst is a thorn growing quietly in the heart, an indifference to the way of the Cross, a drifting that is not reversed by the knowledge of biblical warnings.
So perhaps a personal health check is in order. And today would be the wisest time to do it.
---Sinclair Ferguson; Ligonier
john d ferrer
John D Ferrer
Sure, there’s a lot going wrong in the world regarding gender-confusion, grooming, and sex-stuff. But as Christians we don’t have theological permission to be pessimists, not ultimately. For us, realism IS optimism. Or to put it another way, we are optimists because we’re realists about the promises of Christ. If God is who He says He is, then ultimately everything He promised will come true, everything wrong will be made right, and we our hope is anchored in reality, ultimately reality.
This is not a naive, escapist fantasy either. We can fully admit hardship and sin-struggles. We know that “in this world you will have trouble” but we need not despair because Christ “has overcome the world” (John 16:33). We have a Christian hope:
“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” Romans 15:13.
That Christian hope isn’t just an emotion either. It’s a reassured knowledge, bolstered by evidence (for the Bible, for the resurrection, for Christian living), and it’s enlivened by active life in Christ (i.e., pray, Scripture, Christian fellowship). -John D Ferrer; Intelligent Christian Faith; Christian Hope Vs Pessimissm 10.22.22
This is not a naive, escapist fantasy either. We can fully admit hardship and sin-struggles. We know that “in this world you will have trouble” but we need not despair because Christ “has overcome the world” (John 16:33). We have a Christian hope:
“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” Romans 15:13.
That Christian hope isn’t just an emotion either. It’s a reassured knowledge, bolstered by evidence (for the Bible, for the resurrection, for Christian living), and it’s enlivened by active life in Christ (i.e., pray, Scripture, Christian fellowship). -John D Ferrer; Intelligent Christian Faith; Christian Hope Vs Pessimissm 10.22.22
John D Ferrer
To everyone saying that Joe Biden’s “loan forgiveness” proposal is “Christ-like” and the federal government is reflecting the Gospel by modeling forgiveness and grace, I hear you guys. Grace, forgiveness, freedom from bondage – that’s all part of salvation. Jesus did forgive our debts. He calls us to forgive our debtors. Scripture scolds people for charging certain kinds of interest, and for being greedy debt-collectors. And Scripture warns against getting into debt. There’s a lot in Scripture about debts, interest rates, and loans. And the Gospel is often described, rightfully I think, in terms of “debt” and “forgiveness.” ..........First, when a debt is owed, there are two parties who have a right to “forgive” that debt – the person financing that loan and God Himself. Now, the gov’t isn’t God. Biden isn’t Jesus, and we’re not a theocracy merging church and state either. So, while Federal authorities might sometimes be PLAYING god, they aren’t God. In that way, redistributed debt is a false analogy to the Gospel.
Second, that leaves one rightful party who can forgive the debt – the financer. In this case, that would be tax-payers. Now, there’s a good chance that this Biden proposal falls apart precisely because Biden lacks the authority to do this, in part because he’s working (with the gov’t) as the broker/steward of our tax-dollars, and he’s not financing the loans the way the American people are broadly. Biden and his entire administration aren’t qualified to “forgive” those loans since it was never their money. The gov’t works for us – the American people. We employ the federal gov’t. They are our servants. We’re not their servants. We have no king – but Christ alone (sola Christus). As such, the federal gov’t is disqualified on two counts: they aren’t God and they aren’t even bankrolling the loans – they’re just brokering the loans. As such, they aren’t qualified to forgive loans, strictly speaking. In this way, redistributed debt is a false analogy to the Gospel. --John D Ferrer; Intelligent Christian Faith; DEBT FORGIVENESS AND THE GOSPEL 8.27.22
Second, that leaves one rightful party who can forgive the debt – the financer. In this case, that would be tax-payers. Now, there’s a good chance that this Biden proposal falls apart precisely because Biden lacks the authority to do this, in part because he’s working (with the gov’t) as the broker/steward of our tax-dollars, and he’s not financing the loans the way the American people are broadly. Biden and his entire administration aren’t qualified to “forgive” those loans since it was never their money. The gov’t works for us – the American people. We employ the federal gov’t. They are our servants. We’re not their servants. We have no king – but Christ alone (sola Christus). As such, the federal gov’t is disqualified on two counts: they aren’t God and they aren’t even bankrolling the loans – they’re just brokering the loans. As such, they aren’t qualified to forgive loans, strictly speaking. In this way, redistributed debt is a false analogy to the Gospel. --John D Ferrer; Intelligent Christian Faith; DEBT FORGIVENESS AND THE GOSPEL 8.27.22
pat ferry
Feb 22, 2023: Religion News: Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod president calls for excommunicating white nationalists
The effort has stoked responses throughout the denomination, including some vying for the denomination’s leadership. In an interview with Lutherans for Racial Justice earlier this month, the Rev. Pat Ferry, who is seeking nomination to be president of the denomination, was asked about allegations regarding the LCMS and white nationalists — some of whom also publicly identify as Christian nationalists — listed in Machaira Action’s article.
The effort has stoked responses throughout the denomination, including some vying for the denomination’s leadership. In an interview with Lutherans for Racial Justice earlier this month, the Rev. Pat Ferry, who is seeking nomination to be president of the denomination, was asked about allegations regarding the LCMS and white nationalists — some of whom also publicly identify as Christian nationalists — listed in Machaira Action’s article.
JOSHUA FEUERSTEIN
August 11, 2021
Radical right-wing preacher Joshua Feuerstein tells Christians "you don't have to wear the mask, you got Jesus. You don't need the vaccine, you got Jesus."
Feuerstein is presuming upon Gods grace, Feuerstein does not have the right or authority to tell God who he should give grace to.
Radical right-wing preacher Joshua Feuerstein tells Christians "you don't have to wear the mask, you got Jesus. You don't need the vaccine, you got Jesus."
Feuerstein is presuming upon Gods grace, Feuerstein does not have the right or authority to tell God who he should give grace to.
don finto
Jan 10, 2023: Baptist News Global: The New Apostolic Reformation drove the January 6 riots, so why was it overlooked by the House Select Committee?
Other self-proclaimed modern-day apostles include Bill Johnson of Bethel Church, Mike Bickle of the International House of Prayer, Dutch Sheets, Cindy Jacobs, Che Ahn and Don Finto.
Other self-proclaimed modern-day apostles include Bill Johnson of Bethel Church, Mike Bickle of the International House of Prayer, Dutch Sheets, Cindy Jacobs, Che Ahn and Don Finto.
bryan fischer |
Bryan Fischer is the former Director of Issues Analysis for the American Family Association (AFA). He hosts the talk radio program Focal Point on American Family Radio and posts on the AFA-run blog Instant Analysis (formerly Rightly Concerned). Fischer opposes abortion, national health care, gay adoption, and same-sex marriage. Fischer's comments about homosexuality caused the AFA to be designated a hate group by the Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC) in November 2010. To avoid being classified as a hate group, the AFA has officially repudiated Fischer's views on Muslims, Native Americans, Hispanics, African Americans, The Holocaust being caused by homosexuals, the outlawing of homosexuality and that LGBT parenting is slavery, and that Hillary Clinton is a lesbian.
Jan 9, 2017: Huffington Post: Right-Wing Radio Host Bryan Fischer Says Anyone Opposed To Christianity Is A ‘Traitor’
Conservative radio host Bryan Fischer said last week that anyone who opposes Christianity is a “traitor” to America.
Conservative radio host Bryan Fischer said last week that anyone who opposes Christianity is a “traitor” to America.
Apr 10, 2015: Right Wing Watch: Fischer: Noah's Flood Was The Result Of Society Not Using The Death Penalty
On his radio program yesterday, Bryan Fischer made the case that Dzhokhar Tsarnaev should be put to death following his conviction for his role in the Boston Marathon bombing in the most Fischer-esque way possible: explaining that Noah's Flood was the result of society not using the death penalty.
On his radio program yesterday, Bryan Fischer made the case that Dzhokhar Tsarnaev should be put to death following his conviction for his role in the Boston Marathon bombing in the most Fischer-esque way possible: explaining that Noah's Flood was the result of society not using the death penalty.
Apr 5, 2015: Daily Beast: The Polite Right’s Bryan Fischer Problem
Indeed, many of those who supported Indiana’s original law recognized this—that denying service to gay couples is an impediment to their gaining full civil rights. The American Family Association’s Bryan Fischer, for one. Fischer is a nationally-syndicated radio host, not simply a lone fruitcake, even though the next exit down from his particular brand of crazy is the Westboro Baptist Church: His Twitter feed is full of references to “the Church of the Rainbow Jihad,” “same-sex cakes,” the “Gay Gestapo,” and several warnings that “Big Gay is not about ‘marriage equality’ but ‘homosexual supremacy.’”
Indeed, many of those who supported Indiana’s original law recognized this—that denying service to gay couples is an impediment to their gaining full civil rights. The American Family Association’s Bryan Fischer, for one. Fischer is a nationally-syndicated radio host, not simply a lone fruitcake, even though the next exit down from his particular brand of crazy is the Westboro Baptist Church: His Twitter feed is full of references to “the Church of the Rainbow Jihad,” “same-sex cakes,” the “Gay Gestapo,” and several warnings that “Big Gay is not about ‘marriage equality’ but ‘homosexual supremacy.’”
Feb 28, 2015: Bryan Fischer: Renew America: Either pro-gay Jeb is toast in 2016 or the GOP is
Feb 12, 2015: Right Wing Watch: Bryan Fischer: 'Gay Gestapo' Forcing Alabama Judges Into 'Slavery' -
Bryan Fischer is outraged that a federal judge may order the dozens of Alabama probate who are refusing to grant marriage licenses to same-sex couples to back down. On his American Family Radio Program today, Fischer said that such an order would be tantamount to “tyranny” and “slavery” enforced by the “gay gestapo.”
Bryan Fischer is outraged that a federal judge may order the dozens of Alabama probate who are refusing to grant marriage licenses to same-sex couples to back down. On his American Family Radio Program today, Fischer said that such an order would be tantamount to “tyranny” and “slavery” enforced by the “gay gestapo.”
Jan 29, 2015: Huffington Post: American Family Association's Bryan Fischer Reportedly Fired Ahead Of GOP Israel Trip
Bryan Fischer, who has made headlines for his right-wing stance on the LGBT community and minority faiths, has reportedly been ousted from his position as the Director of Issues Analysis at the American Family Association (AFA).
Bryan Fischer, who has made headlines for his right-wing stance on the LGBT community and minority faiths, has reportedly been ousted from his position as the Director of Issues Analysis at the American Family Association (AFA).
john foley
April 2, 2023: Amarillo Globe News: Another view: Gratitude for our clergy
Father John Foley, a theologian and Jesuit Priest who has contributed to liturgical music for decades, wrote my favorite hymn of all time.
The melody is beautiful, but the lyrics are what come to define my current resting place. I’m sure everyone knows the hymn, but I will end with the first verse here:
One bread, one body, one Lord of all One cup of blessing which we bless And we, though many, throughout the Earth We are one body in this one Lord
Father John Foley, a theologian and Jesuit Priest who has contributed to liturgical music for decades, wrote my favorite hymn of all time.
The melody is beautiful, but the lyrics are what come to define my current resting place. I’m sure everyone knows the hymn, but I will end with the first verse here:
One bread, one body, one Lord of all One cup of blessing which we bless And we, though many, throughout the Earth We are one body in this one Lord
GREG FORSTER
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July 7, 2021: OCPA: WILL OKLAHOMA TEACHERS OBEY THE LAW?
For decades, colleges of education "have been notorious as agitprop factories," political scientist Greg Forster reminds us. (Have you looked at the OU College of Education social media feeds lately?) For those who have been paying attention, it's no surprise that the OU ed school, looking recently to fill two faculty positions, was "particularly interested in scholars whose intellectual traditions are grounded in the following areas: Queer, Trans, and/or Sexualities Studies in Education as intersecting with anti-racism/oppression in education, critical race theory, ethnic studies, queer studies, diaspora / migration / immigration studies, disability studies, or decolonial studies in education; and Critical Policy Studies in Education as intersecting with anti-racism, anti-oppression, equity, and justice in education." Mar 10, 2015: Hendricks Center: Politics, Economics and the Common Good In this episode, Dr. Darrell Bock and Dr. Greg Forster discuss politics and economics, focusing on society and the common good. 
Feb 16, 2015: Weekly Standard: Love Thy Neighbor
The old model of evangelical attempts to transform American society, Greg Forster observes, focused obsessively on politics: to promote Bible-based morality through the ballot box. But that approach is effectively dead. “The time is ripe,” he writes, “for a new model of Christian citizenship to emerge.” So what model does Forster, a political scientist and program director at the Kern Family Foundation, have in mind? Evangelistic crusades? Calls for national repentance? Perhaps the creation of Squads to Promote Virtue and Suppress Vice, modeled on those in Saudi Arabia? Dec 17, 2014: Greg Forster: Gospel Coalition: Imagination Redeemed 
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Greg Forster is a program director for the Faith, Work, and Economics Program. He directs the Oikonomia Network, a national learning community of evangelical seminaries committed to equipping pastors with a theological understanding of faith, work, and economics, and how they relate to the pastoral calling. In addition to his duties at the Foundation, he is the editor of Hang Together, a group blog on religion, politics, and national identity; a senior fellow at the Friedman Foundation for Educational Choice; the author of six books and numerous articles in both academic and popular publications; and a regular contributor to The Gospel Coalition, First Thoughts, and Jay P. Greene's Blog. His writing covers theology, economics, political philosophy, and education policy. He received a doctorate with distinction in political philosophy from Yale University. Education Ph.D. with Distinction in Political Science, Yale University, 2002 M.A. in Political Science, Yale University, 2002 B.A. summa cum laude in Political and Social Thought in Rhetoric and Communications Studies, University of Virginia, 1995 Professional Experience Director of Research, Friedman Foundation for Educational Choice, 2005-2008 Senior Research Associate, Manhattan Institute, 2002-2005 Affiliations Friedman Foundation for Educational Choice - Senior Fellow Books John Rawls and Christian Social Engagement (ed. with Anthony Bradley), Lexington, 2014 The Pastor’s Guide to Fruitful Work and Economic Wisdom (ed. with Drew Cleveland), Made to Flourish, 2014 Joy for the World, Crossway Books, 2014 The Joy of Calvinism, Crossway Books, 2012 Freedom and School Choice in American Education (ed. with C. Bradley Thompson), Palgrave Macmillan, 2011 Starting with Locke, Continuum Press, 2011 The Contested Public Square: The Crisis of Christianity and Politics, InterVarsity Press, 2008 Education Myths (with Jay P. Greene and Marcus A. Winters), Rowman & Littlefield, 2005 John Locke's Politics of Moral Consensus, Cambridge University Press, 2005 |
dan Foster
Dan Foster
May 21, 2023:
In the Evangelical world, whether or not a person was a good political candidate was dependent not on their policies but on their profession of faith — even if the content of their character was at odds with that profession of faith. They merely had to hold up a Bible and stand in front of a church, and they would get the Evangelical vote, much to the chagrin of those looking on. Yes, the more Christian nationalists with the Republican Party push their agenda for a “Christian” nation, the more Christianity is despised, and the less likely they are to ever obtain that which they seek. What is more, they will destroy the church in the process.
One thing is certain. Jesus Christ was not interested in political power, or he could have had it. He arrived in human history precisely at the right moment to lead an uprising against the rule of his Roman conquerors.
He could have raised an army. He could have led an insurrection. He could have probably stormed the capitol. He could have leveraged his considerable influence to restore his nation to its former glory, preserve its religion, and vanquish its foes.
Yet, he did not.
The movement that he started required no armies, governments, or rulers to champion its cause. It can be practiced with or without the approval of any state and, therefore, can never be legislated out of existence. Neither is it threatened by those who believe different things. It is the movement of the human heart that takes place when one resolves to simply love God and love others.
Therefore, in order for Christianity to restore its credibility, churches must renounce the pursuit of political safeguarding and entitlement and acknowledge it as wholly incompatible with the principles taught by Jesus Christ.
Christians who believe that Trump (or any other political figure, for that matter) and the Republican Party will save Christianity are kidding themselves. --Dan Foster
In the Evangelical world, whether or not a person was a good political candidate was dependent not on their policies but on their profession of faith — even if the content of their character was at odds with that profession of faith. They merely had to hold up a Bible and stand in front of a church, and they would get the Evangelical vote, much to the chagrin of those looking on. Yes, the more Christian nationalists with the Republican Party push their agenda for a “Christian” nation, the more Christianity is despised, and the less likely they are to ever obtain that which they seek. What is more, they will destroy the church in the process.
One thing is certain. Jesus Christ was not interested in political power, or he could have had it. He arrived in human history precisely at the right moment to lead an uprising against the rule of his Roman conquerors.
He could have raised an army. He could have led an insurrection. He could have probably stormed the capitol. He could have leveraged his considerable influence to restore his nation to its former glory, preserve its religion, and vanquish its foes.
Yet, he did not.
The movement that he started required no armies, governments, or rulers to champion its cause. It can be practiced with or without the approval of any state and, therefore, can never be legislated out of existence. Neither is it threatened by those who believe different things. It is the movement of the human heart that takes place when one resolves to simply love God and love others.
Therefore, in order for Christianity to restore its credibility, churches must renounce the pursuit of political safeguarding and entitlement and acknowledge it as wholly incompatible with the principles taught by Jesus Christ.
Christians who believe that Trump (or any other political figure, for that matter) and the Republican Party will save Christianity are kidding themselves. --Dan Foster
ray fowler |
- RayFowler.org -
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Ray Fowler is senior pastor at Plantation Community Church (Florida). He is author of The Bible Memory Version, and the owner of Fowler Digital Services (providing ebook conversions for the Kindle, iPad and Nook).
Ray Fowler Files
The word translated “angry” here in verse 22 does not mean a sudden temper flare, but rather a deep-seated hostility, a settled anger or resentment. This is what we would call nursing a grudge. Jesus says anyone who is angry with his brother in this way will be subject to judgment.
The word ‘Raca’ is a word that insults someone’s intelligence. It literally means “empty head” or “airhead.” When you call somebody stupid or an idiot today, even under your breath, you are basically doing what Jesus is talking about here. Jesus said anyone who says to his brother, “Raca – idiot!” is answerable to the Sanhedrin, which was the Jewish higher court.
If the word “Raca” is aimed at the person’s mind, the word “fool” is aimed at the person’s heart. It is an attack on their personhood; it is a judgment on their heart and their motivations. You are basically saying that they are good-for-nothing or worthless in your sight. You may even be questioning their salvation. Jesus said anyone who says “You fool!” will be in danger of the fire of hell. -Ray Fowler: Will the Real Murderer Please Stand Up?
The word ‘Raca’ is a word that insults someone’s intelligence. It literally means “empty head” or “airhead.” When you call somebody stupid or an idiot today, even under your breath, you are basically doing what Jesus is talking about here. Jesus said anyone who says to his brother, “Raca – idiot!” is answerable to the Sanhedrin, which was the Jewish higher court.
If the word “Raca” is aimed at the person’s mind, the word “fool” is aimed at the person’s heart. It is an attack on their personhood; it is a judgment on their heart and their motivations. You are basically saying that they are good-for-nothing or worthless in your sight. You may even be questioning their salvation. Jesus said anyone who says “You fool!” will be in danger of the fire of hell. -Ray Fowler: Will the Real Murderer Please Stand Up?
John Foxworth
Feb 24, 2023: The Christian Index: Hundreds pray for revival across Georgia campuses on Collegiate Day of Prayer
Several hundred students from multiple campus ministries at Georgia Southern University joined in a nighttime event with cross-denominational leaders for purposeful prayer over the campus and the nation, and for repentance. Georgia Southern BCM President John Foxworth led the group in praying Luke 10:2 “And he said to them, ‘The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few. Therefore pray earnestly to the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest.’”
Several hundred students from multiple campus ministries at Georgia Southern University joined in a nighttime event with cross-denominational leaders for purposeful prayer over the campus and the nation, and for repentance. Georgia Southern BCM President John Foxworth led the group in praying Luke 10:2 “And he said to them, ‘The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few. Therefore pray earnestly to the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest.’”
TYLER FRANCKE
Nov 7, 2014: Tyler Francke: ‘If there is one story that should go viral … it is this one’
Sept 22, 2014: Breathecast: Creationist Ken Ham Fires Back at Christian Evolutionist Tyle Francke; Says Science Uses 'Man's Opinions' [AUDIO]
The always informative and yet sometimes controversial Bad Christian Podcast caught the attention of Creationist Ken Ham when he was informed of their interview with Tyler Francke. The Christian scientist provided a rebuttal toward some of Francke's thoughts on the origins of life.
Jan 30, 2014: Tyler Francke: God of Evolution: GOE round-up: Intelligent design is ‘not’ anti-evolution? Really?
Sept 22, 2014: Breathecast: Creationist Ken Ham Fires Back at Christian Evolutionist Tyle Francke; Says Science Uses 'Man's Opinions' [AUDIO]
The always informative and yet sometimes controversial Bad Christian Podcast caught the attention of Creationist Ken Ham when he was informed of their interview with Tyler Francke. The Christian scientist provided a rebuttal toward some of Francke's thoughts on the origins of life.
Jan 30, 2014: Tyler Francke: God of Evolution: GOE round-up: Intelligent design is ‘not’ anti-evolution? Really?
jentezen franklin
June 2, 2023: Media Matters: American theocracy: Trinity Broadcasting Network’s nightly news program is spreading Christian nationalism
- Pastor Jentezen Franklin warned of a godless society and promoted the pro-Trump America First Policy Institutes' new Biblical Foundations project that aims to instill God “back into every aspect” of daily life, calling for the “merging of faith and politics.” “America was founded by our founders that had faith,” Franklin said. “What we believe is that Christianity will survive without America. But America will not survive without Christianity and without the foundations of the word of God.” Franklin went on to claim that foundations of Christianity are vital to American life, further tying the country to a single religion. [TBN, Centerpoint, 3/27/23]
April 25, 2023: Church Leaders: Christian Group To Organize Prayer, Evangelism Campaign at Sold Out SatanCon
The social media broadcast featured pastors Jentezen Franklin, Paula Cain White, Samuel Rodriguez, and Jim Garlow; author Eric Metaxas; worship leader Sean Feucht; American Association of Christian Counselors president Tim Clinton; James Dobson; and the former president himself, who noted in his remarks his belief that “we’re being discriminated against as a faith.”
The social media broadcast featured pastors Jentezen Franklin, Paula Cain White, Samuel Rodriguez, and Jim Garlow; author Eric Metaxas; worship leader Sean Feucht; American Association of Christian Counselors president Tim Clinton; James Dobson; and the former president himself, who noted in his remarks his belief that “we’re being discriminated against as a faith.”
joshua franklin
Rabbi Josh Franklin joined the Jewish Center of the Hamptons after serving for four years as an Associate Rabbi at Temple Beth Elohim in Wellesley, MA. Rabbi Franklin originates from Yonkers, NY, and grew up at Riverdale Temple in the Bronx, where his father was a rabbi. He spent his childhood summers growing up at URJ Eisner Camp, but has returned to serve for several years on the rabbinical faculty at URJ Crane Lake Camp. Before receiving his ordination at Hebrew Union College (HUC-JIR), Rabbi Franklin attended Clark University in Worcester, MA. There he graduated Magna Cum Laude, and majored in History with a concentration in Jewish Studies. He also received a Masters degree from Clark in History. While at HUC-JIR, he served numerous synagogues and Jewish institutions as a student rabbi and rabbinical intern including Beth Ha-Sholom of Williamsport, PA, Rodeph Shalom of Philadelphia, PA, DOROT of New York NY, Temple Sinai of Stamford, CT, and Beth El of Beckley, WV.
In December 2022, Rabbi Joshua Franklin gave an unusual message during a service at the Jewish Center of the Hamptons in East Hampton, New York.
“I’m going to plagiarize a sermon,” he told his congregation. “And you have to guess who wrote it.”
Franklin then delved into an illumination on the Parashat Vayigash, a portion of the Torah that tells the story of a reconciliation between brothers.
“This is a powerful lesson for all of us, as it shows the importance of being willing to draw near to others even when it’s difficult, in order to build intimacy and connection,” he went on.
At the end of the roughly two minute sermon, Franklin revealed the real author to murmurs and scattered applause: ChatGPT.
“You’re clapping,” he said. “But I’m terrified!”
While Franklin added that he gave the language learning model a very specific prompt, and could see details in the work that wouldn’t pass muster with a seasoned scholar, the experiment was received with equal parts awe and trepidation. Could the work of a faith leader – so intimately tied to the human experience – eventually be eclipsed by a computer?
--CNN; ChatGPT can write sermons. Religious leaders don’t know how to feel about it 4.11.23
“I’m going to plagiarize a sermon,” he told his congregation. “And you have to guess who wrote it.”
Franklin then delved into an illumination on the Parashat Vayigash, a portion of the Torah that tells the story of a reconciliation between brothers.
“This is a powerful lesson for all of us, as it shows the importance of being willing to draw near to others even when it’s difficult, in order to build intimacy and connection,” he went on.
At the end of the roughly two minute sermon, Franklin revealed the real author to murmurs and scattered applause: ChatGPT.
“You’re clapping,” he said. “But I’m terrified!”
While Franklin added that he gave the language learning model a very specific prompt, and could see details in the work that wouldn’t pass muster with a seasoned scholar, the experiment was received with equal parts awe and trepidation. Could the work of a faith leader – so intimately tied to the human experience – eventually be eclipsed by a computer?
--CNN; ChatGPT can write sermons. Religious leaders don’t know how to feel about it 4.11.23
Mar 10, 2023: Axios: Religious leaders experiment with ChatGPT sermons
Case study: Rabbi Joshua Franklin, of the Jewish Center of the Hamptons in East Hampton, New York, delivered what he warned his flock was a "plagiarized" sermon about the theme of vulnerability in a story from Genesis — and was shocked when congregants guessed that it had been written by his father or a famous rabbi rather than AI.
Case study: Rabbi Joshua Franklin, of the Jewish Center of the Hamptons in East Hampton, New York, delivered what he warned his flock was a "plagiarized" sermon about the theme of vulnerability in a story from Genesis — and was shocked when congregants guessed that it had been written by his father or a famous rabbi rather than AI.
- "The more I was able to prompt [ChatGPT] and tell it what I was looking for and describe the style of how I wanted it to write, the better it got," Franklin said.
- One notable missing piece: the rabbi's own perspective and anecdotes. Had he written the sermon himself, "I would have told a story — something about me that modeled my own vulnerability and showed how it was a strength," he said.
Robert Franklin
Robert M. Franklin provides first-person advice and insight as he identifies the crises resident within three anchor institutions that have played key roles in the black struggle for freedom. Black families face a "crisis of commitment" evident in the rising rates of father absence, births to unmarried parents, divorce, and domestic abuse or relationship violence.Black churches face a "mission crisis" as they struggle to serve their upwardly mobile and/or established middle class "paying customers" alongside the poorest of the poor. Historically black colleges and universities face a crisis of "relevance and purpose" as they now compete for the best students and faculty with the broad marketplace of colleges. With clarity and passion, Franklin calls for practical and comprehensive action for change from within the African American community and from all Americans.
July 25, 2023: Sight: Church and politics: Some critics see Trump's behaviour as un-Christian. His conservative Christian backers see a hero
Robert Franklin, professor of moral leadership at Emory University’s Candler School of Theology in Atlanta, said Trump benefits from a perception among some of his followers that he is suffering on their behalf.
“The more he complains of persecution, the more people dig in to support him, and for a few, fight for him and make personal sacrifices [of money and freedom] for his advancement,” Franklin said via email.
Franklin also noted that some evangelicals, since early in Trump’s presidency, have likened him to Cyrus the Great, the Persian king who, according to the Bible, enabled Jews to return to Israel from their exile in Babylon.
“This is a powerful trope, the bad man who makes good things possible, and is hence praised as a hero,” Franklin said. “Unfortunately, under this narrative, Trump can literally do no wrong. His wrong is right. No other politician gets that kind of pass.”
Robert Franklin, professor of moral leadership at Emory University’s Candler School of Theology in Atlanta, said Trump benefits from a perception among some of his followers that he is suffering on their behalf.
“The more he complains of persecution, the more people dig in to support him, and for a few, fight for him and make personal sacrifices [of money and freedom] for his advancement,” Franklin said via email.
Franklin also noted that some evangelicals, since early in Trump’s presidency, have likened him to Cyrus the Great, the Persian king who, according to the Bible, enabled Jews to return to Israel from their exile in Babylon.
“This is a powerful trope, the bad man who makes good things possible, and is hence praised as a hero,” Franklin said. “Unfortunately, under this narrative, Trump can literally do no wrong. His wrong is right. No other politician gets that kind of pass.”
Robert Franklin
“The more he complains of persecution, the more people dig in to support him, and for a few, fight for him and make personal sacrifices [of money and freedom] for his advancement..... Some evangelicals, since early in Trump’s presidency, have likened him to Cyrus the Great, the Persian king who, according to the Bible, enabled Jews to return to Israel from their exile in Babylon. This is a powerful trope, the bad man who makes good things possible, and is hence praised as a hero. Unfortunately, under this narrative, Trump can literally do no wrong. His wrong is right. No other politician gets that kind of pass.” --Robert Franklin 7.25.23
landry franks
Landry Franks was born in Keller Texas, but spent most of his childhood in Edmond, Oklahoma. It was there at Henderson Hill Baptist Church that he first heard the gospel, believed in this good news. In high school, Landry began to feel like his calling and gifting was to work in and serve the local church. Landry moved to Oklahoma City for college and met his wife, and also started interning at Council Road Baptist Church, in Bethany, Oklahoma. He has served in different capacities for nearly 15 years including: Middle School Minister, High School Pastor, College/Young Adults Pastor, and now Groups Pastor.
Landry Franks
Verses 1 and 2 provide two central characters for this story, the sinners and tax collectors, and the Scribes and Pharisees. The sinners are called this because their sin was public to the community. The Scribes and Pharisees were the cultural elite and believed what your life looked like was far more important than the state of your heart. Jesus’ teaching in Luke 15 is geared toward a heart transformation. He wants us all to see that, whether sinner or Pharisee, we are all broken. The prodigal son is written for the Pharisee to see the pride they harbor in their own works, and because of this they miss the glory of God in salvation. Maybe you feel like your faith is more about your own deeds and not what Christ has done on your behalf. This Easter, repent and trust Christ’s work more than your own. We all need the Gospel, even if we act like we really don’t.
--Landry Franks; Council Road Baptist Church 4.24.19
--Landry Franks; Council Road Baptist Church 4.24.19
douglas r frayne
Douglas R Frayne
“The “terror of the night” (is) a demon whose name occurs once in the Hebrew Bible.” And this single occurrence of this name is only found in Psalm 91.” --Douglas R. Frayne
daniel frederick
Feb 28, 2023: The Herald Bulletin: Saving the Sacred: Indiana church closings cause real estate concerns
When church leaders come to Daniel Frederick, it’s never good news.
Frederick leads Indiana Landmark’s Sacred Places program. Since 2015, the nonprofit has worked to help congregations stay in their historic buildings before evacuation and demolition become the only options.
When church leaders come to Daniel Frederick, it’s never good news.
Frederick leads Indiana Landmark’s Sacred Places program. Since 2015, the nonprofit has worked to help congregations stay in their historic buildings before evacuation and demolition become the only options.
Guy frerick
Feb 3, 2023: Baptist News Global: SBC Executive Committee member once again criticized for sexually crude social media posts
For the second time in 16 months, a member of the Southern Baptist Convention Executive Committee has been called out for crude and sexually charged social media posts.
Guy Fredrick is a pastor and associational leader from Sheboygan, Wis. In October 2021, he was roundly criticized for a Facebook post that made a crude joke about workplace sexual harassment. That happened while the Executive Committee, on which he serves as a trustee, was weighing serious legal concerns about allegations of sexual abuse in SBC churches and agencies had been mishandled and ignored.
For the second time in 16 months, a member of the Southern Baptist Convention Executive Committee has been called out for crude and sexually charged social media posts.
Guy Fredrick is a pastor and associational leader from Sheboygan, Wis. In October 2021, he was roundly criticized for a Facebook post that made a crude joke about workplace sexual harassment. That happened while the Executive Committee, on which he serves as a trustee, was weighing serious legal concerns about allegations of sexual abuse in SBC churches and agencies had been mishandled and ignored.
curtis freeman
Jan 10, 2023: Baptist News Global: The New Apostolic Reformation drove the January 6 riots, so why was it overlooked by the House Select Committee?
Curtis Freeman, professor at Duke Divinity School, tweeted: “NC ranks #11 in arrests of Capitol Rioters. Not surprisingly there is NO mention of religious involvement. It would be interesting to learn the church connection of NC Rioters. The theology of domestic terrorism remains unmoved.”
Curtis Freeman, professor at Duke Divinity School, tweeted: “NC ranks #11 in arrests of Capitol Rioters. Not surprisingly there is NO mention of religious involvement. It would be interesting to learn the church connection of NC Rioters. The theology of domestic terrorism remains unmoved.”
terence fretheim
July 6, 2023: Presbyterian Outlook: On women pastors and biblical authority: A Presbyterian reflection
For starters, Presbyterians contend that interpreting Scripture is hard work for Scripture is not self-interpreting; it requires interpretation, which is never simply a reiteration of the text, but laboring to bring it into our own time and place. Moreover, as Terence Fretheim observes, ascribing a high level of authority to the Bible (e.g., “I believe in the authority of Scripture more than you do”) does not guarantee the accuracy of our interpretations (“The Authority of the Bible and the Imaging of God” in Engaging Biblical Authority).
For starters, Presbyterians contend that interpreting Scripture is hard work for Scripture is not self-interpreting; it requires interpretation, which is never simply a reiteration of the text, but laboring to bring it into our own time and place. Moreover, as Terence Fretheim observes, ascribing a high level of authority to the Bible (e.g., “I believe in the authority of Scripture more than you do”) does not guarantee the accuracy of our interpretations (“The Authority of the Bible and the Imaging of God” in Engaging Biblical Authority).
lance fricke
July 13, 2023: Politico: DeSantis is hoping Iowa evangelicals can make his campaign born again
“Life is the most important thing, and if you don’t get that one right, why would you get anything else right?” said Lance Fricke, pastor of Triumphant Church in Independence, Iowa. Fricke, who lamented the “vitriol” toward Trump this cycle, nevertheless predicted a strong showing for DeSantis among evangelicals in Iowa.
“Life is the most important thing, and if you don’t get that one right, why would you get anything else right?” said Lance Fricke, pastor of Triumphant Church in Independence, Iowa. Fricke, who lamented the “vitriol” toward Trump this cycle, nevertheless predicted a strong showing for DeSantis among evangelicals in Iowa.
aaron fry
March 2, 2023: Christian Post: ‘A ripple effect from Asbury’: Secular universities now seeing revival gatherings on their campuses
Pastor Aaron Fry of Sozo Church in Columbus, Ohio, told CP that he attended the Asbury revival on Feb. 17 and the OSU prayer and worship gathering last Thursday along with his wife: “There were people in the room that have been praying for revival on campus for at least 15 years. My wife and I went to support and pray alongside these students. I believe that those who are blazing the trail at OSU are more qualified in these moments to speak into this.”
Pastor Aaron Fry of Sozo Church in Columbus, Ohio, told CP that he attended the Asbury revival on Feb. 17 and the OSU prayer and worship gathering last Thursday along with his wife: “There were people in the room that have been praying for revival on campus for at least 15 years. My wife and I went to support and pray alongside these students. I believe that those who are blazing the trail at OSU are more qualified in these moments to speak into this.”
Carlton Funderburke
Aug 18, 2022: Christian Post: Missouri Pastor Rips 'Disgusting' Churchgoers Who Didn't Buy Him A Fancy Watch
A Missouri pastor is apologizing after a video featuring his rant about being over his “busted and disgusted” congregation circulated on TikTok.
The clip featured Carlton Funderburke, senior pastor at Kansas City’s Church at The Well, telling churchgoers they were “cheap sons and daughters” for not honoring their pastor by buying him a Movado watch.
A Missouri pastor is apologizing after a video featuring his rant about being over his “busted and disgusted” congregation circulated on TikTok.
The clip featured Carlton Funderburke, senior pastor at Kansas City’s Church at The Well, telling churchgoers they were “cheap sons and daughters” for not honoring their pastor by buying him a Movado watch.
Timothy R. Furnish
Timothy R. Furnish is a conservative Christian with a PhD in Islamic history, a US Army veteran, and a published author of one book and numerous articles in venues such as The Weekly Standard, The Washington Times, The Lutheran Witness and History News Network (HNN). His website is www.mahdiwatch.org and he also blogs on HNN as Occidental Jihadist.
Feb 25, 2015: View From the Bunker: VFTB 229: Timothy Furnish – What ISIS Believes
Dr. Timothy R. Furnish, a consultant, researcher and author on the topics of Islam, Mahdism, Jihadism, Shi`ism, and other Islamic sects, discusses the eschatology of the Islamic State (ISIS/ISIL), how much its religious beliefs differ from mainstream Islam (hint: they really don’t), and how the group’s view of end times prophecy directs its bloody political, military, and religious agenda.
Dr. Timothy R. Furnish, a consultant, researcher and author on the topics of Islam, Mahdism, Jihadism, Shi`ism, and other Islamic sects, discusses the eschatology of the Islamic State (ISIS/ISIL), how much its religious beliefs differ from mainstream Islam (hint: they really don’t), and how the group’s view of end times prophecy directs its bloody political, military, and religious agenda.
- Steven Furtick -