H - PEOPLE FILES
- Ted Haggard - Contanze Hagmaier - Leslie A Hahner - Joseph Hall - Mark David Hall - Nick Hall - Laura Hammans - Cally Hammond - Thomas Hammond - Hank Hanegraaff - Collin Hansen - Lisa Sharon Harper - Fred Harrell - Alex Harris - Matthew Harrison - Brian Hastings - Stanley Hauerwas - Kevin Hay - Michael AG Haykin - Timothy Head - Travis Hearne - Peter Heather - Lorie Hedgepeth - Mat Herman - Jim Herod - Carter Heyward - Jack Hibbs - Flavio Rogerio Hickel Jr - Steve Hickey - Allen Hickman - Elise Hilton - Costi Hinn - Richard Hinojosa - Chris Hodges - Matt Hodges - Margaret Hodgkins - Raschaad Hoggard - David Hoffman - Ron Hoffman - Elizabeth Rowley Hogue - Billy Holland - Christian Hooft - Brad Hopkins - Tony Hoss -
ted haggard |
Ted Arthur Haggard is an American
evangelical pastor. Haggard is the founder and former pastor of New Life Church in Colorado Springs, Colorado and is a founder of the Association of Life-Giving Churches. He served as president of the National Association of Evangelicals (NAE) from 2003 until November 2006.
Ted Haggard was born on June 27, 1956 in Delphi, Indiana, USA. He has been married to Gayle Haggard since 1978. They have five children.
evangelical pastor. Haggard is the founder and former pastor of New Life Church in Colorado Springs, Colorado and is a founder of the Association of Life-Giving Churches. He served as president of the National Association of Evangelicals (NAE) from 2003 until November 2006.
Ted Haggard was born on June 27, 1956 in Delphi, Indiana, USA. He has been married to Gayle Haggard since 1978. They have five children.
January 10, 2023: Religion & Politics: Bad Preachers’ Wives
By the 2000s, the conservative evangelical stance on homosexuality had cemented itself in a series of denouncements, prohibitions, and therapeutic treatments. God wanted everyone to be straight; some just had to work a bit harder at it. Ted Haggard, president of the National Association of Evangelicals (NAE), knew this intimately.
Haggard was the charismatic founder and pastor of the 14,000-member New Life Church in Colorado Springs, Colorado. He was friendly with the anti-gay Focus on the Family leader James Dobson and served as an occasional advisor to George W. Bush’s White House. In 2006, as marriage equality was being debated in state and federal courts, Haggard endorsed Colorado’s proposed ban on same-sex marriage. When sex worker Mike Jones learned about his long-time client’s true identity and political activism, he rushed to the press with the explosive details of Haggard’s double life.
By the 2000s, the conservative evangelical stance on homosexuality had cemented itself in a series of denouncements, prohibitions, and therapeutic treatments. God wanted everyone to be straight; some just had to work a bit harder at it. Ted Haggard, president of the National Association of Evangelicals (NAE), knew this intimately.
Haggard was the charismatic founder and pastor of the 14,000-member New Life Church in Colorado Springs, Colorado. He was friendly with the anti-gay Focus on the Family leader James Dobson and served as an occasional advisor to George W. Bush’s White House. In 2006, as marriage equality was being debated in state and federal courts, Haggard endorsed Colorado’s proposed ban on same-sex marriage. When sex worker Mike Jones learned about his long-time client’s true identity and political activism, he rushed to the press with the explosive details of Haggard’s double life.
Jul 26, 2022: Religion News: Disgraced pastor Ted Haggard faces new allegations
Former Colorado megachurch pastor Ted Haggard, who fell from grace in 2006 after a gay sex-and-drug scandal, is now facing some of the same allegations at another church.
Haggard, 66, is being accused of using methamphetamine and behaving inappropriately with young men at St. James Church in Colorado Springs, Colorado, a church he founded in 2010, The Denver Gazette reported.
Former Colorado megachurch pastor Ted Haggard, who fell from grace in 2006 after a gay sex-and-drug scandal, is now facing some of the same allegations at another church.
Haggard, 66, is being accused of using methamphetamine and behaving inappropriately with young men at St. James Church in Colorado Springs, Colorado, a church he founded in 2010, The Denver Gazette reported.
constanze hagmaier |
The Reverend Constanze Hagmaier was elected to the Office of Bishop on Saturday, June 1, 2019 at the South Dakota Synod Assembly. Bishop Constanze Hagmaier is married to The Rev. Dirk Hagmaier and they have two biological children: Paul, 20; Emma, 4; and one foster son, Lymann, 21. Bishop Hagmaier had most recently been serving as the administrative pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church in Madison, SD with her husband, Rev. Dirk Hagmaier
How some South Dakota churches are adapting to attendance declines
Falling attendance and membership at many South Dakota churches has prompted pastors, leaders and elders to look for creative ways to keep people engaged and pursuing a larger purpose. Constanze Hagmaier, bishop of the South Dakota Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, said that includes using technology to allow for remote attendance and encouraging lay church members to take a more active role in spreading the gospel outside the walls of the church. (Bart Pfankuch/Sioux Falls Argus Leader 4/8/23)
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Falling attendance and membership at many South Dakota churches has prompted pastors, leaders and elders to look for creative ways to keep people engaged and pursuing a larger purpose. Constanze Hagmaier, bishop of the South Dakota Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, said that includes using technology to allow for remote attendance and encouraging lay church members to take a more active role in spreading the gospel outside the walls of the church. (Bart Pfankuch/Sioux Falls Argus Leader 4/8/23)
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Constanze Hagemaier
“Oftentimes, when we look at civic resources and civic engagements, it’s all about what can I do. It’s all about me, me, me, me, me and how we need to save ourselves. And if we can’t do that, we get frustrated and all these things bubble up and we start pointing fingers and conflict arises. But the church, ideally speaking, has this other voice, this countercultural voice, where if we take ourselves out of the picture and put God at the center, and that’s part of our message, then we can take our own differences away and look at life from a different lens, and work for communal good.....If we still think we live in the times that we lived in when our forefathers founded the land and the church, and these young people have all the pressing issues that we are not able to talk about, then they won’t be interested. If the church is not relevant in their lives, they won’t participate in church or be part of a church. They’re very selective in how they engage. The church has a clear and profound message at which the true God is at the center and from there we reach out to offer an alternative way of life. But if the church loses the focus we become fear driven and operate from a preservative mindset....If we believe that in everything God’s at the heart of things we are free to engage in our culture and offer an alternative.”
-Constanze Hagameir 4/8/23
-Constanze Hagameir 4/8/23
July 19, 2022: Aberdeen News: Churches in South Dakota, nationwide dealing with lower attendance, affiliation numbers“As the world keeps turning and changing around us, we expect the church to always be the same … well, nowhere in Scripture does it say the church will be the same,” said Constanze Hagmaier, bishop of the ELCA South Dakota Synod. "If we can’t hear the voices that are out there and respond with faith, then we’re emptying the church on our own; we’re just helping them pack and go out the door because we refuse to open ourselves up to actually listen.”
Changing and adapting is critical in reaching and attracting the next generation of Americans and South Dakotans, who look at the world and institutions with a more critical eye and demand more payback for the time and energy they invest, she said
Changing and adapting is critical in reaching and attracting the next generation of Americans and South Dakotans, who look at the world and institutions with a more critical eye and demand more payback for the time and energy they invest, she said
Oct 29, 2021: South Dakota Public Broadcasting: Bishop to Bishop: A conversation with ELCA Bishops Constanze Hagmaier and Megan Rohrer
This interview is from SDPB's daily public-affairs show, In the Moment, hosted by Lori Walsh.
This interview is from SDPB's daily public-affairs show, In the Moment, hosted by Lori Walsh.
May 4, 2021: Capital Journal: Madison pastor, German native, elected bishop of SD synod of ELCA; succeeds former Pierre pastor
The Rev. Constanze Hagmaier was elected bishop of the South Dakota Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America on Saturday, June 1, in Sioux Falls, to succeed Bishop David Zellmer, who was a pastor in Pierre from 1993-2007.
The Rev. Constanze Hagmaier was elected bishop of the South Dakota Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America on Saturday, June 1, in Sioux Falls, to succeed Bishop David Zellmer, who was a pastor in Pierre from 1993-2007.
leslie a hahner
Leslie A Hahner
“Christian Nationalism,” she explained, “is a set of ideological beliefs expressed by [some] white, evangelical Christians. Their beliefs champion the U.S. as a Christian nation, as one that is ordained by God. It’s often connected to, if not an outright embodiment of, ideologies of white supremacy.........Christian Dominionism is a set of beliefs and practices [that] often manifest through a smaller sect of white, evangelical Christians and some sections of Catholicism.” According to Hahner, followers of Christian Dominionism, many of whom are supporters of former Pres. Trump, believe that “God gave [them] the [United States]…and that God’s battle with Satan is currently playing out in the arena of politics and elsewhere.” In that way, she says, “Dominionism suggests that white supremacy manifests through God’s hand.”
-Leslie A Hahner; 2.14.21
-Leslie A Hahner; 2.14.21
joseph hall
Trump campaign touts evangelical support in Iowa as faith leaders endorse him
"As a pastor in Iowa, I believe President Trump has demonstrated a profound understanding of the issues that are crucial to us," Crossroads Church Senior Pastor Joseph Hall said. More than 150 faith leaders in Iowa have thrown their support behind former President Donald Trump ahead of the state's primary contest, potentially helping him to shore up a key voting bloc in Hawkeye State.
(Ben Wedon/Just The News 11/21/23)
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"As a pastor in Iowa, I believe President Trump has demonstrated a profound understanding of the issues that are crucial to us," Crossroads Church Senior Pastor Joseph Hall said. More than 150 faith leaders in Iowa have thrown their support behind former President Donald Trump ahead of the state's primary contest, potentially helping him to shore up a key voting bloc in Hawkeye State.
(Ben Wedon/Just The News 11/21/23)
READ MORE>>>>>
mark david hall
Mark David Hall (born 22 February 1966) Mark David Hall is a Professor in Regent University's Robertson School of Government and a Senior Research Fellow at the Center for Religion, Culture & Democracy, an initiative of First Liberty Institute. Mark David Hall arrived at George Fox 2001 after receiving a BA in political science from Wheaton College and a PhD in political science from the University of Virginia. In addition to teaching politics and honors, he is director of the John Dickinson Forum for the Study of America's Founding Principles. As well, Mark is Distinguished Scholar of Christianity & Public Life at George Fox University, Associate Faculty at the Center for the Study of Law and Religion at Emory University, and a Senior Fellow at Baylor University’s Institute for Studies of Religion. In 2022-2023, he was a Garwood Visiting Fellow at Princeton University’s James Madison Program and a Visiting Scholar at the Mercatus Center.
Mark David Hall
This book…(Proclaim Liberty Throughout All the Land) focuses on the ways in which Christians have advanced liberty and equality in the American context. Contrary to many academics and popular authors, I show that Christians have regularly been motivated by their faith to create fair and just institutions, fight for political freedom, oppose slavery, and secure religious liberty for all. Of course, some Christians have appealed to the Bible and Christian theology to oppose such reforms or to justify evil practices. Americans of other faiths and no faith have also worked to advance liberty and equality for all. Proclaim Liberty Throughout All the Land cannot tell all of these stories; its more modest goal is to put to rest the myth that Christianity has been a regressive force with respect to positive political, legal, and societal reform in the United States. --Mark David Hall
Kevin Deyoung Files
Hall has written an important book full of important history and corrective scholarship. As a physical book, the quality would have been improved with a better typeface, better paper, a better cover design, and something besides running footnotes (so that the total reaches 555 for the entire book). The impressive content, though, more than makes up for the lackluster design. Although the second half of the book strays a bit from the historical question “how Christianity has advanced freedom” into present-day advocacy for religious freedom, the book as a whole is thoroughly researched and effectively argued. Hall’s work is a needed reminder that even if America never was, and is not now, “Christian” in every sense of the word, we can never fully separate—nor should we want to separate—Christianity from America. The fight for liberty, not least of all religious liberty, is ongoing and should be the concern of all Americans. And for that liberty in the first place—for all Americans—we have Christians to thank. --Kevin DeYoung; 5.24.23
nick hall
Nick Hall is an international evangelist and the founder of PULSE, one of the largest student-led prayer and evangelism efforts in America. He also on the Board of Directors Executive Committee of the National Association of Evangelicals, and author of the book Reset: Jesus Changes Everything.
Mar 22, 2023: Church Leaders: Nick Hall on Asbury, Gen Z and Why He Believes ‘God Is Doing Something’
“People would stand up in the middle of Asbury. They would say, ‘Hey, if you’re here, you need to repent.’ Somebody stood up and said, ‘I’m guilty of adultery and I’m stuck in my sin.’ And the whole room would say, ‘The blood of Jesus forgives you.’ And then somebody else would stand up and say, ‘I’m addicted to porn or I have hate in my heart’ or whatever—’The blood of Jesus forgives you.’”
“People would stand up in the middle of Asbury. They would say, ‘Hey, if you’re here, you need to repent.’ Somebody stood up and said, ‘I’m guilty of adultery and I’m stuck in my sin.’ And the whole room would say, ‘The blood of Jesus forgives you.’ And then somebody else would stand up and say, ‘I’m addicted to porn or I have hate in my heart’ or whatever—’The blood of Jesus forgives you.’”
Feb 28, 2023: Religion News: The Asbury revival is over. What happens now?
On Sunday (Feb. 26), Minneapolis-based evangelist Nick Hall brought an Asbury-inspired revival event to Rupp Arena in Lexington, Kentucky, about half an hour from the Christian school’s campus.
Hall is the leader of Pulse, a ministry that aims to bring “Jesus to the next generation” by hosting big events. He attended the Asbury revival in its first week and said he was overwhelmed by what God was doing.
On Sunday (Feb. 26), Minneapolis-based evangelist Nick Hall brought an Asbury-inspired revival event to Rupp Arena in Lexington, Kentucky, about half an hour from the Christian school’s campus.
Hall is the leader of Pulse, a ministry that aims to bring “Jesus to the next generation” by hosting big events. He attended the Asbury revival in its first week and said he was overwhelmed by what God was doing.
laura hammans
June 18, 2019: CalMatters: How Redding, California, became an unlikely epicenter of modern Christian culture
“Redding is their test case of turning a city that is a democracy into a theocracy,” says Laura Hammans, a member of Investigating Bethel, a Facebook group with more than 1,000 members.
Hammans is one of a dozen members of the group meeting at a Redding park one afternoon. Another member, Donna Zibull, is passing out stickers that say, “Don’t drink the Kool-Aid.”
“Redding is their test case of turning a city that is a democracy into a theocracy,” says Laura Hammans, a member of Investigating Bethel, a Facebook group with more than 1,000 members.
Hammans is one of a dozen members of the group meeting at a Redding park one afternoon. Another member, Donna Zibull, is passing out stickers that say, “Don’t drink the Kool-Aid.”
cally hammond
Reverend Dr Cally Hammond is the Dean of Gonville and Caius College, Cambridge. She is the Church Times’s Sunday’s Readings columnist.
College positions: Dean Director of Studies in Theology, Religion & Philosophy of Religion. Subjects: Classics Theology, Religion, and Philosophy of Religion
Degrees: MA, DPhil (Oxon.) Literae Humaniores. MA (Cantab) Theology and Religious Studies. Research interests: Augustine Confessions; liturgical praxis; characterization and causation in early Christian historiography; Mariology; words. Teaching interests: Early Christian history and doctrinal development; Greek and Latin languages; Cicero, Caesar, Virgil, Augustine.
Publications: Augustine, Teaching Christianity; the Teacher (Harvard: Loeb Classical Library) forthcoming Augustine’s life of prayer, learning and love: lessons for Christian living (2019) Caesar: the Gallic War (Oxford World’s Classics 1995) Passionate Christianity: a journey to the Cross (SPCK 2007) Joyful Christianity: finding Jesus in the world (SPCK 2009) Glorious Christianity: walking by faith in the life to come (SPCK 2011) Augustine: Confessions vol. 1, 1-8 (Harvard: Loeb Classical Library 2014) vol.2, 9-13 (2015) The Sound of the Liturgy: how words work in worship (SPCK: 2015)
College positions: Dean Director of Studies in Theology, Religion & Philosophy of Religion. Subjects: Classics Theology, Religion, and Philosophy of Religion
Degrees: MA, DPhil (Oxon.) Literae Humaniores. MA (Cantab) Theology and Religious Studies. Research interests: Augustine Confessions; liturgical praxis; characterization and causation in early Christian historiography; Mariology; words. Teaching interests: Early Christian history and doctrinal development; Greek and Latin languages; Cicero, Caesar, Virgil, Augustine.
Publications: Augustine, Teaching Christianity; the Teacher (Harvard: Loeb Classical Library) forthcoming Augustine’s life of prayer, learning and love: lessons for Christian living (2019) Caesar: the Gallic War (Oxford World’s Classics 1995) Passionate Christianity: a journey to the Cross (SPCK 2007) Joyful Christianity: finding Jesus in the world (SPCK 2009) Glorious Christianity: walking by faith in the life to come (SPCK 2011) Augustine: Confessions vol. 1, 1-8 (Harvard: Loeb Classical Library 2014) vol.2, 9-13 (2015) The Sound of the Liturgy: how words work in worship (SPCK: 2015)
Cally Hammond
In 1 Corinthians, Paul does not balance weal and woe. Instead, he sets truth against untruth. We could almost say that here is the purest distillation of the gospel; for our whole faith depends upon this one fact. If Christ has not been raised, then our preaching is lies. We have even misrepresented God, and our hope is void — and not only our hope, but the hope of loved ones who have already died. If Christ has been raised, however, his resurrection is a “first fruits”. This means the first and freshest of the new harvest, which gives an indicator of the quality of what has not yet been gathered. Christ’s quality should be the guarantee of our own.
If the resurrection were a lie, or a fantasy, we would be trapped in sin, unable to escape. Then, we would deserve pity. The contrast for Paul is between a vigorous, plentiful crop full of goodness, and a failed harvest that yields nothing. Jeremiah and the psalmist both think along the same lines as Paul, although without Paul’s understanding of the resurrection. They see water and strong growth going hand in hand: those who trust in God are fruitful. --Cally Hammond; Church Times
If the resurrection were a lie, or a fantasy, we would be trapped in sin, unable to escape. Then, we would deserve pity. The contrast for Paul is between a vigorous, plentiful crop full of goodness, and a failed harvest that yields nothing. Jeremiah and the psalmist both think along the same lines as Paul, although without Paul’s understanding of the resurrection. They see water and strong growth going hand in hand: those who trust in God are fruitful. --Cally Hammond; Church Times
thomas hammond
April 18, 2023: Baptist Press: SBC leaders, former presidents react to death of Charles Stanley
“Dr. Stanley’s unwavering devotion to preach God’s Word without compromise had a tremendous impact on my life during my most formative years. His commitment to the inerrancy of Scripture fortified the resolve of many during one of the most pivotal seasons of the Southern Baptist Convention. Charles Stanley was truly America’s pastor for nearly five decades.”--Thomas Hammond, executive director-treasurer, Georgia Baptist Mission Board
“Dr. Stanley’s unwavering devotion to preach God’s Word without compromise had a tremendous impact on my life during my most formative years. His commitment to the inerrancy of Scripture fortified the resolve of many during one of the most pivotal seasons of the Southern Baptist Convention. Charles Stanley was truly America’s pastor for nearly five decades.”--Thomas Hammond, executive director-treasurer, Georgia Baptist Mission Board
Hank Hanegraaff
Thomas Nelson (June 7, 2012)
These are not obscure teachers that Hanegraaff unmasks. We know their names. We have seen their faces, sat in their churches, and heard them shamelessly preach and promote the false pretexts of a give-to-get gospel. They are virtual rock stars who command the attention of presidential candidates and media moguls. Through make-believe miracles, urban legends, counterfeit Christs, and twisted theological reasoning, they peddle an occult brand of metaphysics that continues to shipwreck the faith of millions around the globe:
“God cannot do anything in this earthly realm unless we give Him permission.”
“Keep saying it—‘I have equality with God’—talk yourself into it.”
“Being poor is a sin.”
“The Jews were not rejecting Jesus as Messiah; it was Jesus who was refusing to be the Messiah to the Jews!”
“You create your own world the same way God creates His. He speaks, and things happen; you speak, and they happen.”
Christianity in Crisis: 21st Century exposes darkness to light, pointing us back to a Christianity centered in Christ.
From the Preface:
“Having lost the ability to think biblically, postmodern Christians are being transformed from cultural change agents and initiators into cultural conformists and imitators. Pop culture beckons, and postmodern Christians have taken the bait. As a result, the biblical model of faith has given way to an increasingly bizarre array of fads and formulas.”
“God cannot do anything in this earthly realm unless we give Him permission.”
“Keep saying it—‘I have equality with God’—talk yourself into it.”
“Being poor is a sin.”
“The Jews were not rejecting Jesus as Messiah; it was Jesus who was refusing to be the Messiah to the Jews!”
“You create your own world the same way God creates His. He speaks, and things happen; you speak, and they happen.”
Christianity in Crisis: 21st Century exposes darkness to light, pointing us back to a Christianity centered in Christ.
From the Preface:
“Having lost the ability to think biblically, postmodern Christians are being transformed from cultural change agents and initiators into cultural conformists and imitators. Pop culture beckons, and postmodern Christians have taken the bait. As a result, the biblical model of faith has given way to an increasingly bizarre array of fads and formulas.”
collin hansen
May 9, 2023: Anxious Bench: The Evangelical Conversion Narrative of Molly Worthen
Earlier today, Tuesday May 9, Collin Hansen released an interview with historian Molly Worthen on his podcast, Gospel Bound. What unfolded in the interview was the surprising narrative of Molly Worthen’s evangelical conversion to Christianity.
Earlier today, Tuesday May 9, Collin Hansen released an interview with historian Molly Worthen on his podcast, Gospel Bound. What unfolded in the interview was the surprising narrative of Molly Worthen’s evangelical conversion to Christianity.
Feb 7, 2023: Religion News: New Tim Keller Center for Apologetics hopes to help churches reach a changing country
“This is the largest and fastest transformation of religion in American history,” said Collin Hansen, vice president for content and editorial director for the Gospel Coalition, an evangelical group that produces resources for churches. “The demographics don’t suggest any positive turn around the corner.”
That reality led Hansen and his colleagues to launch the Keller Center for Cultural Apologetics, a new initiative designed to help pastors and other Christian leaders adapt to a “post-Christendom culture.” Named for influential evangelical writer the Rev. Tim Keller, founder of Redeemer Presbyterian Church in New York City, the center hopes to support “a new generation of bold evangelists and effective apologists who will communicate the unchanging gospel for a changing world.”
“This is the largest and fastest transformation of religion in American history,” said Collin Hansen, vice president for content and editorial director for the Gospel Coalition, an evangelical group that produces resources for churches. “The demographics don’t suggest any positive turn around the corner.”
That reality led Hansen and his colleagues to launch the Keller Center for Cultural Apologetics, a new initiative designed to help pastors and other Christian leaders adapt to a “post-Christendom culture.” Named for influential evangelical writer the Rev. Tim Keller, founder of Redeemer Presbyterian Church in New York City, the center hopes to support “a new generation of bold evangelists and effective apologists who will communicate the unchanging gospel for a changing world.”
lisa sharon harper
Jan 6, 2023: Red Letter Christians: January 6 Shows Us the Path to Religious Freedom is Not Christian Nationalism
Political pundits will fine tooth comb the January 6 committee’s highly anticipated report. As faith leaders, that is not our job. Our work is to reach into the moral conscience of our country, into the core values we share. Among those is freedom and among those blessed freedoms, our much-cherished freedom of religion.
Freedom of religion thrives in a strong and vibrant democracy and ours is currently under assault by an authoritarian faction that claims to value freedom of religion—as long it’s theirs. Cloaked in the cross, white Christian Nationalists were visible and violent during the January 6 Capitol Hill insurgency against the peaceful transfer of power. They have made it abundantly clear that they are willing to take away a breathtaking range of rights in the name of their faith. That is neither religion nor is it freedom.
Lisa Sharon Harper, President and Founder, Freedom Road
Author of Fortune: How Race Broke My Family And The World—And How To Repair It All
Political pundits will fine tooth comb the January 6 committee’s highly anticipated report. As faith leaders, that is not our job. Our work is to reach into the moral conscience of our country, into the core values we share. Among those is freedom and among those blessed freedoms, our much-cherished freedom of religion.
Freedom of religion thrives in a strong and vibrant democracy and ours is currently under assault by an authoritarian faction that claims to value freedom of religion—as long it’s theirs. Cloaked in the cross, white Christian Nationalists were visible and violent during the January 6 Capitol Hill insurgency against the peaceful transfer of power. They have made it abundantly clear that they are willing to take away a breathtaking range of rights in the name of their faith. That is neither religion nor is it freedom.
Lisa Sharon Harper, President and Founder, Freedom Road
Author of Fortune: How Race Broke My Family And The World—And How To Repair It All
Sept 19, 2021: Brethren Newsline: Lisa Sharon Harper takes NOAC along on a journey wrestling with identity
n 2003, Lisa Sharon Harper undertook a journey to wrestle with her identity. The journey took her along the Trail of Tears as well as into the heart of slavery in the American South.
Mar 20, 2015: Lisa Sharon Harper: Christian Post: Progressive Christian Leaders Pen Open Letter to Franklin Graham Over Racial Reconciliation
Mar 19, 2015: Lisa Sharon Harper: Sojourners: An Open Letter to Franklin Graham
Aug 25, 2014: Lisa Sharon Harper: Christianity Today: It's Time to Listen: "The Lie," a guest post by Lisa Sharon Harper
Lisa Sharon Harper, Sojourners’ senior director of mobilizing, was the founding executive director of New York Faith & Justice—an organization at the hub of a new ecumenical movement to end poverty in New York City. In that capacity, she helped establish Faith Leaders for Environmental Justice, a citywide collaborative effort of faith leaders committed to leveraging the power of their constituencies and their moral authority in partnership with communities bearing the weight of environmental injustice. She also organized faith leaders to speak out for immigration reform and organized the South Bronx Conversations for Change, a dialogue-to-change project between police and the community. She has written extensively on tax reform, comprehensive immigration reform, health-care reform, poverty, racial justice, and transformational civic engagement for publications and blogs including The National Civic Review, God’s Politics blog, The Huffington Post, Urban Faith, Prism, and Slant33.
Her first book, Evangelical Does Not Equal Republican…or Democrat, offers a power-packed look at the roots of evangelical faith, how evangelicals strayed so far from those roots, and what is bringing them back. Her second book, Left, Right & Christ: Evangelical Faith in Politics, was co-written with D.C. Innes (an evangelical Republican who is also a Tea-Partier). Harper and Innes explore their philosophies of government and business, as well as six major issues that the next generation of evangelicals must wrestle with to be faithful witnesses in the public square.
Harper co-founded and co-directed the Envision 2008: The Gospel, Politics, and the Future conference on the campus of Princeton University (June 2008) and co-chaired the Envision 2011: Caring for the Community of Creation: Environmental Justice, Climate Change, and Prophetic Witness symposium in New York City (June 2011). She was the recipient of Sojourners’ inaugural Organizers Award and the Harlem “Sisters of Wisdom” Award. She was celebrated on Rick Warren’s website purposedriven.com as one of the inaugural “Take Action Heroes,” and was recently named fifth among the “13 Religious Women to Watch in 2012” by the Center for American Progress.
She earned her master’s in human rights from Columbia University in New York City. Harper serves on the board of directors of the New Evangelical Partnership for the Common Good and is a member of Metro Hope Church in New York City, an Evangelical Covenant Church.
n 2003, Lisa Sharon Harper undertook a journey to wrestle with her identity. The journey took her along the Trail of Tears as well as into the heart of slavery in the American South.
Mar 20, 2015: Lisa Sharon Harper: Christian Post: Progressive Christian Leaders Pen Open Letter to Franklin Graham Over Racial Reconciliation
Mar 19, 2015: Lisa Sharon Harper: Sojourners: An Open Letter to Franklin Graham
Aug 25, 2014: Lisa Sharon Harper: Christianity Today: It's Time to Listen: "The Lie," a guest post by Lisa Sharon Harper
Lisa Sharon Harper, Sojourners’ senior director of mobilizing, was the founding executive director of New York Faith & Justice—an organization at the hub of a new ecumenical movement to end poverty in New York City. In that capacity, she helped establish Faith Leaders for Environmental Justice, a citywide collaborative effort of faith leaders committed to leveraging the power of their constituencies and their moral authority in partnership with communities bearing the weight of environmental injustice. She also organized faith leaders to speak out for immigration reform and organized the South Bronx Conversations for Change, a dialogue-to-change project between police and the community. She has written extensively on tax reform, comprehensive immigration reform, health-care reform, poverty, racial justice, and transformational civic engagement for publications and blogs including The National Civic Review, God’s Politics blog, The Huffington Post, Urban Faith, Prism, and Slant33.
Her first book, Evangelical Does Not Equal Republican…or Democrat, offers a power-packed look at the roots of evangelical faith, how evangelicals strayed so far from those roots, and what is bringing them back. Her second book, Left, Right & Christ: Evangelical Faith in Politics, was co-written with D.C. Innes (an evangelical Republican who is also a Tea-Partier). Harper and Innes explore their philosophies of government and business, as well as six major issues that the next generation of evangelicals must wrestle with to be faithful witnesses in the public square.
Harper co-founded and co-directed the Envision 2008: The Gospel, Politics, and the Future conference on the campus of Princeton University (June 2008) and co-chaired the Envision 2011: Caring for the Community of Creation: Environmental Justice, Climate Change, and Prophetic Witness symposium in New York City (June 2011). She was the recipient of Sojourners’ inaugural Organizers Award and the Harlem “Sisters of Wisdom” Award. She was celebrated on Rick Warren’s website purposedriven.com as one of the inaugural “Take Action Heroes,” and was recently named fifth among the “13 Religious Women to Watch in 2012” by the Center for American Progress.
She earned her master’s in human rights from Columbia University in New York City. Harper serves on the board of directors of the New Evangelical Partnership for the Common Good and is a member of Metro Hope Church in New York City, an Evangelical Covenant Church.
Fred Harrell |
Rev. Fred Harrell founded City Church San Francisco in 1996 andserves as the faith community’s senior pastor. In this role, Rev. Fred Harrell preaches the Christian gospel, visits members, and oversees the church’s staff.
The Rev. Fred O. Harrell is a native of Central Florida and is a graduate of the University of Florida (degree in economics) and Reformed Theological Seminary (graduate degree in theology and pastoral care). Before coming to San Francisco, he founded and led a university-based ministry designed to answer the questions of thoughtful seekers and to equip Christians for transformational ministries in and through the church. He and his wife, Terely, have been married since 1986, and they have four children.
The Rev. Fred O. Harrell is a native of Central Florida and is a graduate of the University of Florida (degree in economics) and Reformed Theological Seminary (graduate degree in theology and pastoral care). Before coming to San Francisco, he founded and led a university-based ministry designed to answer the questions of thoughtful seekers and to equip Christians for transformational ministries in and through the church. He and his wife, Terely, have been married since 1986, and they have four children.
Dec 5, 2022: Fred Harrell: Reformed Journal: Curiosity and How Listening and Learning Transformed My Life in Ministry
July 1, 2015: Politico: I’m Gay, Christian—And No Longer an Outcast
Fred Harrell, City Church’s senior pastor, invited me to spend a full day with his staff team a few days before San Francisco Pride.
Mar 16, 2015: Religious News Service: Prominent San Francisco evangelical church drops celibacy requirement for LGBT members
“We will no longer discriminate based on sexual orientation and demand lifelong celibacy as a precondition for joining,” senior pastor Fred Harrell Sr. and six board members of City Church, one of the largest members of the Reformed Church in America denomination, wrote in a letter emailed to members Friday (March 13).
Fred Harrell, City Church’s senior pastor, invited me to spend a full day with his staff team a few days before San Francisco Pride.
Mar 16, 2015: Religious News Service: Prominent San Francisco evangelical church drops celibacy requirement for LGBT members
“We will no longer discriminate based on sexual orientation and demand lifelong celibacy as a precondition for joining,” senior pastor Fred Harrell Sr. and six board members of City Church, one of the largest members of the Reformed Church in America denomination, wrote in a letter emailed to members Friday (March 13).
Jan 21, 2021: Baptist News: These churches will resume in-person gatherings only when it’s safe for all
“Rather than looking for some date, we are values-driven about when and how we will resume in-person gatherings,” Harrell said. “That includes data and guidance from scientists, and we are also driven by the value of inclusivity. We are reticent to pick and choose who can participate: Until larger gatherings are permitted, we can’t imagine getting together.”
“Rather than looking for some date, we are values-driven about when and how we will resume in-person gatherings,” Harrell said. “That includes data and guidance from scientists, and we are also driven by the value of inclusivity. We are reticent to pick and choose who can participate: Until larger gatherings are permitted, we can’t imagine getting together.”
alex harris
June 7, 2023: Baptist News Global: How to connect the dots while watching Shiny Happy People
The Gospel Coalition wasted no time hiring Alex Harris, the conservative evangelical brother of former Sovereign Grace pastor Josh Harris who was interviewed for the Amazon series, to write a review of Shiny Happy People on the day it was released.
“It can be messy and confusing when outsiders poke around and try to tell a story about the church,” he wrote. “There will inevitably be examples of where these storytellers paint with too broad a brush or give a free platform to people eager to throw stones at a faith they’ve left behind.”
Harris admitted some embarrassing abuse has occurred. But he doesn’t think the docuseries “fairly represents us or our faith.” And despite being raised as part of “The Joshua Generation,” which he and Shiny Happy People define as his generation rising up and attaining “positions of power and influence in government, law and beyond,” Harris says he had “a wonderful homeschool experience, for which I’ll always be grateful.”
“I know people who had positive experiences with IBLP,” Harris wrote. “These were homeschool families with parents who genuinely sought to honor God and do what was best for their children.”
Then, criticizing the series itself, Harris wrote: “On the few occasions the filmmakers try to connect Gothard’s teachings to broader themes in Christianity, the attempts are invariably heavy handed, often equating Gothard’s genuine extremism with beliefs held by the vast majority of evangelicals.” But the outsiders Harris characterizes as throwing stones are women and children who were abused within the hierarchical tower conservative evangelical ministries have built. Harris and The Gospel Coalition cannot pretend to value listening to survivors of abuse when they merely give lip service to their suffering, as evidenced by the way they question their “agenda” and characterize them as outside stone throwers.
The Gospel Coalition wasted no time hiring Alex Harris, the conservative evangelical brother of former Sovereign Grace pastor Josh Harris who was interviewed for the Amazon series, to write a review of Shiny Happy People on the day it was released.
“It can be messy and confusing when outsiders poke around and try to tell a story about the church,” he wrote. “There will inevitably be examples of where these storytellers paint with too broad a brush or give a free platform to people eager to throw stones at a faith they’ve left behind.”
Harris admitted some embarrassing abuse has occurred. But he doesn’t think the docuseries “fairly represents us or our faith.” And despite being raised as part of “The Joshua Generation,” which he and Shiny Happy People define as his generation rising up and attaining “positions of power and influence in government, law and beyond,” Harris says he had “a wonderful homeschool experience, for which I’ll always be grateful.”
“I know people who had positive experiences with IBLP,” Harris wrote. “These were homeschool families with parents who genuinely sought to honor God and do what was best for their children.”
Then, criticizing the series itself, Harris wrote: “On the few occasions the filmmakers try to connect Gothard’s teachings to broader themes in Christianity, the attempts are invariably heavy handed, often equating Gothard’s genuine extremism with beliefs held by the vast majority of evangelicals.” But the outsiders Harris characterizes as throwing stones are women and children who were abused within the hierarchical tower conservative evangelical ministries have built. Harris and The Gospel Coalition cannot pretend to value listening to survivors of abuse when they merely give lip service to their suffering, as evidenced by the way they question their “agenda” and characterize them as outside stone throwers.
matthew harrison
Feb 22, 2023: Religion News: Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod president calls for excommunicating white nationalists
In a letter dated Feb. 21, LCMS President Matthew Harrison said he was “shocked to learn recently that a few members of LCMS congregations have been propagating radical and unchristian ‘alt-right’ views via Twitter and other social media.” He noted far-right members were causing “local disruption” for congregations and alleged that LCMS leadership and deaconesses had fallen victim to online threats, some of which he described as “serious.”
In a letter dated Feb. 21, LCMS President Matthew Harrison said he was “shocked to learn recently that a few members of LCMS congregations have been propagating radical and unchristian ‘alt-right’ views via Twitter and other social media.” He noted far-right members were causing “local disruption” for congregations and alleged that LCMS leadership and deaconesses had fallen victim to online threats, some of which he described as “serious.”
brian hastings
June 28, 2023: WGLT: Bloomington-Normal churches join a campaign to erase medical debt
When a North Carolina church's debt jubilee service went viral back in April, Bloomington-based pastor Brian Hastings saw the headlines online and was intrigued — but he didn't immediately watch the video or read the corresponding articles and posts about it.
When a North Carolina church's debt jubilee service went viral back in April, Bloomington-based pastor Brian Hastings saw the headlines online and was intrigued — but he didn't immediately watch the video or read the corresponding articles and posts about it.
stanley hauerwas
July 17, 2023: Anxious Bench: Church-Hopping in Texas
We did this, even though my partner and I have had our fair share of awkward July 4th celebrations. During our undergrad days at Southwestern Assemblies of God, in Waxahachie, Texas, we were proselytized into a peace witness by a young ethics professor who had read a lot of John Howard Yoder and Stanley Hauerwas. During the early aughts, (the years we were active in Pentecostals for Peace and Justice,) we refused to do nationalistic things in church–most especially for July 4th. We sat when others stood. We stood but didn’t sing, and so forth. We’ve never figured out how to negotiate July 4th church services. We just always feel awkward.
We did this, even though my partner and I have had our fair share of awkward July 4th celebrations. During our undergrad days at Southwestern Assemblies of God, in Waxahachie, Texas, we were proselytized into a peace witness by a young ethics professor who had read a lot of John Howard Yoder and Stanley Hauerwas. During the early aughts, (the years we were active in Pentecostals for Peace and Justice,) we refused to do nationalistic things in church–most especially for July 4th. We sat when others stood. We stood but didn’t sing, and so forth. We’ve never figured out how to negotiate July 4th church services. We just always feel awkward.
May 21, 2023: Current: Stanley Hauerwas on the Christian church: “My sense is that God is making us leaner.”
Longtime readers of this blog will know that I am a big fan of John Inazu’s work, especially his book Confident Pluralism: Surviving and Thriving Through Deep Difference. Until I read this interview at Inazu’s Substack, I did not realize the Washington University law professor includes Duke University theologian Stanley Hauerwas among his mentors. Here is a taste of the interview, which focuses heavily on the work of moral philosopher Alasdair MacIntyre.
Longtime readers of this blog will know that I am a big fan of John Inazu’s work, especially his book Confident Pluralism: Surviving and Thriving Through Deep Difference. Until I read this interview at Inazu’s Substack, I did not realize the Washington University law professor includes Duke University theologian Stanley Hauerwas among his mentors. Here is a taste of the interview, which focuses heavily on the work of moral philosopher Alasdair MacIntyre.
kevin hay
Kevin Hay serves as the Lead Pastor of First Baptist Church in Kenova, West Virginia. He is a DMin student in Expository Preaching at The Master’s Seminary and is the editor of the book, Assurance: Our Confidence in Christ by Thomas Goodwin.
Kevin Hay
This portion of our text gets to the heart of why God has designed the church to be led by supernaturally empowered, biblically qualified, shepherds. Specifically, it’s because the church is comprised of people whom God compares to sheep. As one author rightly noted, “It is no accident that God has chosen to call us sheep…The behavior of sheep and human beings is similar in many ways…sheep do not ‘just take care of themselves’ as some might suppose. They require, more than any other class of livestock, endless attention and meticulous care. --Kevin Hay; First Baptist Church in Kenova, West Virginia.
MICHAEL AG HAYKIN |
Professor, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary
|
Sept 2, 2022: Michael AG Haykin: Desiring God: A Meal for the Journey
June 30, 2020: Southern Equip: Michael AG Haykin: How church history will help you defend the faith
Jan 7, 2015: Vimeo: #ChooseAFaculty: A Conversation with Dr. Michael Haykin
Dr. Michael A.G. Haykin is the Professor of Church History and Biblical Spirituality and Director of The Andrew Fuller Center for Baptist Studies at The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. He is also the editor of Eusebeia: The Bulletin of The Andrew Fuller Center for Baptist Studies. His present areas of research include 18th-century British Baptist life and thought, as well as Patristic Trinitarianism and Baptist piety. Haykin is a prolific writer having authored numerous books, over 250 articles and over 150 book reviews. He is also an accomplished editor with numerous editorial credits.
Jan 7, 2015: Vimeo: #ChooseAFaculty: A Conversation with Dr. Michael Haykin
Dr. Michael A.G. Haykin is the Professor of Church History and Biblical Spirituality and Director of The Andrew Fuller Center for Baptist Studies at The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. He is also the editor of Eusebeia: The Bulletin of The Andrew Fuller Center for Baptist Studies. His present areas of research include 18th-century British Baptist life and thought, as well as Patristic Trinitarianism and Baptist piety. Haykin is a prolific writer having authored numerous books, over 250 articles and over 150 book reviews. He is also an accomplished editor with numerous editorial credits.
timothy head
Timothy Head
“Speaker Johnson has demonstrated his commitment to defending freedom, protecting life, and promoting limited government. We look forward to seeing the House get back to serving the American people under his leadership.” --Timothy Head; Executive director of Faith & Freedom Coalition 10/25/23
travis hearne
“Everybody understands God’s righteousness and his punishment for sins in their conscience and by nature,” Horton said. “It’s the gospel that is surprising. It’s the ‘but God’ that interrupts karma. As the Law mediated the Old Covenant, Christ as the new Adam mediates the New Covenant and provides his righteousness for those who believe.”
Horton believes contemporary challenges to the biblical doctrine of justification undermine the sufficient work of Christ by falling into legalism and antinomianism. A particular error Horton corrected was the teaching of the so-called new perspective on Paul, which is commonly associated with James Dunn, E.P Sanders, and N.T. Wright. Contrary to proponents of the new perspective on Paul, the Reformers understood Paul’s teaching on justification correctly as a great exchange where Christ’s righteousness is imputed to the faithful.
“Justification is not about the ethnic problem of inclusion or how to get in and stay in the covenant,” Horton said. “It’s the opposite. The question of the true nature of Israel is provoked by the coming wrath of God, not whether Jews must circumcise Gentiles. The questions they were asking were, 'How must we be saved? Am I among that Israel?”
Therefore, according to Horton, Paul’s concern with legalism was a secondary concern to his main concern—that Christ alone is our salvation. The Reformation doctrines of the solas, which include Scripture alone, faith alone, grace alone, and to the glory of God alone, all require the central teaching that man is dependent on Christ alone for faith, grace, and true understanding of Scripture.
“Paul totally rejected self-dependence. He saw man as completely depraved and dependent on God. God, through Christ, provided Paul with a salvation that the law could not provide. The prerequisite for that salvation was the quality Abraham had—faith.” --Travis Hearne; Southern Baptist Theological Seminary; Michael Horton Delivers Norton Lectures at Southern Seminary 9/15/23
Horton believes contemporary challenges to the biblical doctrine of justification undermine the sufficient work of Christ by falling into legalism and antinomianism. A particular error Horton corrected was the teaching of the so-called new perspective on Paul, which is commonly associated with James Dunn, E.P Sanders, and N.T. Wright. Contrary to proponents of the new perspective on Paul, the Reformers understood Paul’s teaching on justification correctly as a great exchange where Christ’s righteousness is imputed to the faithful.
“Justification is not about the ethnic problem of inclusion or how to get in and stay in the covenant,” Horton said. “It’s the opposite. The question of the true nature of Israel is provoked by the coming wrath of God, not whether Jews must circumcise Gentiles. The questions they were asking were, 'How must we be saved? Am I among that Israel?”
Therefore, according to Horton, Paul’s concern with legalism was a secondary concern to his main concern—that Christ alone is our salvation. The Reformation doctrines of the solas, which include Scripture alone, faith alone, grace alone, and to the glory of God alone, all require the central teaching that man is dependent on Christ alone for faith, grace, and true understanding of Scripture.
“Paul totally rejected self-dependence. He saw man as completely depraved and dependent on God. God, through Christ, provided Paul with a salvation that the law could not provide. The prerequisite for that salvation was the quality Abraham had—faith.” --Travis Hearne; Southern Baptist Theological Seminary; Michael Horton Delivers Norton Lectures at Southern Seminary 9/15/23
peter heather
Unholy alliance
Christian nationalism is as old as Constantine and as new as MAGA. From the Roman emperor to the Trump slogan, the merging of religious and national identities has taken many forms. Constantine’s conversion did not spiritualize the empire, says historian Peter Heather in his new book, Christendom. Just the opposite: It produced the Romanization of Christianity — religion as servant of the state. American Christians, too, forfeit the soul of their faith when they try to link it with secular power. But the discrediting of faith is only half the damage. Christian nationalism distorts both faith and democracy.
(Paul Schrag/Anabaptist World 8/21/23)
READ MORE>>>>
Christian nationalism is as old as Constantine and as new as MAGA. From the Roman emperor to the Trump slogan, the merging of religious and national identities has taken many forms. Constantine’s conversion did not spiritualize the empire, says historian Peter Heather in his new book, Christendom. Just the opposite: It produced the Romanization of Christianity — religion as servant of the state. American Christians, too, forfeit the soul of their faith when they try to link it with secular power. But the discrediting of faith is only half the damage. Christian nationalism distorts both faith and democracy.
(Paul Schrag/Anabaptist World 8/21/23)
READ MORE>>>>
lorie hedgepeth
Lorie Hedgepeth
This passage of scripture affords us more than the basis for the traditional Christmas story. Consider with me three timeless truths from this passage of scripture that are relevant to our life regardless of season or circumstance:
- We, like Mary have the favor of God on our life (v. 28). Psalms 5:12 says, “For you Lord will bless the righteous; with favor you will surround him as with a shield”. I’d rather have the favor of God than the fortune of this world. His Favor never runs out! Psalms 30:5 teaches us that God’s favor lasts a lifetime. Through every season of our life the people of God have the favor of God. God loves all people…but He has placed His favor on His people. Thank God for favor!! Stop, look, and see all the ways that God has canopied your life with His amazing favor.
- The Lord is with us (v.28). The Lord said He would NEVER leave us or forsake us. I can get through what I am going through when I know He is with me! We can walk through difficult places, dismal places, and dry places when we know He is with us. Isaiah 41:10 says, “FEAR THOU NOT…..for I AM WITH THEE! Christmas will come and go…but HE remains. Family comes and goes…but HE remains! This Christmas may be painfully different from last Christmas…but HE is with us! We can get through what we are going through because Jesus…the Son of the living God is with us.
- Like Mary, Jesus, the Son of God lives in us (v.29-32). We don’t visit God at Church—He lives in us. Paul said in Galatians 2:20, “..Christ liveth in me”. The promise of Revelation 3:20 is that when we open our heart’s door to Christ, He comes IN! Paul said in Colossians 1:27 that Christ in you is the hope of Glory! Christ in us is what makes Christmas more than just a religious observance. He, the Christ of Christmas resides in us! I don’t know what you are facing…what you are dealing with this Christmas but know this: this same Jesus whose birth we celebrate can heal broken hearts, heal sick bodies and make a way even in the most desperate of situations. --Lorie Hedgepeth ; Mississippi Assemblies of God; First Words 12-19-22 12.19.22
matt herman
Jan 5, 2023: Assemblies of God: PIONEERING CAMPUS MINISTRY
Even though his father, Harvey, worked at the Chi Alpha Campus Ministries national office in Springfield, Missouri, for 30 years, Matt Herman’s destiny to follow him hardly seemed assured as he entered adulthood.
Matt enrolled at Missouri State University (MSU) with plans of becoming an accountant. But during his first semester he got involved in the Chi Alpha group there and by his junior year sensed a call to campus ministry. He graduated in 2002 with a bachelor’s degree in religious studies, then earned a master’s in theology at Assemblies of God Theological Seminary. Afterward he served a year as a Chi Alpha intern at Georgetown University.
Even though his father, Harvey, worked at the Chi Alpha Campus Ministries national office in Springfield, Missouri, for 30 years, Matt Herman’s destiny to follow him hardly seemed assured as he entered adulthood.
Matt enrolled at Missouri State University (MSU) with plans of becoming an accountant. But during his first semester he got involved in the Chi Alpha group there and by his junior year sensed a call to campus ministry. He graduated in 2002 with a bachelor’s degree in religious studies, then earned a master’s in theology at Assemblies of God Theological Seminary. Afterward he served a year as a Chi Alpha intern at Georgetown University.
jim herod
May 29, 1998: Baptist Press: Utah churches face challenges as part of religious minority
“You are always aware of where the power is,” said Jim Herod, pastor of Emmanuel Baptist Church in Hyram, Utah. “But they try to be very careful and not abuse that power, especially in an overt or obvious way. And they are sensitive to others who are not Mormons.”
Over the past 20 years or so, in fact — as the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has been increasingly portrayed as a part of mainstream Christianity — there has been even more interest in working cooperatively and respectfully with non-Mormons, Herod said.
“You are always aware of where the power is,” said Jim Herod, pastor of Emmanuel Baptist Church in Hyram, Utah. “But they try to be very careful and not abuse that power, especially in an overt or obvious way. And they are sensitive to others who are not Mormons.”
Over the past 20 years or so, in fact — as the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has been increasingly portrayed as a part of mainstream Christianity — there has been even more interest in working cooperatively and respectfully with non-Mormons, Herod said.
carter heyward
In a time of national crisis, when human rights and democratic ideals are under threat, it’s everyone’s responsibility to take a stand—but those of us who benefit from the harmful systems fueling the emergency have an even greater moral obligation to act. For the Rev. Dr. Carter Heyward, a groundbreaking feminist theologian, that means Christians need to play a much bigger role in the fight against fascism.
Today’s Republican Party seems intent on transforming the United States into a grimly theocratic nation, inspired by a deeply capitalistic form of Christianity. Though Trumpism offers a novel twist on old bigotries, its roots run deep in our country’s history. “Nothing we are witnessing in the 21st century is new,” Heyward writes in the introduction to her book, The Seven Deadly Sins of White Christian Nationalism: A Call to Action, released in September. “In the past several years, however, our problems have come to a boil.”
Today’s Republican Party seems intent on transforming the United States into a grimly theocratic nation, inspired by a deeply capitalistic form of Christianity. Though Trumpism offers a novel twist on old bigotries, its roots run deep in our country’s history. “Nothing we are witnessing in the 21st century is new,” Heyward writes in the introduction to her book, The Seven Deadly Sins of White Christian Nationalism: A Call to Action, released in September. “In the past several years, however, our problems have come to a boil.”
jack hibbs
May 29, 2022: Denver Post: Christian nationalism on the rise in some GOP campaigns
Pastor Jack Hibbs of Calvary Chapel Chino Hills in Chino Hills, California, has also sought to influence local elections. While he does not let candidates campaign at the church, he frequently offers endorsements as a way of signaling to his flock those who are “pro-family, pro-life and pro-freedom.”
But “the hair on my neck goes up” when he hears the term “Christian nationalism,” he said. And he was embarrassed to see Christian imagery during the Jan. 6 riot: “That was a sad day, to see those sacred symbols and words pimped like that.”
Yet while he believes the founders created a secular nation, Hibbs said every Christian should have an equal say.
Pastor Jack Hibbs of Calvary Chapel Chino Hills in Chino Hills, California, has also sought to influence local elections. While he does not let candidates campaign at the church, he frequently offers endorsements as a way of signaling to his flock those who are “pro-family, pro-life and pro-freedom.”
But “the hair on my neck goes up” when he hears the term “Christian nationalism,” he said. And he was embarrassed to see Christian imagery during the Jan. 6 riot: “That was a sad day, to see those sacred symbols and words pimped like that.”
Yet while he believes the founders created a secular nation, Hibbs said every Christian should have an equal say.
Flavio Rogerio Hickel Jr
Flavio Rogerio Hickel Jr
While born-again Christians favored Carter over Republican Gerald Ford, 58 to 33 percent, in the 1976 Presidential Election, their allegiance switched to Ronald Reagan in the 1980s, due in part to the work of independent (and eventual Southern) Baptist Jerry Falwell’s Moral Majority. Falwell formed his political organization in advance of the 1980 election to counter what he and his allies perceived to be a moral decline in America in the 1960s and 1970s. Falwell’s Moral Majority sought a return to promoting the (White) Christian traditional heterosexual nuclear family on the heels of recent movements aimed at greater racial, gender and sexual equality. The group helped deliver important electoral gains, especially in the South, for Reagan, who similarly campaigned as a “family values” conservative. The Moral Majority supported Reagan’s successor, George H.W. Bush, in 1988, which demonstrated the power and GOP leanings of the White evangelical vote. --Flavio Rogerio Hickel Jr; Washington Post; Born-again Christians are less Southern Baptist than they used to be 7.7.23
Steve Hickey
July 7, 2023: Washington Post: Born-again Christians are less Southern Baptist than they used to be
“Mike Bickle is not distractible,” said Steve Hickey, a seminary professor at Alaska Christian College and a former pastor. “He’s very focused. He’s got a very biblical and responsible approach.”
“Mike Bickle is not distractible,” said Steve Hickey, a seminary professor at Alaska Christian College and a former pastor. “He’s very focused. He’s got a very biblical and responsible approach.”
Allen Hickman |
Allen Hickman lives in Picayune, Mississippi. Allen and his wife, Amy, both knew at an early age that God’s calling of ministry was upon their lives. Allen graduated high school at Picayune Memorial High School in Picayune, Mississippi in 1983. After graduating high school Allen went on to attend Mississippi College where he played football and graduated in 1987 with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Bible. After graduating college, Allen felt God’s call on his life to pursue ministry further so he went to Emmaus Road Ministry School in Texas where he also graduated. Allen is currently ministering as Senior Pastor of Resurrection Life Worship Center located in Picayune, MS
Allen Hickman
“It is people Jesus Christ died for. When we devalue people we lose something of ourselves and our ability to make good decisions, because people are the crown jewel of creation."'
--Allen Hickman; Unity Rally at Jack Read Park; 6.13.23
Aug 18, 2020: Sun-Herald: As a Black family searched for a loved one, white Picayune groups spread rumors of fear
Allen Hickman, a pastor at Resurrection Life Church in Picayune, was on vacation at Smith Lake in Alabama when he started getting calls from congregation members.
Allen Hickman, a pastor at Resurrection Life Church in Picayune, was on vacation at Smith Lake in Alabama when he started getting calls from congregation members.
June 20, 2020: Picayune Item: Prayers for Peace event brings local community together
An extensive line up of speakers during the event included Pastor Brian Dees, Pastor Allen Hickman, Pastor Vernon Robinson, Pastor Tony Lambert, Pastor Donald Hart and Pastor Josh Braddy.
An extensive line up of speakers during the event included Pastor Brian Dees, Pastor Allen Hickman, Pastor Vernon Robinson, Pastor Tony Lambert, Pastor Donald Hart and Pastor Josh Braddy.
May 3, 2019: Picayune Item: Mayor’s Prayer Breakfast was heavily attended
After the series of prayers, Rev. Allen Hickman of Resurrection Life Church asked all public officials and everyone running for public office to stand at the front of the room. Then the attendees stood, raised their arms and joined him in a prayer over public officials and candidates. His prayer asked God to give the officials strength and included a request that God eliminate abortion from the nation.
After the series of prayers, Rev. Allen Hickman of Resurrection Life Church asked all public officials and everyone running for public office to stand at the front of the room. Then the attendees stood, raised their arms and joined him in a prayer over public officials and candidates. His prayer asked God to give the officials strength and included a request that God eliminate abortion from the nation.
July 13, 2018: Picayune Item: Improvements at Friendship Park are first of many planned
Committee members include city of Picayune Grant Manager Christy Goss, Picayune Parks and Recreation Director Trevor Adam, Capt. Theresa Milar with the Picayune Police Department, Picayune Main Street Director Reba Beebe, Rev. Allen Hickman with Resurrection Life Ministries, Rev. Brian Dees, Pastor Darrell Worley of Christian Life Assembly of God and Laura Rutherford.
Committee members include city of Picayune Grant Manager Christy Goss, Picayune Parks and Recreation Director Trevor Adam, Capt. Theresa Milar with the Picayune Police Department, Picayune Main Street Director Reba Beebe, Rev. Allen Hickman with Resurrection Life Ministries, Rev. Brian Dees, Pastor Darrell Worley of Christian Life Assembly of God and Laura Rutherford.
May 17, 2023: Picayune Item: Twice as Nice: Manna Ministries opens new thrift store in Picayune
“The store is our next step in reaching out to more people in the community,” Allen Hickman, senior pastor at Resurrection Life said. “We hope that the community also views it even as a safe haven to relax and spend their time.”
“The store is our next step in reaching out to more people in the community,” Allen Hickman, senior pastor at Resurrection Life said. “We hope that the community also views it even as a safe haven to relax and spend their time.”
elise hilton |
- Acton Institute -
|
Aug 1, 2014: Illinois Review: August 1: Day Of Prayer For Persecuted Christians
Elise Hilton of Acton Institute writes that August 1 has been deemed to be a World Day of Prayer for Persecuted Christians in Iraq, Syria and the Middle East.
Elise Hilton of Acton Institute writes that August 1 has been deemed to be a World Day of Prayer for Persecuted Christians in Iraq, Syria and the Middle East.
“Now that he is safely dead, Let us praise him. Build monuments to his glory. Sing Hosannas to his name. Dead men make such convenient heroes. For they cannot rise to challenge the images That we might fashion from their lives. It is easier to build monuments Than to build a better world. So now that he is safely dead, We, with eased consciences will Teach our children that he was a great man, Knowing that the cause for which he Lived is still a cause And the dream for which he died is still a dream. A dead man’s dream.” - Carl Wendell Hines, Jr
costi hinn
Costi Hinn
In Jude 4 we read a sobering description of not merely sinful teaching, but the sinful lifestyles of false teachers. Jude writes, “For certain people have crept in unnoticed, those who were long beforehand marked out for this condemnation, ungodly persons who turn the grace of our God into indecent behavior and deny our only Master and Lord, Jesus Christ.”
The word for licentiousness he uses also translates as “sensuality” and means “lack of self-constraint which involves one in conduct that violates all bounds of what is socially acceptable.”(1) False teachers don’t only go too far with their doctrine, they always go too far with their deeds. They are marked by sins of “self-love” which is precisely why Paul warns Timothy that in the last days, men will be “lovers of self” (2 Timothy 3:2).
When false teachers speak out of the sides of their mouths and try to appear orthodox, there is still one surefire way to discern their deceptive patterns. One must look at their lifestyle in the wake of their claim to orthodoxy. If they appear to repent of a certain false teaching or veer away from it, one must ask, did they also repent of their greed, sexual immorality, homosexuality, and patterns of falsehood?
It is entirely convenient for a false teacher to edit a book secretly, or to quietly distance themselves from other false teachers who are bad for business, but does the deceptive teacher openly repent of their lifestyle of sin? If not, they are much more akin to Adam and Eve trying to foolishly hide from God in the garden (Genesis 3:8), rather than the Publican who openly cried out for mercy and identified himself as a sinner (Luke 18:9-14).
-Costi Hinn; For The Gospel; The Licentiousness of False Teachers 2.23.23
The word for licentiousness he uses also translates as “sensuality” and means “lack of self-constraint which involves one in conduct that violates all bounds of what is socially acceptable.”(1) False teachers don’t only go too far with their doctrine, they always go too far with their deeds. They are marked by sins of “self-love” which is precisely why Paul warns Timothy that in the last days, men will be “lovers of self” (2 Timothy 3:2).
When false teachers speak out of the sides of their mouths and try to appear orthodox, there is still one surefire way to discern their deceptive patterns. One must look at their lifestyle in the wake of their claim to orthodoxy. If they appear to repent of a certain false teaching or veer away from it, one must ask, did they also repent of their greed, sexual immorality, homosexuality, and patterns of falsehood?
It is entirely convenient for a false teacher to edit a book secretly, or to quietly distance themselves from other false teachers who are bad for business, but does the deceptive teacher openly repent of their lifestyle of sin? If not, they are much more akin to Adam and Eve trying to foolishly hide from God in the garden (Genesis 3:8), rather than the Publican who openly cried out for mercy and identified himself as a sinner (Luke 18:9-14).
-Costi Hinn; For The Gospel; The Licentiousness of False Teachers 2.23.23
Costi Hinn
This story is an incredible lesson to all of us that what we might think is the reason for sickness isn’t always the reason. Our finite human wisdom gets us only so far. Jesus makes it clear that God’s purposes and ways are far above our pay grade and that we do not control His plan and schedule. Sometimes God allows certain things or determines how long a circumstance will last so He can showcase His infinite power and wisdom and reveal more of Himself to us. We wouldn’t praise Him for His mercy if we weren’t aware of His wrath. We wouldn’t appreciate His love for sinners if we didn’t realize His hatred of sin. In the same way, we couldn’t begin to glorify Him for His healing hand if we didn’t experience (or see) sickness. -Costi Hinn
richard hinojosa |
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We are all in a season of being "under construction," but God is faithfully and quickly bringing us into a new season! A better season! Just watch what God will do.
chris hodges
July 27, 2023: Christian Post: Church of the Highlands founder Chris Hodges denies ‘engineering’ takeover of Celebration Church
Founder and leader of Church of the Highlands in Alabama, Chris Hodges, has dismissed claims in a lawsuit by Celebration Church founders Stovall and Kerri Weems that he, along with several other high-profile members of the Association of Related Churches, engineered a takeover of the megachurch for financial gain and damaged the couple's reputation.
Founder and leader of Church of the Highlands in Alabama, Chris Hodges, has dismissed claims in a lawsuit by Celebration Church founders Stovall and Kerri Weems that he, along with several other high-profile members of the Association of Related Churches, engineered a takeover of the megachurch for financial gain and damaged the couple's reputation.
matt hodges
April 3, 2023: CBN: 'Praise the Lord, We're Alive!' Victims of 52 Tornadoes Survey the Damage; 32 Dead
Pastor Matt Hodges of First Assembly of God in Wynne, Arkansas said, "We're thankful for organizations like (Operation Blessing) that has come in and been partnering with the local church."
Pastor Matt Hodges of First Assembly of God in Wynne, Arkansas said, "We're thankful for organizations like (Operation Blessing) that has come in and been partnering with the local church."
margaret hodgkins
Feb 15, 2023: Religion News Service: A 300-year-old church hopes to connect with spiritual but not religious neighbors
The church recently launched the Trinity Spiritual Center, which offers lectures, classes on meditation and contemplation, and a sense of community during a trying time, said the Rev. Margaret Hodgkins, the rector of Trinity Church.
“The Christian mandate is to love and serve and I feel like we’re helping people, through this contemplative focus, to be calm and courageous in turbulent times,” she said. “That comes out of time that’s spent in prayer and meditation. So, if we’re helping people to have more contemplative life — that helps everyone.”
The church recently launched the Trinity Spiritual Center, which offers lectures, classes on meditation and contemplation, and a sense of community during a trying time, said the Rev. Margaret Hodgkins, the rector of Trinity Church.
“The Christian mandate is to love and serve and I feel like we’re helping people, through this contemplative focus, to be calm and courageous in turbulent times,” she said. “That comes out of time that’s spent in prayer and meditation. So, if we’re helping people to have more contemplative life — that helps everyone.”
raschaad hoggard
Mar 29, 2023: Sojourners: THE HARLEM SUNDAY SCHOOL TEACHER WHO LED TRUMP’S INDICTMENT
Manhattan’s District Attorney, Alvin Bragg, is best known these days for leading the probe of whether former president Donald Trump and his company broke state laws in 2016 to buy Stormy Daniels’ silence about an alleged affair.
But at Abyssinian Baptist Church in Harlem, one of the most significant institutions serving Black New Yorkers, Bragg is known as a devoted man of faith and longtime member. His pastor Rev. Raschaad Hoggard recently preached: “You don’t have to like Trump, but you have to love him!” Bragg said with a chuckle during a February interview in his downtown office. His deputy director of communications shook her head, saying, “Nope!”
Manhattan’s District Attorney, Alvin Bragg, is best known these days for leading the probe of whether former president Donald Trump and his company broke state laws in 2016 to buy Stormy Daniels’ silence about an alleged affair.
But at Abyssinian Baptist Church in Harlem, one of the most significant institutions serving Black New Yorkers, Bragg is known as a devoted man of faith and longtime member. His pastor Rev. Raschaad Hoggard recently preached: “You don’t have to like Trump, but you have to love him!” Bragg said with a chuckle during a February interview in his downtown office. His deputy director of communications shook her head, saying, “Nope!”
Oct 30, 2023: Spectrum News: Congregation celebrates the life of Rev. Calvin Butts
“While we are in deep mourning. We believe what Dr. Butts has taught for the last 50 years, that we have to have the courage to keep the faith. He didn’t tell us to keep the faith just when the clouds and sun was out, but when it was raining and darkness and uncertainty. He commissioned us to keep the faith to press on to look to God for strength, for direction, for comfort, for clarity, for peace,” Rev. Raschaad Hoggard said.
“While we are in deep mourning. We believe what Dr. Butts has taught for the last 50 years, that we have to have the courage to keep the faith. He didn’t tell us to keep the faith just when the clouds and sun was out, but when it was raining and darkness and uncertainty. He commissioned us to keep the faith to press on to look to God for strength, for direction, for comfort, for clarity, for peace,” Rev. Raschaad Hoggard said.
david hoffman
Jan 28, 2023: Christian Post: Did Andy Stanley do a 'great disservice' with comments on LGBT churchgoers?
While drawing praise from some LGBT-affirming Christians, others such as David Hoffman, founder and director of the evangelism training ministry His Kingdom Enterprises in Tucson, Arizona, have accused Stanley of pandering to LGBT individuals over "straight people."
While drawing praise from some LGBT-affirming Christians, others such as David Hoffman, founder and director of the evangelism training ministry His Kingdom Enterprises in Tucson, Arizona, have accused Stanley of pandering to LGBT individuals over "straight people."
ron hoffman
Jan 3, 2023: Christian Post: Alaska megachurch changes its name, drops 'Temple' to avoid being 'associated with false religions'
A Baptist church in Alaska older than the state itself is changing its name.
Anchorage Baptist Temple, a well-known and politically influential church for decades, will now be known as Mountain City Church.
Pastor Ron Hoffman announced the change Sunday, saying the name would better reflect the identity of the roughly 2,500-member congregation.
A Baptist church in Alaska older than the state itself is changing its name.
Anchorage Baptist Temple, a well-known and politically influential church for decades, will now be known as Mountain City Church.
Pastor Ron Hoffman announced the change Sunday, saying the name would better reflect the identity of the roughly 2,500-member congregation.
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June 17, 2020: Alaska News Source: Some faith groups concerned about impact of SCOTUS LGBTQ Ruling
An Anchorage church says the Supreme Court ruling that protects the rights of gay and transgender workers could affect how some religious groups are viewed. Pastor Ron Hoffman with the Anchorage Baptist Temple says he’s worried about what the ruling will mean for organizations with religious convictions about the meaning of sex and sexuality. |
The SCOTUS ruling now allows "sexual orientation" and "gender identity" to be included in the definition of “sex” in Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. Hoffman says many people in his congregation of more than 1,500 Alaskans feel that they’re being discriminated against because of their traditional views. "It makes it difficult for the church as a whole, it ends up demonizing the church, long term effect is that truthfully, the church will be demonized as a hater, unkind or un-nice, it will impact every aspect of the world view on what church is,” Hoffman said. --6.17.20; Alaska News Source |
Elizabeth Rowley Hogue
The bible states that Jesus taught, “Ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall set you free.” Dr. Ernest Holmes agreed in part of his definition of freedom that, “The understanding of Truth-Infinite Principle-is the emancipator.” To free your mind is to have your thoughts be illuminated by the Divine, which is Truth.
Truth as in Spirit, not as in the fact-based reality of this is true or false. So, for example, the sky is indeed blue, or it’s false that the sun is cold, instead, Truth as higher consciousness, or Spirit consciousness.
Aligning myself with Spirt is harmonizing with the thoughts that vibrate at a higher frequency. You know them when you think them as they are thoughts that spark joy, thoughts that incite an energetic buzz, causing little bumps to cover your flesh. I call them God bumps, and they are better known as gooseflesh. The idea is to be so keenly aware of the thoughts passing through your mind that you can identify those of higher vibration to make a mental note to yourself to think them again.
Many people tend to think the same thoughts repeatedly that produce suffering for themselves, and they are so immersed in their beliefs that they are unable to lift themselves out of said suffering. They can’t see the forest for the trees, as the saying goes. The easy and quick remedy is to pick up a spiritual book, a sacred text, and begin reading it. Your thoughts will flow with the energy of the holy text and away from those that created suffering.
The mind will wander as it does, and you will be required to wrestle it back to the sacred text. It takes practice, as with anything. But, as you practice aligning your thoughts with the sacred text, you begin to feel lighter, and you give yourself a wonderful reprieve from the constant self-induced suffering you’ve endured. The words of the sacred textbooks are words of Truth setting your mind free. Free from the illusory thoughts that have bound you. Suddenly you gain an insight for a higher idea for yourself and your life that you couldn’t see before because you were stuck in the default, vintage thought patterns of the past. The answers aren’t there. --Elizabeth Rowley; Central Coast Center for Spiritual Living; Free Your Mind 7.8.23
Truth as in Spirit, not as in the fact-based reality of this is true or false. So, for example, the sky is indeed blue, or it’s false that the sun is cold, instead, Truth as higher consciousness, or Spirit consciousness.
Aligning myself with Spirt is harmonizing with the thoughts that vibrate at a higher frequency. You know them when you think them as they are thoughts that spark joy, thoughts that incite an energetic buzz, causing little bumps to cover your flesh. I call them God bumps, and they are better known as gooseflesh. The idea is to be so keenly aware of the thoughts passing through your mind that you can identify those of higher vibration to make a mental note to yourself to think them again.
Many people tend to think the same thoughts repeatedly that produce suffering for themselves, and they are so immersed in their beliefs that they are unable to lift themselves out of said suffering. They can’t see the forest for the trees, as the saying goes. The easy and quick remedy is to pick up a spiritual book, a sacred text, and begin reading it. Your thoughts will flow with the energy of the holy text and away from those that created suffering.
The mind will wander as it does, and you will be required to wrestle it back to the sacred text. It takes practice, as with anything. But, as you practice aligning your thoughts with the sacred text, you begin to feel lighter, and you give yourself a wonderful reprieve from the constant self-induced suffering you’ve endured. The words of the sacred textbooks are words of Truth setting your mind free. Free from the illusory thoughts that have bound you. Suddenly you gain an insight for a higher idea for yourself and your life that you couldn’t see before because you were stuck in the default, vintage thought patterns of the past. The answers aren’t there. --Elizabeth Rowley; Central Coast Center for Spiritual Living; Free Your Mind 7.8.23
billy holland
Dr. William F. "Billy" Holland Jr. is an ordained minister, community chaplain and author of the "Living on Purpose" faith column. He lives in central Kentucky with his wife, Cheryl.
Dr. William F. "Billy" Holland Jr. is an ordained minister, community chaplain and author of the "Living on Purpose" faith column. He lives in central Kentucky with his wife, Cheryl.
Billy Holland
It’s true that Satan was tempting and lying to Eve just like he does with everyone today, but we must include that she and her husband also had the choice to resist and reject the deceptions of the enemy of our soul the same as we can now. Verses 6 and 7,“When the woman saw that the fruit of the tree was good for food and pleasing to the eye, and also desirable for gaining wisdom, she took some and ate it. She also gave some to her husband, who was with her, and he ate it. Then the eyes of both of them were opened, and they realized they were naked; so they sewed fig leaves together and made coverings for themselves.” Let us note the very important statement, “Then their eyes were opened.” For the first time, sin awakened the conscience within the human mind and established a guilt that could not be satisfied by human morality and also established a personal accountability to seek spiritual truth. Humans became incarcerated in their sinful condition and can only be released by the infinite, divine, and absolute truth which is God Himself. An interesting consideration is found in John Chapter 8 and verse 32, where Jesus said that truth in itself will not necessarily bring personal spiritual deliverance but “knowing” truth (comprehend, perceive, awaken, realize, discern, understand, apprehend) is the act of faith which activates the power of God to spiritually set someone free. “And you shall ‘know’ the truth, and the truth shall make you free.”
-Billy Holland; Bill Holland Ministries
-Billy Holland; Bill Holland Ministries
Billy Holland
Observing the trend of the churches today as they strive to be “seeker friendly,” we see that the chief means by which the church seeks to accomplish this end is to embrace the world. Does the world love rock music? The church will give them rock music. Does the world love sports? The church will create Christian sports leagues and build ball fields and a sports complex. Does the world love entertainment? The church will install big screens, professional lighting and sound systems, and put on a show. Does the world love its celebrities? The church will build a personality of cult around its gifted speakers, singers, and entertainers.
Of course, those Christians who embrace all the things of the world, declare they are doing so in a quest to be “relevant.” After all, they reason, how will they reach a lost world if they do not appeal to the desires of the world? The problem with this way of thinking is that having drawn worldly people into the church, the seekers find no significant difference inside the church. The church merely presents them with a “cleaned up” version of what they had outside. The church has all the same values of comfort, ease, pleasure, and entertainment; they are presenting a religion that satisfies the soul of man, instead of leading people to the radical change of focus that they need. Mankind apart from Christ is by nature a consumer. He lives to satisfy his natural appetites. This became the state of all men when Adam transgressed in the Garden of Eden. Adam failed to subdue and rule over the beasts (and by extension the beast nature). Adam submitted to the rule of the serpent. Consequently, the curse on the serpent became mankind’s curse. --Billy Holland
Of course, those Christians who embrace all the things of the world, declare they are doing so in a quest to be “relevant.” After all, they reason, how will they reach a lost world if they do not appeal to the desires of the world? The problem with this way of thinking is that having drawn worldly people into the church, the seekers find no significant difference inside the church. The church merely presents them with a “cleaned up” version of what they had outside. The church has all the same values of comfort, ease, pleasure, and entertainment; they are presenting a religion that satisfies the soul of man, instead of leading people to the radical change of focus that they need. Mankind apart from Christ is by nature a consumer. He lives to satisfy his natural appetites. This became the state of all men when Adam transgressed in the Garden of Eden. Adam failed to subdue and rule over the beasts (and by extension the beast nature). Adam submitted to the rule of the serpent. Consequently, the curse on the serpent became mankind’s curse. --Billy Holland
christian hooft
May 2, 2023; Sight Magazine: Argentine election: As politicians look to woo evangelicals, experts say their votes may have little impact on results
That is why people like Pastor Christian Hooft, who heads the Christian Alliance of Evangelical Churches of the Republic of Argentina (known as ACIERA), considers that there is no such thing as an “evangelical vote” in the country.
“There is no uniformity among Christians," he says. "And there is no intention that such uniformity comes into being,”
That is why people like Pastor Christian Hooft, who heads the Christian Alliance of Evangelical Churches of the Republic of Argentina (known as ACIERA), considers that there is no such thing as an “evangelical vote” in the country.
“There is no uniformity among Christians," he says. "And there is no intention that such uniformity comes into being,”
brad hopkins
Nov 28, 2022: Christian Post: Wyoming’s largest homeless shelter secures right to hire only Christians, settles lawsuit"
As a Christ-centered organization, if you reject Him, then we just don't see that as a best fit when we're trying to communicate His loving message of care and kindness to the people that we serve," said WRM Executive Director Brad Hopkins, as reported by Wyoming News Now in September.
"We serve everybody regardless of belief or background, personal experience but through the years, our entire history, we hire folks on our staff who share a common faith in Jesus Christ and have the ability to communicate that faith as well."
As a Christ-centered organization, if you reject Him, then we just don't see that as a best fit when we're trying to communicate His loving message of care and kindness to the people that we serve," said WRM Executive Director Brad Hopkins, as reported by Wyoming News Now in September.
"We serve everybody regardless of belief or background, personal experience but through the years, our entire history, we hire folks on our staff who share a common faith in Jesus Christ and have the ability to communicate that faith as well."
tony hoss
Tony Hoss graduated from David Crockett High School in Jonesborough, Tennessee and attended the DeVry School of Technology in Atlanta, Ga. He received his 2 year diploma in (Biblical Studies) in 2005 and 3rd year diploma in (Apologetics) in 2006 from the Tri-City School of Preaching & Christian Development in Elizabethton, Tennessee. He currently preaches and works for the Centerview Church of Christ in Elizabethton, Tennessee where he has served as an elder since 2019. Previously Tony preached and served as an Elder for the Valley Church of Christ in Kingsport, Tennessee for seven years.
Tony Hoss
According to Mathew 28:19, this one Spirit is a member of the Godhead. The Holy Spirit was present when the world was created (Genesis 1:1-2). His presence is eternal; according to (Hebrews 9:14). The writer of Hebrews said, “How much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without spot to God, purge your conscience from dead works to serve the living God?” Throughout the Bible the Holy Spirit of God is referred to by many different names. He is known as the “Comforter” in (John 14:26), “the Spirit of truth” in (John 16:13), “the Spirit of grace” in (Hebrews 10:29), and “God” (Acts 5:3-4). He is referred to as the Spirit of Glory in (1 Peter 4:12), the Lord in (2 Corinthians 3:5), the Spirit of Glory in (1 Peter 4:14), and the Eternal Spirit in (Hebrews 9:14). The Holy Spirit is and always been involved in the lives of men. We learn in (Hebrews 3:7-11), that the Holy Spirit continues to speak today. His method of speaking today is through the “Word of God,” the Bible. This Word of God is referred to by Paul as “the sword of the Spirit.” The people of God are commanded to listen to the Spirit as He speaks through the Word (Bible). We recall that in the letters sent to the seven churches in Asia (Revelation 2-3), Christians are given this admonition: “He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches.” -Tony Hoss; Centerview Church of Christ
