S-6 PEOPLE FILES
- Katherine Stewart - Greg Stiekes - Lyndon Stimeling - Mark Stirling - David Stocker - Caroline Stoltzfus - Dave Stone - Meredith Stone - Mike Stone - Rachel Marie Stone - Sam Storms - Glenn & Jenny Story - Owen Strachan - Stu Strachan - Drew Strait - Stephen E Strang - Daniel Strange -
==katherine Stewart======
|
"Better than Jesus": How far will the cult of Trump go? MAGA has "been persuaded," Katherine Stewart tells Salon, "that Trump is the savior who will face down the demons" Donald Trump is a human chaos engine. It is a function of both his personality and his politics. He has shown himself to be what mental health professionals describe as “hypomanic”: He has what appears to be an endless amount of energy. Trump is an instinctive authoritarian and a demagogue. Although he has no real ideology beyond amassing raw corrupt power for his own purposes, Trump’s political project is fascist. He hates democracy, the rule of law, and any other restraints on his behavior and goal of being America’s first dictator. Such political strongmen and their movements use chaos, confusion, and destruction as one of their primary weapons to exhaust any resistance to them. As he has shown throughout the last eight years (at least), Donald Trump is a master of this strategy. (Reformed Journal 3/20/24) READ MORE>>>>> |
|
God and Country
Ten minutes into watching the documentary God and Country, the muscles and tendons in my body began to tighten and tense up because it was all sounding too familiar. I have had experiences with Christian Nationalism in my community. You know the vibe: it’s where Donald Trump is God’s chosen one sent to make the nation Christian, while Democrats are demons out to destroy everything that is good and holy. Anyone who doesn’t hop on the toxic Trump train is somehow out of God’s grace. God & Country is based primarily on Katherine Stewart’s book The Power Worshippers: Inside the Dangerous Rise of Religious Nationalism. Drawing from the wisdom of constitutional scholars, religious historians, pastors and biblical scholars, we’re given a picture of the dangerous nature of the rise of Christian Nationalism and its well-organized and highly funded goal to make the United States a “Christian” nation. (Reformed Journal 3/20/24) READ MORE>>>>>
Ten minutes into watching the documentary God and Country, the muscles and tendons in my body began to tighten and tense up because it was all sounding too familiar. I have had experiences with Christian Nationalism in my community. You know the vibe: it’s where Donald Trump is God’s chosen one sent to make the nation Christian, while Democrats are demons out to destroy everything that is good and holy. Anyone who doesn’t hop on the toxic Trump train is somehow out of God’s grace. God & Country is based primarily on Katherine Stewart’s book The Power Worshippers: Inside the Dangerous Rise of Religious Nationalism. Drawing from the wisdom of constitutional scholars, religious historians, pastors and biblical scholars, we’re given a picture of the dangerous nature of the rise of Christian Nationalism and its well-organized and highly funded goal to make the United States a “Christian” nation. (Reformed Journal 3/20/24) READ MORE>>>>>
==greg stiekes===================
Greg Stiekes grew up in a pastor’s home in southern Michigan. He accepted Christ at a young age, and by his junior year in high school he had committed his life to teaching and preaching the Word of God. After studying Bible and Speech at Bob Jones University, he went on to earn a Master’s degree in Speech, during which time he served as an associate pastor at Grace Baptist Church in Starr, SC for four years. Upon graduation, he joined the faculty at Northland Baptist Bible College in Dunbar, Wisconsin. While at Northland he married his wife, Rena. Together they served on a ministry team helping to plant Grace Baptist Church in Iron Mountain, Michigan. Greg teaches courses in New Testament, biblical exposition, and worship. He also serves as the coordinator of the Doctor of Ministry program and assists with administrative planning. In addition to teaching, Greg currently pastors Gateway Baptist Church in Greenville, SC. Greg. Pastor Stiekes was called to pastor Gateway Baptist Church in April of 2017
Greg Stiekes
To be sure, the theology of the NT does not suggest that it is wrong for believers to find themselves in the majority, and to influence human government to the point where decisions of leaders and laws of the land reflect the will of God in the Scriptures. In fact, we celebrate that kind of heritage here in the US, where many of the men who hammered out our constitution were born again believers who desired to honor God. In fact, many of them gave their lives to offer us that kind of government. As Christians who pray, “Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven” (Matt 6:10b), of course we want to see righteousness flourish and evil diminished.
However, what I am saying is that the theology of the NT itself does not point us in a political direction that resembles Christian nationalism, but rather in the direction of impacting the world through the preaching the gospel. And if the church uses its time and energy and resources to steer a course toward a mission that the Lord never gave them, they are most likely neglecting or convoluting in some way their actual mission. What the Scriptures do is offer us confidence that we can love and serve the Lord and share his Great Commission strategy even in a political environment where we are outnumbered, where wickedness is unreasonable, and where we suffer for our faith. In fact, that is exactly why the Lord promises to go with us till the end.
The church in the world is better served if we revive and are faithful to what the Lord has definitely called us to do: preach the gospel, serve the church, pray for our governmental leaders, and show honor to them as much as we can while remaining faithful to God. And to do all of these things as we patiently wait for the Lord himself to return and to establish his righteous, visible rule over the earth. --Greg Stiekes; BJU Seminary; THE IDEOLOGY OF CHRISTIAN NATIONALISM AND THE THEOLOGY OF THE NEW TESTAMENT 7.20.23
However, what I am saying is that the theology of the NT itself does not point us in a political direction that resembles Christian nationalism, but rather in the direction of impacting the world through the preaching the gospel. And if the church uses its time and energy and resources to steer a course toward a mission that the Lord never gave them, they are most likely neglecting or convoluting in some way their actual mission. What the Scriptures do is offer us confidence that we can love and serve the Lord and share his Great Commission strategy even in a political environment where we are outnumbered, where wickedness is unreasonable, and where we suffer for our faith. In fact, that is exactly why the Lord promises to go with us till the end.
The church in the world is better served if we revive and are faithful to what the Lord has definitely called us to do: preach the gospel, serve the church, pray for our governmental leaders, and show honor to them as much as we can while remaining faithful to God. And to do all of these things as we patiently wait for the Lord himself to return and to establish his righteous, visible rule over the earth. --Greg Stiekes; BJU Seminary; THE IDEOLOGY OF CHRISTIAN NATIONALISM AND THE THEOLOGY OF THE NEW TESTAMENT 7.20.23
Lyndon stimeling
Lyndon B. Stimeling is a free-lance writer who lives with his wife and son near Richfield PA. He is the author of “Common Thoughts on the Word,” 2016 and “The Eye of a Needle,” 2017. His articles have been published in church news letters, religious publications and “The Coming Home Journal.” His column appears in local newspapers on a weekly basis.
The new covenant brought with it the “age of grace.” We now live our lives to glorify our Heavenly Father through righteous living day by day. Not because we must, according to God’s law, but out of love and gratitude because of what Christ has done for us. And also, that we might attain a better resurrection, and our heavenly rewards will be greater. -Lyndon Stimeling
==Mark Stirling===============
Mark Stirling
But what about the “Gotcha” questions? Should we take them at face value? On the contrary, they reveal a set of underlying assumptions that are taken for granted in the public square. Bringing those assumptions to light could actually lead to intelligent dialogue and debate instead of our public life being characterised by polarised tribes shouting their slogans at each other, but never listening.
So what are the assumptions revealed by these attempts to catch out and exclude a Christian politician?
First, “Gotcha” questions are designed to expose “unacceptable” beliefs (in contrast to good journalism designed to reveal a candidate’s competence or character). They assume that some views are incompatible with Scottish public life. This, in turn, assumes a set of views (and values) that is acceptable. There is, in other words, an approved set of orthodox beliefs that is assumed.
Going a little deeper, “Gotcha” questions tell us a lot about how our society deals with disagreement on moral issues. Is it possible to think someone’s views are wrong, but not hate them? Contemporary discourse, especially concerning “feeling safe” or “hurt”, or in the area of “hate-speech”, assumes moral disagreement must go hand-in-hand with hatred, bigotry and use of the law to disadvantage someone. But this cuts both ways; people assume that a Christian in public office will be prejudiced against anyone they disagree with morally and legislate against them. However, this could be a form of projection. Isn’t this exactly what the secular political establishment does to those with “unacceptable views”? Recent history of law-making in Scotland suggests that the impulse to use law to silence or marginalise those we morally disagree with is very much a feature of our political leaders.
The issue with all this for Christians is that such an approach to moral disagreement is exactly the opposite of what Jesus commands. Far from condemning, hating or marginalising, Christians are commanded to be merciful and kind “to the ungrateful and wicked” because that’s what God is like (Luke 6:35-36). They break Jesus’ direct command when they put themselves in God’s place as judge, condemning those who disagree with them. Of course, exercising kindness and mercy does not mean suspending moral categories, but it does mean refusing to hate or condemn. -Mark Stirling; Solas; Kate Forbes and the “Gotcha” Questions. 8/21/23
So what are the assumptions revealed by these attempts to catch out and exclude a Christian politician?
First, “Gotcha” questions are designed to expose “unacceptable” beliefs (in contrast to good journalism designed to reveal a candidate’s competence or character). They assume that some views are incompatible with Scottish public life. This, in turn, assumes a set of views (and values) that is acceptable. There is, in other words, an approved set of orthodox beliefs that is assumed.
Going a little deeper, “Gotcha” questions tell us a lot about how our society deals with disagreement on moral issues. Is it possible to think someone’s views are wrong, but not hate them? Contemporary discourse, especially concerning “feeling safe” or “hurt”, or in the area of “hate-speech”, assumes moral disagreement must go hand-in-hand with hatred, bigotry and use of the law to disadvantage someone. But this cuts both ways; people assume that a Christian in public office will be prejudiced against anyone they disagree with morally and legislate against them. However, this could be a form of projection. Isn’t this exactly what the secular political establishment does to those with “unacceptable views”? Recent history of law-making in Scotland suggests that the impulse to use law to silence or marginalise those we morally disagree with is very much a feature of our political leaders.
The issue with all this for Christians is that such an approach to moral disagreement is exactly the opposite of what Jesus commands. Far from condemning, hating or marginalising, Christians are commanded to be merciful and kind “to the ungrateful and wicked” because that’s what God is like (Luke 6:35-36). They break Jesus’ direct command when they put themselves in God’s place as judge, condemning those who disagree with them. Of course, exercising kindness and mercy does not mean suspending moral categories, but it does mean refusing to hate or condemn. -Mark Stirling; Solas; Kate Forbes and the “Gotcha” Questions. 8/21/23
david stocker
Mar 12, 2023: Daily Mail: When good pastors go bad: From disgraced Carl Lentz's multiple affairs in Hillsong scandal to NYC's 'bling bishop', these are the biggest falls from grace
David Stocker, 46, was fired from Brave Church in Miami's Westchester district in April 2022 for allegedly having steamy affairs with three women from his congregation.
The clergyman, who had preached at the church since 2014, was also accused of using the church's credit card to fund some of his illicit encounters, including paying for a flight to New York for one of his lovers.
The shocking allegations were contained in a 307-page complaint filed by the council that sued Stocker after he refused to step down and continued preaching despite being dismissed for breaching the church's bylaws.
The pastor was investigated after the scorned woman from his first alleged affair reported him to the council in a damning email, in which she supplied 'hundreds' of photographs, videos, and text messages cataloging his shame.
The middle-aged mother alleged she and Stocker had sex on their first date as part of their 'whirlwind romance' and later had each other's names tattooed on their necks with the day they met.
She also claimed the fired minister, whose position demanded he abstain totally from alcohol, was frequently drunk. One such incident was with a different alleged mistress at a Miami Heat basketball game, where police were called when the pair tried to walk on the court.
David Stocker, 46, was fired from Brave Church in Miami's Westchester district in April 2022 for allegedly having steamy affairs with three women from his congregation.
The clergyman, who had preached at the church since 2014, was also accused of using the church's credit card to fund some of his illicit encounters, including paying for a flight to New York for one of his lovers.
The shocking allegations were contained in a 307-page complaint filed by the council that sued Stocker after he refused to step down and continued preaching despite being dismissed for breaching the church's bylaws.
The pastor was investigated after the scorned woman from his first alleged affair reported him to the council in a damning email, in which she supplied 'hundreds' of photographs, videos, and text messages cataloging his shame.
The middle-aged mother alleged she and Stocker had sex on their first date as part of their 'whirlwind romance' and later had each other's names tattooed on their necks with the day they met.
She also claimed the fired minister, whose position demanded he abstain totally from alcohol, was frequently drunk. One such incident was with a different alleged mistress at a Miami Heat basketball game, where police were called when the pair tried to walk on the court.
==Caroline stoltzfus============
Caroline Stoltzfus is the founder of Homecoming Creative, a communications consulting firm that helps nonprofits connect with supporters. She earned her BA from Grove City College and a certificate in organizational communication from Northeastern University. She lives in Colorado Springs and goes toGrace and Peace Church.
"The Christian life isn’t about being informed on every topic we encounter. It’s about being part of God’s transforming work in the world as he writes the eternal story—no matter the news of the day."
-Caroline Stoltzfus
-Caroline Stoltzfus
When we doomscroll, queue podcasts, and obsessively click on every breaking news alert, are we tuning in because we believe doing so will help us better serve Christ’s kingdom? Or has tragedy become our entertainment? |
Tragedy Isn’t for Consumption
Controversial wars. Mass shootings. A celebrity gone too soon. Political theater. Tech billionaires on trial. There’s always bad news to consume and a good incentive to consume it in today’s society. Being informed is a modern cultural virtue highlighting our apparent connectedness, care, and capacity. Of course, solid journalism and an understanding of historical and current events are valuable. When creators tell stories with integrity, justice is served, the voiceless gain a voice, and generations are inspired to use their talents and resources for the benefit of their neighbors. News can help us learn, connect, and thrive as individuals and communities. But particularly when it comes to bad news, we’re wise to consider our engagement. (Caroline Stoltzfus/The Gospel Coalition) READ MORE>>>>> |
==dave stone=====================
2010: Preaching: The 25 Most Influential Pastors of the Past 25 Years
A quarter-century has brought great changes to the preaching landscape, and today’s list of contributing editors includes names that would have been unknown to most pastors 25 years ago: Rick Warren, Bryan Chapell, James MacDonald, Robert Smith, Dave Stone, James Emery White and Ed Young Jr. (though his pastor dad would have been a good candidate for the original list—and is now among our senior consulting editors).
A quarter-century has brought great changes to the preaching landscape, and today’s list of contributing editors includes names that would have been unknown to most pastors 25 years ago: Rick Warren, Bryan Chapell, James MacDonald, Robert Smith, Dave Stone, James Emery White and Ed Young Jr. (though his pastor dad would have been a good candidate for the original list—and is now among our senior consulting editors).
Meredith stone
March 24, 2023: Christian Post: Docs show churches paid up to $100K to be part of Hillsong Family, an alleged honorarium scheme
Meredith Stone, executive director of Baptist Women in Ministry, was among those responding.
“Publishing a list of this sort is the opposite of seeking unity. The purpose of this list and the proposed amendment is to threaten,” she said. “While there are women and churches on this list who may not have desired connection with the SBC for some time, I cannot help but think of the hundreds of thousands of women who remain in the SBC and what this communicates to them.
Meredith Stone, executive director of Baptist Women in Ministry, was among those responding.
“Publishing a list of this sort is the opposite of seeking unity. The purpose of this list and the proposed amendment is to threaten,” she said. “While there are women and churches on this list who may not have desired connection with the SBC for some time, I cannot help but think of the hundreds of thousands of women who remain in the SBC and what this communicates to them.
==mike stone====================
June 7, 2023: Washington Post: For many Southern Baptists, the only campaign question is which Republican candidate to support
Pastor Mike Stone of Emmanuel Baptist Church in Blackshear, Georgia — a candidate for SBC president from its more conservative wing — said he doesn’t use the pulpit to endorse candidates.
Pastor Mike Stone of Emmanuel Baptist Church in Blackshear, Georgia — a candidate for SBC president from its more conservative wing — said he doesn’t use the pulpit to endorse candidates.
June 4, 2023: Kentucky Today: SBC presidential candidates hold variety of views on looming issues
For Georgia pastor Mike Stone, his willingness to be nominated as Southern Baptist Convention president comes down to three key issues — evangelism, sexual abuse reform and the “unsustainable” economic trajectory of the SBC Executive Committee.
For Georgia pastor Mike Stone, his willingness to be nominated as Southern Baptist Convention president comes down to three key issues — evangelism, sexual abuse reform and the “unsustainable” economic trajectory of the SBC Executive Committee.
May 5, 2023: Baptist News Global: Paige Patterson praises independent Baptists for focus on evangelism
Patterson urged those who are so evangelistic minded to show up in New Orleans this June for the SBC annual meeting and “vote to return to a program of winning the lost.” He did not specify what particular program he had in mind, but SBC presidential challenger Mike Stone — a Georgia pastor supported by the most conservative wing of the SBC — has said if elected he would launch a national evangelistic campaign.
Patterson urged those who are so evangelistic minded to show up in New Orleans this June for the SBC annual meeting and “vote to return to a program of winning the lost.” He did not specify what particular program he had in mind, but SBC presidential challenger Mike Stone — a Georgia pastor supported by the most conservative wing of the SBC — has said if elected he would launch a national evangelistic campaign.
rachel marie stone
Apr 13, 2015: Rachel Marie Stone: Washington Post: What one of the anti-vaccination movement’s least favorite doctors discovered about Jesus
Mar 18, 2015: Christian Post: Christianity Today's Whitewashing of Margaret Sanger Does Not Value Women's Issues or Christian Values
She once wrote that birth control is "nothing more or less than the facilitation of the process of weeding out the unfit." It's stunning that guest author Rachel Marie Stone tried to "give the charge of 'eugenecist' a more complete background" by suggesting that Sanger wanted to help women "be good wives and good mothers." I appreciate that Christianity Today quickly recognized this error and corrected it.
Mar 13, 2015: Amy Julia Becker: Christianity Today: Questioning Margaret Sanger
A response to Rachel Stone's post about contraception and global health.
Mar 11, 2015: Rachel Marie Stone: Christianity Today: Contraception Saves Lives
Rachel Marie Stone (@Rachel_M_Stone) is a regular contributor to CT's her.meneutics blog and has written for Christianity Today, Books and Culture, Sojourners, and many other publications. She's the author of Eat With Joy: Redeeming God's Gift of Food and a book about Jesus for children, The Unexpected Way.
Mar 18, 2015: Christian Post: Christianity Today's Whitewashing of Margaret Sanger Does Not Value Women's Issues or Christian Values
She once wrote that birth control is "nothing more or less than the facilitation of the process of weeding out the unfit." It's stunning that guest author Rachel Marie Stone tried to "give the charge of 'eugenecist' a more complete background" by suggesting that Sanger wanted to help women "be good wives and good mothers." I appreciate that Christianity Today quickly recognized this error and corrected it.
Mar 13, 2015: Amy Julia Becker: Christianity Today: Questioning Margaret Sanger
A response to Rachel Stone's post about contraception and global health.
Mar 11, 2015: Rachel Marie Stone: Christianity Today: Contraception Saves Lives
Rachel Marie Stone (@Rachel_M_Stone) is a regular contributor to CT's her.meneutics blog and has written for Christianity Today, Books and Culture, Sojourners, and many other publications. She's the author of Eat With Joy: Redeeming God's Gift of Food and a book about Jesus for children, The Unexpected Way.
sam storms
Samuel Storms (born February 6, 1951, in Shawnee, Oklahoma) is an American Calvinist Charismatic and amillennial theologian, teacher and author. He is currently pastor emeritus (since 2008) of Bridgeway Church in Oklahoma City and past president of the Evangelical Theological Society.
Sam Storms
What is it about Jesus that makes him worthy of your adoration and praise? What is it about Jesus that makes him irresistibly attractive? Why is he alone worthy of your whole-hearted allegiance and love?
Consider the portrait of Jesus in symbolic language. In Revelation 5:5 he is called “the Lion of the tribe of Judah,” but in Revelation 5:6 is also portrayed as the “Lamb” who had been slain, though now standing, because alive. So, which is he? Both! Jesus is both Lion and Lamb. And it is in this glorious juxtaposition of what appear to be two contrasting images that we find the answer to our question. Think about this for a moment:
The Lion in whom we find unimpeachable authority is also the Lamb who embodies humility and meekness in the highest degree.
The Lion who wields power and strength that none can resist is also the Lamb who walked this earth in weakness and suffering, resisting none.
The Lion who rules the world and governs its every move is also the Lamb who was meekly led to slaughter by his enemies.
The Lion who is known for his uncompromising commitment to righteousness is also the Lamb who overflows in love to sinners like you and me.
The Lion whose majestic beauty captivates the human heart is also the Lamb who condescended to take upon himself the likeness of a man and was, in appearance, quite ordinary and unimpressive.
The Lion who commands total obedience from everyone is also the Lamb who in his earthly life submitted himself in obedience to the law of God.
The Lion who is holy and pure beyond our wildest imagination is also the Lamb who is gracious and kind and tender-hearted to all.
The Lion who could silence a raging storm with a single word is also the Lamb who refused to speak or revile against those who nailed him to a cross.
The Lion who is life itself is also the Lamb who willingly dies for his enemies.
The Lion who is exalted high above the heavens, immeasurably beyond all of creation and myriads of angels, before whom the greatest and most powerful kings and commanders on earth are but a speck of dust on the balance, is also the Lamb who stooped low, who condescended to become one of us and suffer the trials and challenges put upon him by weak and sinful men.
The Lion who is in himself infinite holiness and righteousness and purity and power is also the Lamb who welcomes broken sinners into his presence and makes intimate friends of his enemies.
The Lion who in himself needs nothing, being altogether self-sufficient, is also the Lamb who gives and gives and then gives yet again so generously and abundantly.
The Lion who is in himself of such blinding glory and brilliance that adoring angels cover their faces is also the Lamb who humbled himself and identified with his creatures so that they might behold him and enjoy him forever.
The Lion who, as Paul says in Philippians 2, exists from all eternity in perfect equality with the Father and the Spirit, equal in all respects as to his divinity, is also the Lamb who in time and history humbled himself and took on the likeness of sinful men and women.
The Lion who is known for his majesty is also the Lamb who is known for his meekness.
The Lion who drove the robbers and thieves out of the Temple is also the Lamb who only days later allowed those very robbers and thieves to nail him to a cross.
The Lion who commands absolute obedience from his creatures is also the Lamb who in obedience honored every command of his Father.
The Lion who rightly burns with wrath against the rebellious and unbelieving is also the Lamb who in the place of the rebellious and unbelieving endured in his own body and soul that very wrath.
He is at one and the same time a Lion-like-Lamb and a Lamb-like-Lion without any inconsistency or contradiction. --Sam Storms
Consider the portrait of Jesus in symbolic language. In Revelation 5:5 he is called “the Lion of the tribe of Judah,” but in Revelation 5:6 is also portrayed as the “Lamb” who had been slain, though now standing, because alive. So, which is he? Both! Jesus is both Lion and Lamb. And it is in this glorious juxtaposition of what appear to be two contrasting images that we find the answer to our question. Think about this for a moment:
The Lion in whom we find unimpeachable authority is also the Lamb who embodies humility and meekness in the highest degree.
The Lion who wields power and strength that none can resist is also the Lamb who walked this earth in weakness and suffering, resisting none.
The Lion who rules the world and governs its every move is also the Lamb who was meekly led to slaughter by his enemies.
The Lion who is known for his uncompromising commitment to righteousness is also the Lamb who overflows in love to sinners like you and me.
The Lion whose majestic beauty captivates the human heart is also the Lamb who condescended to take upon himself the likeness of a man and was, in appearance, quite ordinary and unimpressive.
The Lion who commands total obedience from everyone is also the Lamb who in his earthly life submitted himself in obedience to the law of God.
The Lion who is holy and pure beyond our wildest imagination is also the Lamb who is gracious and kind and tender-hearted to all.
The Lion who could silence a raging storm with a single word is also the Lamb who refused to speak or revile against those who nailed him to a cross.
The Lion who is life itself is also the Lamb who willingly dies for his enemies.
The Lion who is exalted high above the heavens, immeasurably beyond all of creation and myriads of angels, before whom the greatest and most powerful kings and commanders on earth are but a speck of dust on the balance, is also the Lamb who stooped low, who condescended to become one of us and suffer the trials and challenges put upon him by weak and sinful men.
The Lion who is in himself infinite holiness and righteousness and purity and power is also the Lamb who welcomes broken sinners into his presence and makes intimate friends of his enemies.
The Lion who in himself needs nothing, being altogether self-sufficient, is also the Lamb who gives and gives and then gives yet again so generously and abundantly.
The Lion who is in himself of such blinding glory and brilliance that adoring angels cover their faces is also the Lamb who humbled himself and identified with his creatures so that they might behold him and enjoy him forever.
The Lion who, as Paul says in Philippians 2, exists from all eternity in perfect equality with the Father and the Spirit, equal in all respects as to his divinity, is also the Lamb who in time and history humbled himself and took on the likeness of sinful men and women.
The Lion who is known for his majesty is also the Lamb who is known for his meekness.
The Lion who drove the robbers and thieves out of the Temple is also the Lamb who only days later allowed those very robbers and thieves to nail him to a cross.
The Lion who commands absolute obedience from his creatures is also the Lamb who in obedience honored every command of his Father.
The Lion who rightly burns with wrath against the rebellious and unbelieving is also the Lamb who in the place of the rebellious and unbelieving endured in his own body and soul that very wrath.
He is at one and the same time a Lion-like-Lamb and a Lamb-like-Lion without any inconsistency or contradiction. --Sam Storms
glenn & Jenny Story
America engaged in ‘battle of worldviews,’ Mike Johnson tells Christian lawmakers group
Also receiving an award from the group, along with Johnson, were Glenn and Jenny Story, co-founders and executives of Patriot Mobile, a “Christian” mobile phone company that is behind efforts to post the Ten Commandments and “In God We Trust” signs in public schools and elect religious conservatives to school boards to fight secularism and so-called Critical Race Theory.
(Steve Rabey/Mark Wingfield/Baptist News Global 12/7/23)
READ MORE>>>>>
Also receiving an award from the group, along with Johnson, were Glenn and Jenny Story, co-founders and executives of Patriot Mobile, a “Christian” mobile phone company that is behind efforts to post the Ten Commandments and “In God We Trust” signs in public schools and elect religious conservatives to school boards to fight secularism and so-called Critical Race Theory.
(Steve Rabey/Mark Wingfield/Baptist News Global 12/7/23)
READ MORE>>>>>
owen strachan
Owen Strachan is executive director of the Council on Biblical Manhood & Womanhood and assistant professor of Christian Theology and Church History at Boyce College in Louisville, Kentucky. He also teaches for the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary.
Owen Strachan
In such a poisoned climate, few now dare to speak on men’s behalf. But we cannot abandon men. As I call for in my book, we must reengage men. The dire situation before us today requires us to fight for men, not against them. Men are sinners, just as women are, and as such need the atoning mercy of God. This is the greatest need of men, not anything the “manosphere” teaches (right or wrong) or Andrew Tate spouts off. Beyond this, men need much more encouragement. They need an arm around the shoulder. Men need a call, furthermore, not to passivity and softness, but to strength. We hear such a charge in the Bible as King David gives this deathbed exhortation to his son Solomon: “Be strong, and show yourself a man” (1 Kings 2:2).
This ancient word still reverberates. It commands men: Plant your feet. Stand tall. By God’s power, mature. Attack your weaknesses. Win a woman’s heart if called to marriage. (And keep winning that woman’s heart until you leave this Earth!) Build a family filled with thriving and well-loved children. Work hard, and cultivate your vocation, whether it is your “dream job” or not. Join and serve a church. Embrace a life ordered around things bigger than you; don’t get lost in a world of misery, hopelessness, and self-focus.
Men may be disappearing and struggling today. But in such evil days, we speak a different word than anti-male voices. We say this: No man is hopeless. No man is too far gone for God to reach him, remake him, and put him to work. This isn’t an anti-woman statement though. Women and men are made to complement one another, not compete.
When men flourish, women flourish. But when men falter, women are deeply affected. This is why, in the final analysis, we should not go to war against men as those infused with “toxicity.” We should instead go to men, finding them where they are. In some cases, this will be a precipice. Many men, after all, have lost all hope, and will soon step off the ledge into the darkness, disappearing forever.
--Owen Strachan; The Federalist; The War On Men Is A War On Civilization 10/10/23
This ancient word still reverberates. It commands men: Plant your feet. Stand tall. By God’s power, mature. Attack your weaknesses. Win a woman’s heart if called to marriage. (And keep winning that woman’s heart until you leave this Earth!) Build a family filled with thriving and well-loved children. Work hard, and cultivate your vocation, whether it is your “dream job” or not. Join and serve a church. Embrace a life ordered around things bigger than you; don’t get lost in a world of misery, hopelessness, and self-focus.
Men may be disappearing and struggling today. But in such evil days, we speak a different word than anti-male voices. We say this: No man is hopeless. No man is too far gone for God to reach him, remake him, and put him to work. This isn’t an anti-woman statement though. Women and men are made to complement one another, not compete.
When men flourish, women flourish. But when men falter, women are deeply affected. This is why, in the final analysis, we should not go to war against men as those infused with “toxicity.” We should instead go to men, finding them where they are. In some cases, this will be a precipice. Many men, after all, have lost all hope, and will soon step off the ledge into the darkness, disappearing forever.
--Owen Strachan; The Federalist; The War On Men Is A War On Civilization 10/10/23
Aug 26, 2023: Arkansas Democrat Gazette: At Christian worldview conference in Little Rock, speaker advises advocates to “be nice”
Scores of Arkansans gathered in Little Rock this month for a Christian worldview conference organized by the Arkansas-based Family Council.
The two-day Foundations of Truth Summit featured a number of local and national speakers.
Joseph Backholm, senior fellow for biblical worldview and strategic engagement at the Washington-based Family Research Council, spoke about "What it means to have a Christian worldview." Owen Strachan, provost and research professor of theology at Grace Bible Theological Seminary in Conway, focused on "Empowering change: Equipping the pastors and leaders."
Scores of Arkansans gathered in Little Rock this month for a Christian worldview conference organized by the Arkansas-based Family Council.
The two-day Foundations of Truth Summit featured a number of local and national speakers.
Joseph Backholm, senior fellow for biblical worldview and strategic engagement at the Washington-based Family Research Council, spoke about "What it means to have a Christian worldview." Owen Strachan, provost and research professor of theology at Grace Bible Theological Seminary in Conway, focused on "Empowering change: Equipping the pastors and leaders."
May 9, 2014: Baptist Press: HGTV cancels show; stars called 'anti-gay'
Owen Strachan, assistant professor of Christian theology and church history at Boyce College, tweeted, “The media is pummeling the Benham Brothers, Liberty grads, for being anti-gay.”
Owen Strachan, assistant professor of Christian theology and church history at Boyce College, tweeted, “The media is pummeling the Benham Brothers, Liberty grads, for being anti-gay.”
Stu Strachan
Sermon writing is a core skill for most worship leaders. Effective sermonists follow in the footsteps of celebrated faith leaders like Martin Luther King Jr. and Ozjasz Thon.
“The sermon has become the climactic element in a lot of denominations’ services. A sermon is not simply teaching. It sets a precedent for understanding scripture correctly. And there’s also this moment of exhortation, of asking what it says about our own lives,” says Stu Strachan, an ordained Presbyterian pastor and founder of The Pastor’s Workshop, a resource for Christian sermons and teachings.
“There’s also more value added to a sermon as culture becomes more secular. If churches want to grow, they have to connect their teachings to modern life and modern problems,” he adds.
In fact, sermons are so important that there is a thriving industry to provide tools to worship leaders to make the craft a little less taxing.
“The reality is, unless you’re a pastor you have no idea what it’s like to be a pastor,” Strachan tells CNN. “It sounds obnoxious, but it’s true, and it calls upon every aspect of who you are as a person. You are always on call, and more and more roles are foisted upon pastors. They’re not just studying God’s word, praying, visiting the congregation, they’re expected to be CEO, CFO types who cast vision, manage staff, create strategic partnerships. There is a lot of burnout.”
However, some methods of lessening the burdens can stretch the ethics of the position. Sermon ghostwriters aren’t uncommon, and things can get dicey when a preacher doesn’t disclose where they got their brilliant ideas.
“I think some traditions value originality more than others. That being said, if you get a ghost writer, I think most pastors would heavily frown on it,” Strachan says. “However, from a practical money perspective, that’s not something a lot of pastors can do. The average church congregation in the US is around 100 people, and the funds simply aren’t there to pay someone to do that work for you.”
--CNN; ChatGPT can write sermons. Religious leaders don’t know how to feel about it 4.11.23
“The sermon has become the climactic element in a lot of denominations’ services. A sermon is not simply teaching. It sets a precedent for understanding scripture correctly. And there’s also this moment of exhortation, of asking what it says about our own lives,” says Stu Strachan, an ordained Presbyterian pastor and founder of The Pastor’s Workshop, a resource for Christian sermons and teachings.
“There’s also more value added to a sermon as culture becomes more secular. If churches want to grow, they have to connect their teachings to modern life and modern problems,” he adds.
In fact, sermons are so important that there is a thriving industry to provide tools to worship leaders to make the craft a little less taxing.
“The reality is, unless you’re a pastor you have no idea what it’s like to be a pastor,” Strachan tells CNN. “It sounds obnoxious, but it’s true, and it calls upon every aspect of who you are as a person. You are always on call, and more and more roles are foisted upon pastors. They’re not just studying God’s word, praying, visiting the congregation, they’re expected to be CEO, CFO types who cast vision, manage staff, create strategic partnerships. There is a lot of burnout.”
However, some methods of lessening the burdens can stretch the ethics of the position. Sermon ghostwriters aren’t uncommon, and things can get dicey when a preacher doesn’t disclose where they got their brilliant ideas.
“I think some traditions value originality more than others. That being said, if you get a ghost writer, I think most pastors would heavily frown on it,” Strachan says. “However, from a practical money perspective, that’s not something a lot of pastors can do. The average church congregation in the US is around 100 people, and the funds simply aren’t there to pay someone to do that work for you.”
--CNN; ChatGPT can write sermons. Religious leaders don’t know how to feel about it 4.11.23
drew strait
Paul Schrag
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. Christian nationalism seeks power and privilege for followers of one faith. But, as Jesus warned, what does it profit a person to gain the whole world but lose one’s soul (Mark 8:36)?
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
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
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. What can Anabaptists do? We posed the question to Drew Strait, associate professor of New Testament and Christian origins at Anabaptist Mennonite Biblical Seminary. He will teach a course this fall on “Resisting Christian Nationalism with the Gospel of Peace” and is writing a book, Strange Worship: A Guide for Resisting White Christian Nationalism with the Way of Jesus, due out in 2024. He offered three suggestions, condensed here.
(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. What can Anabaptists do? We posed the question to Drew Strait, associate professor of New Testament and Christian origins at Anabaptist Mennonite Biblical Seminary. He will teach a course this fall on “Resisting Christian Nationalism with the Gospel of Peace” and is writing a book, Strange Worship: A Guide for Resisting White Christian Nationalism with the Way of Jesus, due out in 2024. He offered three suggestions, condensed here.
(Paul Schrag/Anabaptist World 8/21/23) READ MORE>>>>
“To counter white Christian nationalism effectively we need to recognize that idolaters of power are objects of God’s love, too.” --Drew Strait
==stephen e strang======
Benny Hinn reveals his '2 biggest regrets' from ministry, apologizes for false prophecy
Controversial televangelist Benny Hinn said his two “biggest regrets” in his decades-long ministry include promoting prophecies he now admits “were not accurate or from the Lord” and pushing “prosperity theology."
“The two things I regret most in ministry: I was not too wise a number of times with prophecy,” the 71-year-old charismatic preacher told Stephen Strang, host of The Strang Report, in a recent interview. “I had guests come to the crusades that I think brought harm to not only people’s lives but also to my reputation because their prophecies were not really prophecy. They went outside the borders of redemption.”
(Christian Post 5/9/24) Read More>>>>>
Controversial televangelist Benny Hinn said his two “biggest regrets” in his decades-long ministry include promoting prophecies he now admits “were not accurate or from the Lord” and pushing “prosperity theology."
“The two things I regret most in ministry: I was not too wise a number of times with prophecy,” the 71-year-old charismatic preacher told Stephen Strang, host of The Strang Report, in a recent interview. “I had guests come to the crusades that I think brought harm to not only people’s lives but also to my reputation because their prophecies were not really prophecy. They went outside the borders of redemption.”
(Christian Post 5/9/24) Read More>>>>>
July 11, 2023: Bucks County Beacon: Pennsylvania’s Prayer Warrior: Abby Abildness And Her Dominionist Crusade In The CommonwealthWe initially reported on the NAR in August last year. As stated in that report, some of the NAR’s most prominent leaders include: Cindy Jacobs, John Benefiel, Lance Wallnau, Abby Abildness, Dutch Sheets, Chuck Pierce, Ché Ahn, Lou Engle, Jim Garlow. Steve Strang (Charisma News), Steve Shultz (Elijah List).
Prominent evangelist warns that Bud Light has triggered the End Times.......At least, it is according to Stephen E. Strang, an influential evangelical leader and author of "God and Donald Trump," who says Target, Kohl's, and Bud Light are part of a Satanic plot that will usher in the End Times, as prophesied in the Bible. In his essay, Strang calls for holy warriors to prepare for spiritual conflict by training like Navy SEALs. To bolster his argument that the end is nigh, he cites his good friend, Jim Bakker, a criminal fraudster and felon:
"My good friend, Jim Bakker, has studied the book of Revelation extensively, and has provided great warnings about what is heading our way in his book, "You Can Make It." He says Christians should stand up against the things of the world rather than conforming to them. "The key to our survival is threefold: remain in Christ, keep His commandments and remain in His body, the church. Escape is not an option. Endurance is our goal." --Boing Boing; 6.27.28
"My good friend, Jim Bakker, has studied the book of Revelation extensively, and has provided great warnings about what is heading our way in his book, "You Can Make It." He says Christians should stand up against the things of the world rather than conforming to them. "The key to our survival is threefold: remain in Christ, keep His commandments and remain in His body, the church. Escape is not an option. Endurance is our goal." --Boing Boing; 6.27.28
==Daniel Strange======
“Jesus is Lord is a political claim, but the transformation of society will not come about by political means”
In an interview, author and cultural analyst Dan Strange says Christians need to speak more about their faith: “All the things now valued in our post-Christian world have Christian origins, even when these have been distorted”. (Daniel Hofkamp/Evangelical Focus 11/10/23) Read More>>>>>
In an interview, author and cultural analyst Dan Strange says Christians need to speak more about their faith: “All the things now valued in our post-Christian world have Christian origins, even when these have been distorted”. (Daniel Hofkamp/Evangelical Focus 11/10/23) Read More>>>>>
Daniel Strange Files
Theologically speaking, we are in a spiritual battle. The Bible makes it very clear. We have a sense of being in a culture war because we're talking about different worldviews clashing with each other.
And I think the Bible makes it very clear that idolatry in its modern form, whatever it might be, needs to be tackled and brought down. Now, the way we do that is certainly not through violence or through some kind of angry stance, but by giving reason for the hope that we have. It's trying to proclaim the gospel, and that involves confrontation and persuasion.However, we should not fit into the Culture Wars as they are drawn by the rest of the world, because sometimes it is set up as a very binary form of left or right.
We are involved in a spiritual war and in a sense there is a cultural war, but the weapons we use in that war are not human weapons and we must give a reason for the hope we have with gentleness and respect, while at the same time trying to tear down idols and encourage people to turn from idols to the living God, as it says in 1 Thessalonians. -Daniel Strange; Evangeilkcal Focus; “Jesus is Lord is a political claim, but the transformation of society will no come about by political means” 11/10/23
And I think the Bible makes it very clear that idolatry in its modern form, whatever it might be, needs to be tackled and brought down. Now, the way we do that is certainly not through violence or through some kind of angry stance, but by giving reason for the hope that we have. It's trying to proclaim the gospel, and that involves confrontation and persuasion.However, we should not fit into the Culture Wars as they are drawn by the rest of the world, because sometimes it is set up as a very binary form of left or right.
We are involved in a spiritual war and in a sense there is a cultural war, but the weapons we use in that war are not human weapons and we must give a reason for the hope we have with gentleness and respect, while at the same time trying to tear down idols and encourage people to turn from idols to the living God, as it says in 1 Thessalonians. -Daniel Strange; Evangeilkcal Focus; “Jesus is Lord is a political claim, but the transformation of society will no come about by political means” 11/10/23
