The Quest for Relevance

From contextualization to strategic planning Christian denominations seem to be on a quest for relevance, which usually means becoming more palatable to those outside the church. I've often thought that those fringe religions outside of Christianity don't seem to be concerned with this. I was wrong. Currently, the Latter Day Saints are airing television commercials in nine U.S. media markets to show the public that mormons are "just like everyone else." Jacksonville happens to be one of those markets so I have seen many of these commercials. It just goes to show that everyone desires to be relevant. I wonder if the JWs will follow the trend?

Should Christians be on Facebook?

Some great questions to ponder from R.C. Sproul Jr.

Clark on Tebow, Evangelicals, and the Sabbath

Even as a Gators, Tebow, and Broncos fan I can't argue with Scott Clark on this one.

Categories of Kingdom in Church History

Carl Trueman gives five categories for understanding the Kingdom of God throughout the history of the Church. He argues that almost any figure from Church History will fit into one of these categories of understanding. The brief explanations are mine, so don't blame Dr. Trueman if they aren't helpful.

• Augustinian - Two cities/ Two kingdoms (Augustine, Luther)
  
• Constantinian - Sovereignty and Sword of the kingdom given to earthly magistrate
  
• Separatist - Grab your belongings and get in the bunker (Anabaptists)
  
• Liberationist - The kingdom of God helps the poor, liberating people and society
  
• Evangelical - which he calls a non-answer. Evangelicals aren't known for thinking deeply about the kingdom of God
  

Of course, these categories can and do overlap at certain points. You can listen to the entire lecture or more by Carl Trueman and other Westminster profs (past and present) on the WTS audio resource page. You must register, but all of the material is free for download.

Did you know that the brother of Christopher Hitchens is a Christian?

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Peter Hitchens Author Interview--The Rage Against God from Gorilla Poet Productions on Vimeo.

Dual Citizens by Jason Stellman

Dual Citizens - by Jason Stellman, Part 1 of 2 from Ligonier Ministries on Vimeo.

Dual Citizens - by Jason Stellman, Part 2 of 2 from Ligonier Ministries on Vimeo.