Category «Doctrinal»

The Anatomy of a Backslider

There are many reasons why one would choose to leave a church; some of them are valid, others, not so much. But frequently, when it does happen, their departure follows a too familiar pattern. Consider the following anatomy of a backslider: A Backslider Usually Suffers from Pride. “Peter answered and said to him, ‘Even if …

A Book Review

Although I am not the most prolific reader, I do continue to read as much as I can. I believe it is a grave mistake for a preacher, or for any Christian to stop reading and studying. We should live our lives in a pursuit for greater knowledge of God’s word and how he wants …

Within One City Block

I once preached in a city that had a Catholic church, a Methodist church, a Baptist church, a Presbyterian church, a Community church, and a church of Christ all within a city block. Literally, thousands of people who claimed to have allegiance to Jesus, met in separate buildings within shouting distance of each other, some …

Say What? Is there a Baptismal Formula?

The headlines read, “Thousands of Baptisms Invalidated.” Apparently, a Catholic priest in Arizona has been using the wrong words while performing baptism ceremonies. Allegedly, thousands of baptisms have been invalidated because this priest used the word “we” instead of “I” in his ceremony. According to the Catholic church, this priest was obligated to say, “I …