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Why Have We Fasted

Category: Precision of Language

Leafy green vines trail over sun-warmed terra cotta tiles.
Posted on July 22, 2022July 25, 2022

Why Are We White-washing Slavery in the Bible? – Part 1

Examining the puzzling and problematic trend of painting slavery in the Bible as rosier than it actually was. In Part 1 of this two-part series, we look at the Scriptural and historical evidence.

A close-up view of a bouquet of pink silk flowers.
Posted on July 16, 2022July 28, 2022

Is Complementarian a Real Word?

A question to prompt reflection of the word “complementarian.”

A white bookmark-charm cross hangs from string tied in a Korean knot. It rests on the cover of a dark blue, leather-bound Bible, inscribed with a cross inlaid with Celtic knots.
Posted on June 3, 2022July 28, 2022

Who is the Gospel For, Anyway?

A situation faced by a pastor with his teenage daughter forces the question, who is the gospel for, anyway?

A the petals of a hydrangea flower have faded to brown with the arrival of winter frost. Viewed against the background of brown fallen leaves.
Posted on April 8, 2022July 28, 2022

Precision of Language – Forgiveness and Reconciliation

Forgiveness and reconciliation are often used interchangeably, but they are not the same thing, especially in the context of a body of believers.

Two children, their back to the viewer, climb to the top of a grassy sand dune.
Posted on March 11, 2022June 23, 2022

The Neglected VIP at Cana

This post aims to do a variety of things. First, to show the tension between precision in translations on the one hand and holding those same translations loosely on the other hand. Second, to reflect on the relationship between Jesus and his mother, Mary (the neglected VIP in this story). Third, to demonstrate when a regular habit of scripture reading led to fresh insights, even in an I-already-know-the-story moment.

Looking down from the top of a cliff toward the ocean below, where waves splash against a boulder. Fog obscures the horizon and dampens the colors.
Posted on March 8, 2022February 3, 2023

Precision of Language – Definitions Matter

Why definitions of terms should matter to preachers/teachers, students/congregations, and elder boards, and the importance of spelling them out.

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