Taking Thoughts Captive

not so random reads from the interwebs

miscellany [ mis-uh-ley-nee], noun 1. a miscellaneous collection or group of various or somewhat unrelated items 2. a miscellaneous collection of literary compositions or pieces by several authors, dealing with various topics, assembled in a volume or book

Why on earth do I post the links that I do here? Why point out articles that are sometimes very long, sometimes go against the grain, and sometimes raise your hackles as you read them?

Because we have largely stopped thinking critically...about anything.

not so random reads from the interwebs

miscellany [ mis-uh-ley-nee], noun 1. a miscellaneous collection or group of various or somewhat unrelated items 2. a miscellaneous collection of literary compositions or pieces by several authors, dealing with various topics, assembled in a volume or book

First Things | The GOP Changes Its Tune on Abortion Here is a thought-provoking read about one author's perceived shifts in the GOP's stance on abortion. To those of us who found hope in the reversal of Roe v. Wade, and encouragement in the GOP as the pro-life party, this change in position will be deeply troubling, if true.

not so random reads from the interwebs

miscellany [ mis-uh-ley-nee], noun 1. a miscellaneous collection or group of various or somewhat unrelated items 2. a miscellaneous collection of literary compositions or pieces by several authors, dealing with various topics, assembled in a volume or book

A couple of this week's reads fall under of the banner of the old saying, “if someone tells you who they are and what they believe, you should believe them.” The voices this week come from Donald Trump, giving his thoughts about a second term, and Apple describing their not-so-subtle vision for a future devoid of material reality. Whether you ultimately agree or disagree, if you take a few minutes to think about the issues and the messages being conveyed, you're light years ahead of the masses.

Remember way back in 2022 during a period called “Discernment” at our local United Methodist Church?

There isn't much about that season that I want to remember, but a few things are burned in my brain.

An exhortation not to trust political power over God's power

“In God We Trust.” It's on our American currency. It's on our lips. You can even get it emblazoned on a t-shirt. Yet, it's largely a cliche and not something we actually tend to do, especially when given the opportunity to put our trust in politicians, political parties, or secular power. This is true of both the political left and the political right, regardless of how patriotic they want to appear.

In case you can't tell from the tone, this post will likely include something to offend all Americans, regardless of your political persuasion. The timing of recent events is such that both the left and right have made their heresies plain.

Salvation has always been by grace

It's a common misconception among Christians: Old Testament believers (Israel) were saved by works, but New Testament believers (Christians) are saved by grace.

Nope. Wrong. Incorrect. Not even close.

Salvation/deliverance/redemption has never been achieved by works or merit. Never ever.

Reflections on “Come, Thou Fount of Every Blessing”

Yesterday during divine service we sang the familiar hymn “Come, Thou Fount of Every Blessing.” After worship, several folks came and asked me about the line that says, “Here I raise mine Ebenezer hither by Thy help I'm come.” In essence asking, “What on earth is an Ebenezer anyway?”

Devotional reading vs. bible study

As mentioned on Sunday, our reading through the Daily Devotional Guide right now pulls together three of the most important books in the Bible: Deuteronomy, Matthew, and Hebrews. These books explain beautifully the redemptive work of God from beginning to end and make beautifully clear connections of old covenant promises to Israel to new covenant fulfillments in Christ and the Church.