Issue 10, Jul 2008
How does the Muslim Faith differ with the Christian Faith on the basic questions of life and death? We are exploring some of the fundamental differences. Our prayer is that we will see clearly the differences and that we will be strengthened in our Christian Faith.

 

This month we ask: What is the nature of humankind?

 

The Qur’an presents human beings as basically upright, like Adam was when he was created. Human beings are “weak” and may sin in time of testing and temptation, but Allah is merciful. He does not demand more than human beings are able to accomplish. The inner motive of what “proceeds from the heart” is not emphasized. The commandments and Allah’s justice do not demand perfection. ... Read More »

Issue 10, Jul 2008
In the previous two issues of this ezine, we began an examination of the Eight Beatitudes found in Matthew 5:3-10. Specifically, we looked at the meaning of “blessed”, “poor in spirit”, “those who mourn”, “the meek”, and “those who hunger and thirst for righteousness”. (Matthew 5:3-6)

 

In the Fifth Beatitude (Matthew 5:7), Jesus offers this blessing: “Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy.” (NIV) Unfortunately, many people today understand this Beatitude as a command of law demanding an action to be chosen by a believer on a case by case basis. However, the original Greek word is really an adjective so that could be translated as & ... Read More »

Issue 10, Jul 2008
A dear friend wrote to me after last month’s article saying, “This topic ought to keep you busy for the next two years.” I agree. There is much to be said. This month I will pick up where I left off as I wrote in the final paragraph,

 

The fact that the NT apostles did recognize that God revealed His Word through women, is not a question of dispute. The ordering of their speaking was, however, a great concern (1 Corinthians 11). This did not make them holders of the Apostolic office, public spokesmen for Christ, e.g. public ministers or pastors. That is where the issue still resides. We dare not deny that God may still reveal insights to His Word and will t ... Read More »

Issue 10, Jul 2008
Most of us have some regrets. We know well the word, “If only I had “  or “I wish I did”, and “if I had only chosen that direction”. That’s why we memorized the John Greenleaf Whittier lines, 

Regrets can weigh us down, make our life sad, or cause us to end up with bitterness and even hatred.

 

In a gathering of local pastors several months ago, one pastor me ... Read More »