Review of ‘Joyful Outsiders: Six Ways to Live Like Jesus in a Disorienting Culture’
What Makes This Book Different “So do you want to know why you’re an outsider in this world? It’s not because the world is changing or because of a political […]
What Does “Set Apart” Look Like in a Regular 9 to 5?
“Peter, an apostle of Jesus Christ: To those chosen, living as exilesdispersed abroad in Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia, chosen according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, through the sanctifying work of […]
Review of ‘The Gospel After Christendom’
I begin every semester of teaching my undergraduate apologetics class with a unit on “meta apologetics.” That’s a fancy-sounding phrase, but it simply refers to the study of the nature […]
Reflecting on the St. Paul Church Protesters
January 21, 2026 Minnesota’s Twin Cities have erupted again. A large deployment of President Trump’s ICE (U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement) agents in the area met with icy resistance. Protests […]
Seven Habits of Highly Effective Churches
All of us have habits. Some good; some bad. In The Patient Ferment of the Early Church, Alan Kreider calls habits our embodied behaviors—our reflexes. Habits are not strategies; they are […]
Can a Christian Join the Military? Some Arguments For and Against
Can a Christian join the military? Should Christians participate in war? What role should Jesus’ teachings on nonviolence play in all this? If we are encouraged to carry the light […]
Standup Sermons? What Preachers Can Learn About Communication from Comedians
Introduction: No, I Don’t Mean “Add More Jokes” If you’re a preacher, you might have seen the title and assumed, “This guy is making a connection between comedy and the […]
Politics Is Downstream from Culture? Exploring the Other Side of the Coin
December 30, 2025 Amen to the Warning About Political Idolatry First, a hearty amen to Daniel and Bobby’s recent and excellent article, “The Birth of Our King and Our Country’s […]
Stolen Jesus
Stop me if you have heard this one before…. “Belgian authorities are mystified over a brazen theft over the weekend from a Christmas Nativity scene of an icon of infant […]
Why This Moment Calls for a Better Vision Than Christian Nationalism
In the days since we began working on this article, the public conversation about Christian nationalism has taken center-stage once again. The recent civil war between Tucker Carlson and Ben […]
What’s Halloween Supposed to Be About?
What’s Halloween supposed to be about? It is difficult for 21st century Americans to comprehend why people persecute their neighbors for religious reasons. Nonetheless, people have persecuted others for religious […]
Os Guinness: Our Nation’s Survival and the Necessity of Revival?
Author’s Note: Os Guinness knows the history of revivals. He is an internationally respected author, social critic, and cultural analyst who has written or edited more than thirty books, including […]
Facing Cultural Hostility with Cultural Apologetics
October 6, 2025 @NeilShenvi – I understand the desire to “not mix Christianity and politics.” But open, vigorous debate about which policies *actually* align with biblical values seems vastly preferable […]
Hollow and Deceptive Philosophies: A Meditation on the Difficulty of Colossians 2:8
What I am going to try to articulate here is something that has been on my mind for some time. The seeds of these thoughts were not planted by the […]
Os Guinness to Church Leaders on This Cultural Moment
September 29, 2025 In a time of deep polarization, cultural uncertainty, and spiritual drift, Os Guinness stands out as one of the most insightful voices to guide us through the […]
Should We Use Generative AI Chatbots For Research?
A bestselling Christian author I follow recently said that he uses generative AI for research. I challenged his rationale, and want to share more here. Why use GenAI for research? […]
What ChatGPT’s Students Are Looking For
September 19, 2025 Why do we dose off the moment the flight attendant begins the seatbelt speech? What she’s saying is accurate but feels long and, might we say…impersonal? Why […]
The Killing of Charlie Kirk: A Tragedy in Three Dimensions
Updated September 13, 2025 Conservative activist Charlie Kirk was shot and killed this week while speaking at a university in Utah. The 31-year-old was fielding questions on his “Prove Me […]
How the Ordinary Becomes Holy
We say Jesus began his ministry at thirty—but the Greek text never says that. Luke 3:23 reads, “Jesus, when he began, was about thirty years of age…” Most English translations […]
Why Connect with People of a Different Worldview?
What does it mean for Christians to connect with people of a different worldview? Here’s what we mean: it’s cultivating relationships with and learning from people whose perspective differs significantly […]
Do Dogs Go to Heaven? Reflections on the New Creation
Do dogs go to heaven? It’s not an idle question, because at the heart of the question of whether dogs go to heaven is the question of what we mean […]
When Sports Conflict with Sunday Worship: Some Questions to Ask
*Editor’s Note: In this article’s final paragraph, the author rightly calls this sports-church conflict an “elephant in the room.” As such, it’s an elephant that has plunked down in the […]
Paul the Missionary: How Contextualization Influenced His Mission
*Author’s Note: Paul’s encounter with Christ led him to a greater understanding of the faith, and from that encounter, Paul developed a theology of mission that affected everything about him, […]
Chip and Joanna Gaines and the Quiet Drift of the Church
Chip and Joanna Gaines are a husband-and-wife duo best known for their hit series Fixer Upper, where they combined home renovation with warm, family-centered storytelling to win over audiences across […]
Build the Ark: Noah, Meaning, and the Church in an Age of Collapse
One of the first things the Bible teaches us—right there in Genesis—is that God is a God of order. God separates: light from darkness, sea from sky, meaning from murk. […]
What Happens When Churches Overemphasize Social Justice?
We believe in the gospel. It is not just “good news”—it is the best news a human being can ever hear. It tells us about the greatest act of redemption […]
A Case for Bible Words
Each culture develops its own language. This is true not only within ethnic cultures but within subcultures. Within the basketball culture there are words such as “cut,” “flare screen,” “zone,” […]
Review of Ross Douthat’s ‘Believe: Why Everyone Should Be Religious’
In Believe: Why Everyone Should Be Religious, New York Times columnist Ross Douthat makes a case for the reasonableness of religious belief, and of Christianity in particular. In this review, […]
Transgender Interventions for Minors: Conversation with Senator Jack Johnson
June 26, 2025 *Editor’s Note: Can church leaders be a voice of wisdom to politicians—without being seduced by political power? Can church leaders speak up to their churches regarding pieces […]
A Jesus-Centered Approach to Technology: Why This Article Was Not Written With AI
How Technology Shapes Us: Embracing a Christ-Centered Approach in a Digital World A Jesus-Centered Approach to Technology invites reflection. Explore how faith and discernment guide our use of AI in […]
The Music of Worship: What Jacob Collier Reminds Us About the Heart of Discipleship
If you have not yet stumbled upon the musical phenomenon that is Jacob Collier, it is worth pausing for a moment to witness it. Collier, a young British musician whose […]
How Should Christians Think About the Law of Attraction?
Imagine this scenario: You’ve hit a tough season in your life. Maybe you feel spiritually dry because of it, and you’re tired of going through the motions each day only […]
Should We Use Generative AI Chatbots for Ministry?
Editor’s Note: Is generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) a morally neutral tool helpful for generating sermon outlines and small group discussions? Or is it something attractive on the surface but deceptive […]
Review of Ross Douthat’s ‘Believe: Why Everyone Should Be Religious’
I have always appreciated Ross Douthat’s writing. For many years, he has written columns as both a committed Catholic and a conservative in the New York Times. He is an […]
New AI Tool for Learning Christian Church/Church of Christ Theology: Ask RENEW.org
Since January 2018, we have sought to prayerfully articulate the best of Christian Church/Church of Christ theology at RENEW.org…because we are convinced it represents the best of biblical theology. We […]
Roots and Renewal: Why History Matters
Over the greater part of a decade, I served as a missionary in Central Europe, where the currents of history run deep. If you have ever traveled through that part […]
What Is Logic & Why Does It Matter? A Q&A with Dr. Winfried Corduan
*Editor’s Note: As Christians, we ought to strive to be the best thinkers we can be. Why? It’s because thinking reasonably is one of the hallmarks of humanity as God […]
What We Must Learn from Andrew Tate Even If We Don’t Want To
What do you do with a man of arrogance and rebellion who inspires the hearts of countless young men and boys in a world deliberately set against them? What do […]
Good News for the City
We know that gospel means good news, but what does that mean? The gospel has too often been reduced, personalized, and spiritualized so that it’s merely about acknowledging sin, accepting Christ, and […]
5 Questions for Church Leaders to Ask About Generative AI
With the rise of generative AI, are we closer to Clippy, your old animated friend from Microsoft Office 97—or to the Terminator? Are we closer to Buzz Lightyear or to […]
Review of ‘The Anxious Generation’ by Jonathan Haidt
The title of Jonathan Haidt’s new book is not remotely controversial or debatable. That Gen Z is a uniquely anxious generation is demonstrated time and time again both in anecdotal […]
Why Our Church Decided to Pray About the Transgender Bill
December 9, 2024 *Editor’s Note: When, if ever, should a church take a public stance over local legislation? Recently, the leaders of Harpeth Christian Church in Franklin, TN (located just […]
The Pitfalls of Winning
I am a sports fan. I admit it. I also admit that my mood can rise and fall with the success, or lack thereof, of my favorite teams. Some of […]
The Bible & My Vote?
A man in our congregation recently asked, “Would you preach a sermon about Christians and voting?” My inner voice said, “No!” Is there a topic more guaranteed to send people […]
You Should Vote: 3 Reasons Disciples of Jesus Should Vote
I’m writing from my own context in the United States, where we have a presidential election coming up in just a matter of days. Many argue that it is the […]
What If This Election Is About Discipleship?
“The basic problem of the Christians in this country in the last eighty years or so, in regard to society and in regard to government, is that they have seen […]
3 Dead Mentors for Crazy Times
“What has been will be again, what has been done will be done again; there is nothing new under the sun. Is there anything of which one can say, ‘Look! […]
Review of Justin Brierley’s ‘The Surprising Rebirth of Belief in God’
Is Christian faith dying in the Western world? Have the “new atheists” succeeded in souring Christianity for thinking people? There are actually some fascinating signs of a resurgence of interest […]
An Editor’s Take on Megan Basham’s ‘Shepherds for Sale’
September 2, 2024 Everybody loves an editor. (Ha, that’s the closest you’ll get to an editor joke.) The truth is, nobody likes being told all the ways they could have […]
Review of ‘The Surprising Rebirth of Belief in God’ by Justin Brierley
The Surprising Rebirth of Belief in God: Why New Atheism Grew Old and Secular Thinkers Are Considering Christianity Again is the culmination of years of conversations with numerous leading thinkers […]
Just Turn the TV Off? Reflections on the Paris Olympic Opening Ceremonies
July 30, 2024 “Just turn the TV off!” That’s the advice Whoopi Goldberg gave in response to Christians outraged by the apparent depiction during the Paris Olympics opening ceremony of […]
4 Reflections on the Attempted Trump Assassination
July 15, 2024 Over the weekend, former President Donald Trump was shot at a campaign rally in an unsuccessful assassination attempt. As I watched history in the making, I was […]
Pray for the Gift of Seeing the Smallest Humans
July 12, 2024 “Zuzu’s petals! Zuzu—there they are! Burt! What do you know about that?!”—George Bailey, It’s a Wonderful Life A few years back, I let Nacho Libre get bumped […]
What Does Our Faith Teach That Our Society Needs?
Christianity emerged in a world vastly different from the values espoused by followers of Christ. Slavery was assumed to be a necessary part of a functioning society, and slaves could […]
The Scariest Nice Person in Your Church
What comes to mind when you think of “one-hand clapping”? Perhaps you think of the Zen “koan” in which the Zen master asks the student, “What is the sound of […]
Review of Eric Metaxas’s ‘Letter to the American Church’ the Movie
Letter to the American Church was first a book (September, 2022) by bestselling author Eric Metaxas. Now, it’s been released as a movie by the same title. The opening sequence […]
Philosophy Questions: What Is the Christian Worldview?
A worldview is the set of basic beliefs about reality by which an individual understands life. What one believes about God determines every other aspect of his or her worldview […]
You Might Have a Problem That a Therapist Can’t Fix
Before I dive in, a mundane confession of my own uselessness. I think it is good for the soul to regularly be in situations where you are reminded of your […]
Why Is the Culture of a Disciple Making Church So Important?
“Culture eats strategy for breakfast.” That statement, attributed to the most influential management guru of our time, Peter Drucker, describes a reality that church leaders must face in the pursuit […]
Let’s Talk About the Word ‘Woke’
The word woke has had a curious life. Like so much slang, it was introduced by Black people, co-opted by youngish white people, and then ruined by oldish white people. […]
The Wise Man Built His House Upon the Rock: 3 Questions to Ask About the Way We Build
“The wise man built his house upon the rock.” By “rock,” Jesus meant his teachings. Unfortunately, it is very possible to hear the teachings of Jesus but not to put […]
Preaching and Cultural Issues?
We are living through rapid cultural change. Many are turning from historic Christianity. Many are adopting Marxist and intersectional feminist ideals which turn them cynical toward biblical teachings. Progressivism now […]
A Cautious Defense of Boycotts
By now I’m sure that most of you are aware of the Bud Light/Dylan Mulvaney debacle. Just in case you haven’t heard, let me bring you up to speed. In […]
Contentment with Godliness Is Great Gain?
Scripture says that godliness with contentment is great gain. This means that our typical human quest for happiness works backwards from what actually works. If we want happiness, we need […]
John Cooper of Skillet on Resilient: Standing Firm in a Hostile World
John Cooper is the lead singer of the band Skillet and an outspoken advocate for the counter-cultural ways of Jesus. Recently, John wrote the foreword for David Young’s new book […]
4 Tracks in American Christianity: A Tool for Cutting Through the Smoke and Heat
Christianity in America seems more confusing than ever. Imagine American Christianity as a vehicle that seems to be breaking down on a long road trip. The check engine light is […]
5 Biblical Responses to Anti-Christian Slander
Why isn’t my church in the 21st century more like the early church of the 1st century? Where are the 3,000 baptisms in a single day? The opportunities to preach […]
A Lament for Memphis: Reflections from a Memphis Minister
*Editor’s Note: On January 7, 2023, 29-year-old Tyre Nichols was pulled over by Memphis police for reckless driving and was tased and pepper-sprayed. He attempted to flee and was then […]
10 Cultural Trends Impacting the Church
I often think about the future. I have a responsibility as the lead minister/pastor in my local church and as the point leader of Renew.org (and Discipleship.org) to help provide […]
Consumer Culture…in the Church
Recently I’ve been led to believe I’m an expert at almost everything. I receive multiple requests each week to evaluate my doctor, my treatment by the wait staff, how well […]
Social Justice from the Left and the Right
Within the Church (broadly speaking), there are two groups of people. Not everyone in the Church fits into one of these groups. In fact, many people in the Church are […]
Racial Tension and the Church – Louisville Regional Gathering
At the Louisville Regional RENEW.org Gathering in 2022, five church leaders sat down together to discuss current cultural topics churches face. They were RENEW.org’s point leader Bobby Harrington; Anthony Walker […]
Postmodern Theories Playing Out in Today’s World
How are postmodern theories playing out in today’s world? The theories of postmodernism explain the shift from seeking truth in objective reality to defining truth according to subjective experience. Postmodernism […]
What Is New Age Spirituality? The Basics of New Age Spirituality in 10 Questions, 10 Terms, and 10 Quotes
What is New Age Spirituality? New Age Spirituality is a movement which brings together monism (all is one) and pantheism (all is good) with Eastern spiritual techniques. The idea is […]
What to Do with Disney…
Disney has sparked debate for Christians for decades. Is it a trustworthy source for harmless entertainment for kids? Is it a progressive organization intent on indoctrinating your kids with a […]
Losing My Faith in Progressive Christianity: The Fleeting Fulfillment of a Feelings-Based Faith (Part 6)
Progressive Christianity Part 1: Insights from Deconstruction Stovall recounts a season of doubt, questioning a culture built on the sinner’s prayer and feelings-based assurance. The narrative challenges easy-belief formulas, contrasting […]
Discipling Minds for This Cultural Moment
Part of Christian discipleship is to disciple minds. In order to help us disciple minds for this cultural moment, we will explore three questions about current Western culture. You know […]
The Gospel: Good News for Cultural ‘Christians’?
Is the gospel good news for people who claim Christianity but who don’t actually trust and follow Jesus? Since a lot of Americans hold to this watered-down version of the […]
Complementarian VS Egalitarian: 10 Questions for Egalitarian Church Leaders
When it comes to the complementarian vs egalitarian debate in the church and home, here are 10 questions to think about for egalitarian leaders. For an ebook form of this […]
Losing My Faith in Progressive Christianity: From Emotionalism to Cynicism (Part 5)
This is Part 5 in a series on leaving progressive Christianity by Dave Stovall, worship leader and former lead singer of Wavorly and band member of Audio Adrenaline. He describes […]
The TikTok Challenge and a New Authority Over Gen Zers
TikTok Challenge: Troubling New Authority Over Gen Z in a Digital Age Online crowds can become a new authority as teens perform reckless acts to gain a moment of viral […]
Dr. Carol Swain on the Challenges Christian Face Today
Challenges Christian Face Today: Urgent Wake-Up Call Modern influences like social media, podcasts, and cultural voices can disciple believers into “self-inspired theology” that slowly weakens faith. Renewing the mind means […]
Dr. Carol Swain on the Challenges Christian Face Today
Dr. Carol Swain on Living Faithfully in a Confusing Age Through personal testimony, Dr. Swain recounts how her journey from academic success to Christian conviction reshaped her identity in Christ. […]
Introduction to Countercultural Living: What Jesus Has to Say About Life, Marriage, Race, Gender, and Materialism
Author Carol M. Swain introduces her new book Countercultural Living: What Jesus Has to Say About Life, Marriage, Race, Gender, and Materialism and gives an overview of the chapters.
Harvard and a Civilization Built in the Clouds
Harvard Atheist Chaplain and a Civilization Built in the Clouds Cloud City becomes a metaphor for a modern culture trying to stay afloat without a sacred order beyond itself. Harvard’s […]
5 Insights Jason Whitlock Has Given Me About Being a Disciple of Jesus
Jason Whitlock Christian Insights for Fearless Discipleship Today Fearless conviction is needed to call out deception and resist cultural pressure with biblical clarity. Ruthless honesty builds credibility when confronting sin […]
Introduction to Faithful Faith: Reclaiming Faith from Culture and Tradition
Reclaiming Faith: A Roadmap for Faithful Faith Mark E. Moore introduces Faithful Faith as biblical teaching meant to empower the church to live authentically and make disciples. Five questions guide […]
This Person Has Enormous Power Over You
Not Ashamed and the King Who Rules Your Life Recognize that shame reveals your ruler—whoever can make you most ashamed when you disobey them has enormous power over you. See […]
Ted Lasso, Cancel Culture, and the New Persecution
Ted Lasso and the New Persecution Ted Lasso links cancel culture with a modern form of “death,” showing how reputation loss and exclusion can damage lives in a digital age. […]
A Weird Way We Win
Meek: The Weird Way Christians Win Battles Instead of mirroring the world’s aggression, meekness wins by keeping strength under control and responding with humility. Scripture shows Jesus conquering through gentleness—riding […]
Theological Differences, Respectful Debate: A Concluding Conversation with John Mark Hicks on Gender and the Bible
Gender and the Bible Debate: A Model for Respectful Theological Disagreement Explore where Renew.org and John Mark Hicks agree and differ on women’s participation, teaching, and authority in the gathered […]
Make Your Choice: Learning from the Chinese Church
Chinese Church Lessons for Faith Under Pressure Persecution in China reveals how believers endure surveillance and intimidation by standing firm in Jesus without compromise. Conviction grows when Christians count the […]
The Rise of Christian Cancel Culture: Scandals, Heresy Hunters, and What We’re Known For
Christian Cancel Culture: What We’re Really Known For Christians often mirror the world’s outrage in Christian cancel culture by publicly shaming, dissecting, and permanently “canceling” pastors and ministries. Instead, Christian […]
How Pride Month Taught Me the Power of Spirituality
Pride Month: Seeing Culture Through a Spiritual Lens Exploring the explosion of flags and identities during Pride Month, the article shows how even health sites like Healthline can shift from […]
On Gender and the Bible: Thoughts of a Theologian and a Therapist on the Transgender Debate (Part 11)
Transgender Debate Part 11: Biblical Clarity for Today’s Questions Transgender Debate Part 11 affirms God made humans male and female, grounding identity in creation and biology. Key definitions like gender […]
This Pastor Doesn’t Know the Sky Is Falling. Is He Right?
Sky is Falling? Choosing Faith Instead of Fear Sky Is Falling anxiety fades when believers stop bracing for darkness and start battling it with gospel confidence. Instead of doom scrolling, […]
Losing My Faith in Progressive Christianity: The Banned Books and Podcasts (Part 4)
Progressive Christianity Part 4 Lessons from Deconstruction Dave recounts a slow slide into progressivism. Influences like C.S. Lewis, Rob Bell, and The Liturgists shaped his doubts, loosening his trust in […]
The Secret to Telling the World a Better Story
Telling the World with Better Stories Telling the world a better story begins by recognizing that God has already given the church the richest stories in Scripture. By using a […]
We’re about to Make a Big Mistake – Reflections on Rebecca McLaughlin’s “The Secular Creed”
The Secular Creed and the Cost of a Godless Morality McLaughlin’s book exposes a new secular religion in which slogans like “love is love” and “gay rights are civil rights” […]
Q&A – How Does Christianity Relate to Other Cultures?
Christianity Relate to Other Cultures in Kingdom Identity Kingdom identity reshapes loyalty as leaders explain that disciples are first citizens of God’s kingdom, which frees them to appreciate and serve […]
Are White Evangelicals Responsible for Corrupting the Faith and Fracturing a Nation? A Review of “Jesus and John Wayne”
Corrupting the Faith in Light of Jesus and John Wayne Layfield appreciates how Jesus and John Wayne exposes real problems in evangelical culture, including militarism, celebrity pastor models, and weak […]
How to Read a Progressive like the Bible
Progressive Stories and Competing Endings Through three parallel narratives, the article shows how the same journey into deconstruction can be framed as heroic self-expression, loyal solidarity with the marginalized, or […]
Q&A – What Habits Can Break Barriers to Building a Multiethnic Church?
Multiethnic Church Habits That Foster Unity Leaders build trust when they intentionally enter the daily spaces of people from different cultures, following Jesus’ example of going into others’ worlds. Christlike […]
How to Read the Bible like a Progressive
Read the Bible like a Progressive with Clear Discernment Progressive reading is shown as rewriting essential Christian doctrines to fit Western cultural values while proudly selecting which Scriptures still apply. […]
Q&A – What Gets in the Way of Being a Multiethnic Church?
Being a Multiethnic Church with Intentional Courage Intentionality is required, since churches naturally reach people like themselves unless leaders pray, plan, and step beyond their comfort zones. Devotion to the […]
Q&A – Why Is It Worth It to Pursue a Multiethnic Church?
Pursue a Multiethnic Church as a Visible Witness Pursuing a multiethnic church follows Jesus’ call to make disciples of all nations, proving that His vision embraces people from every culture […]
Can Masculinity Be Non-Toxic?
Masculinity in God’s Good Design for Men Scripture presents masculinity as part of God’s creation of male and female, giving men a unique calling to reflect His character in strength, […]
What Are 5 Things People Want from God That Don’t Exist?
5 Things People Want from God – Exposing Impossible Desires 5 Things People Want from God uncovers five “non things.” Many people long for God to affirm every decision, fix […]
Losing My Faith in Progressive Christianity: The Three Unforgivable Sins — Drinking, Smoking, and Cussing (Part 3)
Progressive Christianity Part 3: Lessons in Grace and Drift Progressive Christianity Part 3 traces how childhood taboos about drinking, smoking, and cussing slowly gave way to a “liberated” lifestyle that […]
Why Should Christians Learn World Religions?
World Religions — Learning to Clarify, Love, and Witness Clarifying facts about other faiths helps Christians avoid stereotypes and speak truthfully in conversations. Loving neighbors well means understanding their beliefs, […]
Restoring Our City – Q&A with Kelvin Teamer
Restoring — Spirit-Led Renewal in Atlanta Monthly prayer walks through City Hall, campuses, and shuttered business corridors ask God to heal disorder and plant the kingdom’s flag in the city. […]
Crossing the Invisible Fence: An Opportunity for the Church to Lead
Invisible Fence — Leading with Hope As restrictions lift, churches can model confident, responsible in-person worship to show life beyond the fence is safe and meaningful. Testimonies from congregations that […]
The Equality Act: The Background, Battle, and Our Beliefs
Equality Act and Religious Liberty in Today’s Culture Sweeping federal protections for sexual orientation and gender identity would reach nearly every public space, reshaping how schools, businesses, and ministries operate. […]
The Truth Is Better Than My Truth (Because It’s True!)
My Truth — Anchoring in Jesus and Scripture Postmodern claims make truth a personal construct, but Scripture warns the heart deceives (Jeremiah 17:9) and defiles (Mark 7:21–23). Jesus declares, “I […]
Losing My Faith in Progressive Christianity: Revelation, Rapture, and Kirk Cameron Eschatology (Part 2)
Rapture — Progressive Christianity Part 2 Reflections Sparked by a Left Behind viewing, the author rechecked Revelation and 1 Thessalonians, questioning whether Scripture clearly teaches a pre-tribulation rapture. Framing end-times […]
A Resilient Church in a Cancel Culture
Cancel Culture — Practicing Church Resilience Grounded in disciple making, the church develops resilient believers who hold to biblical convictions with joy and courage. Facing cultural pressure, Christians reject timidity […]
On Gender and the Bible: What Does It Mean to Be a Man or Woman? (Part 10)
Man or Woman — Design, Signs, and Culture Drawing on nature and biology, the article shows how male and female bodies shape behavior and complement one another toward intimacy and […]
Sermon on the Mount: Mercy or the Mob?
Mercy in a Culture of Outrage—Forgiveness Lived In Matthew 5:7, Jesus blesses the merciful, showing that mercy moves from seeing suffering to compassionate action, often expressed as forgiveness. Rather than […]
The Long March through the Institutions of Society
Long March in Today’s Institutions—A Discipleship Response Decades of university influence spread into media, corporations, and policy, advancing Critical Theory across culture. Marxist-rooted frameworks center power and suppression, conflicting with […]
The Less We Use This, the More Relevant It Will Become.
Relevant in a Post-Christian Culture: Why Scripture Resurges Contrasting the raft with Noah’s ark, the article shows how Scripture can seem cumbersome until crises reveal its saving purpose. As secularism […]
Lessons from the Church in Eastern Canada: Get Creative
Canada in Post-Christian Ministry—Creative Lessons Healthy churches prioritize disciple making over size, channeling resources so disciples make disciples in any context. Bivocational and covocational models—like funding a coffee shop that […]
Lessons from the Church in Eastern Canada: Success in a Post-Christian World
Post-Christian World — Eastern Canada Field Notes In Metro Halifax where fewer than 5% attend church, success shifts from weekly shows to small missional communities living Acts 2 rhythms together. […]
When the Foundations Are Being Destroyed
Foundations That Endure Through Faith Discover how Foundations grounded in God’s Word give strength when society feels unstable and divided. Explore David’s Psalms to understand why trusting the Lord offers […]
On Gender and the Bible: Where Does Egalitarianism Lead? (Part 9)
Egalitarianism and Scriptural Trajectories Authors trace how egalitarianism, when unchecked, can override created differences and biblical hierarchies in church and home. The article contrasts secular lenses with exegesis, arguing that […]
A Tragic Choice for a Hill to Die On
Hill to Die On — Unity, Discernment, and Essentials Grounded in Jesus’ example (John 6; John 12), believers relinquish inferior battles to pursue the cross-shaped mission that bears lasting fruit. […]
Disciples of Jesus Choose Hope – Q&A with Michael Patterson
Disciples of Jesus Choose Hope — Practicing It When Life Feels Heavy Rooted in Scripture, biblical hope is a confident expectation in God’s promises, seen in Abraham’s trust (Romans 4:18) […]
Critical Race Theory: Check Box Identity
Critical Race Theory — Intersectionality, Essentialism, and the Church Examines intersectionality’s check-box identity framework and warns that, when detached from empathy and grace, it breeds resentment and entrenches victim/victimizer roles. […]
Top 10 Renew.org Articles in 2020
Top 10 — Lessons that Strengthened the Church Featuring standout discussions on gender, LGBTQ, race, and faith, these articles shaped meaningful reflection in 2020. Addressing deconversion, marriage, and disciple-making, the […]
Critical Race Theory: Empathy and Narrative
Empathy and Narrative — Listening with Gospel Convictions Through Critical Race Theory’s storytelling lens, the article calls believers to hear marginalized voices with humility and compassion. It warns against turning […]
Critical Race Theory: Privilege and Systemic Racism
Privilege and Systemic Racism — CRT Themes and Christian Response Drawing from Delgado and Stefancic, the piece outlines interest convergence, revisionist history, critiques of liberalism, and structural determinism. Affirming minority […]
Accepting LGBTQ+ Lifestyles for Disciples of Jesus: A Response to Sally Gary and the CenterPeace Ministries Decision to be Pro Gay
CenterPeace Ministries — Conviction with Civility Drawing on his testimony, Guy Hammond upholds historic Christian sexual ethics while explaining why holiness—not heterosexuality—is the disciple’s aim. While affirming dignity and respect […]
Critical Race Theory: Bitter Roots
Bitter Roots — What CRT Draws From Surveying sources like Gramsci, Foucault, and Derrida, the article argues that CRT inherits a distrust of truth claims and the liberal order. By […]
Critical Race Theory: Friend or Foe?
Critical Race Theory — Gospel Framework for Discernment Amid its move from classrooms to culture, CRT now shapes public discourse and even school curricula, prompting fair, informed evaluation. Grounding the […]
Church Leader, We Are So Thankful for You
Church Leader — Encouragement for Uncertain Times Through conflict, elections, and a pandemic, you pursued unity, protected the vulnerable, and kept people connected while trusting God. Scripture-shaped leadership preached truth, […]
The Authentic Experience Church Model with Corey Trimble
Corey Trimble — Authentic Church Culture & Disciple Making Expository teaching anchors culture, welcoming seekers while holding firm to Scripture. Leaders practice incarnational outreach, building real bridges with grace and […]
Lessons from the Church in Germany: Tsunami
Lessons from the Church in Germany Tsunami Response From Europe’s aftermath of higher criticism, Brett Seybold calls U.S. churches to pair personal relationships with strong apologetics and unity with other […]
Can a Pastor of 5,000 Understand a Church of 150?
Can a Pastor of 5,000 Understand a Church of 150—Practical Path Culture beats trend: growth flows from a church culture that is 100% faithful to the Bible while welcoming outsiders […]
Lessons from the Church in Germany: Post-Christianity
The Church in Germany Insights for Today From classrooms to pulpits, negative higher criticism eroded confidence in Scripture, opening a spiritual vacuum filled by rival worldviews. Mission progress is slow—often […]
Are We Turning into Skeptics of the Bible?
Skeptics of the Bible – Cultural Drift & Gospel Remedy Enlightenment roots, failed institutions, and online echo chambers train people to distrust external authority—including Scripture. Real-life fallout appears in moral […]
Saving Christian Education
Christian Education in an Integrated Mission Resist mission drift by anchoring every discipline to Christ’s lordship (Phil. 1:9–11), choosing an integrated model over historical or value-added approaches. Deploy learning for […]
Something You Can Never Be
Something You Can Never Be — Love That Tells the Truth Using the square–circle analogy, Daniel McCoy exposes the contradiction of “caring” by not caring and the cultural pressure to […]
Grieving a Lost Life and a Lost Culture
Grieving a Lost Life and a Lost Culture — Honoring Life’s Value Through a father’s miscarriage loss, the piece contrasts Scripture’s view of children as blessing with a culture that […]
Good News: You Will Have Trouble
You Will Have Trouble — Peace, Courage, and the Value of Faith Jesus’ promise in John 16:33 frames rising hostility with His peace and victory, calling believers to take heart. […]
Can We Be a Unified Church in a Divided World?
Can We Be a Unified Church in a Divided World — Unity That Acts During polarizing seasons, leaders model humility and keep the pulpit non-partisan so honest dialogue can flourish. […]
America Is in a Spiritual War. Are You All-In or AWOL?
America Is in a Spiritual War — Weapons, Courage, and Hope Scripture exposes the unseen battle and calls us to demolish lies and take every thought captive to Christ (2 […]
Matters of Trust: A Crisis of Crumbling Authority
Crumbling Authority in Our Homes and Hearts From Vietnam and Watergate to social media echo chambers, institutional trust collapsed and “trust me” turned suspect. Young families now prize independence over […]
Book Review: Jen Hatmaker’s Fierce, Free, and Full of Fire
Jen Hatmaker’s Fierce, Free, and Full of Fire – Biblical Evaluation Drawing on Scripture, the review contrasts Hatmaker’s self-focused identity claims with biblical teaching on sin, grace, and the fear […]
In Defense of Christian Missions
Christian Missions – Humility Across Cultures Scripture condemns twisting the gospel and calls missionaries to serve without imposing culture (Romans 16:17–20; 2 Peter 3:16; Matthew 23). Across the New Testament, […]
Reasons for Church Decline in the West
Church Decline in the West – Causes, Culture, Renewal Prosperity can breed forgetfulness of God, dulling urgency about death, judgment, and obedience. Secularism disciples people to live as if God […]
Our Cultural Moment and Critical Theory 2.0 A Deeper Dive with Neil Shenvi
Cultural Moment and Critical Theory 2.0 – What You’ll Learn Neil Shenvi introduces critical theory in 10 minutes, framing the terms driving today’s debates. A 35-minute deep dive treats it […]
Following Jesus through Chaos and Cancel Culture: Race, Sexuality, Gender, & the Gospel
Chaos and Cancel Culture – Faithful Discipleship Grounds believers in Jesus’ way amid public shaming, modeling grace and truth in conversations on race, sexuality, and gender. Offers a biblical framework […]
We Can Now Go Post-Christian
Post-Christian Cultural Shift From 60s counterculture to intersectional activism, power is reassigned and “The Man” gets blown down. Ethics remain while faith and authority are displaced, forming a new orthodoxy […]
Progressivism and Church Decline
Progressivism in Church Trajectory Surveyed trends show practicing Christians shrinking as culture-first reinterpretations of Scripture take root. Denominational drift toward progressive theology trades core doctrines—Jesus’ exclusivity and biblical sexual ethics—for […]
A Reckoning for the Church
Reckoning for the Church — Repent and Reconcile Names the harm: judgmentalism and political coercion left many as casualties who need healing, not campaigns. Demands repentance: the church must own […]
Intersectionality, Christianity, & Why Reconciliation > Reversal
Reconciliation in a Divided Age Jesus reframes suffering by confronting it with compassion, turning “just the way things are” into restored life and calling disciples to serve the least of […]
Changing Times: Part 3 of a Conversation with Bob Russell
Part 3 of a Conversation with Bob Russell on Faithful Leadership Facing shifting cultural views, Russell urges thick skin with soft hearts, resisting the drift to “shout grace and whisper […]
Ditches to Avoid – Part 2 of a Conversation with Bob Russell
Ditches to Avoid and Guardrails for Leadership Preaching through Scripture steadies congregations as elders shield ministers from political flashpoints and help keep Jesus central. Differentiating principles from methods frees churches […]
Lessons from the Church in Pakistan: Persecution and Progress
Persecution and Progress: Lessons from Pakistan’s Church Persecution and Progress highlights harsh blasphemy laws and sporadic mob violence while noting recent moves toward greater religious freedom. Amid threats and required […]
Preparing Students for College: Cultural Discernment
Cultural Discernment for College Faithfulness Filtering every lecture, message, and lifestyle cue through Scripture equips freshmen to choose communities and habits that honor Jesus. Teaching the Bible’s meta-narrative forms a […]
A Four-Word Solution to Reach a Divided Nation
Divided Nation in Missionary Engagement Adopting a missionary posture reframes culture wars by affirming the good, naming the broken, and pointing to Jesus over partisanship. Centering on King Jesus moves […]
Lessons from the Church in Pakistan: Dependence on God
Dependence on God in Times of Trial Dependence on God gives Pakistani Christians fearless resilience, even when facing persecution and loss. Their trust is not built on deep theology but […]
Two Perspectives on Racism and What They Need to Hear from Each Other
Perspectives on Racism — Paths Toward Unity Through a Calvinist/Arminian lens, the piece holds systemic injustice together with personal agency and calls for repentance. Christians are urged to listen humbly […]
God Sent Me a Friend: Part 3 of a 3-Way Conversation about Race
3 Way Conversation about Race: Lessons in Friendship and Justice Honest friendship and listening break stereotypes, as Jim and Mike’s dialogue replaces defensiveness with empathy. Practical steps include doing your […]
Racial Division in the Church: Part 2 of a 3-Way Conversation about Race
Racial Division — Church Unity Insights After a church split exposes racial lines, the conversation examines why integration without inclusion still wounds the body. Instead of “colorblind” approaches, the piece […]
Changing Worldviews on Race: Part 1 of a 3-Way Conversation about Race
Worldviews on Race — Stories of Change Growing up in segregated spaces and media narratives, Jim formed harmful assumptions that hardened after a MLK Day incident. Mentors, service, and listening […]
Corrupted or Co-opted: 2 Non-Options as Christians Fight Racism
Christians Fight Racism — Gospel-Driven Pathways Grounded in Jesus’ model, believers practice honest conversation, compassion, lament, repentance, justice, and reconciling love. Rather than the corrupting comfort of apathy, the church […]
Confronting Racism in the Church: Part 2 of a Conversation with Anthony Walker
Racism in the Church and Gospel Reconciliation Stories of pain expose ongoing mistreatment; churches must name racism as sin, repent, and match apologies with action. Ephesians 2 centers unity at […]
Racism: A Lament and Call to Repent
Call to Repent for Gospel Healing In light of Ahmaud Arbery and George Floyd, the church laments evil, listens to pain, and prays with compassion. Scripture frames repentance—Lamentations, James 4, […]
Racism Cuts Deep: Part 1 of a Conversation with Anthony Walker
Racism Cuts Deep Part 1 in Personal and Faith Realities Racism continues to shape painful realities in families, churches, and communities. In this discussion, Anthony Walker emphasizes that racism is […]
Doubting the Doubter: On the Deconversion of Hawk Nelson’s Jon Steingard
Doubting the Doubter in Deconversion Realities Doubting the Doubter highlights the struggles of leaving faith. Jon Steingard shares his fears, uncertainties, and the personal cost of walking away from Christianity. […]
Some Good News in the Kingdom
Good News in the Kingdom During the Pandemic Good News in the Kingdom reveals unity across nations. From Australia to Brazil to Saudi Arabia, believers share the same struggles yet […]
The Gospel Coalition, Matthew Bates, and Renew.org
Gospel Coalition and Renew.org: Key Differences Gospel Coalition emphasizes Calvinist theology while Renew.org highlights human free will, showing two distinct approaches to understanding salvation and faith. Matthew Bates challenges Gospel […]
Can Churches Have Friendly Dialogue with the LGBTQ Community?
LGBTQ Community Bridge-Building Insights Lead with humility and honesty. Admitting weakness lowers defenses and opens space for friendship, evangelism, and discipleship. Serve together on shared causes. Working side-by-side for the […]
Biden, Trump, and Other Urgent Things That Come Up
Biden and Trump—A Psalm 14 Reality Check Psalm 14 indicts both parties, showing that none of us consistently does good and we often live as if God isn’t there. Political […]
A Global Awakening
Global Awakening in Times of Crisis Global Awakening highlights how humanity is rediscovering interdependence as compassion and selflessness echo worldwide. Through Global Awakening, examples of medical workers, factories, and even […]
4 Takeaways from LGBTQ Documentary
4 Takeaways from LGBTQ Documentary on Faith and Dialogue 4 Takeaways from LGBTQ Documentary reveal that churches must foster transparency, offering both truth and grace so believers struggling with same-sex […]
Rhett, Link, & Kingdom Building
Kingdom Building and Lasting Devotion Kingdom Building is illustrated through Rhett and Link’s journey, where creative gifts once nurtured for ministry shifted toward personal recognition. Faithful stewardship of talents is […]
Through the Eyes of the Egyptian Mother
Egyptian Mother and the Night of the Plagues Egyptian Mother offers a vivid look at the grief of losing a firstborn during Exodus, bringing ancient sorrow into a modern reader’s […]
The Problem of Sin and Rhett & Link’s Deconversion
Problem of Sin and Its Impact on Faith Problem of Sin shows how Rhett and Link confused guilt with conviction, leaving them distant from true repentance and forgiveness. By neglecting […]
Facts, Faith, Feelings, and Rhett & Link’s Deconversion
Facts in Faith and Deconversion Lessons Facts shape faith by grounding belief beyond emotions, showing how Rhett’s separation of logic from trust weakened his spiritual journey. Facts challenge doubt when […]
Relationship and Rhett & Link’s Deconversion
Relationship and Rhett in Faith and Doubt Relationship and Rhett reveals how leaning on intermediaries instead of direct prayer weakened the foundation of faith. In Relationship and Rhett, the weight […]
Lamenting and Learning from Rhett & Link’s Deconversion
Lamenting and Learning through Deconversion Insights Lamenting and Learning invites reflection on Rhett & Link’s spiritual struggles, encouraging Christians to respond with empathy instead of dismissal. Deconversion stories challenge believers […]
Meet Your Mentors in Exile
Mentors in Exile and Lessons for Today Jeremiah’s wisdom guides exiles by urging them to plant, build, and bless their captors, showing that faithful living thrives even in hardship. Daniel’s […]
Can Your Church Thrive in Exile? A Conversation with Randy Gariss
Can Your Church Thrive in Exile with Hope and Renewal Exile shapes the church’s strength. Randy Gariss explains that moving from the cultural center to the margins gives believers clarity […]
Why Rhett & Link’s Deconversion Feels So Right
Deconversion and Its Cultural Appeal Deconversion feels like relief to Rhett and Link, who describe leaving Christianity for agnosticism as a weight lifted. Audiences resonate with confusion, praising their honesty […]
Christians and the Coronavirus
Christians and the Coronavirus: Loving Responses Seek truth and empathy by listening to Chinese voices, praying for peace, and resisting sensational rumors. Practice love over fear through practical help, invitations […]
The Coronavirus: Facts and Fears
The Coronavirus in Context: Faithful Response Rooted in facts, the article explains The Coronavirus as a contagious respiratory virus like the flu, urging verification over sensational media claims. Putting The […]
What is Mianzi, and What Can Christians Learn from it?
What Can Christians Learn from Mianzi in Faith and Life What Can Christians Learn from Mianzi is shown through cultural insights that highlight humility, confession, and authentic living. By exploring […]
The Super Bowl Halftime Show & Empowerment
Super Bowl Halftime Show and Empowerment in Christian Living Super Bowl Halftime Show highlights cultural empowerment while Scripture points to true empowerment through God’s will. The article shows how the […]
How Progressivism Refuels
How Progressivism Refuels in Christian Thought How Progressivism Refuels explains how inconsistencies among Bible-believing Christians give progressives room to reinterpret Scripture. The article shows that How Progressivism Refuels highlights the […]
The Iowa Caucus Delay: A Portrait of Theological Progressivism
Theological Progressivism and Its Impact on Clarity Theological Progressivism reflects vague answers to life’s biggest questions, offering optimism without grounding in reality. Candidates’ false optimism parallels theological progressivism, where ungrounded […]
Astros: A Cautionary Tale
Astros Reveal Pitfalls of Cutting Corners in Faith Astros serves as a warning that even impressive success can unravel when integrity is compromised. Cutting corners might bring results, but at […]
An Inviting Alternative to Defensiveness
Defensiveness: Responding with Grace Over Reaction Rather than snapping back, Christians can follow Jesus’ model of disarming skepticism with gentle invitations to explore faith. By shifting the focus from rebuttals […]
Family Resemblance in Foreign Christians
Family Resemblance: How Faith Binds Christians Across Borders Through personal stories in China and beyond, the article shows the instant connection believers share through Christ. Despite cultural and language differences, […]
A Bible-Believing Person of Science? – Interview with Richard Knopp
Interview with Richard Knopp: Exploring the Role of Reason in Faith Apologetics offers a thoughtful framework for explaining belief, combining logic and humility, as discussed by Dr. Knopp. The relationship […]
Church and Culture: An Interview with Christian Ray Flores
An Interview with Christian Ray Flores: Faithful Responses in a Shifting Culture Christian Ray Flores speaks to the Church’s cultural calling. This interview explores how the Church can influence society […]
MacArthur, Moore, and Gender
MacArthur, Moore, and Gender: Bold Response to Disrespect MacArthur, Moore, and Gender explores the fallout of public remarks that sparked division in the church, calling believers to Christlike engagement and […]
The Joker’s Smile
The Joker’s Smile: Disturbing Delight or Spiritual Danger? The Joker’s Smile isn’t frightening because of makeup, but because it celebrates cruelty without guilt, reflecting evil embraced without remorse. Sin seduces […]
The Killing of Botham Jean and 2 Kinds of Unthinkable
The Killing of Botham Jean and 2 Kinds of Unthinkable — Faith’s Response News of the shooting lays bare a grievous injustice and nationwide grief. Brandt Jean’s courtroom forgiveness and […]
Peace
Peace in the Bible and Why It Still Matters Today Peace means more than no conflict. In Scripture, “shalom” refers to wholeness, security, and well-being—not just silence or safety. God […]
Bridging the Gap with the Gay Community: Interview with Guy Hammond
Interview with Guy Hammond: Faithful Insights on LGBTQ Ministry What does a faithful response to the LGBTQ community look like? Guy Hammond shares how Christians can engage with compassion, truth, […]
Review of Rob Bell’s What Is the Bible
Review of Rob Bell’s What Is the Bible and Its Theological Implications Does Rob Bell challenge biblical authority? The review critiques his claim that Scripture is purely human and not […]
4 Things I Would Like to Say to Taylor Swift as a Pastor
4 Things I Would Like to Say to Taylor Swift as a Pastor: A Christian Response to Her LGBTQ Advocacy 4 Things I Would Like to Say to Taylor Swift […]
Snapshot of Hope: Flowers of Lebanon
Snapshot of Hope – A Refugee’s Story of Resilience and Joy Snapshot of Hope captures how a mother clings to dignity amid displacement. Even while grieving her husband’s death and […]
Itching Ears.
Itching Ears: Understanding the Allure of False Teachings What does “itching ears” really mean? Paul’s warning in 2 Timothy 4:3 reveals a timeless tendency to reject truth in favor of […]
Getting Found in the Shuffle
Getting Found in the Shuffle and Joining God’s Mission Getting Found in the Shuffle isn’t accidental—it’s intentional. God is moving people across the globe so they can seek and find […]
Free Love (Reflections on Lukianoff & Haidt’s The Coddling of the American Mind – Part 3 of 3)
The Coddling of the American Mind Part 3 – How Love Defeats Toxic Tribalism Modern justice is often distorted by tribalism. “Us vs. them” thinking pits groups against each other […]
It’s OK Not to Be OK: A Q&A on Mental Health and Following Jesus
Q&A on Mental Health and Following Jesus – What You’ll Learn from This Interview Mental health struggles don’t disqualify faith. This candid Q&A on Mental Health and Following Jesus reveals […]
Is it safe to follow my feelings? (Reflections on Lukianoff & Haidt’s The Coddling of the American Mind – Part 2 of 3)
Is It Safe to Follow My Feelings When They Distort the Truth? Emotional instincts may mislead. The article explores how modern culture promotes emotions as the ultimate authority, using The […]
What Narrative Are We Writing in the Hearts of Refugees?
What Narrative Are We Writing in the Hearts of Refugees? A Call to Christian Witness and Compassion Hearts of Refugees are shaped by our witness. Many refugees encounter Christianity for […]
Moralistic Therapeutic Deism: A Modern Faith
Exposing Moralistic Therapeutic Deism as a Distortion of A Modern Faith Is A Modern Faith rooted in biblical truth? Many Christians today unknowingly embrace “Moralistic Therapeutic Deism”—a belief system that […]
The Illusion of Progressive Christianity
Understanding The Illusion of Progressive Christianity Progressive Christianity redefines biblical truth. Modern ideologies often reshape Scripture to mirror cultural norms, raising essential questions for faithful believers. Foundational doctrines are being […]