One of the most destructive lies of American chattel slavery was that “if we were good and obedient slaves, we would be greatly rewarded in heaven.” In the twenty-first century, this distortion of Scripture is morphing into something equally as insidious. This aberrant teaching has so deeply affected African American Christian consciousness that we’ve swung the […]
Iran: When Losing is Winning
“I know exactly what I’m doing!” So said a young Iranian calling in during a live broadcast on Iranian television. The on the air host advised him to be cautious with his decision, to which he responded: “Would you keep me from the truth about life in Christ? The state can kill me for this, […]
Orthodox Activism and the Global Perspective
In September 2015, I was honored to present my perspective on activism in the global context at one of my favorite events, the Leadership, Development and Resources Conference (LDR). The conference theme was Orthodox Activism, and I was given an hour to contrast an approach to activism based on God’s character reflected through Scripture, and the approaches of […]
At the Pleasure of the King
Lately I feel a strong pull to define myself by today’s ideologies and movements – or, in some cases, define myself solely by rejecting those with which I disagree. World events and social media issue hourly siren calls for re-definitions and personal declarations. I am tempted also to define the Church by my personal associations and preferences. When […]
“To Those Who Suffer” – Meet Itohan Omolere
I had the pleasure of meeting Itohan Omolere at a recent conference in Chicago. This young woman’s elegant spoken word artistry and tender heart for the persecuted Church immediately captured both my theological and theatrical heart. As her carefully crafted words unfold stories of Christian endurance from Mosul to North Korea and places beyond, she transitions between locations with a haunting […]
Persecution – 3 Perspectives on Who’s Who
Charities who work with Christian communities overseas know well that as they work with those under anti-Christian persecution, they will invariably bump up against the issue of doctrinal differences. While it is a long trip from marginalization to martyrdom, doctrinal difference will be an issue that American Christians must likewise consider as we move into cultural marginalization of our own. At an event […]
What Charleston Teaches Us
A church in flames against the backdrop of night is a strong and evocative image. The tension swirling around the recent rash of Southern church fires in the US is understandable, given the history of terrorism against African American churches. The most recent fire at Mt. Zion AME Church in Greeleyville is being investigated by the FBI and the ATF, and […]
‘Step Out The Boat:’ Following the Urban Disciple Maker
In the wake of the Brown/Garner decisions, it has been revealed that numerous conversations need to take place in American Christian circles regarding culture, race, class, systemic injustice, public policy, Christian responsibility, and so forth. Of course, at the center of each of these themes we place the Gospel and its implications for each. Enter the […]
Endurance. 