sin

What Does it Mean to BE Gay?

by

Let me be clear up front. NONE OF MY STATEMENTS SHOULD BE DIRECTLY APPLIED TO THOSE OUTSIDE THE CHURCH. This is all that non-Christians need to read: You still have an old nature and need to hear the gospel (the good news) that Jesus died to take away the penalty of your sins and bring you eternal life. Jesus died because He loves you. God the Father sent God the Son to save you from the penalty of your sins because He loves you. Yes. You’re a sinner, and God loves you anyway. God loves you, fornicator. God loves you, … [Read more]

Christians and Coffee

by

Introduction I don’t drink much coffee. Let’s get that out of the way now. I don’t like the taste of it. When I do have the occasional cup I put so much cream and sugar in it that the progression of changing color reminds one of certain thrilling pop-singers. I’m not addicted to the stuff. But some people out there are. In fact, most of those people wouldn’t even deny it! On the contrary, they are the first to boast about their addiction (in a joking tone of course). Phrases like, “I’m not myself til my first dose!” and “Cup … [Read more]

Let’s Talk About Sex

by

This is a paper written for my Wisdom Literature class. It is meant to give a theology of sex, meaning outline the ideals and the created order of sex, as well as discuss the perversions and corruptions. It has the potential to come off callous and legalistic. The practical outworking of these principles is very different than they sound on this page. Grace is very much involved with the process of dealing with sexual sin. That section of sex is not covered in this paper, nor is it intended to be. This is merely an attempt to clearly define what … [Read more]

Don’t Be Who You Are, Be Someone Better

by

There is a cultural phenomenon sweeping through our world today, and I think it can best be epitomized by a comment made by Taylor Swift in an interview discussing her hit music video “Shake it Off.” The comment was, “I wanted it to be—kind of—unapologetic about like, ‘you don’t like me for being who I am, watch me be who I am more.’” [1] It’s the phenomenon of being who you are… unapologetically. Some female celebrities who have spearheaded this phenomenon are Jennifer Lawrence (known for her wacky behavior and outspoken nature on unhealthy body image), Taylor Swift (quoted above), … [Read more]

Hide and Seek with a Still Small Voice

by

He looked up quick and looked back down hoping he would not be found. Hide-and-Seek’s a dangerous game, and he had gambled with his hiding spot. He soon forgot the thought though slowly praying he would not get caught between the front room posies. Lace and flowers round him, cozy, peaceful here in safety doze he. In and out of consciousness he faded back and forth. He whispered soft a tiny cough, like speaking to the boogey-man, “Just keep me hidden while you can.” A still small voice said, “It’s a plan.” Someone big had quickly raced right by his … [Read more]