I will spare the extended introduction as to why one should have some level of interest in the basis for their moral judgments within the civil sphere. You can read more about that here. The concept of law is basic to any culture. If culture is “religion externalized” then law is the basis for said religious expression. The question is: to what should Christians within a culture turn to as the source of their law? Within the civil sphere, what part of the Bible still applies … [Read more...] about A Biblical Case for Natural Law?
Is Christmas being saved?
Last weekend my family and I did something astounding – we actually went to see a movie in the theatre. This doesn’t happen much. In fact, for three of our four children that were with us, it has never happened at all. Well, almost never. I think one of them slept through an action-thriller as an infant when my wife and I were determined to have a night out. Either way, this was a family first. We wanted to catch Saving Christmas on opening night. From Kirk Cameron’s stunning … [Read more...] about Is Christmas being saved?
A chink in the armor of natural law
So why should you care about an extended discussion of natural law? Should such a discourse not be confined to those who have a unique interest in philosophy or the history of social and political thought? Are there not more practical things to do with your time? I have a couple of questions for you. Did you vote last week? Do you have an opinion on the headlines in your Facebook feed, CNN or Fox News? If your answer is yes, then stick with me. As I’ve stated in the two previous … [Read more...] about A chink in the armor of natural law
Inherit the earth?
So, now that we have a grasp on what defines a covenant, how representation works within three God-ordained covenant institutions, and the undeniable presence of grace – we have to ask ourselves an important question. What are the implications? What are the implications of men and women keeping covenant in history through the power of the Holy Spirit? Are there random consequences for obedience and rebellion? Are covenant-keepers blessed over time? Or, are covenant-breakers actually rewarded … [Read more...] about Inherit the earth?
What is Natural Law?
The next time you are engaged in a conversation about politics or find yourself taking sides in one of the current political debates being carried out in the media, ask the other person this question: Why? Why is your position morally right? Or better yet, ask them by what standard are they judging what is right or wrong regarding the topic at hand. It may even be important to go one step further and ask yourself these same questions. As discussed in the last essay, these questions … [Read more...] about What is Natural Law?
Covenant Cartoons Episode 5: Full of Grace
It is inevitable. When you talk enough about God’s law or covenant responsibilities, you will no doubt be accused of legalism or somehow lacking a measure of grace. “Law vs. grace” may very well deserve the blue ribbon for being one of the foremost false-dichotomies of the Christian faith. Perhaps the reason behind this is found in our sinful nature. If we can polarize the two concepts, then we can flee to one or the other as it suits our given situation. It becomes very practical. When a law … [Read more...] about Covenant Cartoons Episode 5: Full of Grace
The Basis For Law
Let’s face it. For much of the last century, Christians in America placed their faith in humanism – her foundations and the institutions constructed upon them. This trend began prior to the last century, but we seem to have reached an apex a few decades ago. Public schools were woven into the fabric of our culture with no perceived need to discuss alternatives to the system. The welfare state promised security in a blatant, messianic posture. We looked with awe and allegiance at each … [Read more...] about The Basis For Law
Covenant Cartoons Episode 4: Three Covenant Institutions
There has been an epic battle for the hearts of men and the kingdoms of the earth. There are only two sides on which to fight. “You cannot drink the cup of the Lord and the cup of demons; you cannot partake of the table of the Lord and the table of demons” (1 Cor. 10:21). Satan definitively lost the battle at the cross. “He disarmed the rulers and authorities and put them to open shame, by triumphing over them in him” (Col. 2:15). His struggles until the end of time will be in vain. Yet, in … [Read more...] about Covenant Cartoons Episode 4: Three Covenant Institutions
Covenant Cartoons Episode 3: Representation
Episode 3 in this series discusses a key concept that many understand, but simply take for granted. Yet, it is central to any discussion regarding covenant. Don’t miss this next short video. … [Read more...] about Covenant Cartoons Episode 3: Representation
Scottish Independence and the Only Road to Freedom
The vote for an independent Scotland appeared to come and go before most knew what was going on in the UK. On one hand, it felt like it really should have been a historic moment. For over three hundred years, a lack of independence seemed like a slight embarrassment or at least minor blemish on the Scottish image, curtailing its bravado. At the same time, it seemed like many lacked the motivation to fully follow the story, perhaps due to the inevitable mass of political and financial … [Read more...] about Scottish Independence and the Only Road to Freedom