We must not interpret trust and obey mean that we trust in our obedience. That is works, and we will probably choose to obey that which we think we understand. Rather, we obey because we trust that God has a purpose in what He asks of us, even if we don't understand it. That is … Continue reading Trust and obey
faith
But God can save us yet
The winter and spring of 1834 had passed away. The latter was uncommonly cold and backward; so much so that we had a very heavy fall of snow upon the 14th and 15th of May A late, cold spring in Canada is generally succeeded by a burning, hot summer; and the summer of '34 was … Continue reading But God can save us yet
Really Simple Testimony
“Tell what He’s done for you” should be a key part of sharing the gospel with others. It’s more powerful than any canned approach. Our testimony should sound natural and conversational, not scripted like a telemarketer. Nevertheless, there is value in writing out a significant experience to think through which details to include and what … Continue reading Really Simple Testimony
The myth of incompetence
“It’s just not my gift to witness to other people about my faith. I get all flustered and nothing comes out right. Other people can do it, but I just can’t.” Have you ever said something like that? I don’t know if I’ve ever said it, but I’ve certainly felt that way. After experiencing those … Continue reading The myth of incompetence
The myth of gunslinger evangelism
“I would like you to meet brother Wyatt. Wyatt has got to be the fastest draw in the west with his Bible. Do you see all those notches along the spine of his Bible? That’s how many souls he has personally led to the Lord.” Have you ever met a Wyatt, someone who could tell … Continue reading The myth of gunslinger evangelism
Let’s be led’s
A true Christian should be a light emitting disciple (led). Our purpose as a light emitting disciple is not to dazzle folks with our brilliance, but to shed light on their path. We don't want to be a cold light, there needs to be some warmth, but no one should ever get burned from coming … Continue reading Let’s be led’s
What people need from a church
There are three things that every human being needs, and the Christian church is the only institution on earth with the potential to meet those needs. First, there is a longing in the heart of every man, woman and child to understand the meaning of life and their place in it. People who reject God … Continue reading What people need from a church
The empty pew — why?
Fifty years ago the Anglican Church of Canada asked well known author Pierre Berton to write a book on the state of the church and how to rejuvenate it. The book was called The Comfortable Pew, and it created a sensation when it was published. Here is a one sentence summary of the book that … Continue reading The empty pew — why?
Is there an antidote for extremism?
First a little background for those who may not be up on the news from Canada. There have been two incidents this week of what one newspaper writer calls “microterrrorism.” On Monday in St-Jean-sur-Richelieu, Québec an automobile driver struck two uniformed soldiers, killing one and injuring the other. Wednesday in Ottawa, a man shot a … Continue reading Is there an antidote for extremism?
Am I a suspect?
We lived in a village in south-western Ontario for 12 years. The United Church Manse was right across the street from our home. Several ministers and their families came and went during that time. We exchanged a few pleasantries, but never really got to know them. One couple was different. The husband had been raised … Continue reading Am I a suspect?
Flatlander Faith 