A different kind of heroism

Ruben Saillens, 1855-1942, was the best-known Baptist preacher of his day in France. In 1895 he visited an Anabaptist community in Switzerland and then published  a couple of historical incidents that he heard from them. Here is one of them. One day, during the Thirty Years War in Europe, a group of soldiers stopped at … Continue reading A different kind of heroism

How can we be sure that Christ arose?

There are people in our day who say that Jesus never existed. However, there are references to Jesus in first century writings by both Jewish scholars and Roman officials. No one from that era ever denied that Jesus was a real person. The gospels are eye witness accounts and the authenticity of their accounts on … Continue reading How can we be sure that Christ arose?

Obeying the Great Commission in a time of persecution

This is my only joy and the desire of my heart, that I may extend the borders of the kingdom of God, make known the truth, reprove sin, teach righteousness, feed the hungry souls with the word of the Lord, lead the stray sheep to the right path, and win many souls for the Lord … Continue reading Obeying the Great Commission in a time of persecution

A transformed life

Thus reflecting upon these things my soul was so grieved that I could no longer endure it. I thought to myself: I, miserable man, what shall I do ? If I continue in this way, and live not agreeably to the word of the Lord, according to the knowledge of the truth which I have … Continue reading A transformed life

They’ll know we are Christians by our love

We are one in the Spirit We are one in the Lord . . . We will work with each other We will work side by side . . . And they’ll know we are Christians by our love. -Peter Scholtes, © 1966 F.E.L. Publications Ltd. For the young folk out there who might not … Continue reading They’ll know we are Christians by our love

What if?

Many North American Christians appear to believe that separation of church and state only applies one way.  They feel it is part of their calling to try to fix what is wrong in government.  Yet cries of  outrage are heard when government shows an inclination to try and fix what is wrong in the churches. … Continue reading What if?

The inconvenient Jesus

Jesus was the enemy of formalism and legalism, the one who castigated the religious leaders of His day for their hypocrisy.  He was the friend of the poor, the oppressed, the outcasts and the sinners.  We like to believe that no matter what others may think of us, Jesus is our unconditional friend. That isn’t … Continue reading The inconvenient Jesus

Christianity at its best

In today’s issue of the National Post, Charles Lewis does an interview with John Allen, author of The Global War on Christians.  Towards the end of the article, the discussion gets around to the fact that the most rapid growth in Christianity is happening in those parts of the world where it is the most … Continue reading Christianity at its best

The bishops condemned by God

It is the tendency of British historians to consider religious movements in England to be largely independent in origin.  Lollardy is a case in point.  Despite its similarities to the Waldensian movement on the continent, it is generally seen as the result of the teaching of John Wycliffe. I have no desire to diminish in … Continue reading The bishops condemned by God

Defenceless Christians

Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God.  Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness’ sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.  Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake.  Rejoice, and … Continue reading Defenceless Christians