In recent history, black Christians have generally voted for the Democratic Presidential candidate, while white Evangelicals tend to vote Republican. Many white Evangelicals wonder how anyone could vote for a Democrat who supports the killing of innocent babies. And while abortion is wrong, perhaps we white Evangelicals should take a look at a deeper issue. Are we making an idol out of the Republican party? Are we trusting in Conservatism to “save” us?

The people of Israel had the same problem in Jeremiah 2. Instead of looking to God to provide for them, they looked to Egypt and Assyria. Therefore God confronts them. “And now what do you gain by going to Egypt to drink the waters of the Nile? Or what do you gain by going to Assyria to drink the waters of the Euphrates?” (Jeremiah 2:18).

Just as Israel looked to the Egyptians and Assyrians for peace and comfort, I believe that American Evangelicals look to politicians and parties for what only God provides. I understand all the arguments why we should vote this way or that. I just think that we Evangelicals need to stand back and ask ourselves where we get our identity from. If it’s in anything other than God, we must destroy those idols and return to worship the only God.

Family Integrated Church

I used to teach a college-aged Sunday School class. Somewhere along the way, I got the distinct feeling that separating that group from the rest of the group was unhelpful at best. Since then, my conviction has grown to cover other age-segregrated groups as well. I now believe that the church is made up of families and that those families should worship together as a unit.

I'm glad that there is a movement that addresses this concern that I've had for several years now. The Family Integrated Church movement is gaining some momentum as various publications hit the street. Those interested should check out Family Driven Faith by Voddie Baucham and Perspectives on Family Ministry: Three Views, edited by Timothy Jones.

Music and Worship

We recently started attending a new church. It is a small fellowship with a normal attendance of 60. The congregational music consists mainly of hymns, accompanied by a piano and organ. I had once swore to myself and to my wife that I would never attend a church that had an organ. Why the change?

I enjoy music. Not just listening to it, but the theory behind it. When I hear music, I don't just hear the melody. I hear the harmonies, the instrumentation, the rhythms. So when I to a church that has a full band, I become entranced by each instrument. I watch the drummer, the keyboardist, the guitarist, and the bassist, paying close attention to the parts they are playing. It's not that I do it on purpose. It's automatic. My heart is almost never moved during the music portion of a worship service that features a full band.

But at this little church, things are simple. No distractions. No big production. Just all of us singing about our Savior. And those are the times that choke me up. Those are the moments that I most clearly see Jesus and His wonderful love for us. Simple church. Simple praise.

New Post

Just wanted to add a new post because I haven't written anything since June. That's all.