Author Archives: Brian
Comfortable Christianity in 1563
When you think of “comfortable” Christianity, what comes to mind? Tempur-pedic pews? Bubble bath baptisms? The challenge in our day is not to reject comfort, but to redefine it. When we think of comfort, we think of entitlement, safety, independence, … Continue reading
Robert McKee on Character
True CHARACTER is revealed in the choices a human being makes under pressure – the greater the pressure, the deeper the revelation, the truer the choice to the character’s essential nature. Beneath the surface of characterization, regardless of appearances, who … Continue reading
The Valley of Vision
While in seminary, I was introduced to a collection of prayers from the Puritans of the late 16th and 17th century. The first prayer in the book, “The Valley of Vision,” has been one I’ve returned to many times to … Continue reading
Praying Before Meals
Sometimes when I’m asked to pray before meals I feel foolish. Who am I to represent the thoughts of a group of people before God? It’s hard enough expressing my own needs, desires, praise, and thanks. There are times when, … Continue reading
Where I Belong
In his essay “The Inner Ring” C. S. Lewis describes the folly of finding our self-worth in social hierarchies. He writes, “Of all the passions the passion for the Inner Ring is most skillful in making a man who is … Continue reading
You Need a Prayer Therapist
I found this little gem from a wonderful book called A Praying Life by Paul E. Miller. Let’s imagine that you see a prayer therapist to get your prayer life straightened out. The therapist says, “Let’s begin by looking at … Continue reading
Carson on Progressive Revelation
“Sometimes Christians understand progressive revelation in a fairly mechanistic or linear fashion: More truth simply gets added to the pile, to make a bigger pile of truth. But this ‘mystery/revelation’ tension shows that often something is actually there in the … Continue reading
Slender Incursions of Splintered Light
I have to look for cracks and crevices. Don’t tell me how God’s mercy Is as wide as the ocean, as deep as the sea. I already believe it, but that infinite prospect Gets farther away the more we mouth … Continue reading
Disappointed Pt. 2: Wandering Toward Holiness
I wrote this a couple of weeks ago but for some reason didn’t get to post it. This is Part 2 of a series of reflections on things that bother me about my generation (and subsequently, about myself).
The Sufficiency of Christ’s Atonement and the Absurdity of Christian Guilt!
My soul, thou art emerged in sin, So deep that none can trace; Look to the ransom God decreed To clear the guilty race. Had I the guilt of all the world, He’s able to forgive: Why should I fear? … Continue reading
Preaching the Gospel to Myself 