3 Ways the Church Can Help Prevent a Second American Civil War

It’s worse than you think. Much worse. Before we begin, however, I want to apologize for the inflammatory nature of this article’s title. I’m not, typically, an alarmist or prone to hyperbole. I’d charitably describe my disposition as “cautious optimism.”  Many may dismiss the central idea in this article as “irresponsible,” “needlessly inflammatory,” and “implausible.”…

Christians and Violence: Seven Tough Questions and Responses

The first time I heard about Christian nonviolence, I thought it was ridiculous. My struggle with Christian nonviolence was a result of the multitude of questions the stance generates. I gradually came to learn that these questions were normal. It's what happens when you're entire paradigm shifts on such a comprehensive issue. I grew up…

The Christian, the Refugee, ISIS, and Fear

On Monday, November 16, 2015 a number of states – all of them conservative “red states” – said they would no longer accept Syrian refugees. A short update on current events: The current Syrian civil war has killed more 220,000 people and displaced over 11 million people. More than 2,600 people have died at sea…