We are witnessing a somewhat recent—yet long overdue—movement within the Church, a movement that seeks to address and expose the egregious problem of abuse. More specifically, this abuse is often understood to mean the taking advantage of and harming of individuals who are generally more vulnerable (usually women and children, although abuse can happen to anyone). This focus on the primary problem (the actual abuse) has also shed light on the problems associated with it: namely, how the sin and Continue Reading
The Shack: A Watershed Moment
The Shack has been referred to both as one of the greatest Christian books of all time, and as the “greatest deception foisted on the church in the last 200 years.” At first, that profound disagreement may not make sense. But, in an increasingly polarized society and Church, this sharp division and disconnect actually makes perfect sense. Let's examine why this is, and what we can and should do about it. There have been many helpful reviews and critiques of The Shack (see links at the end). Continue Reading
Full of Grace and Truth
The Word became flesh and made His dwelling among us. We have seen His glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth. John 1:14 The Word became flesh. This is the Christmas story. The Gospel. As we take time to celebrate and enjoy the blessings of this time of year, let’s not forget to reflect upon and remember what Christmas means: that the God of the universe “became flesh” in order to reconcile us to Himself. Reconciliation--with each Continue Reading
Marriage Book Available
Mark's book, Marriage For The Wise: Practical Biblical Wisdom For Marriages is now available for ordering online. An in-depth, interactive study and workbook, Marriage For The Wise is a comprehensive marriage and pre-marital resource, and is one of the main tools used in Hope For Life's marriage counseling, classes, and conferences. Unity, communication, marital roles, conflict, and parenting are just a few of the topics covered in this practical biblical handbook. An excellent resource Continue Reading